Wireless Access Points vs Mesh WiFi Systems: Which One is Right for You?

22/5/2023

In today's connected world, having a reliable and fast internet connection at home is essential. When it comes to extending the range and improving the coverage of your WiFi network, two popular options are wireless access points and mesh WiFi systems. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between these two solutions, their benefits, and help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.

1. Understanding Wireless Access Points

What is a Wireless Access Point and how does is work?

In simple terms, a wireless access point is a device that allows you to connect to the internet wirelessly, using a technology called Wi-Fi. It acts as a central hub or relay station that receives the internet signal from your internet service provider (ISP) through an Ethernet cable and broadcasts it as a wireless signal.

Here's how it works: The wireless access point is connected to your modem or router using an Ethernet cable. The modem or router receives the internet signal from your ISP, and then the wireless access point takes that signal and converts it into a Wi-Fi signal. This Wi-Fi signal is what allows your wireless devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, to connect to the internet without needing any physical cables.
Think of the wireless access point as a translator between the wired internet signal coming from your modem or router and the wireless signals that your devices can understand. It takes the internet signal, translates it into a wireless language, and broadcasts it into the air, creating a wireless network within its coverage area.

When your Wi-Fi-enabled device, like a smartphone or laptop, is within range of the wireless access point, it detects the Wi-Fi signal and allows you to connect to it. Once connected, you can access the internet, browse websites, use online applications, and stream media without needing any physical connections.
So, in summary, a wireless access point is a device that bridges the gap between the wired internet signal from your modem or router and the wireless signals that your devices can communicate with. It receives the internet signal through an Ethernet cable, converts it into a Wi-Fi signal, and broadcasts it wirelessly, enabling your devices to connect and access the internet without the need for any physical cables.

What are the advantages of Wireless Access Points?

Using wireless access points offers several advantages when it comes to extending your Wi-Fi coverage and improving your internet experience. Here are the key advantages of using wireless access points:

1. Enhanced Signal Strength and Coverage: Wireless access points help amplify and extend your Wi-Fi signal, providing better coverage throughout your home or office. By strategically placing multiple access points, you can eliminate dead spots and ensure a strong, reliable connection in every corner of your space.

2. Improved Performance for High-Demand Tasks: If you have bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming high-definition videos, online gaming, or file transfers, wireless access points can handle these tasks efficiently. They distribute the network load effectively, preventing congestion and ensuring smooth performance for all connected devices.

3. Scalability for Large Homes or Offices: Wireless access points offer scalability, allowing you to expand your network as needed. As your space grows or your device count increases, you can add additional access points to maintain optimal coverage and accommodate more users without sacrificing speed or stability.

4. Flexibility in Network Configuration: With wireless access points, you have more control over your network setup. You can customize settings such as network name, security protocols, and channel selection to suit your preferences and security needs. This flexibility enables you to create a tailored Wi-Fi network that meets your specific requirements.

5. Separation of Network Traffic: Wireless access points enable you to create separate networks or network segments, providing enhanced security and control. For instance, you can have a guest network separate from your main network, keeping your personal devices and data isolated from guest devices.

6. Compatibility with Wired Devices: While wireless access points focus on expanding wireless connectivity, they often include Ethernet ports as well. This allows you to connect wired devices, such as desktop computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles, directly to the access point for a stable and high-speed connection.

7. Ease of Management: Wireless access points typically come with user-friendly management interfaces or mobile apps, simplifying the setup and configuration process. This makes it easier for even non-technical users to install and manage their Wi-Fi network effectively.

In summary, wireless access points offer advantages such as improved signal strength and coverage, better performance for high-demand tasks, scalability, flexibility in network configuration, separation of network traffic, compatibility with wired devices, and ease of management. These advantages make wireless access points a reliable and versatile solution for extending and enhancing your Wi-Fi network.

2. Exploring Mesh WiFi Systems

What is a Mesh WiFi System and how does it work?

