Mesh Wi-Fi can dramatically improve home internet performance

Weak signal and dead zones inside a large home or awkwardly shaped apartment can be remedied quickly, if a little expensively, with a mesh Wi-Fi system, according to Make Use Of.

A mesh system uses multiple devices to connect to a network and expand the coverage farther than a traditional router by rebroadcasting the same network signal to each unit set up around the home.

Mesh systems work differently than Wi-Fi range extenders that create a new network with each additional unit, causing users to constantly switch networks as they change locations.

Built for the modern age of connectivity, premium systems from companies like Google, Eero, and Velop cost about $300 to $500 for 3 Wi-Fi points.

Although Google claims their 3-point mesh system can cover a 3,000-foot house, don’t be surprised if it takes six or even nine points to cover that area. The Wi-Fi points must all be within sight range or the signal is disrupted. Furniture and walls also disrupt the signal, so homeowners may well find whole-house coverage costs much more than advertised.

The systems are all controlled by smartphone. The Google app maps the network, keeps track of passwords, and lets you pause network connectivity if the kids should be at dinner and not online.