I’d go with one of these.

If you use multiple APs of the same vendor with a controller, like TP-Link Omada or EnGenius FIT, you’ll get real mesh, Jon. Seamless handoff is always hit or miss, especially with Apple devices. I’d recommend against Powerline, it’s very slow and finicky.

> I’m left with the impression there is no practical difference between a multiple AP with wired backhaul setup and a wired mesh wifi system, other than buying them individually or in a package?

A mesh system uses protocols (802.11 k/v/r) to hand over compatible clients (pretty much any modern laptop or mobile phone) from one mesh AP node to another, nearly instantly. The client device is aware of the change of AP / channel.

A non-mesh AP handover is a bit hit-and-miss and the client can take quite a while to re-establish a connection with the router.

Also have a look at Powerline which uses your electrical wiring in your house to carry your network. You can then place an AP in places you haven’t got ethernet cabling.

APs generally have the PoE option while most canned mesh systems don’t. Other than that, yes, they are kinda of the same things. More on that ih this post explaining mesh. You’ll also find recommendations and buying guides there. Good luck, Luke!

I’m one of the people you mentioned with the home internet coming in at the front corner of the front house in a closet, and I want to have full coverage to both my front house and back house on an 8,000 sqft lot, if possible. If that’s not achievable because the back house would likely have to be a wireless backhaul, I’ll just do the front house and surrounding yard and let the back house get their own internet service. Either way, I need a system with multiple access points, I think.

Would you suggest I buy one of your recommended 6/6E mesh systems, or do something like Ubiquity (or another system) with multiple access points? I care less about having gigabit speed everywhere than I do about having a good 200-300 Mbps wherever I am, with no distinguishable switch over when it goes from one node to the other. I can’t conceive of needing more than that even with 4K Dolby Vision streaming, but can see how it would be annoying when moving around the house if switching.

Then it’s likely the Privacy or Security setting on the device. It’s one of those dumb things Apple thinks it’s smart to make the default on their new OS updates. Also remove/disconnect your VPN , if any. Good luck!

HI Dong, it must be something else, I’ve moved on to another airbnb (Salerno) and the same thing is happening my iPhone, my wife’s and my iPad. When I turn off WiFi on my phone and emails come in. Must be related to my email service provider or Apple settings? Not a priority, I know you are busy but am very curious. Strange
Carmine

It’s likely that the router’s settings have been changed (by a previous guest?) to restrict certain services (as a prank or whatnot)–more here. I’d reset it and set it up anew.