In order to install a mesh network, you may have to replace your router as well as add any access points with devices from the same brand and system. Popular mesh network systems include the Linksys Velop, as well as the Amazon-owned Eero system and the Google-owned Nest Wi-Fi system. They're are also better able to handle homes that have a large number of connected devices, by prioritizing access: ensuring your online gaming or work video call get priority service to avoid lag or other slowdowns. Mesh networks typically don't have as much lag as you may see with a Wi-Fi extender, which is just repeating a signal from a single router. You may, for example, need a system compatible with dual-band (2.4 GHz/5 GHz) networks or Wi-Fi 6E. Check to make sure the extender you choose is compatible with your router. You also only need to buy one additional device, while you will usually need to replace your router with a mesh network in addition to any access points you buy to extend the system. Wi-Fi range extenders are typically less expensive than mesh network access points.

Giving each network separate names, in contrast, means you can label them by location: a reminder, for example, that your range extender's network should only be used when you're out on the patio. You can give both your router and the extender the same name and password, which may make it easier to work without managing multiple passwords and networks, but this may cause problems if your computer ends up sticking with the slower network rather than automatically choosing the one with the stronger signal. This means that you can't seamlessly travel from one location to another. Even though Wi-Fi range extenders are just repeating the same signal as your regular Wi-Fi router, they act as a separate network. A slight variation to this is a powerline extender, which uses your electrical wiring as a network cable, and can work well if your home is wired up appropriate.

An extender repeats your Wi-Fi signal so to boost its range.

Wifi extender mesh