While your cell signals can handle low-bandwidth jobs, you need Wi-Fi at home to make the most of your work or playtime. You may think that the default router installed by your ISP may be enough for your domestic needs, but it can have limited capabilities due to being mass-produced.
There are several ways to optimize that connection, but none can be as efficient as setting up a mesh router network. If you’re wondering what the advantages of mesh routers at home are, this article will help you learn about them.
Limitations of a stand-alone router
Your ISP may recommend a stand-alone router from a manufacturer they contracted to procure the specific units. Sure, it works fine on its own, and you can get a warranty, but the device doesn’t ship without its fair share of limitations. Some of the most common ones include the following.
Limited signal coverage
Most stand-alone routers are designed to service a handful of devices with a decent internet speed. If you place them in a confined space, it can be hard to get good reception even with Wi-Fi 6. Additionally, it can be hard to stream your favorite shows on your PC when seven other devices are connected to the same network.
Vulnerable security protocols
Not all stand-alone routers ship with military-grade security protocols. Time and again, people have had their Wi-Fi networks breached by amateur hackers who don’t even connect physically to the device. Although your computer or phone may have a robust firewall, your router may not have strong enough encryption. That leaves the data traffic through the device vulnerable to interception, providing your details and device access to unauthorized personnel.
No scope for multi-packs
There are very few ISPs that offer a discount on package deals. So, if you and your friend need a domestic Wi-Fi solution, you both need to avail yourself of separate subscriptions, even if you live next door.
Hardware failure is intolerable
A stand-alone router handles all the Wi-Fi services in its location. Thus, your home internet connection is lost if anything happens to the device. Routers are prone to overheating and might not provide optimal service when updating the drivers.
What is a mesh router?
Instead of a single device to transmit Wi-Fi signals, a mesh router has multiple nodes, the exact number determined by the manufacturer. Each of these nodes acts as a repeater while only the central unit remains connected to the internet hardline. That way, you get more coverage and can connect to more devices, as each node can fulfill the role of a router to the connected devices.
Yes, the arrangement increases the overall cost. Still, it is easy to set up as it usually integrates with an app, granting you more security and better control over the data traffic.
What are the advantages of mesh routers at home?
Using multiple nodes instead of a central Wi-Fi device brings several advantages to the user. For one, you can fix the Wi-Fi dead zones in your home. Those include the ones mentioned below.
Ease of installation
Mesh routers are incredibly convenient to set up. You don’t need professional help as the installation steps don’t require expertise in electronics. Connect the cable, insert the SIM card, and turn on the router. Once you install the required app on your smartphone, you can complete the configuration digitally. And that’s it! The connection is seamless when switching nodes. You can also configure additional privacy and security settings. More on that later.
Increased range and signal strength
The most apparent advantage of a mesh router is its increased range. A typical network can cover 3000 sq. ft. The boosted signals also have better penetration through concrete walls so that you get a decent connection in your corner office or the gaming dungeon.
Better network security
Most mesh routers have an in-built security system that secures all the traffic through each node. Unlike a stand-alone router, you get assured WPA2 encryption and a TLS protocol applied to all data packets. If you continue using the default router, you should consider ways of protecting your activities.
Digging deeper into your router settings is a convenient action. However, you can install a VPN for PC to reassure that all activities on your home computer happen in a secure environment. A Virtual Private Network is an application that encrypts and reroutes internet traffic. While having one on your home PC is essential, it is also crucial to enable it on smartphones. After all, we take smartphones everywhere and might be tempted to connect to unknown networks.
Improved device management
The intuitive app that integrates with the mesh router allows more comprehensive device management. You can detect suspicious devices in real-time and block their access before they have time to do any significant harm. Moreover, the app allows you better parental control to monitor what your children may be watching on the internet and how long they’ve been online.
Economically feasible
When purchased separately, a mesh router is more expensive than its stand-alone counterpart. However, you can share the nodes with your friends and neighbors and cut the cost of the product and internet utilization. Many companies offer multi-pack deals that you can share with those who don’t live in your vicinity.
Summary
Overall, a mesh router is quite an upgrade over a stand-alone router, both in terms of efficiency and control. We hope this piece helped answer the question, ‘What are the advantages of a mesh router at home?’ Did we leave something out? Feel free to let us know your thoughts in the comments below.