TP-Link's new Deco M5 mesh networking kit targets simplicity, but it's half-baked.

Unique circular design; Support for Ethernet-based Deco-to-Deco communication

Unstable Bluetooth mobile setup process; No web-based backend; Wireless AC devices have a 433Mbps limit; Shallow "advanced" features

TP-Link has regularly topped the list of our favourite wireless routers at Expert Reviews in the past few years, but with mesh networking gaining ground over traditional methods of strengthening your home Wi-Fi coverage, it's having to change tack.

Great parental controls; Three-year antivirus built in; Strong wireless coverage

Slightly slow at close range; Pricier than BT Whole Home Wi-Fi

While many people are excited about Google WiFi , there's another name out there that is doing the same thing, and it's actually a bit cheaper. And that's the TP-Link Deco M5. Now TP-Link has been producing routers and other networking products for many years, so it arguably has more experience in...

The Deco M5 is TP-Link's take on the increasing popular whole home Wi-Fi (mesh) product category. These little discs contain a total of four radios each, that act as a combination of Wi-Fi backhaul and client access.

Final Thoughts For their first entry into the whole-home WiFi market I think TP-Link has a very strong contender in the Deco M5 system. This is our first time taking a look at a system like this so we cannot compare it to others, but comparing it to typical routers we can definitely see some areas...

– Easy setup; – Better overall WiFi coverage than a normal router; – Small profile; – TPLink HomeCare included; – Great unboxing experience

– Not as many configuration options as a normal router; – Will need to buy a switch if you need multiple Ethernet ports

Like mentioned above, the setup and configuration of the TP-Link Deco M5 is by far the easiest Wi-Fi router that I have ever set up. This is perfect for those who just want to plug it in and go. There is no need to fiddle with obscure settings or constantly tweak things.

Covers up to 4,500 square feet; Excellent parental controls; Quick and easy setup from mobile device; Covers up to 4,500 square feet; Excellent parental controls; Quick and easy setup from mobile device

More on expensive side; No web UI access; No advanced routing settings; More on expensive side; No web UI access; No advanced routing settings

TP-Link is the latest networking company to launch a mesh network system. It's called Deco because the aim is to ‘paint your home with Wi-Fi'.

Here at Bob's house, we're awash in technology. Between computers and gadgets, we probably have 15-20 different Wi-Fi enabled devices. But I'm not a gearhead. I don't like spending hours tinkering with network settings to keep everything up and running.

Easy to install; Robust management and user control features; Excellent coverage; Consistent; reliable performance; Excellent; hands-off antivirus and intrusion security; Remote control features allow you to manage your network from anywhere

Need to replace your existing network; Continuous data sharing with TP-Link could present some risks; Long-term pricing for the security package is unclear

If you're looking to ditch your traditional router-extender setup for a whole-home Wi-Fi system, put the TP-Link Deco M5 Wi-Fi System on your short list. It's a cinch to install and provides automatic malware and virus protection to every client connected to the network.

Solid throughput performance; Robust parental controls; Built-in virus and malware protection; Easy to install; Well-designed mobile app

No web interface; Does not support dedicated band control

It was only a matter of time before TP-Link joined other networking manufacturers such as Linksys, Netgear, and Amped Wireless in releasing a whole-home Wi-Fi system. Its Deco M5 Wi-Fi System ($299.99) is a three-piece unit that employs mesh technology to blanket your home with wireless coverage. It's loaded with features, including malware and virus protection, robust parental controls, and intuitive QoS options, and it is easy to install and manage. Design and Features The three-piece Deco M5 system ($169.99 at Walmart)(Opens in a new window) provides up to 4,500 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage. For larger homes, additional nodes (up to 10 total) can be purchased for $129.99 each. Every circular Deco unit is identical and measures 4.7 inches in diameter and 1.4 inches high. With their low profile and matte white finish you can place them out in the open where they will blend in with any décor. Each unit contains two gigabit Ethernet ports, a USB-C power port, a Reset button, and ...

The TP-Link Deco M5 Wi-Fi System is a stylishly designed Wi-Fi system that delivers solid throughput performance and supports MU-MIMO streaming. It's also a breeze to install and its feature set is robust.

Solid throughput performance; Robust parental controls; Built-in virus and malware protection; Easy to install; Well-designed mobile app

No web interface; Does not support dedicated band control