Deco App Guide_FW1.12.0

About This Guide

This guide provides a brief introduction to the Deco app.
Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP. All images, steps, and descriptions in this guide are only examples and may not reflect your actual Deco experience.

Conventions

In this guide, the following conventions are used:

Convention	Description
Deco	Stands for Deco Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi System/Unit.
Underline	Underlined words or phrases are hyperlinks. You can click to redirect to a website or a specific section.
Bold	Contents to be emphasized and texts on the web page are in bold, including the menus, items, buttons and so on.
>	The menu structures to show the path to load the corresponding page. For example, Settings > System Tools > Firmware Upgrade means the Firmware Upgrade page is under the System Tools menu that is located in the Settings tab.
Note:	Ignoring this type of note might result in a malfunction or damage to the device.
Tip:	Indicates important information that helps you make better use of your device.

More Info

• Specific product information can be found on the product page at https://www.tp-link.com.
• A Technical Community is provided for you to discuss our products at https://community.tp-link.com.
• Our Technical Support contact information can be found at the Help center of the Deco app and the Contact Technical Support page at https://www.tp-link.com/support.

Disclaimer

Speed/Coverage/Device Quantity Disclaimer
Maximum wireless signal rates are the physical rates derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Actual wireless data throughput and wireless coverage, and quantity of connected devices are not guaranteed and will vary as a result of network conditions, client limitations, and environmental factors, including building materials, obstacles, volume and density of traffic, and client location.
MU-MIMO Disclaimer
Use of MU-MIMO requires clients to also support MU-MIMO.
IoT Compatibility Disclaimer
IoT compatibility refers only to smart devices that can be controlled via the Deco app. Other wireless devices can still connect to Deco for normal Wi-Fi use.
Seamless Roaming Disclaimer
Clients need to support 802.11k/v/r and may require additional set up. Performance may vary depending on the client device.
HomeShield Disclaimer
HomeShield includes the Free Basic Plan. Fees apply for the Pro Plan. Visit tp-link.com/homeshield/ for more information.

 

1. Introduction to Deco App

TP-Link Deco app is the perfect way to set up your Deco mesh Wi-Fi in minutes and control your whole-home network. You can monitor your home Wi-Fi from anywhere, and make changes right from the palm of your hand.
 

Your network at-a-glance
Easily access what you use most in the reorganized dashboard. View the network topology and status, manage clients, and more.

Safeguard your network
Power up your protection against intrusions and attacks, stay updated on security details, and get network recommendations.

Maintain healthy digital habits
Easily control your kids' online time and content. Receive intuitive charts and detailed statistics concerning your kids' online usage.

More features within reach
Test the in-development features at the Deco Lab, receive intuitive network reports, set up networks.

Link for more flexibility
Link your Deco with different accouts for more flexible management.

Customize app settings
Get app versions and configure basic app settings such as notifications and appearance.

Get help instantly
Find all ways in Support Center to solve the problems you encoutered.

2. Set Up Your Deco Network

First let's start by setting up the Deco network. Get the TP-Link Deco app for iOS or Android, then follow the app to walk through the setup.

1. Get the Deco app

Scan the QR code below or go to Google Play or the App Store to download the Deco app. Install the app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet.

               

2. Log in or sign up with TP-Link ID

Open the app and log in with your TP-Link ID. If you don’t have a TP-Link ID, create one first.

Note: If you forgot your login password, tap Forgot Password?. The app will help you reset your password.

3. Create a Network

In the Deco app, tap the + button on the top right corner of the homepage, then select Create a Network.

4. Plug in your Deco

Plug in your Deco and wait until your Deco's LED pulses blue, then your phone/tablet will connect to the Deco's default Wi-Fi automatically.

5. Connect your Deco

Power off your modem. Connect your Deco to the modem and power it on. If you don't have a modem, connect your Deco directly to the Ethernet outlet.

 or 

6. Specify your Deco's location

Select or custom a location for your Deco. The location will be used as the name of your Deco.

7. Connect your Deco to the internet

Select the internet connection type and enter the information. If you are not sure, contact your internet service provider.

8. Create your Wi-Fi network

Set a network name and a password. These will be the name and password you use to connect your devices to Wi-Fi.

9. Create your 6GHz Wi-Fi network (Only for models that support 6GHz network)

Set a network name and a password. These will be the name and password you use to connect your devices to the 6GHz Wi-Fi.

10. Setup complete

Your Deco network is now up. You can connect your devices to the Deco network for better connections.

11. Plug in other Decos (if any)

Place the other included Decos in a suitable position and plug them on, and they will join the network automatically.

3. Network

After setting up your Deco network, you can easily access what you use most in the dashboard. Create a new network, switch between networks, view the network topology and status, manage clients, and more.
*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Create a New Network

In the Deco app, you can create different Deco networks with your TP-Link ID and manage them conveniently from the Deco app with one account.
Two methods are provided as below to create a new network.

Method 1. Via Home Page

1. On the home page, tap + and select Create a Network. Then follow app instructions to complete the setup.

Method 2. Via Side Menu

1. Tap  to open the side menu.

2. Tap .

3. Tap Create New Network. Then follow app instructions to complete the setup.

 

Switch Between Deco Networks

If you have created multiple Deco networks with your TP-Link ID, you can switch between them conveniently on the Deco app.

