I can assist with configuring your home network setup. Need guidance on connecting your cable and WiFi devices?
I can assist with configuring your home network setup. Need guidance on connecting your cable and WiFi devices?
Hello everyone, I'm currently staying at my parents' house in Germany and am looking to improve their network setup. Although they have a fiber connection, the speed is still very low. The existing setup includes a router with a single output, but I need better WiFi coverage throughout the living areas. My main requirements are: 1) A switch that can distribute the signal from the router to internal wiring—should I use just one or all three outputs? Which model would be affordable and suitable? 2) At least two access points that connect via RJ45 ports and can create a mesh network. I want something that supports both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, accommodates older devices, and connects directly to a wall outlet with power delivery. The current D-Lan port is slow and unstable. I'm feeling overwhelmed by the options on Amazon and need guidance on what to choose without overspending. Please let me know if you have any suggestions or recommendations. Thanks in advance!
I've heard positive reviews about Unifi Ubiquiti equipment—it appears straightforward to configure and operate. I'm not sure if it fits your budget, though I think a couple of APs plus a switch shouldn't be too expensive. It doesn't matter whether you use just one or all of your router ports; your router will manage everything once set up. You'll need a PoE switch, then link your APs to it so they can get power and handle the network via a single RJ45 port.
Consider using a few routers set up as access points instead of searching for a single device. Just look up "wifi router with access point mode" on Amazon; plug in the router, connect the RJ45 cable, and adjust the settings. It appears to be the most straightforward option.
You cannot simply purchase routers and expect them to function as a mesh network. A mesh system requires more than just devices broadcasting the same name.
You can opt for mesh routers built specifically for it. A standard router won't cut it. It makes more sense to purchase a complete kit with routers and nodes. Or, as I mentioned earlier, use plain routers configured as access points. They're less reliable than a full mesh setup, but they'll function.
The term "mesh" refers to a network design where devices connect wirelessly to multiple points, allowing seamless movement between access points. It focuses more on setup and configuration rather than hardware limitations. Typically, mesh setups use one Ethernet port per AP, letting modern devices automatically select the best connection. Different vendors can work together without issues. Connecting an ISP router directly into a switch is fine, as performance usually remains stable regardless of router design. For a simple solution, a budget 12+ port managed switch suffices. Adding affordable TP-Link APs completes the setup. This approach functions well if range and obstacles are manageable, though it depends on your specific environment. The advantage of powerline extenders is unclear since they rely on electrical connections, which can vary widely.