WiFi Mesh: what it is, how it works, and how to install it at home

A WiFi Mesh system combines a WiFi router with one or more mesh satellites to strengthen the signal and expand the coverage area of your WiFi network. Have you ever wondered why your WiFi signal doesn’t reach every room in your home properly? This might be the solution—a revolutionary technology that’s changing the way we connect our homes to the internet. If you want to know how to improve your WiFi connection, keep reading.

What is a WiFi Mesh (mesh network)?

A WiFi Mesh network, also known as a mesh network, is an advanced connectivity system that uses multiple devices working together to create a single, powerful, and stable WiFi network.

Unlike traditional WiFi repeaters or extenders, a mesh system creates one unified network that provides continuous coverage throughout your home.

Think of your home as a large puzzle: each mesh device is a piece that fits perfectly with the others to form a network with no dead zones or weak signal areas. This technology is especially useful in large homes, multi-story buildings, or spaces with thick walls where a single router just isn’t enough.

How does a WiFi Mesh network work?

A WiFi Mesh network works through cooperation between devices. The system consists of two main elements:

• Main node: This is the mesh router that connects directly to your broadband connection.

• Satellite nodes: These are additional devices placed around your home to extend coverage.

What makes WiFi Mesh networks so powerful is their self-managing capability. The nodes constantly communicate with each other, choosing the best route to transmit data. If one node fails, the network automatically reconfigures itself to keep the connection running through alternative paths.

Advantages of WiFi Mesh networks

WiFi Mesh systems offer significant benefits compared to traditional solutions:

• Superior coverage: Virtually eliminates WiFi dead zones in your home.

• Seamless connection: Move around your house without losing connection—perfect for video calls.

• Easy setup: Most mesh systems are configured via intuitive mobile apps.

• Scalability: You can add more nodes as your needs grow.

• Consistent internet speed: Stable performance across the entire network.

Discover all our broadband offers

Drawbacks to consider

Like any technology, mesh routers also have some points to keep in mind:

• Higher initial cost: The upfront investment is greater than with a standard router.

• Planning required: You need to think carefully about where to place the nodes.

• Power consumption: Multiple devices mean slightly higher electricity usage.

Mesh vs traditional router: what’s the difference?

The key difference between a traditional router and a WiFi Mesh system lies in how they distribute the internet signal throughout your home.

A traditional router is like a single strong light bulb in one room: it shines brightly nearby, but the light fades quickly as you move further away or if walls get in the way. It works well in smaller or open spaces where the signal doesn’t have to travel far.

In larger homes, with multiple floors or signal-blocking walls, WiFi often weakens or disappears in certain areas. This is where WiFi Mesh comes in. Instead of relying on one single point, a mesh system uses a team of devices—a main router connected to your broadband and one or more satellites spread around the house.

These mesh devices work together intelligently to create a single WiFi network that covers the entire space. The best part is that you only have one network name and password. As you move around, your phone, tablet, or laptop automatically connects to the mesh node with the strongest signal—no interruptions, no manual switching. On top of that, mesh systems optimize the data paths, ensuring more stable speeds and much more uniform coverage than a single router trying to reach every corner.

In short, if your current router leaves some parts of your home “in the dark,” a WiFi Mesh system acts like a smart, distributed lighting setup, making sure the signal is strong and clear everywhere.

Discover all our broadband offers

How to install and set up a WiFi Mesh network

Installing a WiFi Mesh system is usually very straightforward and designed for easy self-installation. While the exact steps may vary slightly depending on the brand, the general process is very similar.

Before you start, make sure you have:

• A stable internet connection, ideally high-speed symmetrical broadband

• Available power sockets for the nodes

• A smartphone for the initial setup

• Suitable places to position the nodes

Let’s get started:

1. Connect the main node: Plug the main mesh router into your broadband connection and power supply. You may need to set the network name and password first—check the quick-start guide.

2. Pair using WPS (the “magic button”):

   • Plug a satellite in near the main router.

   • Press the WPS button on the satellite for a few seconds.

   • Then press the WPS button on the main router.

   • Wait until the lights indicate they’re connected.

3. Place the satellite: Unplug the satellite and move it to the area where you need better coverage. Plug it back in—the lights will tell you if the connection is good.

4. More satellites? Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each additional node.

That’s it! Connect to your new WiFi network and enjoy seamless coverage.

WiFi Coverage+: Olin’s WiFi Mesh solution

If you’re looking to improve your home connection and you’re an Olin customer, WiFi Coverage+ is our official solution based on WiFi Mesh technology and powered by WiFi 6. It’s designed to eliminate dead zones and ensure your connection is strong and stable in every corner of your home.

This service is compatible even if your current Olin router is WiFi 5. Installation is simple, and technical assistance is also available if you need it. The goal is clear: smooth, uninterrupted connectivity whether you’re working, gaming online, or streaming content.

Ordering WiFi Coverage+ is easy for Olin Broadband customers: just call 1560, visit an Olin Store, or contact us through our website. It’s the integrated, optimized way to bring the best possible WiFi experience to your entire home.

Deiscover WiFi Coverage+