Method 1. Via Home Page

1. On the home page, tap Change Network.

2. Select a network to switch to.

Method 2. Via Side Menu

1. Tap  to open the side menu.

2. Tap .

3. Select a network to switch to.

 

Add More Decos

After creating a Deco network, you can add more Decos to the network to expand the Wi-Fi coverage and manage them easily on your Deco app.

1. On the home page, tap + and select Add a Deco Unit.

2. Search for and select your Deco model. Then follow app instructions to add the Deco.

 

Replace Main Deco

You can replace the current main Deco with a new Deco, and your internet configuration and Wi-Fi settings will remain unchanged.
Note: Make sure that the new Deco supports the operation mode of the current main Deco. Otherwise, the network may be unavailable.

1. On the home page, tap + and select Replace Main Deco.

2. Follow instructions to complete the settings.
Note: When replacing your Deco, your network will be temporarilly unavailable.

 

Manage Deco Network

After setting up your Deco network, you can easily manage your whole-home network. Check the network status and speeds, reboot network, change the network owner and main Deco, delete the network, and more.

1. On the home page, tap the Network module.

2. Check the network status, speeds, and connected devices. Tap  to manage the network,

 

Manage Deco Units

You can easily manage the Deco units in your network. View Deco connections, check the clients of each Deco, edit the Deco's name, and reboot or remove a Deco.

1. On the home page, tap the Network module.

2. Tap a Deco to view device details.

3. Tap  to configure the Deco settings, like rebooting or removing the Deco.

 

Manage Network Clients

You can manage each network client easily. Change the device name, check its connection status, add it to the profile of a family member, enable high priority and Mesh Technology for it, and block the device.

1. On the home page, tap the Clients module.

2. Tap a client to view the details.

3. Tap the device icon to configure the device type and name.

4. Tap Family Member to check the profile it belongs to.

5. Tap Connection Preference to configure the preferred Deco and Wi-Fi band for this client.

6. Enable Speed Limit for this client.

7. Enable High Priority for this client.

8. Enable Mesh Technology for this client to turn on seamless roaming between Decos for this device.

9. Enable Device Isolation to block this device from communicating with other devices on the network to ensure the network security. Refer to Device Isolation for more details.

10. Tap Block to prevent this device from accessing to the network.

4. Deco Smart Home

Deco works as a central controller to manage your smart devices such as smart bulbs, plugs, and switches. It allows you to access the devices in your local area network (LAN) through the Deco app even when your home goes offline.
*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Add Smart Devices

After creating a Deco network, you can add your smart home devices to the network and manage them conveniently on your Deco app.

1. On the home page, swipe up and tap the Smart Home module.

2. Tap Get Started.

3. Select the brand of your device and follow the instructions to add it to your Smart Home.

4. When finished setup, you can manage your smart devices on Deco Smart Home.

 

Quickly Do Tasks with Shortcut

Shortcut lets you execute an action with a simple tap. For example, if you want to power off your living room light at one tap, follow the steps below.
Note: If you want to create shortcuts for your smart devices, refer to Add Smart Devices to add the them to your Deco network first.

1. On the home page, swipe up and tap the Smart Home module.

2. Tap + and select Add Shortcut.

3. Tap Add Action.

4. Choose the devices you'd like to control.

5. Add an action to be executed with a simple tap.

6. Name the shortcut and choose an icon for easy identification.

Now you can tap to execute the action anytime you like.

 

Automate Your Smart Devices

Automation allows you to set interactions between your devices by adding triggers and actions. For example, when you arrive home or when your smartphone is connected to the Deco network (which is a trigger), the living room plug automatically turns on (which is an action). Then the kettle plugged into the living room plug will start to boil water.
Note: If you want to create shortcuts for your smart devices, refer to Add Smart Devices to add the them to your Deco network first.

1. On the home page, swipe up and tap the Smart module.

2. Tap + and select Add Automation.

3. Tap Add Trigger.

4. Set a time or device trigger to activate this automation.

5. Add an action to be executed when triggered.

6. Name the automation.

Now the action will be executed when triggered.

5. Parental Controls

Parental Controls helps your kids maintain healthy digital habits. Easily control your kids' online time and content. Receive intuitive charts and detailed statistics concerning your kids' internet usage.
*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Create Profiles

To use Parental Controls, let's start by creating profiles for your kids.

1. On the home page, tap Parental Controls and tap Get Started.

2. Create a profile for your kid.

3. Select the devices belong to your kid.

4. Follow the instrustions to complete the settings, then a profile will be created.
Note: Features with  is for Advanced Parental Controls users only.

 

Manage Your Kids' Activities

You can use Parental Controls features to manage your kids online activities such as online time and content. Some features are for HomeShield Subscription Service users only. You need to upgrade to Advanced Parental Controls to use these features. Other features are free for use.

1. On the home page, tap Parental Controls and select your kid's profile.

2. Tap the icon  .

3. Manage the online activities for your kids.
Note: Features with is for HomeShield Subscription Service users only. Please upgrade to Advanced Parental Controls to unlock more flexible settings.

Features for all:

• Filter impropriate content
Tap Content Filter. The categories selected here will be blocked from accessing. You can add accessible exception sites in Manage Allowed Websites.

• Block specific websites
Tap Block Websites and enter the websites you want to prevent the profile from accessing.

