A mesh network is a type of local area network topology in which infrastructure nodes connect directly, dynamically, and non-hierarchically to as many other nodes as possible and cooperate with one another to efficiently route data to and from clients. In a mesh network, every node can participate in the relay of information, which allows for dynamic distribution of workloads and contributes to fault-tolerance and reduced maintenance costs. Mesh networks can relay messages using either a flooding or a routing technique, which makes them different from non-mesh networks.

Mesh networks can be wired or wireless. In a wireless mesh network (WMN), radio nodes are organized in a network made up of multiple access points called mesh nodes, extenders, or satellites, which work together to efficiently route data to and from connected devices in a building. Since mesh networks broadcast from each point around a building rather than from a single location, they can provide better coverage over a wider space, and additional points can be added to get better coverage in hard-to-cover areas. Mesh networks are decentralized, which allows for greater coverage and data throughput, and they offer multiple points of connectivity throughout a building.

Mesh networks are useful when the Wi-Fi signals from a single router are too weak to reach all the corners of a building. They are also beneficial in situations where there are multiple sources of connectivity around a building instead of just a single router, and where there are many trouble spots with poor or no coverage.