Guides · How-to
How to set up a mesh Wi-Fi network
Mesh Wi-Fi promises whole-home coverage, but only if the nodes are placed right. Here's how to set one up the way we do in testing.
Dev Patel · Networking editor
Published Jul 6, 2026 · Updated Jul 22, 2026 · 4 min read
Two mesh nodes placed a room apart. Click to edit this caption.
The short answer
Put your main node at the modem, then place each satellite about halfway to your dead zones — close enough to still receive a strong signal, not out at the far edge. Use the app to check the link between nodes, and run Ethernet backhaul between them if you can.
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Before you buy nodes, try these free ways to boost your Wi-Fi.
More on this topic
Networking editor
Dev has set up Wi-Fi in more than 200 homes and tests every mesh system on the same floor plan for a fair coverage comparison, so his networking advice holds up in real houses.