Hi @harrycmary,

Because you only have a 100Mbps WAN connection, the wifi speed should not be a bottleneck.  I don't think paying up to get wifi-6/7 is worth the cost.  Getting a strong signal to bridge the laptop back to the router should give you a better experience even using older wifi standards.  Both the TP-Link RE330 and Deco devices use the "mesh" concept although they are not compatable, so latency is likely to increase with every wireless hop with either choice.  For the price difference, I'd try a range extender and return it if it's not working well enough (be sure your Archer C7 version support OneMesh).  Some range extenders (and the Deco) have a wired connections, so if there's a wired location closer to where you're working, you may be able to eliminate one wirelss hop back to the router.  When selecting an extender, you may want to pick one with a 1GB port if you plan to use it in AP mode.  100MB would be ok as that matches your internet speed, but good to have in case you increase your WAN speed.

And specifically to answer your questions...

• Effectiveness: For demanding applications on an AI laptop would a range extender suffice, or is investing in a mesh system more advisable

Extenders/mesh use same basic concepts. It's best to use hard wired links to eliminate or reduce wireless hops.

• Compatibility: Can the Deco AX3000 mesh system integrate with my current Archer C7, or would it require a complete replacement

The Deco and Archer mesh are not compatable.  From what I could see, the Deco would replace the Archer C7.

• Alternative Recommendations: Are there other TP-Link products or solutions that might better address my needs
• There are things you can do to optimize your existing wifi like relocating your router, adjusting the channel and/or band config, etc. You may want to try them first if you haven't done so already.  This is certainly the lowest cost solution.
• If you have a coax cable where you work and one near your router you may want to consider MOCA adapters.  I don't think TP-Link makes them, but it would eliminate any wifi issues.
• TP-Link does make Powerline Adapters which may work.  It seems people have had mixed results based on the quality of their electrical wiring.  I'm not sure I'd recommend it, but it is an option that you could try if all else fails.

  @harrycmary 

Hello!

Improving Wi-Fi coverage in a two-story home, especially for demanding tasks like AI workloads, requires careful consideration. Let’s address your questions and provide recommendations based on your current setup and challenges.

1. Effectiveness: Range Extender vs. Mesh System

• Wi-Fi Range Extender (e.g., TP-Link RE330):

  • A range extender can amplify your existing signal, but it often comes with trade-offs:

    • Speed Reduction: Extenders typically halve the bandwidth because they use the same radio to communicate with the router and your devices.

    • Latency: Extenders can introduce additional latency, which may not be ideal for intensive tasks like AI workloads.

    • Seamlessness: Devices may not seamlessly switch between the router and extender, causing interruptions.

  • Verdict: A range extender might help improve coverage but is not ideal for high-performance needs.

• Mesh Wi-Fi System (e.g., TP-Link Deco AX3000):

  • A mesh system is designed to provide seamless coverage throughout your home:

    • Seamless Roaming: Devices automatically connect to the nearest node without disconnections.

    • Better Performance: Wi-Fi 6 support ensures higher speeds, lower latency, and better handling of multiple devices.

    • Future-Proofing: Wi-Fi 6 is more efficient and can handle higher bandwidth demands.

  • Verdict: A mesh system is the better choice for stable, high-speed connectivity across your home, especially for demanding tasks.

2. Compatibility: Deco AX3000 with Archer C7

• The TP-Link Deco AX3000 operates as a standalone system and does not integrate with your existing Archer C7 router. If you choose the Deco system, you would need to replace the Archer C7 entirely.

• However, the Deco AX3000 is a significant upgrade over the Archer C7, offering better coverage, faster speeds, and modern features like Wi-Fi 6.

3. Alternative Recommendations

If you’re open to other TP-Link solutions, here are some alternatives:

• TP-Link Deco X20 (AX1800):

  • A more affordable mesh system that still supports Wi-Fi 6 and provides excellent coverage for most homes.

• TP-Link Archer AX73 (AX5400):

  • A high-performance Wi-Fi 6 router that could replace your Archer C7. While not a mesh system, it has stronger signal strength and may cover your home better than the C7.

• TP-Link Omada EAP Series (for advanced users):

  • If you’re comfortable with more advanced setups, consider TP-Link’s Omada access points. These can be wired to create a seamless Wi-Fi network with enterprise-grade performance.

4. Additional Tips for Optimal Performance

• Router Placement: Ensure your router (or primary mesh node) is centrally located on the ground floor for better signal distribution.

• Wired Backhaul: If possible, use Ethernet cables to connect mesh nodes. This ensures maximum speed and stability.

• Channel Optimization: Use the TP-Link Tether app to analyze and optimize Wi-Fi channels for minimal interference.

• Firmware Updates: Keep your router or mesh system updated with the latest firmware for improved performance and security.

Final Recommendation

For your use case (AI workloads, two-story home, and the need for stable, high-speed connectivity), the TP-Link Deco AX3000 mesh system is the best solution. While it requires replacing your Archer C7, it provides seamless coverage, future-proof Wi-Fi 6 support, and the performance needed for demanding tasks.

If budget is a concern, consider the Deco X20 as a slightly more affordable alternative. Both options will significantly improve your Wi-Fi experience compared to a range extender.