Looking to upgrade your Wi-Fi? You’re no doubt considering the benefits of a mesh network over a typical Wi-Fi router. Both options can deliver excellent Wi-Fi performance, but each has unique pros and cons. This guide will help you decide which setup is right for you.
Which WiFi Setup Do You Need? Router vs Mesh WiFi? – WiFi 6E?
A Wi-Fi router is better than a mesh network for most people, but mesh networks have the upper hand in specific situations. Wi-Fi routers are less expensive, easier to set up, and perform great in most homes. Mesh networks are an upgrade for large homes or homes with difficult Wi-Fi dead spots.
A Wi-Fi router routes internet and network traffic from devices in your home. The Wi-Fi router must be connected to a modem to access the internet, although some have a built-in modem. Our guide to modems provides more details. The same goes for mesh networks, but mesh networks have additional wireless nodes: devices on a mesh network switch between nodes depending on the strongest signal strength.
A Wi-Fi router is easier to set up than a mesh network. Modern routers and mesh networks have an app-based setup process that is used through your smartphone, but mesh networks have additional nodes that need to be positioned, powered, and configured.
