Showing posts with label wifi booster. Show all posts

Ghosts and heavy traffic among the bizarre things Brits think affects their broadband speed

Heavy road traffic, ghosts – and the Government are among the weird and wonderful things Brits believe affect internet speed, it has emerged.

A poll of 2,000 Brits revealed house pets, aliens and fish tanks have also been accused of interfering with WiFi connections up and down the country.

Additionally, nearly one in ten Brits think WiFi speeds are slowed down by someone else being on the phone nearby.

Others blame thick walls and even bright lights for their sluggish WiFi speeds, according to the survey by Virgin Media.

Richard Sinclair MBE, executive director of connectivity, revealed many things can affect WIFi strength, including water.

He added: “It may surprise many, but just three per cent of those who took part in the study agreed water can affect home broadband which can be WiFi’s Achilles’ heel.

“Fish tanks, weather, and even human beings – which are made of mostly water – can also impact connectivity.

“But we’d be very surprised if ghosts were the reason why some people experience WiFi issues.”

The study also found two in five Brits mistakenly believe WiFi is short for ‘wireless frequency’, and a further quarter think it means ‘wireless fidelity’.

When in fact, the term isn’t short for anything and is simply what its inventors named it, not based on any other words.

While slow internet can be a cause of frustration many are resorting to extreme measures to try and fix the issue.

Nearly one in 10 have given their router a whack to boost internet speed, and 14 per cent turn their router off before going to bed – which is not advisable and can cause problems with the connection.

It also emerged almost a tenth of the population have 10 or more devices connected to their home WiFi at any one time.

And the majority report that they get the best signal in the living room.

But millions struggle to pick up a decent connection in the bathroom or kitchen, according to the data.

Nearly 13 per cent are also unaware that having more active devices connected to WiFi could be the cause of slow operating speeds.

Richard Sinclair MBE, of Virgin Media, added: “We are all so dependent on staying connected so there is nothing more frustrating when your WiFi isn’t working as it should.

“Our Intelligent WiFi features will help fight your WiFi battles for you to ensure that you can get our fastest speeds in every corner of your home.

“That means we can all get on and do the things we love at home such as streaming 4K movies, gaming online or simply browsing the net, all at the same time, across multiple devices.”

Top 10 things Brits think affects their WiFi

Weather
Thick walls
Electrical appliances
Time of the day
Neighbours devices and WiFi
If someone is on the phone
The Government
Humans
MI5 / MI6
Traffic

WiFi Signal Mac App Store Preview

Description

Monitor and troubleshoot the quality of your Wi-Fi connection.

WiFi Signal is a system menu bar application that provides easy access to your Wi-Fi connection details (name, channel, transmit rate, signal strength, noise, etc.), monitors the signal quality of your wireless network, and can find and recommend alternative channels for your network thus avoiding signal overlapping and channel conflicts that can result in connectivity issues and performance degradation.

FEATURES

• Simple, straightforward user interface
• Fully customizable status icon display options
• Dark mode support
• Accurate dBm to percentage (%) conversion
• Real-time graphs for signal strength and noise level, Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), transmit rate, or MCS index (if supported)
• Signal quality ratings based on SNR measurements
• Automatic channel recommendations*
• Notifications and event logging for common events, such as when the computer joins to or disconnects from a network, roams to a different access point, or when data rate or channel configuration changes are detected
• Comprehensive app's help describes how to use the tool the most effective way

Requires a Mac with built-in Wi-Fi. External Wi-Fi adapters are not supported.

For a more comprehensive analysis of the Wi-Fi environment consider WiFi Explorer, also available in the Mac App Store.

* Due to limitations of the Wi-Fi scanning framework, channel recommendations are based solely on the detection of other Wi-Fi signals, and do not consider external sources of interference or hidden networks (i.e. networks that do not broadcast their SSIDs).

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wifi-signal/id525912054

Wi-Fi standards and speeds explained, compared

In the world of wireless, the term Wi-Fi is synonymous with wireless access, even though the term Wi-Fi itself (and the Wi-Fi Alliance) is a group dedicated to interoperability between different wireless LAN products and technologies.

The standards themselves are part of the 802.11 family of standards, courtesy of the IEEE. With terms such as “802.11b” (pronounced “Eight-O-Two-Eleven-Bee”, ignore the “dot”) and “802.11ac”, the alphabet soup of standards that began in the late 1990s continues to see improvements in throughput and range as we race to the future to get faster network access.

