Mesh

In short: A mesh network (mesh Wi-Fi) consists of several nodes that connect wirelessly into one shared, area-wide Wi-Fi network.

In more detail: One node is connected to the router, the other nodes are spread around the house. All broadcast the same SSID and password. The nodes organise themselves and forward data over the best path.

In Depth

• Roaming: devices switch seamlessly to the next node while moving (standards such as 802.11k/v/r help).
• Backhaul: the connection between the nodes. It works best by cable. Wirelessly it uses radio capacity, tri-band systems have a separate band for it.
• Difference from a repeater: a repeater often creates a second network with its own name and halves the speed. A mesh system works as a single network.
• Disadvantages: higher price, and every wireless hop costs some speed.

The principle comes from the mesh topology.

See also: access point, Wi-Fi