Mesh WiFi uses multiple access points that work together to create one seamless network. Unlike extenders, mesh systems share a single network name and automatically hand off devices as you move around your home.

Mesh WiFi Explained | Why Oh WiFi

The Quick Answer

Mesh WiFi

is a system of multiple WiFi units (nodes) that work together as one network. Unlike traditional WiFi extenders, mesh systems use one network name throughout your home, automatically switch your device to the best node, and are designed to work together from the start.

How Mesh WiFi Works

Main Node Connects

The primary mesh unit connects directly to your modem

modem

or internet source via ethernetcable.

Satellite Nodes Placed

Additional nodes are positioned strategically around your home to extend coverage.

One Network Name

All nodes broadcast the same WiFi network name (SSID

SSID

) – no confusing "_EXT" networks.

Automatic Connection

Your devices connect to whichever node has the strongest signal at that moment.

Seamless Handoff

As you move through your home, you're automatically handed off between nodes without dropping connection.

Pro Tip

The nodes talk to each other using a dedicated connection called “backhaul

backhaul

.” This can happen wirelessly or via ethernet cables. Wired backhaul is faster but requires running cables.

Mesh vs Extender vs Access Point

Feature	Mesh	Extender	Access Point
Single network name	Yes	No*	Yes
Seamless roaming	Yes	No	With controller
Easy setup	Yes	Yes	Technical
Performance	Good	Often poor	Excellent
Cost	Medium-High	Low	Medium
Best for	Most homes	Budget option	Tech-savvy users

*Extenders often create a second network (e.g., “HomeWiFi_EXT”)

Popular Mesh Systems

Consumer-Friendly

Google Nest WiFi, Amazon Eero, TP-Link Deco, Netgear Orbi, Linksys Velop

Prosumer/Professional

Ubiquiti UniFi, TP-Link Omada, Aruba Instant On

Do You Need Mesh WiFi?

Mesh is a Good Fit If...

You have dead zones in your home
Your home is larger than ~150m²
You have multiple floors
Your current router doesn’t reach everywhere
You want simple setup without technical skills

You Might NOT Need Mesh If...

Your current WiFi already works everywhere
You have a small apartment
You can run ethernet cables (access points may be better)
You only need better WiFi in one room

How Many Nodes Do You Need?

General Guidelines

Small Home (<150m², 1 floor): 1-2 nodes
Medium Home (150-250m², 1 floor): 2 nodes
Medium Home (150-250m², 2 floors): 2-3 nodes
Large Home (250m²+, 2+ floors): 3+ nodes

Construction Matters

These are starting points only. Brick and concrete walls need more nodes than timber and plasterboard. A professional assessment can determine the exact number for your home.

Node Placement Tips

Do This

Place in open locations (not in cupboards)
Elevate on shelves (not on floors)
Keep away from other electronics
Spread throughout your home
Ensure each node is within range of another

Avoid These Mistakes

Putting nodes too close together (wastes coverage)
Putting nodes too far apart (weak connection)
Hiding nodes in cabinets (blocks signal)
Putting all nodes on one floor

Wired vs Wireless Backhaul

Wireless Backhaul

Easier to set up
More flexible placement
Uses some WiFi capacity for backhaul
Good for most homes

Wired Backhaul

Best performance
Full WiFi capacity for devices
Requires running cables
Worth it if you can do it

Renovation Tip

If you’re renovating or building, run ethernet cables to where you’ll place mesh nodes. This gives you the best of both worlds: easy mesh management with wired performance.

What Mesh WiFi Won’t Fix

Understand the Limitations

Mesh WiFi improves coverage, not speed. It won’t fix:

Slow internet – If your NBN
NBN
National Broadband Network
Australia's government-built wholesale internet network. NBN Co builds the infrastructure, then internet providers buy access to sell you a connection.
Full definition → plan is slow, mesh won’t make it faster
Too many devices – You still have bandwidth limits
All interference – Mesh helps but doesn’t eliminate all interference
Poorly placed nodes – Bad placement means poor results

Before Buying Mesh

Test Your Current Speeds

Is it a WiFi problem or an internet problem? Run speed tests near your router vs far away.

Check Your Router

A better standalone router might be enough if you have a smaller home.

Consider Router Placement

Simply moving your router to a central location might solve the problem for free.

Think About Wiring

If you can run cables, access points may be a better long-term solution.

Mesh is a great solution for many homes, but it's not always the right answer. A WiFi assessment can identify whether mesh is your best option.

Official Resources

Wi-Fi Alliance – Official WiFi standards and technology information
ACMA WiFi Advice – Australian spectrum regulator guidance on WiFi devices