Hi.

What is the different between connect the 'mesh to router' and 'mesh to modem'?

Because some of them, advice to connect to the router:
Modem - Router - Mesh Wifi

Another side, straightly connect the modem to mesh:
Modem - Mesh Wifi


Right now using Archer C7 at living room, but my bedroom far from it and separated 3 walls (single storey house).
So, the wifi inconsistent. Thinking to change to Deco M5.

The wifi mesh system that Maxis is pushing out seems to be a good one. RM300 per unit for a AC2000 mesh wifi is pretty affordable (AirTies 4830).

It's Quantenna chipset, I would avoid it due to the bad reputation of this brand

Mesh to router is when you want to use the mesh as an AP only, and mesh to modem is when you want to use mesh as your router and AP. You can use mesh or change to the C2300 or C3150. That would be enough if you only have a single storey house.

Option Modem -> Router -> Mesh (Access Point Mode)
1) If you have a good existing router with a good processor. Like in my case im using asus ac86u because of good routing capabilities, features and up to date firmware. Unlike my Deco M9 from tplink which are known to abandon firmware update for old models. i use the decos specifically for wifi devices.

2) using unifitv set-top box and have other devices connected using ethernet cable. Because of deco have only ethernet 2 ports. 1 for modem and 1 for set-top box. No option to have an ethernet switch if you have set-top box.

Option Modem -> Mesh

1) With none of the above requirements, you can have a simple and clean setup. Tp link deco also easily to setup using only mobile phone.

This post has been edited by hnr2802: Apr 26 2019, 08:27 PM

It's either you replacing your router with a Mesh WiFi system or use a mesh WiFi system as an WiFi access point for your existing router.

I generally recommend a direct replacement unless you need to maintain certain feature on existing router due to simplicity and performance benefits.

Newer router/mesh wifi system usually comes with faster CPU resulting in better performance.

may i know is Tenda MW3 can used on a double storey 2000 sqf house?

Get an TP-Link Deco M4 better, Tenda has totally no after sales service, unless you think you are the lucky one

noted. tq

you have single storey house?
i would go for few AP anytime without thinking yo.
Dont bother with Mesh. so expensive

How sure C2300 or C3150 have better coverage than C7? Show your test result please, otherwise please be responsible on what you recommend.

Multiple (I assume wired) APs are best when you have the necessary network points (like my house). If not, Mesh is a good option nowadays. They're not that expensive when instead you need to buy an expensive Wifi router to cover the entire house.

That’s my own personal recommendation. I used to have the C7 and I am currently using the C3150, with the C2300 in my in-laws house. Both C2300 and C3150 definitely have better coverage than the C7. I do not just recommend things that I do not believe in. Please do not accuse me of being bias. blacktubi and Jjuggler who both have their own tech blogs and often test routers can back my claims.

This is a website that compares router coverage and you can see for yourself: https://analiti.com/compare/tp-link-archer-...link-archer-c7/

i use a D-Link dir-890L (AC3200) for single storey house, about 18XX sqf. Router placed at 1/3 front of the house, wifi is still strong at the backlane of the house & front of my house even in the car parked outsite.

im wondering whether using powerline will solve his problem? im not sure about the practicality but concept wise is alright isn't it? enlighten me please.

Concept-wise, it sounds feasible. However, powerline is notoriously unreliable, as it can be affected by any fluctuations in the electrical lines. I wouldn't recommend it when there are better options such as mesh wifi, or a decent router with good wireless coverage.

I'm sorry if I offended you.
Keep in mind that we are dealing with wifi, different environment may have different result. No doubt higher end router produced better coverage, but then it don't mean that just replace C2300 or C3150 can solve wifi problem.

Nah, I’m good, bro. I understand what you are saying. I am just suggesting a cheaper alternative to mesh WiFi which can get pricey, if you need to get more nodes. I am definitely not implying that C2300 or C3150 can solve all the problems of WiFi. It will take more than that, for sure.

acknowledged. thanks mate! will do more reading.

Anyone here uses TP link M4 and confirm can use for unifi TV too?
Is there a LAN port for unifi TV?