In simple terms, a mesh WiFi system is a clever way to improve your internet connection at home or in the office. It uses a group of devices, called nodes, that work together to create a strong and seamless WiFi network.
Imagine you have a big house with several rooms. In a traditional setup, you might have a single router providing WiFi, but sometimes the signal doesn't reach all the corners, resulting in weak or unreliable connections. That's where a mesh WiFi system comes in.
With a mesh WiFi system, you place multiple nodes throughout your space. One node connects directly to your internet modem using a cable, while the other nodes are spread around your house. These nodes talk to each other wirelessly, forming a network that expands the WiFi coverage.
The magic of a mesh WiFi system is that all the nodes work together as a team. They share the WiFi signal and relay it to ensure strong coverage everywhere. So, no matter where you are in your house, your devices can connect to the nearest node and enjoy a fast and stable internet connection.
Even if you move around the house while using your phone or laptop, the mesh WiFi system automatically switches your connection to the node with the best signal. This means you can walk from room to room without losing your internet connection or needing to switch networks manually.
A mesh WiFi system also helps if one node encounters a problem. The other nodes step in and keep the network running smoothly, so you don't lose internet access. It's like having a backup plan to make sure you're always connected.
Setting up and managing a mesh WiFi system is usually straightforward. You can use a mobile app or a website to control your network, adjust settings, and monitor performance. It gives you more control and makes it easier to customise your WiFi experience according to your needs.
In summary, a mesh WiFi system is a smart way to expand and improve your WiFi coverage. By using multiple nodes that work together, it ensures a strong and reliable internet connection throughout your home or office, even in areas that were hard to reach before. It's like having WiFi superheroes that extend and boost your signal, making sure you stay connected seamlessly.

What are the benefits of a Mesh WiFi system?

Using a mesh WiFi system brings several benefits that make your internet experience at home or in the office better and more convenient. Let's explore these benefits in layman's terms:

No More Dead Zones: A mesh WiFi system eliminates those frustrating areas where your WiFi signal is weak or non-existent, commonly known as dead zones. With the help of multiple nodes spread around your space, the system ensures that every nook and cranny receives a strong and reliable WiFi signal. So, whether you're in the living room, bedroom, or even the garden, you can stay connected without any hassle.
Seamless Roaming: Have you ever experienced a sudden drop in WiFi when moving from one room to another? With a mesh WiFi system, that problem is solved. The system automatically connects your devices to the nearest node as you move around your home. You won't notice any interruption or need to manually switch networks. It's like having a personal WiFi assistant that follows you wherever you go, ensuring a smooth and continuous connection.
Improved Speed and Performance: A mesh WiFi system is designed to handle multiple devices and bandwidth-hungry activities without slowing down. Whether you're streaming movies, playing online games, or video chatting, the system distributes the internet speed efficiently across all connected devices. This means everyone can enjoy a fast and reliable internet connection without any lag or buffering issues.
Easy Setup and Management: Setting up a mesh WiFi system is typically straightforward, even for non-technical users. The included mobile apps or user-friendly interfaces guide you through the process, making it easy to get your network up and running. Plus, managing your WiFi network becomes a breeze. You can control settings, monitor performance, and even set up parental controls with just a few taps on your smartphone.
Expandability: If your WiFi needs change or you move to a bigger space, a mesh WiFi system offers expandability. You can easily add more nodes to your existing setup, extending the coverage and accommodating more devices. This scalability ensures that your WiFi network grows with your requirements without compromising on performance or coverage.
Enhanced Network Stability: In a mesh WiFi system, if one node encounters an issue or goes offline, the other nodes step in and continue providing WiFi coverage. This redundancy feature ensures that your network remains stable and operational even if there's a problem with one of the nodes. It's like having a safety net to keep you connected at all times.

In summary, using a mesh WiFi system brings benefits such as eliminating dead zones, seamless roaming, improved speed and performance, easy setup and management, expandability, and enhanced network stability. It's like having a reliable and intelligent WiFi system that covers your entire space, keeps you connected wherever you are, and provides a seamless internet experience for everyone in your household or office.

3. Factors to consider when deciding between Wireless Access Points and Mesh WiFi systems:

When deciding between a network using multiple access points and a Mesh WiFi system, there are several factors to consider in order to determine the best option for your home or office. Let's explore these factors in the context of using multiple access points:

