Hey all, question-loaded post here from a novice about home networking options. Did some homework but want to see what this forum thinks.
Seems if I want to extend wifi coverage in my new home I have 3 options: cat 6-run ap's, powerline extension, wifi mesh system.
1. Of the three, it seems cat 6 run ap's would give me best signal with least drop-off, does this sound right?
2. If I did the ap route, I'd want to do ceiling-mount poe ap's with no local power needs. If I did ap's (looking at TP-AC1200), would I need a wireless router in between modem and ap's, or could I simply do my horizontal runs from modem to ap with an inline poe injector (or, modem > switch with multiple poe ports > ap's)?
3. Is there any value to going the powerline or wifi mesh system (i.e. google wifi, Netgear Orbi, etc.) route instead of the system described above? Obviously I wouldn't have to run cat 6 all over my house and worry about back boxes and drywall cutting, but anything else I may be missing? I've read signal strength seems to be better in powerline systems which have the stations act as wifi hotspots, as well as providing another local cat6 drop, and that the mesh systems' signal degrade. Any thoughts on this?
For some context, this exercise is for home network setup on Comcast using a 200d/50u connection. Also looking to buy the modem not rent, have heard Arris Surfboard line is fairly capable.
Would love to hear some expert thoughts, thanks in advance!
Seems if I want to extend wifi coverage in my new home I have 3 options: cat 6-run ap's, powerline extension, wifi mesh system.
1. Of the three, it seems cat 6 run ap's would give me best signal with least drop-off, does this sound right?
2. If I did the ap route, I'd want to do ceiling-mount poe ap's with no local power needs. If I did ap's (looking at TP-AC1200), would I need a wireless router in between modem and ap's, or could I simply do my horizontal runs from modem to ap with an inline poe injector (or, modem > switch with multiple poe ports > ap's)?
3. Is there any value to going the powerline or wifi mesh system (i.e. google wifi, Netgear Orbi, etc.) route instead of the system described above? Obviously I wouldn't have to run cat 6 all over my house and worry about back boxes and drywall cutting, but anything else I may be missing? I've read signal strength seems to be better in powerline systems which have the stations act as wifi hotspots, as well as providing another local cat6 drop, and that the mesh systems' signal degrade. Any thoughts on this?
For some context, this exercise is for home network setup on Comcast using a 200d/50u connection. Also looking to buy the modem not rent, have heard Arris Surfboard line is fairly capable.
Would love to hear some expert thoughts, thanks in advance!
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