Along the way, improvements are being made by adopting new frequencies for wireless data delivery, as well as range improvements and reduced power consumption, to help support initiatives like “The Internet of Things” and virtual reality.

If it’s been some time since you’ve paid attention to all of the different letters of the 802.11 standards, here’s an update of where we’re situated with the physical (PHY) layer standards within 802.11, listed in reverse chronological order. At the bottom there are descriptions of standards still in the works.

802.11ah

Also known as Wi-Fi HaLow, 802.11ah defines operation of license-exempt networks in frequency bands below 1GHz (typically the 900 MHz band), excluding the TV White Space bands. In the U.S., this includes 908-928MHz, with varying frequencies in other countries. The purpose of 802.11ah is to create extended range Wi-Fi networks that go beyond typical networks in the 2.4GHz and 5GHz space (remember, lower frequency means longer range), with data speeds up to 347Mbps. In addition, the standard aims to have lower energy consumption, useful for Internet of Things devices to communicate across long ranges without using a lot of energy. But it also could compete with Bluetooth technologies in the home due to its lower energy needs. The protocol was approved in September 2016 and published in May 2017.

802.11ad

Approved in December 2012, 802.11ad is very fast - it can provide up to 6.7Gbps of data rate across the 60 GHz frequency, but that comes at a cost of distance – you achieve this only if your client device is situated within 3.3 meters (only 11 feet) of the access point.

802.11ac

Your current home wireless router (if you like keeping up with advances in the space) is likely an 802.1ac router that operates in the 5 GHz frequency space. With Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MIMO) – multiple antennas on sending and receiving devices to reduce error and boost speed – this standard supports data rates up to 3.46Gbps. Some router vendors include technologies that support the 2.4GHz frequency via 802.11n, providing support for older client devices that may have 802.11b/g/n radios, but also providing additional bandwidth for improved data rates

802.11n

The first standard to specify MIMO, 802.11n was approved in October 2009 and allows for usage in two frequencies - 2.4GHz and 5GHz, with speeds up to 600Mbps. When you hear wireless LAN vendors use the term “dual-band”, it refers to being able to deliver data across these two frequencies.

802.11g

Approved in June 2003, 802.11g was the successor to 802.11b, able to achieve up to 54Mbps rates in the 2.4GHz band, matching 802.11a speed but within the lower frequency range.

802.11a

The first “letter” following the June 1997 approval of the 802.11 standard, this one provided for operation in the 5GHz frequency, with data rates up to 54Mbps. This came out later than 802.11b, causing some confusion in the marketplace, since 802.11b products couldn’t work with 802.11a products due to the different frequency band.

802.11b

Released in September 1999, it’s most likely that your first home router was an 802.11b router, which operates in the 2.4GHz frequency and provided up to 11 Mbps of data rate. Interestingly, products hit the market before 802.11a, which was approved at the same time but didn’t hit the market until later.

802.11-1997

The first standard, providing up to 2 Mbps of data rate in the 2.4GHz frequency. It provided a whopping 66 feet of coverage indoors (330 feet outdoors), so if you owned one of these routers, you probably only used it in a single room.

Coming soon or already here

802.11aj

Also known as China Millimeter Wave, this defines modifications to the 802.11ad physical later and MAC layer to enable operation in the China 59-64GHz frequency band. The goal is to maintain backward compatibility with 802.11ad (60GHz) when it operates in that 59-64GHz range and to operate in the China 45GHz band, while maintaining the 802.11 user experience. Final approval was expected in November 2017.

802.11ak

There are some products in the home-entertainment and industrial-control spaces that have 802.11 wireless capability and 802.3 Ethernet function. The goal of this standard is to help 802.11 media provide internal connections as transit links within 802.1q bridged networks, especially in the areas of data rates, standardized security and quality-of-service improvements. Approval was expected in November 2017.

802.11ax

Known as High Efficiency WLAN, 802.11ax aims to improve the performance in WLAN deployments in dense scenarios, such as sports stadiums and airports, while still operating in the 2.4GHz and 5GHz spectrum. The group is targeting at least a 4X improvement in throughput compared to 802.11n and 802.11ac., through moreefficient spectrum utilization. Approval is currently estimated to be in July 2019.

802.11ay

Also known as Next Generation 60GHz, the goal of this standard is to support a maximum throughput of at least 20Gbps within the 60GHz frequency (802.11ad currently achieves up to 7Gbps), as well as increase the range and reliability. The standard is expected to be approved between September and November 2019.

