All-weather TVs, grilling gadgets, and ambient smart lighting
In today?s fast-paced, connected world, we often find ourselves sucked indoors because we?re glued to our screens ? for work, for fun, for gaming, and for streaming TV and sports programs.
But the great thing about technology is that as it changes, there are more options, and that means we have the ability to bring our connectivity, and our families, outdoors. So it?s time to change your mindset and get outside, and your own backyard oasis is the perfect place to start.
Extended Wi-Fi
Until recently, Wi-Fi extenders were a good option to ensure even Wi-Fi coverage around your property, but the systems do have limitations. They rebroadcast your Wi-Fi signal as their own separate network. That means you often have two networks ? like ?Smith House? upstairs and ?Smith House Ext? for downstairs ? and your devices will connect to one until it?s out of range. To connect to the other, you need to manually switch networks, and it can be a hassle. The better option for today?s connectivity needs is a mesh Wi-Fi system, which consists of the main router that connects directly to your modem, and a series of satellite modules, or nodes, placed around your house for full Wi-Fi coverage. They?re best for large homes and ones with dense walls or multiple floors, and tech experts recommend them for signal reliability and speed consistency.
Mesh Wi-Fi works by spreading your Wi-Fi signal throughout your home, essentially blanketi...