Tenda AC6 Global Version AC1200 Dual-Band WiFi Router User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Tenda AC6 AC1200 Dual-Band WiFi Router. This user guide provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your device to ensure optimal performance and a seamless internet experience.

The Tenda AC6 is a dual-band WiFi router operating at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, supporting 802.11ac Wave2 technology. It delivers a concurrent wireless rate of 1167 Mbps (300 Mbps on 2.4 GHz and 867 Mbps on 5 GHz). Key features include PPPoE user name and password migration for instant internet access, IPv6 support for a smoother internet experience without network address translation (NAT), MU-MIMO, and Beamforming technology for enhanced coverage and device connectivity.

2. Package Contents

The retail package typically includes:

• Tenda AC6 AC1200 Dual-Band WiFi Router
• Power Adapter
• Ethernet Cable
• Quick Installation Guide

3. Device Overview

3.1 LED Indicators

The router features several LED indicators to show its current status:

3.2 Ports and Buttons

The rear panel of the router features various ports and buttons:

3.3 Product Label Information

The bottom label of your router contains important information:

• IP Address: The default address (e.g., 192.168.0.1) used to log in to the web UI.
• MAC: The MAC address of the router.
• Serial No.: Required for technical assistance.
• SSID: The default WiFi network name.
• Pin No.: The PIN code for WPS connection.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 Initial Connection and Web UI Access

To begin configuration, connect your device to the router and access its web interface.

1. Connect your device: Connect your smartphone to the router's WiFi network, or connect your computer to a LAN port on the router using an Ethernet cable.
2. Access Web UI: Open a web browser on the connected device and visit tendawifi.com.

If the web UI does not appear, ensure the router is powered on, your computer obtains an IP address automatically (refer to Appendix A.1), and your cellular network is disabled if using a smartphone. You may also try resetting the router.

4.2 Internet Settings (Router Mode)

The router supports various operating modes. By default, it operates in Router Mode. To configure internet access:

1. Log in to the web UI (tendawifi.com).
2. Navigate to Internet Settings.
3. Ensure Operating Mode is set to Router.
4. Choose your Connection Type based on your ISP's information:

4.2.1 PPPoE Connection

Select this if your ISP provides a PPPoE username and password.

1. Set Connection Type to PPPoE.
2. Enter the User Name and Password provided by your ISP.
3. Click OK.

Tip: Pay attention to case sensitivity and similar characters (e.g., 'l' and '1'). If issues persist, contact your ISP.

4.2.2 Dynamic IP Connection

Choose this if your ISP does not provide PPPoE credentials or static IP information, or if you are adding another router to an existing network.

1. Set Connection Type to Dynamic IP Address.
2. Click OK.

4.2.3 Static IP Connection

Use this if your ISP provides a fixed IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server information.

1. Set Connection Type to Static IP Address.
2. Enter the required IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS Server details.
3. Click OK.

4.3 WiFi Extender Modes (WISP / Universal Repeater)

To extend your existing WiFi coverage:

4.3.1 WISP Mode

This mode allows the router to connect wirelessly to an ISP's WiFi network and re-broadcast it.

1. Log in to the web UI (tendawifi.com).
2. Navigate to Internet Settings.
3. Set Operating Mode to WISP.
4. Select the desired ISP hotspot (e.g., "My_home_WiFi").
5. Enter the password for the selected WiFi network.
6. Click Connect. The router will reboot.

Note: The router's LAN IP address will change. After reboot, log in again via tendawifi.com or the new IP address. Do NOT connect any device to the WAN port in WISP mode.

4.3.2 Universal Repeater Mode

This mode extends the signal of an existing WiFi network.

1. Log in to the web UI (tendawifi.com).
2. Navigate to Internet Settings.
3. Set Operating Mode to Universal Repeater.
4. Select the WiFi network to be extended.
5. Enter the password for the selected WiFi network.
6. Click Connect. The router will reboot.

Note: Similar to WISP mode, the LAN IP address will change. Do NOT connect any device to the WAN port in Universal Repeater mode.

4.4 Access Point (AP) Mode

Use AP mode when you have a smart home gateway providing wired internet access and want to add wireless coverage.

