What is a mesh router and what are its advantages?

Having good WiFi connectivity in our home or office is very important today, but sometimes it becomes complicated when the distance is high, or we need to cover several floors. Now we will explain what mesh routers are and the advantages they bring , since they are perfect if we want a high quality WiFi.

These routers create WiFi mesh (mesh) networks together. That is, it is a set of several units that blurs the concept of the main router. They generate a unique Wi-Fi signal, intelligently managed, which can be extended over large areas. Mesh routers are usually sold in packs, usually with three units, expandable to suit different needs. Enterprise router is a basic product for any business/enterprise.

In addition, in mesh networks there is no concept of "base" and "repeater" that is normally used to increase the range of WiFi. The different units work together with the aim of generating a unique mesh WiFi network, more stable and reliable than if we used repeaters , and usually cover a larger area.

Mesh routers are among the most advanced models in the market. So we are going to know its functionalities and advantages, because normally the concept is associated with premium features and simplicity of use. They are not cheap devices, of course, but having a quality Internet WiFi connection is essential for most users, so they can represent a successful investment.

 High-end features and simplicity of use

In general, mesh routers are based on WiFi ac networks that offer good performance, although not all models have the same technical capabilities. They generate a unique SSID or WiFi name , so we do not have to change networks when moving around the house or office. In certain models, even the jump from the 5 GHz band (faster) to the 2.4 GHz band (with greater coverage) is managed intelligently.

On the other hand, these teams usually offer "advanced" features, but in a different way than other routers. Instead of the typical control panels with innumerable options, which only the very experts take advantage of, they are managed with smartphone apps. They do not allow such deep control, but they do provide more useful functions for the average user.

In addition, mesh routers can offer extra security features, and receive firmware updates to stay up to date. On the other hand, some models adopt different designs than usual in network devices. As premium routers, they are usually beautiful, small and discreet, so we do not want to hide them in a corner, but rather make them a decorative element.

 TP-Link Deco M5, an advanced mesh router

The TP-Link Deco M5 is a router that is committed to WiFi mesh , although Deco is defined more as a "WiFi solution" because of its focus. It brings everything that is expected from such a device, plus an extra that sets it apart: HomeCare, a complete security system, which stands out for its parental control, QoS and antivirus. With the Deco M5 comes a 3-year subscription to TrendMicro's antivirus, which protects all devices connected to WiFi, and blocks dangerous web pages.

On a technical level, the TP-Link Deco system is a pointer. Its WiFi ac reaches up to 400 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz and up to 867 Mpbs in the 5 GHz, with MU-MIMO support and beamforming thanks to its 4 antennas per unit. The technical files of the network devices can be quite complicated to understand, but the summary is that we have a very complete device .

When something works well, we quickly forget its advantages. However, Deco M5 includes additional features that do not go unnoticed on a daily basis. To start, the WiFi network is managed with the TP-Link Deco app for Android and iPhone , an alternative far from the complicated web panels of other routers. Through the application we will handle extras such as:

- Advanced parental control: content filters (automatic or manual), time and statistics on what children watch on the Internet. Allows individual profiles for each member of the family, and "pause" the WiFi access if we need it (for example, for quiet dinner).

- QoS (Quality of Service): prioritizes applications or devices in the connection, automatically or at our request. For example, if we watch a series on Netflix or HBO, it prevents it from going slow because our PC is making a backup that, in reality, does not run in a hurry.

- TP-Link ART : a system that manages the network, so that each device is connected to the most suitable Deco unit according to your needs, and the overall speed is optimized. In addition, it also controls the passage from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz depending on the environment.

- Guest WiFi: with just a couple of taps on the mobile, the Deco app allows you to create a specific network for our visits.

Apart from these daily functionalities, the TP-Link Deco M5 initial kit (with 3 units) is simple to configure. Everything is done from the app, which is linked to each Deco by Bluetooth, to avoid using long codes. Through the smartphone they will explain how to connect the Deco , and they will even help us to place them in the optimal places of our house or office.

Although the Deco M5 is defined as a WiFi system, each unit includes 2 Ethernet ports , recommended for desktops or smart TVs. The power is received using a USB Type-C port as in current smartphones, instead of a proprietary charger, which opens new possibilities in areas that do not have many plugs by hand.

You can know all the details of Deco on the official TP-Link website and, if you are interested, the start pack with 3 units has a price of 299 euros . With it we will cover up to 420 square meters (even on two floors), but additional units are sold for 129 euros each, in case you need to expand your WiFi.