• Set "no internet" bedtime
Tap Bedtime and set a bedtime to prevent the profile from accessing the internet.
To set a more flexible bedtime, upgrade to Advanced Parental Controls.
Note: Features with is for Advanced Parental Controlsusers only.

More Flexible Settings for Advanded Parental Controls users only:

• Block specific apps
Tap Blocked Apps and select the categories or apps to prevent the profile from accessing.
Note:
1. If you block an app category, new applications in that category after a firmware upgrade will also be blocked.
2. Only apps displayed in the list can be blocked. Apps not on the list will be allowed to access.
3. If you block apps that have been previously added to App Time Limits, the rules you set in App Time Limits will be ignored and these apps will be blocked.

• Youtube Restricted
Youtube Restricted Mode filters out potentially mature videos while leaving most videos available.

• Safesearch
Safesearch helps you filter explicit content from your results.

• Always Allowed Apps
1. Tap Add Apps.

2. Select app categories or specific apps that the profile can access at all times, regardless of whether they were previously added to Blocked Apps or App Time Limits.

• App Time Limits
1. Tap Add Limits.

2. Select app categories or specific apps.

3. Set time limits for the selected apps and tap Add to save the settings.
Note:
1. If you set time limits for apps that have been previously added to Blocked Apps, these apps will be unblocked and follow the rules you set in App Time Limits.
2. Time limits here refer to the time the device uses internet traffic. Activities that don’t use traffic, such as single-player gaming and video buffering, are not included.

 

View Online Usage Data

With the created profiles, you can view intuitive charts and real-time detailed statistics concerning your kids' online usage.
Note: App usage data is for HomeShield Subscription Service users only. Upgrade to Advanced Parental Controls to see what apps your kids use and how much time they spend.

1. On the home page, tap Parental Controls.

2. Tap a profile to check the online usage data such as most visited websites and most used apps, block history, and more.

 

Set Up Family Time

Family time lets you enjoy a nice dinner, or share a fun movie with your family together by pausing the internet with one tap. Family Time is for HomeShield Subscription Service users only.

1. On the home page, swipe right to open the menu and select HomeShield.

2. Select a desired network to apply Advanced Parental Controls.

3. Open Deco app. Go to the Parental Controls tab and tap + > Set up Family Time. Then tap Set Up Now.

4. Add devices of the family member who you want to cut the internet and then set the time duration you want to have your family together without internet distractions.

5. Tap Start anytime you want to activate the family time. Tap Stop anytime when finished.

 

Grant Rewards

You can add extra online time as a reward for you kid’ s good behavior. This feature is for HomeShield Subscription Service users only.

1. On the home page, swipe right to open the menu and select HomeShield.

2. Select a desired network to apply Advanced Parental Controls.

3. Go to the Parental Controls tab and select a profile.

4. Tap Adjust and select the allowed time you want to add for today.

 

6. Network Protections

Real-Time Protection is for HomeShield Security+ users only. After subscribing to HomeShield Security+, you can protect your network safe from attacks by blocking malicious websites, identify potential threats, and blocking hackers from access your devices.
*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Enable Security+ Protection

Real-Time Protection is for HomeShield Security+ users only. Before using this, refer to Subscribe to HomeShield Service to update to HomeShield Security+ Service.

1. On the home page, swipe right to open the menu and select HomeShield.

2. Select a desired network to apply Security+.

3. Go to the Security tab. Your Deco will scan automatically. You can tap Scan Details to check the security details such as wireless security or blocked threats and optimize the settings.

4. Upgrade to Security+ for more protections as below.

 

• Web Protection

Turn on Web Protection to block access to malicious websites to avoid dangerous links and personal information disclosure. You can add clients to Exceptions to opt out of the protection.

• Intrusion Prevention

Turn on Intrusion Prevention to identify potential threats and keep your network safe from attacks. You can add clients to Exceptions to opt out of the protection.

• IoT Protection

Turn on IoT Protection to block hackers from accessing your IoT devices. You can add clients to Exceptions to opt out of the protection.

 

Device Isolation

Isolating Your Devices will minimize the potential for potential third parties to gain access to data or devices on your network and will limit the impact of a breach or malware to only some devices. Also, some IoT devices may often consume large portions of your network’s bandwidth. Isolating these devices will prevent them from affecting the overall performance of the devices connected to your home network and will allow your router to better allocate and manage bandwidths for the connections.

1. In the homepage, go to the Security tab and tap Device Isolation.

2. Enable Device Isolation. Then tap + to add the devices that you would like to be isolated from your main network. Then the device will appear in the Isolated Devices list. While isolated, the devices can still access the internet and are able to communicate with other isolated devices. However, isolated devices cannot transfer data with devices on your home network, including managing gateway devices, accessing USB devices, etc.

 

Camera Security

Camera Security ensures your privacy at home by blocking your camera from accessing the internet at certain times or all the time.

1. In the homepage, go to the Security tab and tap Camera Security.

2. Choose a mode and add cameras to apply the mode.

Home Mode
Cameras in Home Mode cannot access the internet during block times. You can set block times in the following two ways:
• Set a Block Schedule: Set times when the cameras will be blocked from the internet.
• Block Upon Arrival: Set mobile phones that once connected to Deco’s Wi-Fi, the cameras will be blocked from accessing the internet.

