Mesh Wifi
Mesh Wifi
Hi everyone, welcome! I'm just getting started with networking and have recently moved into a new house. I want to set up the Wi-Fi properly from the beginning while my wife still lets me run cables through walls if needed. My plan is to use Ethernet for my office computers but keep everything wireless. I aim to build a Wi-Fi 6E mesh network with one main router, and all connected devices—like light switches, cameras, etc.—will be managed via Home Assistant running locally.
I'm planning to get an ARRIS Surfboard S33 modem, and in the future I hope to switch to fiber optic. Do I need a specific modern modem for that? Should I look into other mesh router options like TP-Link Deco? Will these work together with devices such as light switches or cameras? I'm also curious about whether all mesh routers require the same system, and I've seen people using Zigbee devices.
I need guidance on which router to choose and what sensors, switches, and cameras are compatible with a mesh Wi-Fi setup—not just for end devices but as routers themselves. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
Hi there, on the Mesh WiFi challenge I tried checking a third-party mesh setup and turned off the SSID/WiFi on your ISP modem. I’m based in the UK and use Sky as my provider. While they offer a decent solution with remote TV boxes as extenders, it doesn’t quite match the performance of my Eero 6E Pro, which I just installed. I bought three units that cover my two-story home and most of a big garden. Just be sure your modem’s Wi-Fi is disabled to avoid roaming problems. Regarding fibre, do you plan to install it inside your house or are you considering it later? My current fibre connection is 1Gbps and I’m fine with my existing 1Gbps home network—no issues there. I have around 30 devices connected and never faced any trouble. PCs, CCTVs, alarms, smart TVs, heating systems, mobiles...
You manage numerous tasks here. - The assistant controls your smart home by connecting devices and acting as their central hub. It functions like a router, linking them together. You’ll need a ZigBee adapter if using that type of device. When testing Home Assistant, I purchased both a ZigBee and a Z-Wave adapter to support all types. Smart features come with built-in capabilities. - Think strategically. I set up access points for Wi-Fi and ran cables into electrical boxes. This simplified upgrades and replacements—recently I swapped out my access points without drilling new holes. - For future needs, consider your requirements carefully. Initially I installed only one LAN port per room, but later added more. Always anticipate additional devices like printers or servers. - Equipment choices weren’t initially about VLANs for IoT separation. It might seem excessive, but planning now ensures compatibility when you need advanced setups. - Fiber connections are irrelevant. Most providers drop fiber into your home and connect to an ONT; your router plugs straight in. There’s no separate modem needed. - If you opt for fiber, speed matters. Your high-speed connection (around 2.5 GbE or higher) likely dictates the performance of your switches and router.
We all hope for Fiber connections in the future, though some of us may never get them. You should verify if a local provider offers Fiber. In my area, we have Docsis Cable, satellite, and LTE/5G options, but no Fiber available. Regarding modems, availability varies by country and service. In the US, cable companies must support customer-owned modems, which is only true for cable providers. Even then, confirm with them about their supported models. Comcast lists compatible retail modems, like the S33, which offers 2.5 Gbps Ethernet for top speeds. Fiber connections don’t require a modem; a media converter can transform it at home. Some providers, such as Verizon, supply standalone converters and routers, while AT&T bundles everything in one unit—ideal if you prefer using your own router. For smart lighting, devices like the Lutron Caseta dimmer work via WiFi, but you’ll need their proprietary hub for full control. It’s wise to thoroughly research these products to find compatible options.