Things to Consider When Choosing a WiFi Mesh System

WiFi Standard and Speed Requirements

WiFi 6 (802.11ax) represents the current standard, offering improved speeds, capacity, and efficiency compared to WiFi 5 (802.11ac). WiFi 6E adds access to the 6GHz frequency band, providing additional bandwidth in environments with numerous competing networks. Speed ratings (AX1800, AX5400, etc.) indicate theoretical maximum combined speeds across all bands.

Coverage Area and Property Size

Manufacturers quote coverage in square metres per unit. UK property construction (solid walls, multiple floors) typically reduces effective range compared to stated figures. Two-storey homes often require a minimum of two units, whilst larger properties or those with thick walls benefit from three or more nodes. Optimal placement positions one unit centrally on each floor.

Number of Devices and Capacity

Modern households connect numerous wireless devices: smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart home devices, streaming equipment, and gaming consoles. WiFi 6 mesh systems handle higher device counts more efficiently than previous generations through technologies like OFDMA and Target Wake Time. Consider current and anticipated future device loads when selecting capacity.

Ethernet Port Requirements

Wired connections provide lower latency and more stable performance than wireless for devices like desktop computers, gaming consoles, network-attached storage, and smart TVs. Systems with multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports per unit offer flexibility for wired device placement. 2.5G Ethernet ports accommodate ultra-fast broadband connections exceeding 1 Gbps.

Dual-Band vs Tri-Band Architecture

Dual-band systems operate on 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. Tri-band systems add either a second 5GHz band or a 6GHz band (WiFi 6E). The additional band in tri-band systems often serves as dedicated wireless backhaul, allowing nodes to communicate without reducing bandwidth available to client devices. This improves performance in demanding environments.

Setup and Management Complexity

Consumer mesh systems prioritise simplified setup through smartphone applications. These apps typically provide guided installation, network naming, and basic security configuration. Advanced users may prefer systems offering detailed configuration options for features like QoS, port forwarding, VPN support, and custom DNS settings. Balance ease of use against required customisation capabilities.

Subscription Services and Feature Paywalls

Some manufacturers include advanced features (parental controls, threat protection, device prioritisation) without additional cost, whilst others require ongoing subscriptions. Amazon eero positions comprehensive features behind eero Plus (£9.99/month), whilst TP-Link includes parental controls and basic security in base pricing. Consider total cost of ownership including any subscriptions.

Smart Home Integration

Mesh systems increasingly include smart home hub functionality. Amazon eero 6+ incorporates Zigbee support for directly connecting compatible smart devices. Google Nest WiFi Pro includes Thread border router capability for Matter-compatible devices. These integrations reduce need for separate hub hardware in smart home deployments.

ISP Modem Compatibility

Most mesh systems work with standard UK broadband connections through ISP-provided modems in bridge mode. Fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) installations typically provide Ethernet output suitable for mesh system WAN ports. VDSL connections may require retaining ISP router in modem mode or selecting mesh systems with built-in VDSL modems (less common).

Expandability and Future Upgrading

Mesh systems support adding additional nodes to extend coverage as needed. Verify nodes remain available for purchase and that firmware updates continue supporting older hardware. Some manufacturers allow mixing different models within the same mesh network, whilst others require matched units for optimal performance.