Best MESH Systems

Equipment for computer networks is the main activity of the Chinese company Tenda. To create a single seamless coating with high-quality connections in all corners of a large apartment or country house, the Tenda Nova MW5 MESH system is well suited.

The system broadcasts in two bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. In the first case, the peak data exchange speed threshold is 300 Mbit/s, in the second - 867 Mbit/s. The main block of the kit is a small “cube” with dimensions 93x91x91 mm. On the receiving side of the module there are two gigabit WAN/LAN and LAN ports. The additional node is plugged directly into a 220 V outlet and is equipped with a LAN port for a wired connection to a desktop computer.

To set up the connection, the user will need to download and install the Tenda Wi-Fi application on their smartphone. It provides intuitive configuration functions, creating a guest network, and parental control settings. New nodes are also included in the system through the menu. Their maximum number reaches six, thanks to which a wireless network can be deployed over an area of over 500 m². When equipped with one signal amplifier, the MESH system can serve a “quad area” of about 300 m².

Tenda Nova MW5's assets include support for Beamforming and MU-MIMO technologies. The disadvantages of the model are the small number of ports and the lack of a web interface for setting up the network. However, for the average home user, the system’s capabilities are more than enough. After all, the device copes with its main mission of creating a single, seamless Internet coverage with a solid “A”.

Xiaomi Mesh System AX3000 differs from classic routers both in terms of appearance and functionality. By what criteria? Let's figure it out.

The device is intended for the deployment of seamless wireless Internet access networks in large apartments and country houses. The MESH system consists of two rectangular towers about 22 cm high with built-in antennas. The towers are supposed to be installed in a vertical orientation. The Xiaomi Mesh System AX3000 communicates with the provider’s network via a gigabit WAN connector. The model also has three Gigabit LAN ports for cable connection of client devices.

The MESH system operates in Wi-Fi 6 networks with a total wireless channel capacity of up to 2976 Mbit/s. The 2.4 GHz band has a theoretical data transfer rate of up to 574 Mbit/s, and at the 5 GHz carrier frequency - up to 2402 Mbit/s. Communication between system modules is carried out in the 5 GHz band. In terms of capabilities, the device is characterized by support for WPA3 encryption mode (software only), a number of familiar functions like VPN/Smart VPN, DDNS, port forwarding, IPTV and, of course, it is designed for creating Mesh networks at the touch of a button.

To configure the Xiaomi Mesh System AX3000, you use the proprietary web interface or the Mi Home mobile application. Both options require an intuitive menu. The MESH system impresses with its high stability of operation and good coverage, and its strength is quite enough to fully meet household needs.

The inexpensive D-Link M15-2 Mesh System offers a ready-made set of two devices to create an effective Wi-Fi zone of up to 370 square meters. m in small offices and private houses, cafes, parks. The equipment supports multiple user connections (more than 100 devices). The free EAGLE PRO AI smartphone app uses artificial intelligence algorithms to optimize synchronization between nodes, their interaction with connected gadgets, and traffic. Built-in voice assistants Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant make it easy to control, diagnose and change node parameters. All nodes are equipped with a WAN and LAN port, guaranteeing independent operation and the possibility of wired connection of a PC, laptop and other equipment.

D-Link M15-2 works simultaneously in two bands with high data exchange rates. At a frequency of 5 GHz, the traffic speed is 1201 Mbit/s, allowing you to unlock the full potential of gigabit Internet from popular providers using fiber optic connections. The mesh system fully covers the needs for home or office use. A good level of security is provided by the WPA3 standard and built-in Firewall. Parental control allows you to create a general Wi-Fi plan, control and limit distribution to individual users, create a guest network and deny access to certain web resources.

Mesh Wi-Fi systems combine the power of several wireless access points to provide full Internet coverage “over the air” for large premises. An interesting version of such a system is presented in the Asus portfolio. Meet the ZenWiFi AX Mini model!

The MESH system consists of two compact “pods” with built-in antennas, which provide coverage of up to 310 m². Also on the market is a device configuration consisting of a master router and two auxiliary nodes, covering a “quadrature” of over 450 m². Stable access to the Internet is achieved through seamless reconnection of the client from one cell of the system to a closer one, without the slightest delay in the operation of the Internet connection.

The Asus ZenWiFi AX Mini base station has two gigabit ports: WAN/LAN and LAN. The operation of the system components is established in Wi-Fi 6 generation networks - in the 2.4 GHz range, the device can squeeze out a data transfer rate of up to 574 Mbit/s, at a frequency of 5 GHz the data exchange rate reaches 1201 Mbit/s. In practice, speed indicators will depend on the specific living conditions of the MESH system. The points are connected to each other in the same ranges in which the user devices are located.

The MESH system offers options for express network setup using a mobile application or deep configuration of parameters through a standard web interface. The model also claims to support Beamforming, MU-MIMO and AiProtection technologies. The only thing it lacks is more ports (the system does not include a single USB interface). Asus ZenWiFi AX Mini is a truly high-quality product for deploying a large and fast wireless network in a home or small office with high-quality coverage and a minimum number of “blind spots.”

The advanced TP-LINK Deco X50-PoE Mesh system with two complete nodes has extensive installation and power connection options. The universal bracket allows you to place the devices on the wall or ceiling. A separate PoE input provides simultaneous power supply and data transmission over twisted pair cable, so you can eliminate the socket and adapter from the circuit. The equipment is well suited for large private homes, offices, restaurants, parks and other public places where the number of connected participants can reach 150.

The technical component will please even enthusiasts. The 2.5 Gbps LAN port ensures fast sharing of large files (such as 4K movies) on the local network, as well as efficient gaming on your PC. Wi-Fi is transmitted in two bands with up to 3000 Mbit/s (2402 Mbit/s for 5 GHz and 574 Mbit/s for 2.4 GHz). The system is equipped with technologies for optimizing signal propagation and directionality to create reliable communication with devices connected via a wireless channel. The bandwidth has been increased to 160 MHz, so long distances will not be an obstacle to data exchange.

It is worth noting that a mobile application has been implemented for easy setup. Interaction is also carried out through voice assistants Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The mesh system provides maximum benefits for connected users and effectively eliminates unauthorized access thanks to the WPA3 standard. Basic security features are available as part of TP-Link Home Shield software, but additional ones require a paid subscription.