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Do I need to worry about my privacy if I were to buy a WiFi Mesh router kit?

11 points by textinterface ↗ HN
Hi. I have connectivity issues in my apartment. I could try and solve it by spreading ethernet cables around it, but that would be a lot of work (if it turns out to be possible).

So I came across this "wifi mesh" thing and it might solve my problem, but I just got curious... Is this kind of router a "smart device"? In the sense of "do I have to worry this device is going to spy on everything I do and send data back home so that I'll be targeted with loads of intrusive ads all around the internet just like if I bought a Smart TV"?

Disclaimer, I have almost zero knowledge about networks. I'm not sure this question even makes sense, sorry if that's the case.

10 comments

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detaro
not more or less than any other Wifi router. Some of them come with cloud management bits, that's maybe something you want to avoid.
Tijdreiziger
Some popular ones can only be managed through the cloud.
brudgers
That’s one reason I went with the Orbi. It can be setup without a cloud subscription.
f1shy
I found many devices are only configurable with an app. I find that right off the bat a problem. But it may be also another "point of entry" if the app is poorly developed. From what I researched Netgear needs no app. But not 100% sure.
mongrelion
Sorry that I can't comment much on the whole mesh part but as a side note you might want to look into setting up pihole in your home network (no raspberry pi required). On your main router, deny all outgoing DNS requests and only allow those coming from the node you have pihole running. In that way you can track which of your devices is phoning back home and block accordingly
gehwartzen
I recently setup a Gl-inet Velica mesh system in my house and am really impressed with the customization and security features. Definitely give it a look.
httpsterio
if you're in any way worried about someone for example pe et rating your network or simply don't want to run it as a WiFi, you could also run your cables through your electric cables with something like a Powerline adapter.
textinterface
Have you used one? Is the network quality better than WiFi? I'm also curious about powerline, but not sure how that would perform.
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