Network connectivity for 2400sqft home

[Sonicc_th]

Hello All,

I understand that there are smart networking people around, so why not take some much needed advice.
I am trying to setup a home network. In my current flat the Airtel router is put up at the entrance (with the pocket UPS device, hence the connection stays on at all times), since the flat area is ~1600sq ft, the coverage is ok, however I do face some issues with the range. I would like to overcome that in the other flat as the area is also larger ~2400 sq ft.

I am planning to run the Cat 6 cable in all rooms so that the TV's do not have any buffering issues while on Netflix. The thing is that I would not be able to put the Airtel router in the center of the home as there is no specific place to put that (would not like to place it as a showpiece in the drawing room either). So I am planning to have the Airtel guy install (the ONT and router) it in one of the rooms (which is at the farthest point). With this setup I am sure I will have issues with the range.
So did some reading and have come up with a solution (not sure if that is the best one - since I am not a networking guy).

1. From the Airtel router (in Room 1) run a cable back to the connection junction box (at the entrance of the flat) and install a POE switch
2. Run the CAT 6 cable from the switch to Rooms 2 & 3 and terminate them at the wall plates
3. Terminate these in the mesh routers (either of the rooms) to provide the wi-fi coverage and also the wired backhaul for the routers

The airtel router in room 1 will be connected to UPS to provide the much needed always on connectivity, however I would like your advice whether I would need another ups device for the POE switch at the junction box?
Kindly let me know if this setup will work or any suggestions to improve.

Thanks

 

[madhusudhan7]

Works either ways but the only good wall plate POE solutions available easily in India are from TP-Link but their performance and range isn't that great + the big question of whether they'll be compatible with your existing switch boards etc.

Why don't you consider a nice WiFi-6e mesh solution like TP-Link Deco XE75 or similar. They look good and also offer superior performance. You can also check if WiFi-7 is available

 

[conquest]

Use a single 16 port smart switch at the centre and then connect peripherals at wherever you need. This will cost you the least while giving you the most flexibility.
Let's say you have 5 bed rooms , so 5 aps for 5 bed rooms, then there will be cameras , outdoor aps etc, 16 ports should cover all of that. Also POE is a big no from me since it increases cost exponentially. If required, draw live wires separately along with cat cables.

 

[Kick933]

To add something from my side, you should also invest in good router,install openwrt on it. The airtel router will be choke point of traffic as the number of connections increase. Get miniPC or something to run OpenWRT. I have seen the same setup in my friend's flat and his router struggles to handle more than 6 devices properly. I am assuming you have basic airtel provided ONT working as router.

 

[MrGordon]

You could also take a look at TP-Link Omada EAPs, if you use it with their controller, its so much easier to manage and the coverage is pretty good too.

I started with two EAP 245s, and now added one more EAP610, all with wired backhaul. POE is a bit expensive, but it makes your life so much easier, when you consider power backup and things like that. You get to control it centrally.

TP-Link also has the wall plate type EAPs which you can use on a per room basis too. It will also act as a switch a give you additional ports in a room. However, if you go for the EAPs, do run a software or hardware controller, many features are dependent on the controller.

 

[Sonicc_th]

@madhusudhan7 Deco XE75's are a bit costly, what is your opinion on M4, X20, X50 PoE.
@conquest What do you mean draw live wires. Requirement is for the wi-fi routers to stay on when even during power cuts. The gensets kick in within a min, however then the router has to restart every time and I lose connectivity during meetings, etc. So that was the only point for PoE. Correct me if I am wrong anywhere...
@MrGordon You are running the EAP's, what is your view on mesh system like TP-Link Deco's
Thanks

 

[MrGordon]

@Sonicc_th I've not tried the TP-Link Deco, but I think it works similar to the EAP and without the need for a controller. My personal view is to ensure having a wired backhaul to all the APs and not depend on the wireless link.

Also, EAPs work better with more number of wireless clients, so if the number of client devices are less, the Deco should work well too. And the Deco is definitely cheaper, 3 pack wall/ceiling mountable AX3000 from Deco is only 25k whereas a single AX1800 EAP610 is 10k.

 

[Sonicc_th]

@MrGordon I agree regarding the wired backhaul, planning to do the same. quick question... any specific wiring requirements, or CAT 6 will suffice?

 

[MrGordon]

CAT6 should do, but do get copper cables (D-Link should be good). There are cheaper CCA (Copper-clad aluminium) cables, try to avoid that.

And if possible try to terminate the cable runs on a patch panel at a central location, and then use a separate patch cord to connect to a switch. Looks cleaner and reduces wear and tear as well.

 

[conquest]

Live wires means 230 volt line. Separating power solution from networking means easier debugging. Connect networking solutions with inverter line. If required separate ups for those microsecond delays. IMHO POE is costly and if not mission critical, should be avoided whenever possible.