Bangers & mesh

We’ve had previous articles on the ability of mesh networks to deliver more reliable Wi-Fi, over large areas in particular, by using multiple gateways which can establish the most efficient path to your router and internet connection — if there’s a blooming great concrete wall somewhere in the way, a mesh can get you around that. Mesh systems are more expensive than a standalone modem-router, but then what price reliable Wi-Fi throughout your home?

We cited Netgear’s Orbi back then as one of the best options, even though it’s more strictly a hub-and-spoke arrangement than true mesh. But it gains from its Tri-band Wi-Fi, which adds to the 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels a second 5GHz channel dedicated exclusively to the backhaul,