An explanation of mesh Wi-Fi
In this video, Informa TechTarget Editorial Director Jennifer English explains how mesh Wi-Fi networks function differently from traditional networks and why this matters.
Mesh Wi-Fi supports modern networking needs.
A mesh network is a network topology in which all devices and nodes are interconnected to transmit data, using paths from one device to another. If you're thinking, "Well, isn't that all networks?" The answer is "not quite."
While many seem to experience full interconnectivity between devices, most home and business networks actually use a star-shaped topology, in which one central router or switch manages all of the communication; they're not all connected to each other. So, why use a mesh network?
Here are the basics of mesh networking, mesh Wi-Fi and why they matter.
In a traditional Wi-Fi network, a wireless router or access point (AP) acts as a centralized device through which all network traffic funnels. So, if you're physically closer to that centralized access point, you have a stronger, more stable connection.
A mesh network, on the other hand, is decentralized. Network routers and APs can transmit data directly to one another, rather than relying on a single central AP to route all traffic. This enables data to take the most efficient path, which improves coverage, reliability and redundancy across the network.
A mesh Wi-Fi system typically comprises a main router and multiple satellite nodes that work together to provide Wi-Fi coverage across a large space, like an office building. Each node in the mesh Wi-Fi network can broadcast, receive and relay data with other nodes to dynamically route traffic.
It's worth noting that this is not the same as a Wi-Fi extender. Extenders rebroadcast the main router's signal and create a separate network, typically with a new network name. Extenders don't actively manage traffic or reduce congestion because available bandwidth is shared across the extended network.
On the other hand, the nodes in a mesh system create a unified network where devices can seamlessly connect and send data without switching between different networks.
Mesh Wi-Fi is also self-healing. This means that, if a node fails or a path is compromised, the network can automatically reconfigure by rerouting data through alternative paths to maintain connectivity.
All this gives mesh Wi-Fi the following:
- More stability and better security, since there's no single point of failure.
- Increased range, with fewer dead zones.
- Greater power efficiency, since node signals don't have to be strong enough to reach a central point.
- Fewer infrastructure requirements than other types of configurations.
But there are downsides as well, such as the following:
- Higher costs, making it unsuitable for small spaces or budgets.
- More friction when scaling, as adding nodes can be difficult.
- Complex management and troubleshooting.
Do you have a mesh Wi-Fi system in your home? What about your office? Let us know in the comments, and remember to like and subscribe, too.
Jennifer English is editorial director for Informa TechTarget's SearchNetworking, SearchCloudComputing, SearchITOperations and Network Computing sites.
Sabrina Polin is managing editor of video content for the Learning Content team. She plans and develops video content for TechTarget's editorial YouTube channel, Eye on Tech. Previously, Polin was a reporter for the Products Content team.