Local Only Mode
Cameras in Local Only mode will only work on the local network and cannot access the internet all the time. You can turn it off at any time to let the camera connect to the internet again.

 

7. More Features

More features are within reach. Test the in-development features at the Deco Lab, receive intuitive network reports, configure network and account settings for dedicated needs, and more.
Tip: You can use the search box on the More page to quickly find the features you need.
*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Test Features at the Deco Lab

Deco app includes a built-in Deco Lab, which is committed to trying experimental features. It keeps updating the lab according to the actual performance to provide even better experiences.

1. Go to More > Deco Lab.

2. Check and test the in-development features. Now Wi-Fi Assistant and VPN Client are available for use.

 

Wi-Fi Assistant
Use Wi-Fi Assistant for your Wi-Fi diagnotics and network device scan. You can also check how other Wi-Fi networks are impacting your Wi-Fi, the surrounding cameras, the vendor information for a known MAC address, and ISP information for a known IP address.

• Wi-Fi Diagnostics: Run Wi-Fi Diagnostics to access your network security and performance. The Deco app will automatically check your network's signal strength, security, Ping result, wireless interference, etc.

• Detect Camera: The Deco app can automatically scan all the cameras in your network. You can also follow app instructions to detect camera manually to check if there are any cameras in your house.

• Scan for Devices: Let Deco app scan all the connected devices in your network.

• Public IP Lookup: Query tool to query the network information of the current network or the network information of a specific IP address. You can type in a specific IP address to check the location and the ISP information or click Lookup Current IP to check the information of your network if the Internet address of your network is a public address. In the upper right corner of this page, you can view the history.

• Ping Test: Ping test on the specified server to view real-time packet loss and latency data. In the upper right corner of this page, you can set the send interval and packet size or view the history.

• MAC Lookup: Query tool for relevant vendor information based on MAC address. You can type in a specific MAC address (first six letters) to check the vendor information of the device.

• Open Port Checker: You can type in a specific IP address to check the opened ports of this server or click Scan Current Device to check the opened ports of your router.

 

VPN Client
Get a top-class VPN and encrypt Deco’s VPN Client to enhance your network security.
Choose any of the VPN service provider and subscribe the services provided. You can also tap Set up now if you already have one. Customize your own VPN service is also available. Refer to Set Up VPN Server/Client for more setup details.
Note: TP-Link does not provide any guarantee for the services of any third party.

 

Check Network Reports

The Deco app provides intuitive charts and detailed statistics to help you know your home network better.

1. Go to More > Reports.

2. Check the weekly and monthly reports of your network.

Wi-Fi Access Control

Wi-Fi Access Control is used to block or allow specific client devices to access your Deco’s Wi-Fi network based on a list of blocked devices (Block List) or a list of allowed devices (Allow List).

1. Go to More > Wi-Fi Access Control.

2. Tap Mode and choose a Wi-Fi access mode.

• Block List Mode
Add clients to the Block List to prevent them from accessing your Wi-Fi network. You can select clients directly or enter the MAC address of the device you want to block. Then only clients on the Block List are prohibited from connecting to Deco’s Wi-Fi.

• Allow List Mode
Add clients to the Allow List to only allow them access to your Wi-Fi network. Then only devices on the Allow List are allowed to connect (except when Guest Network Exception is enabled).
Guest Network Exception: When enabled, your guests can still connect to the Guest Network without being affected by the Allow List mode.
New Device Notification: When enabled, you can receive inquiry notifications when new devices connect to the network. When disabled, all devices’ connection requests will be rejected by default without receiving notifications.

 

Change Wi-Fi Settings

You can change the network name and password of your main network at any time and share the network easily with family and friends.

1. Go to More > Wi-Fi Settings.

2. Tap Share to share this network to others.

3. Select the Wi-Fi network and you can change the Wi-Fi network name, password and security.

4. Tap Advanced for more Wi-Fi settings as follow.

5. Select a preferred band to be enabled in this network.

6. Select a preferred channel width for the network.

7. Enable Hide Network to hide this network from Wi-Fi list.

 

Create a Guest Network

You can create and share a separate network for guests to access the internet without revealing your main network, keeping your home Wi-Fi and personal data safe.

1. Go to More > Guest Network.

2. Turn on Guest Network and set a Wi-Fi network name and password for it.

3. Select a Wi-Fi security protocol for this network.

4. Select a preferred band to be enabled in this network.

5. Tap Duration to set how long the Guest Network works before it automatically turns off.

6. Tap Advanced to set more settings as follow.

7. Enable Bandwidth Control and set a download and upload bandwidth for your network.

8. Enable Captive Portal to customize a professional captive portal within minutes.

• Authentication Type: Set a password for newly connected users to authenticate the Captive Portal. You can also leave it blank if unnecessary.

• Time Limit: Select the allowed duration of internet access provided after successful portal authentication.

• Redirect: Enter the webpage that the newly connected user sees after passing Captive Portal authentication.

• Login Page: Customize the login page including logo, title, button, Terms of Use, and more.

 

Create a IoT Network

Create a dedicated and wireless network to manage all your IoT devices, such as smart lights and camers.

1. Go to More > IoT Network.

2. Turn on IoT Network. Set a Wi-Fi network name and password for this network.

3. Select a Wi-Fi security protocol for this network.

4. Select a preferred band to be enabled in this network.

 

WPS

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) helps you to quickly and securely connect a client to the network with a tap without entering any password.