Size and Layout of Your Space: Take into account the size and layout of your premises. If you have a large or multi-level area with complex layouts, employing multiple access points strategically placed throughout can offer more comprehensive coverage compared to a single access point. This helps eliminate areas with weak WiFi signals, ensuring a strong connection in every corner of your space.
Network Scalability: Evaluate your scalability requirements. If you anticipate expanding your network in the future or need flexibility in adding or relocating access points, a network with multiple access points is a more scalable solution. You can easily add additional access points as needed to accommodate growing demands or adjust their placement to optimise coverage in different areas. This scalability allows for better customisation as your network evolves.
Network Performance and Bandwidth: Consider your internet usage and the number of devices connected to your network. If you have a high-demand environment with numerous devices simultaneously streaming, gaming, or conducting data-intensive tasks, a network with multiple access points can handle the increased network traffic more efficiently. The load is distributed across multiple access points, reducing congestion and ensuring smoother performance for all connected devices.
Ease of Installation and Management: Evaluate your technical expertise and preferences. Mesh WiFi systems often offer simpler installation and management processes, making them more user-friendly for those without advanced networking knowledge. On the other hand, a network with multiple access points may require more technical expertise for configuration, placement, and optimisation. If you have the technical skills or are willing to invest time in setup and management, a network with multiple access points provides more control and customization options.
Cost Considerations: Consider your budget. Mesh WiFi systems typically come in kits with multiple nodes included, offering a cost-effective solution for broad coverage. In contrast, a network with multiple access points requires separate purchases for each access point, which can be more expensive upfront. However, if scalability and customisation are priorities for you, the long-term benefits of a network with multiple access points may outweigh the initial cost.

By considering the size and layout of your space, scalability needs, network performance requirements, technical expertise, and budget, you can make an informed decision between a network with multiple access points and a Mesh WiFi system. Each option has its own advantages and considerations, so choose the one that aligns best with your specific circumstances and priorities.

4. Real world senarios

Real-life scenarios where wireless access points excel:

Large Homes with Multiple Floors or Thick Walls: Wireless access points are ideal for large homes where a single router may not provide adequate coverage. By strategically placing access points throughout the home, you can ensure strong and reliable WiFi signals in every room, even across multiple floors or through thick walls.
Offices with High-Demand Tasks and Heavy Data Transfer: In office environments where there are numerous employees engaging in bandwidth-intensive tasks such as video conferencing, file sharing, or data transfer, wireless access points offer the necessary capacity and performance to handle the increased network traffic. They can support a large number of concurrent connections and ensure fast and stable connections for all users.

Practical situations where mesh WiFi systems shine:

Homes with Challenging Layouts or Dead Spots: Mesh WiFi systems are particularly useful in homes with challenging layouts or areas that suffer from dead spots. The interconnected nodes in a mesh system collaborate to create a seamless network, eliminating WiFi dead zones and providing consistent coverage throughout the entire home. This is especially beneficial for large homes, homes with multiple levels, or buildings with unconventional layouts.
Users Seeking Hassle-Free Setup and Management: Mesh WiFi systems are designed with user-friendliness in mind, making them an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a simple and straightforward setup process. These systems typically come with mobile apps or intuitive interfaces that guide users through the installation and management process, making it easier to configure network settings, monitor performance, and ensure optimal WiFi coverage without requiring extensive technical expertise.

Considering these practical scenarios will help you make an informed decision about whether wireless access points or mesh WiFi systems are the best fit for your specific needs. Wireless access points are particularly effective in large homes and high-demand office environments where robust coverage and reliable performance are essential. On the other hand, mesh WiFi systems are ideal for homes with challenging layouts or individuals who prefer a seamless and user-friendly setup and management experience. By understanding these distinctions, you can choose the solution that aligns perfectly with your requirements and ensures optimal WiFi performance in your particular scenario.

5. Products on the Market

Please note that we have included some Amazon links to recommended products. These are affiliate links, and your support is greatly appreciated when you make a purchase through them. By using these links, you not only gain access to the suggested products but also contribute to supporting our content. Thank you for your support!

Access Points (non-subscription or licence)

Mesh WiFi systems

6. Conclusion

In the debate between wireless access points and mesh WiFi systems, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
If you have a large home or office with multiple floors or thick walls, and require high-speed connections for bandwidth-intensive tasks, wireless access points are the way to go. They provide reliable coverage and excellent performance in demanding environments. However, keep in mind that setting up and managing multiple access points may require technical expertise and Ethernet cabling.
On the other hand, if you have a home with challenging layouts or dead spots, or if you prioritise hassle-free installation and management, a mesh WiFi system is a great option. These systems create a seamless network using interconnected nodes, ensuring consistent coverage throughout your space. They are user-friendly and offer scalability for future expansion.
Consider factors such as the size and layout of your space, internet usage, budget, technical expertise, and scalability requirements when making your decision. Remember, both wireless access points and mesh WiFi systems have their strengths and considerations, and it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your specific needs.
In the end, whether you opt for wireless access points or a mesh WiFi system, the goal is to have a reliable, high-performing WiFi network that meets your unique requirements. With the information provided in this blog, you can confidently make an informed decision and enjoy a seamless and robust WiFi experience tailored to your needs.

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