802.11az

Called Next Generation Positioning (NGP), a study group was formed in January 2015 to address the needs of a “Station to identify its absolute and relative position to another station or stations it’s either associated or unassociated with.” The goals of the group would be to define modifications to the MAC and PHY layers that enable “determination of absolute and relative position with better accuracy with respect to the Fine Timing Measurement (MTM) protocol executing on the same PHY-type, while reducing existing wireless medium use and power consumption, and is scalable to dense deployments.” The current estimate on approval of this standard is March 2021.

802.11ba

Otherwise known as “Wake-Up Radio” (WUR), this isn’t a crazy morning zoo crew thing, but rather a new technology aimed at extending the battery life of devices and sensors within an Internet of Things network. The goal of the WUR is to “greatly reduce the need for frequent recharging and replacement of batteries while still maintaining optimum device performance.” This is currently expected to be approved in July 2020.

via NetworkWorld

How to speed up Wi-Fi

Here's how you can speed up slow Wi-Fi, and it doesn't necessarily involve buying any new kit. Our expert tips should boost your Wi-Fi.

Routers have their work cut out these days: every new gadget wants to get its internet connection via Wi-Fi. With smart home kit becoming more popular, including light bulbs, thermostats and security cameras, it’s not uncommon for your internet connection to slow down and put a stop to your Netflix binge session.

You might not have to spend any money to fix this: there are ways to speed up Wi-Fi for free. However, if slow broadband or an old router is the culprit, you might need to consider upgrading your package and hardware. Check out our recommendations for the best routers to buy.

But first, try these tips.

1. Move your router

We’ve seen it countless times: routers chucked underneath sofas or hidden in the corner. Sure, it’s understandable that you don’t want an ugly box ruining your immaculate lounge, but if you want good Wi-Fi you need to give your router some breathing space.

The best place for it is in the middle of your home. For most people that’s impossible because your phone line or cable box sits on a wall at the front of your property. However, if you can, get an telephone extension cable and relocate the router so it’s roughly in the centre and as high off the floor as you can.

This will give it the best chance of delivering strong, fast Wi-Fi to all areas.

2. Banish interference

Wi-Fi can be flaky at the best of times, but you’re making it worse if you put cordless phones, microwaves, baby monitors and Bluetooth devices near it. Even some fairly lights will interfere with the signal and reduce speeds to a sluggish pace not seen since dial-up modems from 1999.

So keep the area around the router clear of other electronic devices, or face the consequences.

3. Use the fastest settings

Routers aren’t the most user-friendly things. You shouldn’t be expected to understand the difference between Wi-Fi standards and frequencies, but only the best routers will automatically give you the fastest-possible speeds without some manual intervention.

Essentially, the vast majority of Wi-Fi devices right now use the 802.11n standard but, confusingly, there are two frequencies it can use. If your router is ‘dual-band’ it can deliver Wi-Fi on 2.4GHz and 5GHz.

Since 2.4GHz is more common, yours and all your neighbours’ gadgets are probably fighting it out to share the available channels.

If your phone, tablet, laptop or other device is capable of connecting on 5GHz, switch to that instead. As long as you’re relatively close to your router, you’ll get a faster more reliable connection.

Some routers broadcast two separate Wi-Fi networks so it’s easy to see which is which, but others (notably BT Home Hubs) combine them – you have to log in to the router to set it to show the two bands.

4. Upgrade the antennae

Some routers have aerials which can be unscrewed. If yours is like this you might be able to buy larger versions which have a higher gain. That means a faster, stronger Wi-Fi signal.

A cheaper method – which also helps if you can’t physically reposition your router – is to make a reflector that sits behind the router and bounces the signal back the other way.

Students at Dartmouth College successfully proved that a simple tin-foil reflector can effectively boost Wi-Fi coverage in the direction of the reflector. It also has a side benefit of limiting coverage behind it, so you don’t end up broadcasting into the road outside, or into your neighbours’ houses.

5. Reboot your router once in a while

It’s the computer expert’s standard reply, but have you tried turning it off and on again? This old trick cures a multitude of problems and you might just find that fast Wi-Fi is restored after a reboot.

One thing a reboot does is to kick every device off the network and force it to reconnect. It’s also worth setting a password that isn’t the default just in case anyone is leeching off your connection. With most modern routers secure out of the box, that’s pretty unlikely, but it’s always worth checking.

