Mesh networks and related issues Mesh access points and confusion
Mesh networks and related issues Mesh access points and confusion
You're asking about how TP-Link Deco M4 devices interact with each other and your existing router. Essentially, these mesh routers are designed to work together without needing a physical connection between them. They can share the same SSID and even create multiple access points if you have enough distance between them. Since your router is also acting as a modem, you should be able to keep using it alongside the Deco M4s. You won't need to connect anything via Ethernet unless you specifically want to extend coverage or set up a dedicated network segment. The setup should allow for multiple wireless access points without any extra cables.
You might use the same SSID as your existing WiFi router, but if problems arise, consider disabling the router’s Wi-Fi function (if possible) or switching it to a different network name. Changing the SSID can help avoid interference, particularly over longer distances when 2.4 GHz is commonly used. More important is deciding whether to set the M4s as an Access Point or a regular router. Running it as an AP simplifies configuration and avoids many adjustments. If it’s configured as a router, it may trigger Double NAT, which can interfere with certain online connections like gaming. Trying to move your original router to router mode instead of AP mode is often preferable. If your ISP router isn’t functioning well, switching the M4s to router mode might be necessary. While performance from an ISP router can vary, it’s worth testing different placements. Opt for longer Ethernet cables and keep them at around 20 meters; this reduces the need for wireless handoffs and preserves speed, especially if other APs are involved. The effect on speed is noticeable only when your connection is heavily used—such as streaming video from a NAS—so it’s best to experiment based on your local network conditions.
The router's manual mentions mesh support, which seems reassuring. However, since it's used in a shared workspace with a limited budget, I should verify compatibility further. It makes sense for this setup. I’m more tech-savvy than most and wanted to present the proposal, but it didn’t gain much traction. Perhaps there are more affordable access point devices that support this type of connection. Thanks for your initial feedback!
Check if your setup supports automatic switching between networks based on signal strength. Look for features like dynamic roaming, adaptive routing, or intelligent handoff capabilities.
Various gbps capable CAT 6 or better connections are still relevant, though expectations may shift if users notice delays due to mesh network constraints without a solid wired path. Wireless-to-wireless mesh solutions tend to be slightly more economical than adding physical cables, but they often come with trade-offs like higher latency and reduced Wi-Fi performance when scaling APs. If APs aren't positioned within the 5 GHz band, communication would shift to the less reliable 2.4 GHz frequency, which is prone to interference and typically capped at around 400 Mbps under ideal conditions—about 50 Mbps if they’re too far apart. Newer APs with Wi-Fi 6E can offer more stable performance on the 2.4 GHz band. The connection method between APs doesn’t significantly affect roaming capabilities as long as all devices share the same network name. Some routers or APs even have a feature that automatically disconnects a device when signal strength falls below a threshold, which I noticed in an older ASUS model.
Typically, if your wireless router or mesh network is compatible, it will only work with devices from the same brand or line. Even within the same brand, there can be differences that the support guides can clarify. Asus stands out because its routers usually integrate well with other AiMesh models. If your current gateway is an ISP-provided device and claims mesh support, it will only function with similar-branded mesh equipment. In my region, a fiber ISP offers a Huawei ONT for the level I need. Although the ONT supports mesh, I haven’t used it. However, if I wanted to invest more for better coverage, I could pay for additional Huawei mesh nodes and have them extend the network. This approach would be self-managed with an independent mesh system, but it comes at a higher monthly cost for both service and equipment. Mesh systems were designed to hide the setup from users while still improving signal reach. Using them in AP mode can interrupt seamless roaming. As mentioned earlier, switching between wireless sources varies by user. You can configure multiple APs with identical SSIDs on non-overlapping channels to achieve a mix of seamless transitions—provided you fine-tune power levels and set client thresholds. The most reliable solutions for smooth handoffs are SDN-based systems, where software enables APs to communicate automatically, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration when a user moves.
Absolutely, I was mainly aiming to exaggerate my friend's response. It's a bit tricky since we're using equipment our landlord supplied, which adds another layer. In my mind, the ideal plan would be to set up one mesh repeater and operate it wirelessly. If the signal remains weak, I'd consider running a cable to boost bandwidth.