Recommendations for Wi-Fi mesh router/AP that can be configured from a browser
I'm looking for a new set of router/APs to cover a whole house in a mesh setup, that doesn't involve using an app, or creating an account with the manufacturer. It has to work locally, with the configuration accessible from a browser. I repeat, no app and no online accounts. Just devices that can act as a router + repeaters, that can be configured from a browser. A bonus would be to have SMA ports so that antennas can be connected to them.
The current setup consists of only two Asus RT-AC66U, and the range sucks. They'e getting old, I don't want more of these, and the one serving as a mesh repeater often stops responding for a few seconds. I made the mistake of buying a pack of TP-Link Deco and I ended up returning them because they require an app and online account to configure.
Any suggestion meeting those requirements will be appreciated.
3 replies
Pretty much all modern wireless setups are controlled via the browser. I use ubiquiti since we use it for clients at work and I love it. Got the gateway, 2 APs and a switch. But any reputable setup will work great and should be expandable if necessary.
I use TP-Link Omada EAP-650's with the OC200 controller (there is a new version of the controller that is supposed to be better) and OpnSense as a router. Grab a POE switch and run wired cables if at all possible, yes they can mesh... wired > wireless and they still need power. With POE they are easy to ceiling mount, I have 2 and can access my wifi from 1/2 a block from home with one mounted near the front door and one near the back. You can use an app or the web interface, you can also forgo the controller and run the software on an always on computer.
Devices that combine the wifi and router are underpowered, designed to be replaced in 2 years or so, and don't get updated enough to truly protect a network in the AI age which is where OpnSense is amazing. The Omada series allows you to literally drop in an extra AP or replace an old one, adopt and apply the setup, and be off and running. Combined with a managed switch and you can create separate vLAN's that will isolate devices until they touch the router and then you can decide what to do with it.
Tplink Omada. Deploy a controller on-prem and configure it. It has a web interface but I use the mobile app.
It has a cloud service to aid in connecting to your controller, or to act as your controller, but its not required.
I do use its cloud service, but I know in the app it gives me the option to access the controller locally or through their cloud relay. When i configure things using the browser its local only.