A Wi-Fi mesh network is designed to eliminate dead spots in a wireless network through the use of multiple nodes that distribute the network over a larger area. This is in contrast to a traditional Wi-Fi network that's comprised of a single router from which the whole network is generated.

What Is a Wi-Fi Mesh Router?

Unlike a regular Wi-Fi network that uses a single router, a mesh network can have two or more nodes. One is a gateway that connects to the internet, usually via the DSL or cable modem.

Every device in a Wi-Fi mesh network system is a node that "talks" to one another and behaves like the primary router, able to communicate with any devices in range. This lets a mesh system blanket a large home with Wi-Fi with minimal to no dead spots.

How a Mesh System Is Different Than a Wi-Fi Extender

You might have some experience with Wi-Fi extenders. These devices amplify the existing Wi-Fi signal to fill in coverage gaps wherever you plug them in.

An extender can get the job done, and some of the best Wi-Fi range extenders are relatively cheap. But, it might not meet your expectations.

An extender has its own SSID, so when you move from one part of the house to another, you may need to change Wi-Fi networks. Plus, any devices that need to be on the same network may no longer communicate properly if connected to the extender's network.

A mesh network is very different. All the pieces in the Wi-Fi mesh network are equal nodes in your primary Wi-Fi network, so they use the same SSID and work together to distribute the network traffic for the best possible performance.

When you set up a mesh network, you need to be strategic with how you distribute the devices throughout your home. Each node should be close to each other to communicate but not so close that they can't fill in coverage gaps. The mesh system's software can help you do this.

When You Should Consider a Wi-Fi Mesh Network

Not everyone needs a mesh network. If you have a floor plan that's small or compact enough so there are no Wi-Fi dead spots, a traditional router is sufficient.

Or, if you have a dead zone at one end of your home that's far from your router, moving the router to a more central location in the home can solve the problem.

But if you can't move the router because the modem is fixed at one end of your home, or the house is simply too big for a single router to blanket it in Wi-Fi service, a mesh network is a good solution.

Many mesh system manufacturers recommend their product for homes over 2,000 square feet. And it's almost always going to be more convenient and effective than a Wi-Fi extender.

However, one downside of mesh networks is the price. A mesh system is often significantly more expensive than traditional routers.

But in return, they're easy to set up, offer consistent Wi-Fi everywhere in your home, and may even be upgradeable; if you find two or three nodes still lead to a dead spot in your large space, you can usually buy another node to extend the network even further.