Mesh networks
A mesh network is a network topology in which each node relays data for the network, allowing the network to extend over a large area. In a mesh network, access points can act as root or as mesh nodes. You can deploy a mesh network as a wireless repeater or as a wireless bridge.
Repeater configuration
When an access point starts, it attempts to connect to the firewall through a wired LAN connection. If it can do so, it assumes the role of root access point. If it cannot, it assumes the role of a mesh access point and joins the network as a client. Mesh access points broadcast the SSID from the root access point.

Bridge configuration
In a bridge configuration, you use a mesh network as a wireless connection between two Ethernet networks. To establish a wireless bridge, you connect the second Ethernet segment to the Ethernet interface of the mesh access point.

General settings
- Mesh-ID
- Unique ID for the mesh network. Access points look for others advertising the same mesh ID.
- Frequency band
- Band on which the mesh network operates.
- Access points
- Access points to include in the mesh network.
Things to know about mesh networks
- You can create a mesh network only with Sophos access points.
- For setting up a mesh network, you must create a new SSID.
- You can have only one mesh SSID.
- At least one access point must have a LAN connection.
- Mesh access points must be on the same channel.
- Don't use dynamic channel selection since channels of access points may differ after a restart.
- A mesh network may need up to five minutes after configuration to be available.
- There is no automatic takeover of the root access point. You need to restart one of the mesh access points.
- For APX access points, there's no need to specify the mesh role. If the mesh-enabled SSID is pushed to two APXs, the one with the existing Ethernet connection to the XG Firewall becomes the root AP. Once the mesh-enabled SSIDs are pushed to the APXs, it’s advisable to reboot them.
- Mesh networks can only be created between access points of the same series, for example, APX access points can only create a mesh network with other APX access points.