WiFi issues
WiFi issues
Hello, I'm here to help with your issue. You're using a TP-Link EAP110 and experiencing Wi-Fi drops for devices like Echo Dot and Echo Show. An access point upgrade might be worth considering. You're also looking into the TP-Link EAP225 or EAP245 options.
The EAP110 features just one 2.4GHz radio and works with 802.11b/g/n standards. The 2.4GHz band offers decent coverage, though your device can reach up to 300Mbps under ideal wireless-N conditions. IoT gadgets perform best when isolated on their own radio or network name to minimize disruption from other devices that are always transmitting data. This issue becomes noticeable if you lack a dual-band access point, forcing non-IoT equipment to use the 5GHz band and IoT devices to stick with 2.4GHz. If you already have a dual-band AP, your non-IoT items can use 5GHz while IoT stays on 2.4GHz. Your current setup uses only one antenna, which limits performance compared to a WiFi-5 or higher AP. Upgrading to a more advanced AP could help, especially if your devices support 5GHz and you’re within range. I concur with @Benji that simply swapping the AP might not suffice for better coverage. You may need additional APs in spots with weak signals or consider rethinking your network layout. Lastly, when many devices connect to a single AP simultaneously, interference increases—especially if it doesn’t support MIMO technology. While the EAP225 offers 2x2 WiFi-5, the EAP245 provides 3x3 WiFi-5, making it potentially more effective in crowded environments.
the space is 90 square meters with the tp-link eap110 centered in the home. the house has thick reinforced brick walls (10 to 15 inches). the echo dot is only 5 meters from the main entrance, and the echo display appears in my room about 7-8 meters away. all smartphones and tablets support 5ghz. regarding the echo dot and display, it might be better to purchase an eap245 and connect devices using 5ghz, while keeping other smart devices on 2.4ghz.
In terms of clearing up the 2.4GHz band, yes it helps. Just be aware that 5GHz struggles to pass through solid concrete, so rely on it only within a few walls. More concrete means you'll likely need several APs spaced apart. For those outside the USA, this is typical. You might manage with one AP, but testing is essential. Keep the EAP110 handy for areas with weak coverage.