Choosing a Mesh system

[#1]

Hi, we've recently had huge problems with connectivity which we've now discovered are being caused by our TP link extenders and powerline adaptors. Despite trying various things we have now had to remove all of the adaptors but this means no WiFi in certain parts of the house. We have been advised to get a Mesh extender system to rectify this which is fine but is there any particular make or brand that will work better with our Plusnet router or does it make no difference? Sorry if that's a silly question but after several weeks of being unable to work/study etc I'm keen to get it right!! Thank you.

[#2]

@SDocks  Welcome to the forum.

Spending money on a mesh system will give you the same wireless SSID throughout your property but that will not automatically give you better coverage.

You will never beat installing Ethernet cable but if that is not practicable then maybe we could advise further if you told us which Plusnet hub you are using and described in more detail your layout and particular issues.

Moderator's Note

This topic has been moved from Broadband to My Router

[#3]

Thank you - the router is a Plusnet Hub Two.

We live in a large, 1930s Vicarage. We use an ethernet connection for the laptop which is in the same room as the router and had previously used another ethernet connection via a power adaptor in another room, which worked well until we had to remove those. It isn't really practical to use ethernet throughout.

What details about the layout of the house would be helpful - sorry I am coming from a very low knowledge base!

[#4]

@SDocks 

Sorry not to come back to you before. For more information of your options see here: https://community.plus.net/t5/Tech-Help-Software-Hardware-etc/Distributing-Data-around-Larger-Proper...

You will never beat Ethernet cabling. Powerline can work very well providing the two units are on the same circuit, see the link in the post above for more information on this. This would always be my choice and if wanting wireless at the remote end, add a Wireless Access Point.

The good thing about mesh systems are that the satellite units will talk to each other so that you can daisy chain them around your property and get full coverage providing each satellite is within the range of one other unit. If the distance is too great you can always add another satellite. Alternatively I understand that there are some types of mesh units where, if the distance between satellites is beyond the wireless range you can either add an Ethernet backhaul or use a built in powerline backhaul .

When choosing a Mesh system, the best solution is to change your Hub 2 to Bridge Mode and look for a Mesh Router, not a combined VDSL/Mesh Router. this is both the majority of those available and the cheapest. The only other thing to watch out for is that its WAN input is compatible with PPPoE. After that it comes down to budget and any router 'bells and whistles' that you require. I suggest that you pick out a few that you like the look of and tell us the model number, we can then pass comment on their suitability.

[#5]

@SDocks 

Ethernet cable is always preferred as it gives a solid signal.

I suspect a 1930's vicarage will have nice thick walls which do not help with WiFi. If your budget premits it might be worth getting someone in to run cable. You'll not reach every room but it gives a solid starting point for WiFi from each cable run.

If it's not possible indoors consider running a cable outside the house up to the first floor. Although it costs money I suggest it should add value in the long term. Good internet connections are a major consideration nowadays when buying a new house.

Brian