This review is, for a change, able to be short and sweet, since this is an add-on node for the 2-pack set reviewed previously. Functionally, the only ‘new thing’ to comment on is how easily it integrated into the existing network. Find the best spot, get power to that point, plug it in, turn it on, use the app to set it up and all done! It took me less than 15 minutes to expand the network and give the garage coverage – normally difficult with it having an all-metal shell and effective acting like a Faraday Cage.
Normally, at best, I get an unstable and tenuous connection, and then only if I am standing by the open door. By expanding the network into the garage with this node, and using ethernet backhaul to get the data through the metal walls, I can now keep an eye on my online resources, keep the music playing non-stop and buffer-skip-free, and even make/receive phone calls using the various VoIP options readily available.
With the recent introduction of Hyperfiber in New Zealand, it’s important that new tech is ready to run on it. A friend wanted to test this unit out and he has Hyper so I thought it would be a great way to check the futureproofing. Alas, as he discovered, these are not Hyper-ready. While they can plug into an existing router and take over all the LAN activity, they are not compatible with the Hyperfiber technology directly and will only be useful at handling everything on ‘your side’ of the jackpoint. if you are a data high-user and want to take advantage of the blazing speeds now on offer, then you might need to look elsewhere.
Overall, this system is still an excellent upgrade for anyone on a regular internet connection. It’s brilliant for taking over the WiFi from your default modem/router, and in the process enhancing your network to WiFi 6 speeds. However, buying a single node is significantly less cost-effective than buying the 2-pack or 3-pack bundles, so plan accordingly.
Rating:
Posted in partnership with: KIWIreviews.nz
Disclosure Statement: This unit was supplied by D-Link expressly for the purposes of review. No fee was offered or accepted for this impartial review.
Key Features:
- Eco-friendly Design: With a housing made from post-consumer recycled materials and delivered in sustainable packaging, the M30 was designed to reduce its environmental impact
- Refined Aesthetics: Boasting an eagle-inspired form and a unique feather-patterned ventilation design, the M30 seamlessly complements any home decor
- Rapid Connectivity: Revel in speeds up to 3Gbps with an extra antenna on the faster 5GHz band, assuring seamless video streaming, video conferencing, and smooth gaming
- Uninterrupted Wi-Fi Everywhere: Enjoy robust 360° spherical coverage courtesy of a sophisticated antenna design and advanced AI technology, ensuring fast and consistent Wi-Fi in every corner of your home
- Scale-as-you-need Mesh: Futureproof your network and easily expand your coverage by adding more AQUILA PRO AI devices to create a whole home Mesh Wi-Fi network
- Ultra-Fast Gigabit Wired Connections: 1 × Gigabit WAN port plus 4 × Gigabit LAN ports allow you to make fast and reliable connections to wired devices like smart TVs, gaming PCs and more
- Help Protect Your Home Network: Help keep your family safer online with our premium home network security features like Advanced Parental Controls, ETSI EN 303 645 cybersecurity certification and WPA3 encryption
- Simplified Setup and Management: The intuitive AQUILA PRO AI app helps guide you through setup and monitors your network to help you keep it running at peak performance
You can read the original press release [-here-]