1. Go to More > WPS.

2. Tap the WPS icon on Deco app and then on your client.

 

Change Internet Settings

You can change internet settings if needed.

1. Go to More > Internet Connection.

2. Tap IPv4 for IPv4 settings.

3. Tap IPv6 and enable it for IPv6 settings.

4. Tap Firewall Rules to add rules if you want to allow specific devices to access specific services.

 

Internet Backup

Internet Backup keeps your device always connected by connecting your Deco to a backup network when the original network is disconnected to ensure normal internet access. When your main network is restored, it will automatically switch back. The following three backup modes are now available for your Decos. Only one backup mode can be enabled at a time.

• Hotspot Backup Mode

Hotspot Backup Mode allows your Deco to connect to a hotspot backup network when your main network service fails.

1. Open your Deco app, and go to More > Advanced > Internet Backup. Alternatively, go to More > Internet Connection > Internet Backup.

2. Enable Internet Backup. If multiple backup modes are available, select Hotspot Backup.

3. Select one or more nearby hotspots for network backup.
Note: You can also add hotspot manually.
Note: When there are multiple hotspots, Deco will automatically connect to the best one.

4. After adding a hotspot, you can test its network connection.
Note: The test may take times. Please make sure your hotspot is turned on and can access the internet. Your Deco network may be unstable during the test.

5. It is recommended to set a fixed WAN port to ensure that wired clients can connect to the internet when using the backup network.
Note: Tap set a fixed WAN port or go to More > Advanced > WAN Port. Then disable Auto WAN Port and set a fixed WAN port for your Deco.

Setup complete!
When the original network fails, turn on your hotspot and your Deco will automatically switch to the hotspot backup network to keep your network connected.

After enabling Hotspot Backup, you can further configure specific settings.
1. Add Hotspot
Tap Add to add multiple hotspots to the Hotspot List.

2. Switch Hotspot
When Hotspot Backup is in use for internet access, tap Switch Hotspot to use another hotspot in the list as backup hotspot.

3. Speed Limit
You can limit the download speed and upload speed for your Deco network to prevent traffic overflow.

4. Access Permission
You can allow specific clients to access the internet by hotspot. Other clients will be disconnected when your Deco is using hotspot Wi-Fi.
Note: You can add clients currently connected to the Deco network to the Client List or delete clients from the list.

• 4G/5G Backup Mode
When you have a 4G/5G Deco as the main Deco in your network, 4G/5G Backup Mode allows your Deco to connect to the backup mobile network provided by the SIM card in the 4G/5G Deco when your main network service fails.

1. Open your Deco app, and go to More > Advanced > Internet Backup. Alternatively, go to More > Internet Connection > Internet Backup.

2. Choose 4G/5G Backup.
Note: Make sure the backup Deco is inserted with an available SIM card.

3. It is recommended to set a fixed WAN port to ensure that wired clients can connect to the internet when using the backup network.
Note: Go to More > Advanced > 4G/5G Backup > WAN Port and disable Auto WAN Port.

Setup complete!
When the original network fails, your Deco will automatically connect to the mobile network provided by the SIM card in the 4G/5G main Deco.

After enabling 4G/5G Backup, you can further configure specific settings.
1. Offline Detection
Select detection methods (Single Detection with DNS Lookup or Dual Detection with DNS Lookup and Ping) which determine when the network is disconnected and the backup takes effect.

2. Backup Settings
Configure internet settings, data settings and more for your SIM card.

Tap Internet to configure internet settings for your SIM card or check internet status.

Tap Data Settings to monitor or limit the data usage.

Tap SMS to view, send and receive messages for your SIM card.

Tap PIN Management to set a PIN code for your SIM card to protect your SIM card from embezzlement.

Enable External Antennas to strengthen the 5G signals of your Deco if you have installed 5G external antennas on it.

 

• Hybrid Mesh Backup Mode
When you have a 4G/5G Deco as a satellite Deco in your network, Hybrid Mesh Backup Mode allows your Deco to connect to the backup mobile network provided by the SIM card in the 4G/5G Deco when your main network service fails.

1. Open your Deco app, and go to More > Advanced > Internet Backup. Alternatively, go to More > Internet Connection > Internet Backup.

2. Choose Hybrid Mesh Backup.
Note: Make sure the backup Deco is inserted with an available SIM card.

3. It is recommended to set a fixed WAN port to ensure that wired clients can connect to the internet when using the backup network.
Note: Go to More > Advanced > WAN Port and disable Auto WAN Port.

Setup complete!
When the original network fails, your Deco will automatically connect to the mobile network provided by the SIM card in the 4G/5G satellite Deco.

After enabling 4G/5G Backup, you can further configure specific settings.

1. Offline Detection
Select detection methods (Single Detection with DNS Lookup or Dual Detection with DNS Lookup and Ping) which determine when the network is disconnected and the backup takes effect.

2. Backup Settings
Configure internet settings, data settings and more for your SIM card.

Tap Internet to configure internet settings for your SIM card or check internet status.

Tap Data Settings to monitor or limit the data usage.

Tap SMS to view, send and receive messages for your SIM card.

Tap PIN Management to set a PIN code for your SIM card to protect your SIM card from embezzlement.

