Seeking optimal mesh options for large structures.
Seeking optimal mesh options for large structures.
Hello, Your parents have a large house with solid walls made from thick stone. They recently installed fiber and are looking for a way to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home. I checked out the Deco XE75: https://www.tp-link.com/en/home-networki...deco-xe75/. Do you know of any other effective options?
Mesh performance becomes tough when covering several rooms with one WiFi AP. Wall types pose a problem for any standard WiFi setup. The best approach is to install APs connected via Ethernet to a central router or switch positioned throughout the house at key spots. You can also activate some mesh nodes in AP mode if needed. But you won't be able to determine the exact number of APs required until you install them and test their effectiveness.
Thank you for your response. I intended to purchase several items, but I'm uncertain about the reliability of a continuous mesh network in wireless at the end of the chain. My electrical system appears to be outdated and may struggle with performance when using CPL.
Mesh needs nodes and client devices to stay connected through a wireless link. When you go farther or hit more obstacles, the signal weakens.
It would be much more efficient if you could install neat Cat6 runs to multiple rooms for hardwiring the APs. Surely this adds extra work, but since Cat6 is inexpensive, planning organized runs makes it completely worthwhile. This setup allows you to connect several APs via a wired backhaul, ensuring full bandwidth throughout the house with consistent speed and little interference.
It might be feasible from the outside, though that remains quite complex. Every wall—both inside and outside—is made of 20-inch stone blocks, making internal installation impractical. I need a video showing a satellite or node system in action to understand the actual losses.
There’s a slim possibility the signal will pass through, but I’d doubt it. It seems mobile signals struggle even inside. Consider using a 22-24 inch drill bit for drilling and install Cat6 cable. You might also run low-level tests around the outside to see how close you can get the cable without visibility issues. Keeping it tidy with hardwiring will pay off in reliability and performance once completed.