2 best wifi systems for homes

Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi Systems are networking solutions designed to provide seamless and reliable wireless coverage throughout a house or large living space. Here's what you need to know about these systems:

Purpose: Whole home mesh Wi-Fi systems are built to eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones and offer consistent, high-quality internet connectivity across your entire home. They replace traditional single-router setups and are especially useful in larger homes or spaces with multiple floors.
Mesh Network Topology: These systems employ a mesh network topology, where multiple interconnected nodes or access points work together to create a unified Wi-Fi network. Each node communicates with the others to ensure that devices are always connected to the nearest and strongest signal source.
Nodes or Satellites: Whole home mesh systems consist of two or more nodes or satellite units. The primary unit connects to your internet source (usually a modem), and additional nodes are placed strategically throughout your home to extend coverage.
Easy Setup: Setting up a whole home mesh system is typically straightforward and often involves using a mobile app. Most systems guide you through the process, including node placement and network configuration.
Seamless Roaming: With mesh Wi-Fi, devices can seamlessly switch between nodes as you move around your home.This ensures you stay connected without experiencing interruptions or drop-offs.
Coverage Area: The coverage area of a mesh Wi-Fi system depends on the number of nodes and the specific model you choose. You can expand the coverage by adding more nodes if needed.
Dual-Band and Tri-Band Systems: Mesh systems come in both dual-band and tri-band configurations. Dual-band systems typically use one 2.4 GHz and one 5 GHz band, while tri-band systems add an additional 5 GHz band, which can reduce network congestion and improve performance.
Speed and Performance: Mesh systems are capable of delivering high-speed Wi-Fi, with some models supporting the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard for faster and more efficient data transfer.
Security Features: Look for systems that offer robust security features, including WPA3 encryption, automatic firmware updates, and built-in security protocols to protect your network from threats.
Parental Controls and Guest Network: Many mesh Wi-Fi systems come with parental control features that allow you to manage and restrict internet access for specific devices. They also often include a guest network feature for visitors.
Smart Home Integration: Some mesh systems are compatible with smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, allowing you to control your network with voice commands.
Scalability: These systems are scalable, so you can start with a basic setup and expand it as your needs grow, by adding more nodes.
Brand Variations: Several companies manufacture whole home mesh Wi-Fi systems, including Google Nest, Eero, TP-Link Deco, Netgear Orbi, and others. It's essential to research and choose a system that suits your needs and budget.

Whole home mesh Wi-Fi systems are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and expansive Wi-Fi network that eliminates dead zones and provides strong connectivity throughout their living space. When selecting a system, consider the coverage area, speed, security features, and compatibility with your specific needs and devices.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best wifi systems for homes on the market

TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi System (Deco S4) – Up to 5,500 Sq.ft. Coverage, WiFi Router and Extender Replacement, Gigabit Ports, Seamless Roaming, Parental Controls, Works with Alexa, 3-Pack

TP-Link

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Maximum wireless transmission rates are the physical rates derived from IEEE standard 802. 11 Specifications. Range and coverage specifications along with the number of connected devices were defined according to test results under normal usage conditions. Actual wireless transmission rate, wireless coverage, and number of connected devices are not, and will vary as a result of 1) environmental factors, including building materials, physical objects and obstacles, 2) network conditions, including local interference, volume and density of traffic, product location, network complexity, and network overhead and 3) client limitations, including rated performance, location, connection quality, and client condition.

A New Way to WiFi: Deco Mesh technology gives you a better WiFi experience in all directions with faster WiFi speeds and strong WiFi signal to cover your whole home.
Bettern Coverage than traditional WiFi routers: Deco S4 three units work seamlessly to create a WiFi mesh network that can cover homes up to 5, 500 square feet. No dead zone anymore.
Seamless and Stable WiFi Mesh: Rather than wifi range extender that need multiple network names and passwords, Deco S4 allows you to enjoy seamless roaming throughout the house, with a single network name and password.
Incredibly fast AC1200 speeds makes the deco capable of providing connectivity for up to 100 devices.
With advanced Deco Mesh Technology, units work together to form a unified network with a single network name. Devices automatically switch between Decos as you move through your home for the fastest possible speeds
Robust Parental Controls: Limit online time and block inappropriate websites according to unique profiles created for each family member. Easy to keep your children safe while they’re online.
Setup is a breeze with the Deco app available on your Android or iOS device. Turn on/off guest WiFi with Alexa voice commands.

