D-Link announced that it will be launching new versions of its Covr mesh Wi-Fi system, with both tri-band and dual-band models coming soon.
The new-look Covr devices will appear more like standard mesh Wi-Fi routers. That is, the router and satellite nodes look identical. The previous Covr system was different in that it was made up of a standard router with a separate extender. While they worked together to form something akin to a mesh, the sum of those two parts wasn’t really the same as other mesh networking products.
The Tri-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (Covr-2202) uses two units to cover up to 6,000 sq. ft. of space in a home. It’s a combined theoretical bandwidth of AC2200.
The Dual-Band Whole Home Wi-Fi System (Covr-1203) uses three units, except it covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. of space with a combined bandwidth of AC1200.
Both systems will support many of the same features. These include MU-MIMO for multiple, simultaneous bandwidth allocation to multiple devices. Smart roaming and streaming should maintain the strongest connection to the nearest node and most optimal band.
You can use the same app to set up and manage either system, so little has changed there. Hopefully, the level of control will improve. The previous Covr offered more controls and settings in the browser-based manager.
There will also be Amazon Alexa integration, though it appears that particular feature will only be in the Tri-Band model. It will allow you to control your network through voice, including pausing the connection for a certain user, among other features.
The Tri-Band Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi System will be available in a two-pack, and could be come to Canada within the next two months. The Dual-Band system will come as a three-pack with availability later in the spring.
