Table of Contents
- Understanding the Difference between Mesh Wi-Fi and Regular Routers
- Pros and Cons of Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
- The Bottom Line Is…
When choosing your own router to complement your Spectrum internet plans and bundles, make sure you have weighed out different options. Mesh Wi-Fi routers are the up-and-coming routers that are making their way through the consumer market. There is a distinct difference between regular routers and mesh networks. So, it’s important to understand both and choose wisely which one is the best for your internet subscription.
Understanding the Difference between Mesh Wi-Fi and Regular Routers
There is a distinct difference in how mesh and traditional routers work. Without understanding this difference between the two, it will be difficult for you to make an informed decision and invest accordingly in a new router system. Mesh networking is still a new term and concept in the market for mass consumers. This is why people don’t understand it to the fullest.
Mesh Wi-Fi is also sometimes referred to as whole-home Wi-Fi. Routers that have this technology have a decentralized networking system that utilizes multiple Wi-Fi nodes or access points that your devices can connect to. In contrast, traditional or regular routers have a centralized networking system, where there is only a gateway or one access point for all your devices to connect through. As a result, the one access point is more prone to not only higher and chaotic traffic but is also less reachable by your devices if further away in distance.
With mesh networking, the multiple does and access points spread out, cover every spot of your home, and also declutter traffic on one gateway.
This is not to say that regular routers are not good enough, and everyone should switch to mesh networking. The difference in their functionality makes each of them suitable for different types of users, houses, and users. Usually, double-story houses or areas larger than 3000 square feet often see “dead zones” where regular towers are unable to deliver internet signals. Meanwhile, small apartments or houses with fewer rooms don’t face this issue even while using regular routers. It all comes down to personal preferences and your usage.
One last important thing to remember is that signal coverage has not much to do with internet speed. Don’t upgrade your internet subscription to a pricier one, or start doubting your ISP if some rooms or areas in your house are not getting enough internet signals.
It’s highly recommended that you opt for Spectrum’s affordable internet services, so you get a modem with all plans and packages free of cost. Then, you can pair it up with a powerful mesh router and enjoy glitch-free internet in every part of your house. Don’t settle for high modem rental prices and unaffordable gigabit plans, and reach out to Spectrum customer service any time to get your hands on the country’s largest service provider. Servicio al cliente de Spectrum is available 24/7 for Spanish customers, so they can find the best internet package without any language barriers.
Pros and Cons of Mesh Wi-Fi Routers
The Pros
- Extended coverage
The most obvious benefit of Mesh Wi-Fi routers is that they extend the Wi-Fi signals to your whole house. The multiple access points or Wi-Fi nodes create a web-like, “mesh” network that can be reached by all your devices in any part inside the house, or even outside.
- Better controls
The majority of the mesh routers that are available in the consumer market come with detailed mobile apps. These apps let you set up the router easily, as well as use advanced features like parental controls and guest networking. Since mesh networking rotors are still advanced and new, they also come with technologies like voice control.
- Better signal strength
When signals travel between your devices and to a centralized access point, their strength weakens due to the long-distance travel. This is what happens with regular or traditional routers. With mesh networking, you won’t be facing issues with signal strength. Therefore, you can make the most out of your high-speed internet plans from providers like Spectrum.
The Cons
- The price factors
As mentioned earlier, too, mesh networks are relatively new and therefore pricier. Consequently, you end up paying a little more than what you would pay for a regular router. Features like voice control, advanced mobile apps, and compatibility with your smart home devices make these devices pricey.
- More than one unit
To create a mesh network and proper coverage throughout your house, you will need to invest in multiple devices at a time. Multiple satellites are needed to create better coverage. The more coverage you need, the more units you will need to install. This is inconvenient in terms of money, but also in terms of installation difficulties.
The Bottom Line Is…
Mesh routers are a viable option if you want to make the most out of your internet subscription. If you are subscribed to a Spectrum internet plan, finding a compatible mesh router will not be difficult. You will be able to dodge the extra $5 fee, all the while being able to get more control over your router’s features like parental controls. Mesh routers are highly recommended for double-story houses, wide floor plans, offices, and large families. You must subscribe to a Spectrum Internet plan, so you can get good internet coverage and consistent internet speeds too.