Your mesh Wi-Fi isn't operating at maximum performance.
Your mesh Wi-Fi isn't operating at maximum performance.
I have a TP-Link M4 Deco setup with three base units. The system in Room 1 connects to the broadband modem Deco 2, which links to Deco 1 via its Wi-Fi network. Deco 3 in Room 3 is connected to Deco 2 using an Ethernet cable. My experience varies depending on location: in Room 1 with a laptop connected either wirelessly or via wired connection, I typically achieve around 360 Mbps. In Room 2, using the Ethernet cable, speeds exceed 300 Mbps. When in Room 2 with WiFi, speeds drop to about 100 Mbps. In Room 3, with an Ethernet connection, I get roughly 300 Mbps, and Wi-Fi gives me around 180 Mbps. The current setup from Room 3 to the laptop uses a cable into D1, then Wi-Fi to D2, followed by another cable to the laptop. Previously, the path was D1 Wi-Fi → D3 Wi-Fi → Laptop, giving 100 Mbps. I’m having trouble connecting a direct cable from D1 to D3 without drilling, and the powerline extender (AV500) seems to reduce performance further, as it’s causing speeds of only 10 Mbps.
I just tested two methods. Deco 1 sends wireless to Deco 2, which is configured as network 1 in the app. Then I used Deco 3 in AP mode connected to Deco 2 via a wired link, set as network 2. This helps a bit because, as I mentioned, D1 to D2 wireless then D2 wired to laptop gives decent speed. I created another AP, but speeds remain low since the D1 to D2 Wi-Fi is impacting it. My last attempt was using the longest Ethernet cable I have—from D1 directly to D3 around the house and stairs. Speeds are over 350 Mbps on Wi-Fi, so it seems I’ll need to drill holes or try better powerline adaptors. I favor a direct Ethernet connection for security and fewer interference issues, without needing extra purchases (except maybe a drill bit).