Set up a mesh Wifi system with little more than an Ethernet cord

This article has been updated. Originally published October 16, 2020.

Working from home presents numerous challenges, but one consistently plagues remote workers regardless of their setup: slow, unreliable Wi-Fi. If network upgrades haven't solved sluggish speeds or persistent dead zones, it's time for a more robust solution: Ethernet cabling integrated with a mesh Wi-Fi system.

Ethernet and Mesh Wi-Fi: The Perfect Internet Solution

In large or unusually configured homes, optimal Wi-Fi coverage remains elusive, despite router adjustments. While wireless extenders and mesh systems (like Eero) offer some improvement, they aren't a panacea, especially in expansive homes or those with thick walls.

"A repeater only amplifies the existing signal quality—poor input results in poor output," explains Cham Clayton, owner of CBG Multimedia. His company specializes in professional Ethernet and Wi-Fi installations, witnessing firsthand the limitations of fully wireless extenders. Even with improved signal bars, the inherent limitations of extenders (even high-quality ones) cause data transmission delays due to multiple signal "hops" back to the router.

The solution: connect each mesh node to your main router via Ethernet cables. This eliminates signal degradation, providing each node with a direct, high-quality connection. Regardless of home age, wall thickness, or distance from the modem, consistent Wi-Fi coverage is achieved, eliminating frustrating connectivity issues.

Despite the simplicity of this solution, many homeowners hesitate due to perceived installation complexity.

Installation Costs and Considerations

Renters may face limitations, but homeowners have few obstacles. Existing home wiring may even simplify the process.

"Many homes already have coaxial cabling," Clayton notes, referring to cables used for cable TV, internet, or antennas. Coaxial-to-Ethernet converters enable network utilization of these cables, although speeds are typically limited to 60-100 Mbps.

[Related: Top Mesh Wi-Fi Systems]

This speed might be insufficient for multiple simultaneous 4K streaming, video conferencing, and cloud backups, but it's adequate for many users, particularly for covering a single remote area. Existing phone lines might even utilize Ethernet—requiring only phone jack replacements.

In 2020, the average cost for professional Ethernet line installation was approximately $130 per line (Michigan). This is a general baseline, potentially increasing in areas with stricter regulations (e.g., Maryland's requirement for electrician involvement in low-voltage work).

Therefore, adding Ethernet to two mesh access points (in addition to one near the modem) might cost a few hundred dollars, excluding the cost of the access points themselves. Existing consumer mesh systems (Amazon Eero, Netgear Orbi) can be used, or a professional-grade system (Ubiquiti) can be installed for remote troubleshooting capabilities. However, professional systems are more complex to set up.

Installation costs vary depending on home structure. Finished basements, drop ceilings, or multi-story homes necessitate more complex (and expensive) wiring methods.

Clayton advises a pre-installation home walkthrough for accurate cost estimation. Even a small inspection fee ensures upfront transparency. Minor wall holes ("beauty marks") for wire access may require patching and repainting, but this is a minor inconvenience compared to long-term reliable Wi-Fi.

DIY Mesh Wi-Fi Installation

For budget-conscious homeowners, a DIY approach is feasible, utilizing online resources.

"Installation isn't overly complicated, and many excellent online tutorials exist," Clayton states, encouraging DIY efforts.

[Related: Cable Management Solutions]

YouTube tutorials provide guidance, but individual home configurations necessitate customized approaches. Homes with easy access to crawl spaces simplify the process, while multi-story homes present greater challenges.

With basic tools (fish tape, drill, drywall saw, Cat6 cable), DIY installation is often achievable. While a significant undertaking, it's less daunting than it seems.

The long-term benefits—time, money, and frustration savings—outweigh the initial effort. Furthermore, an Ethernet-wired mesh system can increase home value (10-15%) and reduce costs for future projects (e.g., security systems). For long-term home-based workers, resolving Wi-Fi issues is a worthwhile investment.

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