Enable External Antennas to strengthen the 5G signals of your Deco if you have installed 5G external antennas on it.

 

QoS

QoS (Quality of Service) allows you to prioritize specific devices and applications. Devices and apps set as high priority will run smoothly even when the network is crowded.

1. Go to More > QoS.

2. Enable QoS.

3. Select an acceleration mode and complete the settings.

• Scene Acceleration Mode
Select a scene that contains a batch of frequently used apps, and these apps will be prioritized for acceleration.
1. Select Scene Acceleration.

2. Set the total bandwidth provided by your ISP.

3. Select up to 4 scenes where speeds need acceleration.

4. Set priority between the selected scenes.

5. When complete, you can tap each scene to adjust the applied apps.

• Client Acceleration Mode
Select the clients you need to accelerate. In the same scenario, the selected clients will be prioritized.
1. Select Client Acceleration.

2. Tap Add Clients.

3. Select the clients needed acceleration and save. Then the selected clients will be prioritized.

 

Network Optimization

Network Optimization analyzes the quality of the Deco wireless network by scanning the interference signals in the environment and improves your wireless experience by optimizing the Deco network's channel.

1. Go to More > Network Optimization.

2. Tap Scan to detect network security and performance.

3. Optimize the network if needed.

 

Create Static Routes

Static routing is a form of routing that is configured manually by a network administrator or a user by adding entries into a routing table. The manuallyconfigured routing information guides the router in forwarding data packets to the specific destination.

1. Go to More > Advanced> Static Routing, and tap Add Static Route.

2. Fill in the necessary information.
• Description: Specify a description for the routing entry.
• Network Destination: The network destination is the address of the network of host that you want to assign to a static route.
• Subnet Mask: The Subnet Mask divides the network portion and the host portion of an IP address.
• Default Gateway: This is the IP address of the default gateway device that allowing for the contact between the router and the network or host.
• Interface: Select the interface to specify the type of the network destination.

3. After you save the settings, if the entry you have set appear on the screen, the static routing is set successfully.

 

Set Up VPN Server/Client

Use WireGuard VPN, Open VPN, PPTP VPN, or L2TP/IPSec VPN to access your home network, and use VPN Client to access a remote VPN server.

Use VPN Client to Access a Remote VPN Server
VPN Client is used to create VPN connections for devices in your home network to access a remote VPN server.
To use the VPN feature, simply configure a VPN connection and choose your desired devices on your Deco router, then these devices can access the remote VPN server. Please follow the steps below:

1. Go to More > VPN > VPN Client.

2. Tap Add VPN Server.

3. Select your VPN service and follow instructions to complete the settings.

4. Tap Custom and customize the VPN type. Then enter the VPN information provided by your VPN provider and save the settings.
• OpenVPN: Enter the VPN username and password if required by your VPN provider, otherwise simply leave them empty. Then import the configuration file provided by your VPN provider.
• PPTP: Enter the VPN server address and the VPN username and password provided by your VPN provider.
• L2TP/IPSec: Enter the VPN server address, VPN username and password, and IPSec pre-shared key provided by your VPN provider.

5. Tap Client List and + to add devices that will use the VPN function.

6. Tap Access Permission to allow all devices connected to your Deco to use the VPN function or only allow devices on the Client List to use VPN function.

Done! Now the devices you specified can access the VPN server you enabled.

 

Use WireGuard VPN to Access Your Home Network
WireGuard VPN Server is used to create a Wire Guard VPN connection for remote devices to access your home network.
Follow the steps below to set up an WireGuard VPN connection.

1. Go to More > VPN > VPN Server.

2. Tap Add VPN Server and select WireGuard VPN.

3. Enter the necessary information and save the settings.
• Description: Enter a name for this WireGuard VPN.
• Tunnel IP Address and Listen Port: Usually automatically filled in. Do NOT change it unless necessary.
• Client Access: Select your client access type. Select Home Network Only if you only want the remote device to access your home network. Select Internet and Home Network if you also want the remote device to access internet through the VPN server.
• (Optional) Advanced Settings: If DNS is turned on, the Deco will become the DNS server of the VPN client that establishes a connection with it. Change the Persistent Keepalive time (25 seconds by default) to send out heartbeat regularly.

4. Tap Add Peer to create accounts that can be used by remote clients to connect to the VPN server.
• Description: Enter a name for this account.
• Address: View the address of the virtual interface assigned to this account. Do NOT change it unless necessary.
• Allowed IPs (Server): Traffic sent from the WireGard VPN server to the allowed IPs (server) will be transmitted through the tunnel. Do NOT change it unless necessary.
• Allowed IPs (Client): Traffic sent from the WireGard VPN client to the allowed IPs (client) will be transmitted through the tunnel. By default, all network traffic from clients will be transmitted through the tunnel. Do NOT change it unless necessary.
• Pre-shared Key: Enable or disable Pre-shared Key.

5. Save the settings and you can connect to the WireGuard Server.
• For mobile phones:
Download WireGuard App from Google Play or Apple Store, then use the App to scan the QR Code to connect to this server.
• For other devices (e.g. TP-Link WireGuard VPN client):
Click Export Config File to save the WireGuard VPN configuration file which will be used by the remote device to access your Deco.