6. Upgrade your router

If you have an old model, it could well be time to buy something better. Wi-Fi technology has come a long way in the last few years and there are several options.

One is to replace the router with a newer model which uses 802.11ac (preferably get one that supports MU-MIMO for the best futureproofing).

They don't all look like the mad Asus model above but will improve coverage as well as speed. Unfortunately, not a whole lot of devices apart from high-end phones, laptops and tablets support 802.11ac yet so will end up using the slower 802.11n standard, which all current routers support.

A better option could be to invest in a set of powerline adapters with built-in Wi-Fi, although this is appropriate only if you have a certain corner of your home – even a single room – which is currently a Wi-Fi black spot.

More expensive, but also more effective, is to invest in a mesh Wi-Fi system. These kits contain multiple routers which talk to each other and spread consistently fast Wi-Fi across even the biggest homes.

via techadvisor.co.uk

There's a secret trick to boosting your Wi-Fi speed lurking in your kitchen

Take off your tin-foil hat, you’re going to need it for something else. The outlandish theory that foil improves a signal might not be so bogus after all.

Researchers at Dartmouth College found that the use of aluminium foil does indeed increase the range of Wi-Fi connections and can also improve its security.

The team, led by assistant professor Xia Zhou, placed a 3D-printed reflector made of just plastic and a thin layer of aluminium around a Wi-Fi router. The reflector redirected the wireless signal to the areas in the room that have limited wireless coverage, boosting weak spots.

After testing the reflector in two different rooms, the team found it could increase the strength of coverage by a whopping 6dB, the equivalent of one thick wall or ceiling. In the case of physical security, the reflector was able to decrease signal range in unwanted areas by 10dB, providing many obvious benefits for physical security.

“Not only do we strengthen wireless signals, we make those same signals more secure,” Xia Zhou, assistant professor at Dartmouth College, said in a press briefing.

The reflector improves on previous studies that involved the use of aluminium cans being placed behind Wi-Fi access points to improve the directional connection.

Wi-Fi is notoriously challenging for use indoors because of the frustratingly complex relationship between radio signals and environmental factors such as walls and furniture. Solutions that improve the strength of wireless connections can often break the bank. This research has found that all you actually need is a 3D-printed piece of plastic wrapped in foil that’s been directionally configured for the targeted area.

“With a simple investment of about $35 and specifying coverage requirements, a wireless reflector can be custom-built to outperform antennae that cost thousands of dollars,” said Zhou.

The team’s findings come just weeks after the discovery of the vulnerability in WPA2 Wi-Fi connections. The vulnerability saw users put at risk of being hacked, with experts suggesting that the flaw could be taken advantage of if the hacker was physically close to the target.

The team is now studying reflectors made of different materials and will examine higher-frequency bands, such as visible light and millimetre waves.

Now I’m off to make my own makeshift reflector and fix the office’s slow connection.

via alphr

Meteor Not Only Tells You Internet Speeds, but What You Can Do With Them, Too

There are literally dozens of speed test utilities for the iPhone. All of them do one basic thing — tell you how fast your upload and download speeds are. The question is, what do those numbers mean in practical terms? Meteor is a new breed of speed test that tells you how well common apps will perform, given your internet speeds.

Meteor is a simple-to-use app with plenty of power. It conducts a test of your Internet upload and download speeds, and presents that information in Mb/s, just like any other speed test app.

Your test results presented to you as "Awesome," "Very Good," "OK," and "Poor." This is probably information you already know, but Meteor will give you the numbers you need to present to your internet service provider for help.

From the Dashboard, you can see how many tests you've run and what locations those have been from. For example, if you test from your home Wi-Fi and then again using your LTE connection, those could show as different locations.

Depending on how good your GPS signal is when you run a speed test, I've found that even my home Wi-Fi can generate different locations.

Finally, the history tab shows you all of the tests you've run. You can filter by today, the previous week, or the previous month.

If you want to know what you can do with your poor Internet speeds, this is the app that tells you

What makes Meteor different, though, is that the app actually translates those numbers into something useful. You can see how various apps will perform, given your current internet speeds.

That way, you can try to figure out what apps you can actually run, and when you're having problems because of the game itself or your device, rather than your network.

If an app needs faster bandwidth than your network will provide, you'll see the result labeled as "OK" or "Poor." Those labels mean the app will either run with some problems, or it will experience major problems when you try to use or play it.

