Mesh WiFi vs Access Points: What's The Difference?

Mesh WiFi systems evolved from military communications technology developed in the 1980s, becoming prominent in consumer markets by the 2000s to meet the need for reliable and extensive home WiFi coverage.

In the 2010s, brands like eero championed the simplification of setup and improvement of mesh WiFi connectivity across large areas such as offices and large homes.

Since then, the incorporation of technologies like WiFi 6e has further enhanced mesh WiFi’s ability to support homes with many connected devices and advanced smart tech.

Mesh WiFi aims to eliminate dead zones and ensure consistent internet quality across a range of different internet speeds – no matter your space. Unlike traditional routers, which rely on a single point of broadcast, mesh networks use multiple access points in the form of physical nodes. Each node in the mesh network communicates with the main router and with other nodes.

When the configuration is optimized, the mesh WiFi nodes create a grid-like infrastructure in which data is routed through the fastest and most efficient paths.

Many benefits of mesh WiFi include node-rich networks, self-configuring maintenance, easy management and seamless connectivity throughout the home.

• • Multiple nodes: A mesh WiFi system can include several nodes. One acts as the primary router, connected directly to your modem. Additional nodes work with the primary router, extending WiFi coverage strategically throughout the home.
  • Self-configuring: After set up, nodes automatically communicate with each other to optimize the data routing paths, allowing the mesh technology to flex with the number of devices connected and their needs as they adapt in real-time to changes in the environment, such as interference or device movement.
  • Roaming-ready: Devices automatically connect to the strongest signal within the mesh network. As you move around, your devices switch seamlessly between nodes without dropping the connection or reconnecting to different networks.
  • Easy-to-manage: Most mesh WiFi systems are managed via smartphone, which allows users to control the performance of their wireless network and connected devices, prioritize device traffic, adjust security settings and receive firmware updates.

While mesh WiFi offers many advantages, specific users may find that they do not need the robust features that a mesh network provides. In a small space where WiFi can reach all areas, for example, usually a traditional router will be enough.

While mesh WiFi and access points both serve the purpose of providing wireless internet access, they differ significantly in design, coverage, performance and management. Let’s compare the two below.

• • Access points: While individual access points may provide stronger signals than a single mesh node, coverage is limited to the range of that unit. In order to cover a larger area, you would need to use multiple access points and wire them back to the main router.
  • Mesh WiFi: Coverage is extensive, as nodes can be added to eliminate dead zones and ensure consistent signal strength across larger and multi-story buildings.

• • Access points: Access points tend to offer more stable and faster speeds because each device is directly connected to the main network. However, users farther away from the access point or behind obstructions experience weaker signals and lower speeds.
  • Mesh WiFi: Designed to maintain stronger and more consistent performance throughout the covered area. Nodes communicate with each other to ensure devices are always connected to the strongest signal available.

• • Access points: Setup is generally more complex. It may involve technical knowledge, requiring connection of each access point to the main router via Ethernet, running cables through walls or ceilings and configuring network settings manually.
  • Mesh WiFi: Mesh networks offer user-friendly setup. Most consumer-grade mesh systems, such as eero, come with a mobile app that guides you through the installation.

• • Access points: Modern consumer devices often used in smaller spaces or homes, range in price from $50 to $150, supporting basic features and a moderate number of concurrent users.
  • Mesh WiFi: For home users, mesh nodes can range from approximately $100 to $250 each. They provide great coverage and speed, suitable for homes or apartments, as well as features like parental controls and security.

• • Access points: Access points often require more hands-on management, typically through network management software. While more complex, you can expect more customization and real-time monitoring.
  • Mesh WiFi: Many mesh systems offer easy management through mobile apps, and auto-scheduling and execution of tasks such as channel switching, network optimization and firmware updates.

Choosing between the best mesh WiFi system and access points for your home depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the layout, the number of devices you’ll connect and your specific needs for features and performance.

• • Home size and layout: Mesh networks are great for larger homes or homes with complex layouts that might create signal dead zones. Connectivity between nodes ensures coverage throughout the house – without signal drops.
  • Ease of use: If you prefer a system that’s easy to set up and manage without needing technical expertise, mesh networks are the better choice.
  • Expandability: If you anticipate needing to extend your network coverage—such as into a basement or a backyard—adding additional nodes to a mesh network is simple.

• • High-density usage: As access points connect directly to your main router via Ethernet, they generally provide stability.
  • Control and customization: If you desire more control over your network settings, such as QoS, security or network settings, access points may be the better option.
  • Aesthetics: Access points are large and must be installed to connect near your modem. Mesh networks, however, are less obtrusive than access points, which may be a consideration if you prefer a cleaner, streamlined look.

When deciding between mesh WiFi or wireless access points, you need to compare your needs with the specific functions of each technology. You should consider the short-term and long-term benefits of both.

Mesh networks are designed to be consumer-friendly and easily adjustable for covering any area of your home. If you decide that the benefits of an access point system—such as higher capacity and performance—outweigh the more complex setup and management, it might be worth considering if you have the expertise or resources to manage it effectively.

Ultimately, the right choice will align with your specific needs, household setup and how you use your internet connectivity at home.