 

Use OpenVPN to Access Your Home Network
OpenVPN Server is used to create an OpenVPN connection for remote devices to access your home network.
To use the VPN feature, you need to enable OpenVPN Server on your Deco router, and install and run VPN client software on remote devices. Please follow the steps below to set up an OpenVPN connection.

1. Go to More > VPN > VPN Server.

2. Tap Add VPN Server and select WireGuard VPN.

3. Enter the necessary information and save the settings.
• Description: Enter a name for this OpenVPN.
• Service Type: Select the service type (UDP/TCP) for OpenVPN.
• VPN Port: Enter a VPN service port to which a VPN device connect, and the port number should be between 1024 and 65535.
• VPN Subnet/Netmask: Enter the range of IP addresses that can be leased to the device by the OpenVPN server.
• Client Access: Select your client access type. Select Home Network Only if you only want the remote device to access your home network. Select Internet and Home Network if you also want the remote device to access internet through the VPN server.

4. Tap the VPN you have saved and tap Export Config File to save the OpenVPN configuration file which will be used by the remote device to access your router.

5. Now you need to configure OpenVPN connection on your remote device.
(1) Visit https://openvpn.net/community-downloads/ to download the OpenVPN software, and install it on your device where you want to run the OpenVPN client utility.
Note: You need to install the OpenVPN client utility on each device that you plan to apply the VPN function to access your Deco router. Mobile devices should download a third-party app from Google Play or Apple App Store.
(2) After the installation, copy the file exported from your router to the OpenVPN client utility’s “config” folder (for example, C:\Program Files\OpenVPN\config on Windows). The path depends on where the OpenVPN client utility is installed.
(3) Run the OpenVPN client utility and connect it to OpenVPN Server.

 

Use PPTP VPN to Access Your Home Network
PPTP VPN Server is used to create a PPTP VPN connection for remote devices to access your home network.
To use the VPN feature, you need to set up PPTP VPN Server on your Deco router, and configure the PPTP connection on remote devices. Please follow the steps below to set up a PPTP VPN connection.

1. Go to More > VPN > VPN Server.

2. Tap Add VPN Server and select PPTP.

3. Enter the necessary information and save the settings.
• Description: Enter a name for this VPN.
• Client IP Address: Enter the range of IP addresses (up to 10) that can be leased to the devices by the PPTP VPN server.
• Allow NetBIOS passthrough: Enable it to allow your VPN device to access your Samba server using NetBIOS name.
• Allow unencrypted connections: Enable it to allow unencrypted connections to your VPN server.
• Account List: Add the PPTP VPN connection account (user name and password) for the remote device. You can create up to 16 accounts.

4. Now you need to configure PPTP VPN on your remote device. The remote device can use the Windows built-in PPTP software or a third-party PPTP software to connect to PPTP Server. Here we use the Windows built-in PPTP software as an example.
(1) Go to Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center and select Set up a new connection or network.

(2) Select Connect to a workplace and click Next.

(3) Select Use my Internet connection (VPN).

(4) Enter the internet IP address of the router in the Internet address field. Click Next.

(5) Enter the User name and Password you have set for the PPTP VPN server on your router, and click Connect.

(6) Click Connect Now when the VPN connection is ready to use.

 

Use L2TP/IPSec VPN to Access Your Home Network
L2TP/IPSec VPN Server is used to create a L2TP/IPSec VPN connection for remote devices to access your home network.
To use the VPN feature, you need to set up L2TP/IPSec VPN Server on your Deco router, and configure the L2TP/IPSec connection on remote devices.
Please follow the steps below to set up the L2TP/IPSec VPN connection.

1. Go to More > VPN > VPN Server.

2. Tap Add VPN Server and select L2TP/IPSec.

3. Enter the necessary information and save the settings.
• Description: Enter a name for this VPN.
• Client IP Address: Enter the range of IP addresses (up to 10) that can be leased to the devices by the L2TP/IPSec VPN server.
• IPSec Encryption/ IPSec Pre-Shared Key: Keep IPSec Encryption as Encrypted and create an IPSec Pre-Shared Key.
• Account List: Add the L2TP/IPSec VPN connection account (user name and password) for the remote device. You can create up to 16 accounts.

4. Now you need to configure L2TP/IPSec on your remote device. The remote device can use the Windows or Mac OS built-in L2TP/IPSec software or a third-party L2TP/IPSec software to connect to L2TP/IPSec Server. Here we use the Windows built-in L2TP/IPSec software as an example.

(1) Go to Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center and select Set up a new connection or network.

(2) Select Connect to a workplace and click Next.

(3) Select Use my Internet connection (VPN).

(4) Enter the internet IP address of the router in the Internet address field. Select Don’t connect now; just set it up so I can connect later. Then click Next.

(5) Enter the User name and Password you have set for the L2TP/IPSec VPN server on your router, and click Connect.

(6) Click Close when the VPN connection is ready to use.

(7) Go to Network and Sharing Center and click Change Adapter Settings.

(8) Find the VPN connection you created, then double-click it.

(9) Enter the Username and Password you have set for the L2TP/IPSec VPN server on your router, and click Properties.

(10) Switch to the Security tab, select Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec (L2TP/IPSec) and click Advanced settings.

(11) Select Use preshared key for authentication and enter the IPSec Pre-Shared Key you have set for the L2TP/IPSec VPN server on your router. Then click OK.

(12) Switch to the Security tab, select Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec (L2TP/IPSec) and click Advanced settings.