User questions & answers

Question:	How reliable and user friendly are the parental controls
Answer:	Just go into the HP printer’s Setup/Network config and set a manual IP - 192.168.4.60 - and be done. That will save AirPrint and other misery as well.
Question:	Is there a separate modem I can buy that supports spectrum telephone service? I want this mesh system but need a Modem that supports my phone service
Answer:	You need to purchase your own modem and register it with Comcast, then you can add these as your WiFi router and return the Comcast Gateway you have now. You will have to tell comcast that you are doing this, then you don't have to pay their rental fee. I have my own modem and router, have for years. It pays for itself to do it this way!
Question:	Will this sync and interface with tp-link omada systems
Answer:	I had an older NetGear extender (5 years or so, plugged into the wall, dual band). I just bought this to replace it and like it a lot better. It automatically finds the signals and keeps you going. My NG extender gave me a 2G and a 5G connection separately. So I had to constantly disconnect my WiFi on devices and choose the other when the connection was crappy or lost. No more of that!! My internet is one thing now and that's worth the price of admission. Also, love love the app so that I can actually see all devices using it. And the security updates are great since I'm working from home now and have to use company programs.
Question:	I just installed this and apple is indicating wpa/wpa2 (tkip) is not considered secure. how can i configure this to wpa2 (aes) or wpa3 security type
Answer:	The bacons have to have a power source. If it is too hot, the bacons will be too hot and crispy. We found it better to do the bacons in our oven rather than plug them in. Try it.

Product features

Fast and Seamless WiFi throughout Your Home

Get fast and seamless WiFi throughout your home. Three Deco S4 units work together to create a single network that provides coverage up to 5,500 sq. ft, so you can keep your devices connected even as you move about your home.[1]

Need more coverage? No problem! All Deco units work together so all you need to do is add another Deco unit to expand your coverage.

No More Buffering

With AC wireless technology. Deco can provide lag-free connections for over 100 devices. Say goodbye to network interruption or buffering.1

Parental Controls

The Deco app makes it easy to manage, limit and monitor internet use for the whole family. Create customizable profiles for each person to filter content and block websites, set time limits, receive reports and suspend internet access based on time of day for certain devices or the entire home.

TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi System(Deco M5) –Up to 5,500 sq. ft. Whole Home Coverage and 100+ Devices,WiFi Router/Extender Replacement, Parental Controls/Anitivirus, Seamless Roaming, 3-pack

TP-Link

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Maximum wireless transmission rates are the physical rates derived from IEEE Standard 802. 11 specifications. Range and coverage specifications along with the number of connected devices were defined according to test results under normal usage conditions. Actual wireless transmission rate, wireless coverage, and number of connected devices are not , and will vary as a result of 1) environmental factors, including building materials, physical objects and obstacles, 2) network conditions, including local interference, volume and density of traffic, product location, network complexity, and network overhead and 3) client limitations, including rated performance, location, connection quality, and client condition. MU-MIMO capability requires both the mesh system and client devices to support MU-MIMO. *Free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare is included with purchase on select TP-Link models at no additional cost. “Lifetime Subscription” refers solely to the life of the purchased device and can not be transferred. TP-Link reserves the right to modify the service and feature at anytime.

JD Power Award- Highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers 2017 and 2019
If you're Looking to ditch Your traditional router extender setup for a whole Home Wi-Fi system, put the TP-Link Deco M5 Wi-Fi system on your short list PC mag said
Better coverage than traditional Wi-Fi routers: Deco M5 uses three units working seamlessly to create a mesh network that can cover homes up to 5, 500 square feet. No dead zone anymore.
Seamless and Stable Wi-Fi: Rather than wifi range extender that need multiple network names and passwords, Deco M5 allows you to enjoy seamless roaming throughout the house, with a single network name and password.
TP-Link unique Adaptive routing technology automatically chooses the fastest path for every device and allows for more flexible placement than a satellite system
Secure Wi-Fi Mesh Network: Protect your network and connected devices with a free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare featuring Next-level Antivirus, Robust Parental Controls, and QoS.
Easy to setup: Download the TP-Link Deco app, plug in your system, and follow the instructions to get your new home network up and running in minutes. Works with Alexa as well.
Industry leading 2 year and 24/7 technical support

Product features

Better WiFi Performance in All the Right Places

Immerse your whole home in powerful WiFi no matter its size or shape. Three units work together to provide coverage up to 5,500 sq. ft. With uninterrupted WiFi from the bedroom to the backyard, you can enjoy buffer-free 4K streaming and online gaming.[1]

Want more coverage? Simply add another Deco.

Works with Alexa

Ask Alexa to pause the internet, set time limits, and more for specific devices or family members with simple voice commands. TP-Link’s Deco M5 and Alexa devices (not included) work together, giving you the ability to control and manage your network using just your voice.