Setting up a wireless connection outside for my mesh network
Setting up a wireless connection outside for my mesh network
Hey, I’m trying to set up an Orbi mesh Wi-Fi network that uses tri-band mesh technology. Right now I’m stuck without data or strong signal on my driveway, making it hard to turn off my house alarm. Would it be possible to add another access point connected via Cat5e outside the house? This could smoothly connect into my existing Orbi setup without needing a new Orbi. I really don’t want to replace everything since I already have good Cat5e coverage and find the cost of another Orbi too high.
Hi there, I might be mistaken but using the same hardware for mesh networks seems best. I've mixed different brands like Sky, Netgear Orbi and Amazon Eero before. Even my Heatmiser underfloor heating controls formed their own mesh. Each one had its own network and didn't connect to others. The Orbi's are really pricey but most solid mesh devices are affordable.
One access point linked to your current mesh setup implies any non-Orbi product you purchase must accommodate a broader mesh connection, such as WDS. This presumes your Orbi can handle alternatives like WDS—otherwise, consider it unless you plan to update devices as recommended. Among the routers/APs I own, the key drawback of WDS versus proprietary mesh is weaker or missing encryption, plus manual setup needed for better performance. A safer alternative to relying on WDS and avoiding complex changes is installing a more affordable two-part mesh system. For example, I used an ASUS ZenMini AX around $35 each. Ensure you have at least one router/lead device and a child or extra device. Connect the main unit near your driveway, wirelessly link the child device, position it as close as possible, set both to AP mode, and you’ll achieve reliable driveway coverage without heavy custom work. I placed my wireless AX (not Wi‑6e) just 30 feet closer to my driveway from the nearest wired AX mesh AP, achieving solid 5 GHz inside and extending up to about 300 feet outdoors with 2.4 GHz reach.
I considered offering them, but the price range is limited to 100-150 on eBay.