Mesh Networks, everything is connected
Mesh Networks, everything is connected
Mesh networks have been around for a while but with everyone trapped at home they are experiencing a surge in interest. The big questions most people are asking are, should I get a mesh network? And which one should I get?
What is a mesh network?
“Mesh networks?” I hear you say, “I’ve been meaning to get one. Remind what they are again?” They are a collection of nodes that create a seamless wifi network through any space large or small.
“Huh?”
Rather than having one primary router that all your devices talk too, you have a collection of nodes, (think of a little pod sitting on your bedside table or on your office desk). These nodes all talk to each other creating a wifi blanket throughout your house. They all work on the same network and devices can hop seamlessly from one node to the next as you move through the space.
Sounds great so what’s the catch?
There’s no catch the technology works well and is affordable. Before you run out and splash the cash there is one thing to consider. Do you need a mesh network? If you already have a modem and you have never thought to yourself, “I wish I could use my mobile on the roof of the garage but the wifi signal is just too weak.” Then your router is fine for your purpose and you don’t need to upgrade. Rather wait until the modem breaks or achieves obsolescence and then consider your options. If on the other hand you have found yourself hanging out of your work-from-home office window by a single finger trying to get a stronger signal then read on.
But which one?
If you feel you are ready to take the plunge an invest in a mesh network then there are five things that you should think about before deciding which one is best for you.
Speed
Different mesh networks have different speeds so if you are a heavy gamer or like to impress your friends by downloading every single season of The Simpsons in record time then this will be an important consideration for you.
Design
Some of us think that form is as important as function. Look and feel are essential considerations, especially as you will be dotting mesh network nodes all over your house or apartment. The good news is that there are many beautiful options on the market.
Coverage
Do you live in a sixty room manor house? If so you might want to think about getting a mesh network that has great coverage so you don’t need to buy two dozen nodes to cover your entire property.
Software
Most mesh networks come with their own easy to use software, which is great but the payoff is that you need to decide what is crucial to you as you’ll be locked in to that specific software. Some options that might be important to you could include parental control, built in cybersecurity scanning or high traffic priority.
Cost
For some budget will be the most important aspect of consider. It’s always a balance of affordability versus a feature rich device that’s well made.
The Options
There are loads of quality mesh networks out there to suit a wide range of needs and budgets. The three listed below are all great options that balance the above-mentioned considerations well but they are by no means definitive.
Eero
Eero has been in the mesh network business for a while and they have a strong tradition. There latest offerings is a balance of speed, design and affordability. It’s easy to set up with an intuitive to use app. You can’t wrong with this device.
Google Nest Wifi
If you are imbedded in the Google ecosystem then this is the option for you and if not it’s still a great buy. It’s fast, with great coverage and it has Google Assistant built in. The app is polished with a range of options including extensive parental controls. The price is also extremely competitive.
Linksys Velop
This is not the prettiest of devices but what it lacks in good looks it makes up for in scorching hot speed. The coverage is really good too so you won’t need to have too many nodes stationed around your house and you can tuck them away behind a desk or a couch. These are for the more serious user as they are a little fiddly to setup but the app does have some nice options like setting device priority and wifi customization.
Other options worth thinking about are the Netgear Oribi and the Tendwa MW6 Nova. Any of these will provide you with a great device and excellent coverage.