Currently, Meteor supports 25 apps, including Facebook, Instagram, Clash Royale, Youtube, Pokémon Go, and more. If you don't find your app listed, you can easily request it.

The Meteor Monster

The meteor Monster will help you understand your speed test results. Don't worry, he's easy to disable from the settings of the app.

See how your apps will perform

Along with the usual numbers showing your internet speeds, Meteor also provides information about how you can expect your apps to run.

A simple-to-use speed test

Meteor provides an easy way to run a speed test on your network.

FREE

Meteor: App Speed Tester

OpenSignal, Inc

The Best Wi-Fi Mesh Router Systems

The Best Wi-Fi Mesh Router Systems

posted by Ted Kritsonis on October 01, 2017 in Internet & Networking, Computers and Software, Guides & Reviews, Top Picks :: 0 comments

Sometimes a single router simply won’t do. While manufacturers have made them more powerful, and Wi-Fi technology has advanced to better cover wider spaces with better range, throughput can still be an issue. Enter Wi-Fi mesh routers, networking systems that use multiple routers that “talk” to each other to cast a net that serves to improve signal strength throughout the home.

They serve a useful purpose if you have weak areas or dead zones in your living space. Wi-Fi range extenders can be decent accessories, except they don’t work seamlessly the way mesh Wi-Fi systems do. It’s hard to pinpoint one mesh system that is the “best” above all others, but there are advantages between them worth taking into account. For example, you may want more stringent parental controls, or prefer a design that can blend in with your décor.

Before you take the next step in home networking, here are some pointers to think about:

Does your home Internet Wi-Fi connection have weak or dead signals anywhere in your home? If so, you may want the range multiple routers can provide. They may also use what are called “back channels” to communicate with each other on a separate frequency for uninterrupted operation.

Do you want a Wi-Fi network that is easy to setup, manage and administer? Well, who doesn’t, really? The simple step-by-step setups inherent in mesh Wi-Fi systems extend to the app-based management tools that could include parental controls, security, media prioritization and more. You don’t need to be mechanically-inclined to run one of these like a pro. Plus, you can even access your router’s features away from home.

Do you like the idea of a Wi-Fi network that is scalable and expansive? Mesh Wi-Fi networks usually come in packs of two or three, but you can always add more single units to expand the mesh further.

Are you concerned about compatibility? No need to be. Mesh Wi-Fi routers work just like any other router does, and would be fully compatible with whatever hardware your Internet Service Provider (ISP) delivers through the modem. Your devices would also connect to them like any other Wi-Fi router.

Wondering about speed and range? The whole premise here is that you get better throughput around your home, which will improve the connection speed in areas that struggled before. Mesh Wi-Fi won’t get you faster Internet on its own — overall speed depends on what you’re paying for from your ISP.

Speaking of speed, you will see manufacturers marketing numbers like AC1900, AC2200 and AC2600. These indicate the theoretical total bandwidth the router can produce on both the 2.4GHz and 5.0GHz bands. They are more an indicator of throughput than they are of speed, though the two can go hand-in-hand. A larger number is better able to handle a greater number of devices connected to it. MU-MIMO (multi-user, multi-input, multi-output) is a newer protocol that allows compatible devices to receive bandwidth without having to queue for it. Normally, routers distribute bandwidth in sequence based on which device needs it first, whereas MU-MIMO just does it to compatible devices simultaneously.

Here’s a look at some of the top mesh Wi-Fi systems to help you out.

Best All-Around Wi-Fi Mesh Router: Linksys Velop

A play on the word, “envelop”, the Velop is a powerful starter pack trio of routers that can deliver the best combination of range, throughput and administrative features. It also blends in well no matter where you want to place the three units within your home. All three units are identical, so it doesn’t matter which one is used to plug into the modem, thereby simplifying the setup process.

The simplicity extends to the connections underneath each unit, too. There are two Gigabit LAN (local area network) Ethernet ports, plus the plug for the power adapter. None of the units have USB ports, unfortunately. LEDs at the top provide a visual indicator of connection status. Each unit has a maximum range of 2,000 square feet, so you can get 6,000 sq. ft. of coverage with a three-pack. That’s higher than competing mesh systems

Since each unit is effectively an AC2200 router with tri-band networking, each is capable of 400Mbps of bandwidth throughput on the 2.4GHz network, and 867Mbps plus 867Mbps on the 5.0GHz network. These are theoretical limits, as real-world performance won’t hit that high, but the Velop funnels bandwidth very well.

