Mesh system recommendation
Mesh system recommendation
Hey, after reviewing my previous choices, I’m moving away from the various routers and APs I’ve been using. I’m considering switching to a full mesh network setup instead. I checked Amazon.de in Czechia and found promising options: the TP-Link Deco X50 set of 3 for 224€ seems like a solid pick (the XE75 is more expensive), and the Asus ZenWifi XD4 offers a good value at 246€ for three units or 132€ for two. I’m thinking about whether I really need a fourth unit, since I only require three to cover my home and an extra could serve as an outdoor unit.
My current connection uses a terminator (Zyxel VMG4005-B50A) that combines two DSL lines. The new router would need PPPoE support with WLAN ID and tag, which it doesn’t seem to offer. I’m also curious about adding a camera to the system and whether Tapo is a viable option.
If you have any suggestions or better deals available right now, I’d really appreciate it!
I noticed some cool entry points from Aruba on German eBay around EUR 60. For a router, I suggest OPNsense—just ensure you have the right hardware or consider using a VM with network cards (not ideal).
I considered setting up my own router, but I realized I don’t need extra tools for troubleshooting. I’m looking for something ready to use.
The best approach is to purchase affordable routers compatible with OpenWRT and build your own mesh network. Check the recommended hardware list to find options within your budget. Avoid outdated models, particularly for the primary router. For additional nodes, consider using APs rather than traditional routers. You can also repurpose existing devices and install OpenWRT on them. Personally, I use a Netgear R7800 as my main router along with three WAC104 access points. The mesh setup is covered in this tutorial.
It's unclear... You seem to think the existing hardware handles it smoothly. Are you hoping the firewall settings and VLANs will set up automatically?
Other settings available include configuring Docker on your Linux server beyond just the PPPoE connection shown.
It depends on your setup and the gadgets linked to it. You'll likely start with a name server, then consider DHCP, VLANs for managing access points and switches, guest VLANs, VPN connections, and other features. Not all devices require internet access, and not every device needs constant communication with others. Each network is unique and doesn't set itself up automatically.
You're referring to their products that aren't user-friendly. For TPlink, their switches with unpredictable settings are decent, particularly the budget 8-port models that perform well and are dependable—but anything too complex is a turn-off. Their Bluetooth adapter functions properly. When it comes to any product needing setup, I’d steer clear. They haven’t fully grasped this issue yet, and their software may not behave as expected. Firmware updates can vanish from their site once a product reaches end-of-life. I have a manageable switch from them that automatically logs you out after 60 seconds during configuration—definitely a hassle. Their support didn’t help resolve the issue, and the firmware disappeared soon after. They did reply to my emails, which is a plus, but it was frustrating and wasted money. I wouldn’t choose Asus because they had a non-replaceable fan on the chipset that made excessive noise, and it wasn’t easy to fix. Plus, they seem to avoid Linux support, which is concerning. Zyxel once produced solid modems; the last I heard was a low-quality router with questionable build, and after switching it to bridge mode, the software became unresponsive, eventually being swapped for a DSL modem. Aruba offers compatible outdoor access points, though you’d need to ensure they’re protected from moisture. For outdoor use, consider an MSM422 (or an indoor model from Aruba) as long as it stays dry. The signal range is limited by the clients’ capabilities, so boosting transmission power outdoors isn’t practical.