Mesh network: three systems on trial promising full Internet coverage
16.3.2017
Translation: machine translated
Are you looking for a simple solution to get WiFi throughout your flat? Then a mesh network could be the ideal solution. I irradiated my flat with three models and here's what I came up with.
Mesh networks promise a simple and reliable solution. They use several bands so that each client (mobile, laptop, etc.) has several available. Using this method, clients will, in theory, suffer no loss of performance, regardless of which satellite or router they are connected to.
Most mesh network systems are available as a starter set with a router and a satellite. Additional satellites are purchased separately and can easily be integrated into the existing network. Out of the box, they provide WiFi coverage with no loss of connection as you move from room to room. I tested the performance and ease of use of three systems.
Google Wifi
As Google WiFi lacks European certification, we are unfortunately not selling this product until further notice. But we still used this interesting little device for testing.
Installation
Performance
This is where the disadvantages of the small size show themselves. I certainly had network throughout my flat, but the speed was below my expectations. But it also has to be said that I was only using the base station. I didn't have a satellite at my disposal.
Linksys Velop
Both devices can be used as routers or satellites. The point of placing such and such a tower in such and such a place is therefore secondary. Optically they are more or less sober and not too big. So they don't need to be hidden, like my Asus router for example. The latter looks like a UFO from bad sci-fi movies.
Installation
From the app, you can make all the current network settings. For more in-depth changes, as always, you need to connect from the browser (type 192.168.1.1 in the address bar).
Performance
When testing speed and reception throughout my flat, Velop showed itself at its best. Whether in the bathroom, bedroom or on the balcony, the connection was extremely stable and the download speed belonged to the best.
Netgear Orbi
Holy Moly! What is this monster? The Netgear satellite router duo is huge. Each white brick is as big as my old router, which I banished to a shelf for this very reason. I wouldn't call it discreet. The majority of people will certainly hide these things. Which can have an influence on the connection.
Installation
Performance
For performance, it looks like size does pay off. The connection and speed were always great. Even when I locked myself in the bathroom, the measurements barely changed. Only my Asus router was still ahead with its huge antennas.
Comparison table
Conclusion: practical and reliable
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Philipp Rüegg
Senior Editor
Philipp.Rueegg@digitecgalaxus.chAs a child, I wasn't allowed to have any consoles. It was only with the arrival of the family's 486 PC that the magical world of gaming opened up to me. Today, I'm overcompensating accordingly. Only a lack of time and money prevents me from trying out every game there is and decorating my shelf with rare retro consoles.
