Mesh networks that use ethernet backhaul

[Johno]

I'm successfully running an Asus AIMesh network using ethernet backhaul (I have a cat5e ethernet LAN at home) and it works very well, with (touch wood) no issues so far.

My neighbour asked me to recommend a router so I mentioned the Asus RT-68U but as he doesn't have a VDSL modem (his ISP supplied an all in one hub router) he's bought an Asus DSL-68U with it's built-in VDSL modem. I've factory-reset one of my AIMesh nodes so that the neighbour could try setting up his own ethernet AIMesh but try as we might (after firmware upgrade on the DSL-68), his router simply refused to recognise the AIMesh node, even though connected via a known-working cat6 patch cable.

I've since added the node back to my AIMesh network and it's all fine, which makes me wonder whether the DSL-68 is actually able to use AIMesh?

My neighbour is going to return the DSL-68 so I'm wondering if there's another way of getting a mesh network that uses ethernet backhaul rather than wireless? His home is on three floors and only the ground and second floors need wireless coverage, so a wired backhaul is perfect for his needs.

So my question - other than Asus, which other mesh systems use ethernet backhaul?

 

[degrub]

why not just get a DSL modem and a separate Asus router + additional as wireless APs ?
Otherwise, just a router + APs should do the trick for typical home setting. No need for "mesh".