Done! Click Connect to start VPN connection.

 

Advanced Features

The Deco app offers a list of advanced features to fulfill diverse network needs.
Tip: You can use the search box on the More page to quickly find the features you need.
*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Tap More > Advanced to access advanced features.
Note: Features available on this page are based on the current operation mode of the network.

Change the Operation Mode.

Enable Auto WAN Port to automatically devide and switch the WAN and LAN ports based on the Ethernet cable connection.

Enable Internet Backup to connect your Deco to a backup network provided by a hotspot or a SIM card in a 4G/5G Deco when your original network fails to ensure normal internet access.

Create Static Routes to visit multiple networks and servers at the same time.

Enable IPTV/VLAN mode to support IPTV services.

Enable MAC Clone if your ISP only allows specific MAC addresses.

Register a TP-Link DDNS domain name to access your Decos and local resources over the internet.

Enable DoH & DoT to send DNS requests in an encrypted and secure way.

Modify LAN IP to avoid IP conflict.

Change DHCP Server settings.

Reserve IP addresses for specific devices to recognize and manage them more easily.

Enable Fast Roaming to further reduce roaming delays for your wireless devices.

Enable Beamforming to enhance Wi-Fi signals for clients.

Set up Port Forwarding rules to enable devices in your network accessible over the internet with safety.

Enable SIP ALG to communicate with SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) servers via NAT.

Enable UPNP to allow your local network to dynamically open ports for applications like gaming.

 

Configure Connection Alerts

You can configure Connection Alerts so you can get alerts when new devices connect to your network or when the devices you care about go online or offline.

Go to More > Connection Alerts to enable notifications of new or known clients.

 

Control the Light on Decos

You can turn on or off the light on your Decos immediately or at specific period.

Go to More > LED Control to turn on or off the light on your Decos or specify a period during which the light will go off.

 

Upgrade Your Deco

TP-Link is dedicated to improving product features and providing a better customer experience. An up-to-date firmware provides better and more stable network performance. Always update your Deco to the latest firmware version when prompted in the Deco app.

1. Go to More > System > Update Deco.

2. Download and install the latest firmware (if any).

3. Enable Auto Update to allow your Deco to automatically update to the latest firmware.

 

Reboot Your Deco

Reboot your Deco at any time when needed.

1. Go to More > System > Reboot Deco.

2. Select the Deco you need to reboot and tap Reboot. You will lose your internet connection temporarily during the reboot.

 

Reboot Schedule

With Reboot Schedule, you can set when and how often the Deco reboots regularly, which may improve the network stability.

1. Go to More > System > Reboot Schedule.

2. Enable Reboot Schedule and set when and how often to reboot the Deco regularly.

 

Client Identification

With Client Identification enabled, your client's information will be shared with third-party services for more accurate identification. Your private information will not be saved.

Go to More > System > Client Identification to enable it.

 

Control Your Deco with Alexa

Alexa Integration allows you to control your Deco using Amazon’s Alexa voice service. You can control and customize your home network by giving simple voice commands to Alexa, such as enabling the Guest Network, turning off your Deco LEDs, and more.

Follow the steps below to use Alexa voice commands to control your Deco network.
Note: This feature is currently available in English (US), English (UK), German and Japanese.

On the homepage, swipe right to open the side menu and tap Link Account > Alexa > TP-Link Router Skill, then follow the app instructions to complete the setup.

 

Enable App Notifications

You can enable notifications of what you care most.

On the homepage, swipe right to open the side menu and tap App Settings > Notifications to enable notifications.

 

Change App Appearance

Deco app now support Dark Mode. You can easily change the appearance preference on the app.

On the homepage, swipe right to open the side menu and tap App Settings > Appearance. Select the preferred appearance for your app.

 

Change Account Information

More security methods such as Two-Step Verification and FACE ID are now supported on the Deco app. You can change your account information easily on the app.

On the homepage, swipe right to open the side menu and tap View Account. Then you can check and edit your account settings.

 

Add Managers

The Owner creates the Deco network and has full authority to manage the network. The Owner can add one or multiple Managers to help manage the network as permitted.
Add friends and family members to help manage your network. Each manager should have their own TP-Link ID.
Note: Managers cannot modify the Owner account, add other accounts, or set manager privileges.

1. Go to More > Managers.

2. Tap Add a Manager to add another TP-Link ID account as Manager.

3. Tap  to set manager privileges.

 

8. Upgrade Your HomeShield

HomeShield is a home networking protection kit that covers all security scenarios with its network security, parental controls, QoS, and comprehensive reports. It provides two subscription options, Advanced Parental Controls and Security+.
• Advanced Parental Controls helps you manage your kids' online time and bedtime and regulate the content and apps they have access to, letting them develop healthy digital habits.
• Security+ provides you with comprehensive and professional network security protection to protect your Wi-Fi network and all connected devices from virus attacks.

*Features available in Deco may vary by model and software version. Deco availability may also vary by region or ISP.

Subscribe to HomeShield Service

HomeShield provides two subscription options, Advanced Parental Controls, Security+ and VPN. Subscribe to TP-Link HomeShield for more advanced features.
1. In the homepage, swipe right to open the menu and select HomeShield.

2. In HomeShield Center, select the subscription service as needed and then follow app instructions to subscribe to the service.