Netgear’s Orbi Satellite takes mesh WiFi networks outdoors
WiFi mesh networking is not for the faint of wallet, but if you're going to spend the money, Netgear's Orbi is one of the better systems out there. Until now, it has been geared to indoor home and apartment use, but Netgear has introduced the Orbi Outdoor Satellite (RBS50Y). The device lets you expand coverage by up to 2,500 square feet, making it ideal for use by your pool, garage or guest house. Mesh networks make it easy to cover tricky homes with lots of rooms and floors by giving you multiple access points, all working on the same network. The downside is the price. The original Orbi and satellite kit, which covers 4,000 square feet, costs $400, and extra satellites cost about $225. By contrast, Netgear's own R7000P Nighthawk router is less than $200. Unlike a WiFi extender, the Orbi Outdoor Satellite becomes another node in your mesh, giving you a single network name and seamless handoff when you roam outdoors. And like the main system, it has a dedicated channe...