Huawei WiFi Q2 says it solves your wireless router problems

One of the world's largest telecom networking companies wants you to let it into your home.

Jessica Dolcourt Editorial Director, Content Operations

Jessica Dolcourt's career with CNET began in 2006, and spans reviews, reporting, analysis and commentary for desktop software; mobile software, including the very first Android and iPhone apps and operating systems; and mobile hardware, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of practical advice on expansive topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).

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Jessica Dolcourt

Jan. 9, 2018 2:45 p.m. PT

2 min read

huawei-wi-fi-speakers-4091-002 — Josh Miller/CNET

There are two problems with wireless routers at home. The first is getting seamless coverage -- there are always blind spots. The second is that the further you get from the access point, the slower your connection speeds. Mesh network systems, in which devices on the network can talk to each other, have addressed both of these issues by blanketing your home with multiple satellite access points.

A new contender in this market is Huawei , one of the world's biggest suppliers of networking infrastructure equipment. It got up on stage at CES 2018 to announce its humble offering, a hybrid 5G-powerline Wi-Fi system called the Huawei WiFi Q2. It pairs base units and satellite repeaters that plug into an ordinary wall outlet.

Watch this: Huawei home Wi-Fi router sets up in 2 minutes

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Huawei will sell the base units and repeaters in sets. A three-pack of base units will cover five to seven rooms in your home (think kitchen, living room, bedrooms...), and a base unit and two satellites will supply Wi-Fi to four or five rooms. If you've got a smaller place, like an apartment, the smallest grouping of one base and one satellite should suffice.

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The Huawei WiFi Q2 is $349.99 for three bases, or $219.99 for one base plus two satellites.

Blanket your home in Wi-Fi with Huawei's Q2 routers

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We'll update this when Huawei reveals when the units will hit the market -- that could help make or break the WiFi Q2's appeal compared to other options out there.