Mesh networking explained
> Most conventional routers are designed for use in homes with 2-3 bedrooms, or typically up to 1,500 sq ft in size. A router like that may struggle to provide Wi-Fi throughout larger homes, especially where there are bedrooms on upper floors, or maybe even up in an attic. And, even in some smaller homes, you may find that thick walls or ceilings can block the Wi-Fi signal too.
A ‘mesh’ networking system is often the ideal solution for homes such as these. Rather than a single router, a mesh system typically consists of two routers - generally for homes up to 3,000 sq ft – or even three routers for really large homes.
One of those mesh routers will use an Ethernet cable to connect to your existing broadband router, in order to use its internet connection, and the other router(s) can be placed in another part of your home where the Wi-Fi may be a bit weak. Each mesh router transmits its own Wi-Fi signal, and those signals then combine to create a ‘mesh network’ that reaches much further than a single, conventional router on its own.
That’s a great solution for larger homes – although, of course, using multiple routers makes these mesh systems more expensive than a single router on its own. But, thankfully, there are some quite affordable mesh systems now available, and while these less expensive systems won’t be blazing fast they can still handle Netflix, Zoom and a spot of gaming action without costing you a fortune.