Using the iOS and Android app to setup and manage the Velop is easy, and its assortment of controls is fairly broad. Parental controls, guest network, device prioritization, MU-MIMO for supported devices, Amazon Alexa integration, and other more advanced options make this system a standout.

Size: 3.1 x 3.1 x 7.3 in. per node

Speed: AC2200 with MU-MIMO

Ethernet jacks: 2 per node

Parental controls: Yes

Price: 1-Pack is $198 on Amazon, 2-Pack is $329 on Amazon, 3-Pack is $450 on Amazon

Best for setting up a smart home: Samsung Connect Home

Samsung has taken the mesh Wi-Fi system setup others have gone with and added its own twist by throwing in a SmartThings Hub into the mix. It mirrors much of what others do in the sense that you can use the Connect Home app on Android and iOS to set up and manage the mesh system, but is also clearly aimed at users who want both a Wi-Fi mesh and smart home setup.

Doubling as a SmartThings hub, it’s possible to program and control compatible smart home devices www.smartthings.com/products from other manufacturers. It supports the Zigbee and Z-Wave protocols that are common in smart home products, and thus, can “talk” to popular devices like Philips Hue lights, Nest Thermostat, Netgear Arlo Pro and iRobot Roomba vacuums, among others. That negates having to buy a separate hub to automate and control these types of products.

As a router, the Connect Home comes in a three-pack, though a two-pack or single unit could be purchased as well, if you live in a smaller space. Each unit covers up to 1,500 sq. ft., and five is the max number for one system. Throughput is more moderate at AC1300 equivalents, so while it says 400Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 866Mbps on the 5.0GHz band, this trio won’t be quite as potent as others, like the Linksys Velop, for instance. Alternatively, the Samsung Connect Home Pro bumps up speed and throughput to AC2600.

Still, for the ease-of-use and smart home compatibility, the Connect Home is worthy of consideration.

Size: 4.72 x 4.72 x 1.16 in. per node

Speed: AC1300 (or AC2600 for Connect Home Pro)

Ethernet jacks: 2 per unit

Parental controls: Yes

Price: Connect Home 3-Pack is $325 on Amazon, Connect Home 1-Pack is $150 on Amazon, Connect Home Pro 1-Pack is $200 on Amazon

Best for included security: TP-Link Deco M5

The only way to set up and manage TP-Link’s Deco M5 mesh system is via the iOS and Android app, since there is no web-based interface for computers. It presents a clear and concise menu to get around, aiming to keep it simple wherever it can. The built-in security software, courtesy of Trend Micro, is pre-installed and does not incur any additional fees. The antivirus screens for malicious content, infected devices and outside intrusions. It does this automatically, so you don’t have to give it much thought unless something significant happens.

Bearing in mind it’s not a super extensive security suite, the fact it’s there and working constantly is good to have. It does extend out to every device connected to the network for added peace of mind. Infected devices logging onto the network will be blocked from infecting other healthy devices too. A history section in the app lists what was caught and quarantined, including the date and time it happened. Parental controls are fairly robust as well.

As a mesh system, the Deco M5 is quite capable, offering solid range and throughput with a good feature set. The small size of each unit makes it easier to nestle into different parts of the home, and the small LED always indicates the network’s overall health and performance.

Size: 4.72 x 4.72 x 1.50 in. per node

Speed: AC1300

Ethernet jacks: 2 per unit

Parental controls: Yes

Price: 3-Pack is $240 on Amazon, 1-Pack is $100 on Amazon

Best for parental controls: Asus Lyra

Like TP-Link’s Deco M5, Asus has equipped the Lyra to offer anti-virus and anti-malware security software it calls AiProtection to help protect the Wi-Fi mesh system from outside intruders. Beyond that, however, is an impressive set of parental controls that digs deep enough to moderate and protect children’s usage.

Parental controls are available in just about every Wi-Fi mesh system, except the Lyra makes it very easy to automate how restrictions apply, so that you don’t need to always go back and change things manually. It would be possible to set a time each day that blocks Internet access entirely, or only for specific apps and websites. That would make it possible to block social media sites when it’s time to get homework done, for example. The Family Overview dashboard is the hub for all things parental control, and it’s always accessible, either at home or away.

Unfortunately, there is limited effect on mobile devices. While it’s easy to block Wi-Fi access to a smartphone or tablet, for instance, it wouldn’t be possible to allow access, yet block specific apps running on iOS or Android, for example. The true depth of the parental controls features is only found on laptop and desktop computers. To achieve something similar with mobile devices, a VPN (virtual private network) product like the Disney Circle would help.

As a mesh network, the Lyra performs very well, and is most similar to TP-Link’s system, based on performance, setup and management.

Size: 5.90 x 5.90 x 1.95 in. per node

Speed: AC2200

Ethernet jacks: 2 per unit

Parental controls: Yes

Price: 3-Pack is $400 on Amazon

Best for easiest setup: Google Wifi

When Google entered the Wi-Fi mesh category, it wanted to create something that was extremely easy to setup, and it managed to do so. The Google Wifi Android and iOS app can expedite setup by scanning the QR code at the bottom of any of the units, which then goes through a clear-cut step-by-step process.

Much of that process will feel automated because most of the work is being done in the background. To have everything up and running in as little as five minutes wouldn’t be a stretch. The hand-holding carries over to the features within the app, where navigating most of the settings and options is spelled out.

A big oversight in Google’s system is the lack of parental controls, so there is no way to filter out inappropriate content or block websites. While it is possible to block Wi-Fi access to a device for even one hour with a quick tap, it’s not as intricate as others.

Range and throughput is superb, especially when three units are working together in unison.

Size: 3.79 x 3.79 x 5.42

Speed: AC1200

Ethernet jacks: 1 on base, 2 per node

Parental controls: No

Price: 3-Pack is $270 on Amazon, 1-Pack is $119 on Amazon

Best for discreet installation: eero

The beauty of mesh Wi-Fi is that each node extends the reach of your network. But what if there isn’t a good place to seat a node? eero, which launched the mesh Wi-Fi product category, has you covered with new tiny nodes, called eero Beacon, which plug directly into outlets, making installation possible and discreet in places like hallways. The Beacons also have nightlights built-in with automatic dimming during the daytime.

While the flexibility of installation is a big selling point for the eero, it also excels in other areas. The 2nd generation eero is one of the fastest systems on the market, rated at AC2200 with MU-MIMO. And, if you’re willing to pay for the Eero Plus service ($9.99 per month or $99 for the year), you’ll get anti-malware protection for all devices and parental controls, including content blocking.

Size: 4.76 x 4.76 x 1.24 inches for the hub, 4.76 x 2.91 by 1.18 inches for the eero Beacon

Speed: AC2200 with MU-MIMO

Ethernet jacks: 1 on eero hub, 0 on eero Beacon

Parental controls: Yes, with subscription to Eero Plus ($9.99 per month or $99 per year)

Price: One eero and 1 eero Beacon: $299 on Amazon, One eero and 2 eero Beacons: $399 on Amazon

Best for range expansion: Ubiquiti AmpliFi HD

The AmpliFi system is unique in that it uses nodes that look like antennas, rather than identical units that look the same. The base unit that plugs into the modem is distinct by its design, including a small LCD to visualize network speed, among other things.

The other mesh points plug directly into power outlets with flexible antennas to angle them any which way. They are a little unseemly if in plain sight, and they need to be unencumbered by outlets above. The advantage is that they pack a real punch in achieving a wider range. Six high-density antennas in the base system (the main unit, plus two mesh point antennas) are capable of covering a theoretical max of 20,000 sq. ft. Expanding it with another mesh point would only drive that number up higher.

Blue LEDs on the mesh points illustrate the signal strength, and the AmpliFi app for iOS and Android is fairly straightforward in managing the network.

Being unique mesh points that plug in and stick out from outlets, there are no Ethernet ports onboard to use as wired ports for devices to connect via Ethernet. The AmpliFi HD might also be overkill for smaller homes, whereas the less expensive AmpliFi LR (Long Range) can cover the same ground, albeit with four high-density antennas inside the main unit.

Size: 3.91 x 3.85 x 3.92 for the base, 1.81 x 7.05 x 1.06 for the mesh points

Speed: AC1750

Ethernet jacks: 4 outputs, 1 input on the base

Parental controls: No

Price: High Density system is $312 on Amazon, Long Range system is $306 on Amazon, Mesh Point HD is $109 on Amazon

[Image credit: Linksys, Samsung, TP-Link, Asus, Google, eero, Ubiquiti]