1. Power on the router. Connect a computer to a LAN port or connect your smartphone to the router's WiFi network.
2. Log in to the web UI (tendawifi.com).
3. Navigate to Internet Settings.
4. Set Operating Mode to AP.
5. Click OK in the popup window. The router will reboot.

Note: In AP mode, all physical ports function as LAN ports. Functions like bandwidth control and port forwarding are unavailable. The LAN IP address will change.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Wireless Settings

Configure your WiFi network name (SSID) and password.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Wireless Settings > WiFi Name and Password.
2. Preferred Band: Enable to integrate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under one SSID, allowing devices to automatically connect to the best band. Disable to configure 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks separately.
3. WiFi Network: Enable or disable the WiFi networks.
4. WiFi Name (SSID): Set your desired network name.
5. Security Mode: Choose an encryption mode (WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPA/WPA2-PSK Mixed). WPA/WPA2-PSK Mixed is recommended for security.
6. WiFi Password: Set a strong password (combination of numbers, uppercase/lowercase letters, symbols).
7. Hide WiFi: Enable this option to hide your WiFi network from public view. You will need to manually enter the SSID on devices to connect.
8. Click OK to save changes.

5.1.1 Connecting to a Hidden WiFi Network

If your WiFi network is hidden, you must manually enter the network name to connect. For example, on an iPhone:

1. Go to Settings > WLAN.
2. Enable WLAN.
3. Scroll to the bottom and tap Other....
4. Enter the hidden WiFi name and password.
5. Set security (e.g., WPA2/WPA3).
6. Tap Join.

5.1.2 Guest Network

Create a separate network for guests with optional bandwidth limits and isolation from your main network.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Wireless Settings > Guest Network.
2. Enable Guest Network.
3. Set 2.4 GHz WiFi Name and 5 GHz WiFi Name (optional, different from main network).
4. Set a Guest Network Password (optional).
5. Set Validity (e.g., 8 hours) after which the guest network will disable automatically.
6. Set Shared Bandwidth for Guests (e.g., Unlimited or a specific Mbps).
7. Click OK.

5.1.3 WiFi Signal Strength

Adjust the router's wireless coverage and wall-penetration capability.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Wireless Settings > WiFi Signal Strength.
2. Choose High (for large or multi-barrier environments), Medium (for medium-area or less-obstacle environments), or Low (for small area or barrier-free environments).
3. Click OK.

5.1.4 Wireless Parameters

Advanced settings for network mode, wireless channel, and bandwidth.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Wireless Settings > Wireless Parameters.
2. Adjust Network Mode, Wireless Channel, and Wireless Bandwidth for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. It is generally recommended to keep default settings unless you have specific requirements.
3. Click OK.

5.1.5 WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

Quickly connect WPS-enabled devices to your WiFi network.

• Using WPS Button: Press the WPS/RST button on the router for 1-3 seconds. Within 2 minutes, enable WPS on your client device.
• Using PIN Code: Find the PIN code on the router's bottom label or in the web UI (Wireless Settings > WPS). Enter this PIN code on your wireless device for connection.

5.2 Bandwidth Control

Manage upload and download speeds for connected devices.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Bandwidth Control.
2. View online devices and their current speeds.
3. To limit speed: Click on a device, set Download Limit and Upload Limit (e.g., 512 KB/s for HD Videos).
4. To block internet access: Toggle the internet access switch for the device to the 'off' position.
5. Click OK.

5.3 Parental Controls

Manage internet access for specific devices.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Parental Controls.
2. Select the device you want to manage.
3. Set Allow access during to define time periods when internet access is permitted.
4. Set Repeat for specific days (e.g., Everyday, Mon-Sun).
5. Configure Website Restrictions:
   • Disable: All websites accessible.
   • Only Permit: Only listed websites accessible.
   • Only Forbid: Only listed websites inaccessible.
6. Add websites to Unblocked Websites or Blocked Websites lists.
7. Click OK.

5.4 Sleeping Mode

Control LED indicators and WiFi schedule to reduce power consumption.

5.4.1 LED Control

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Sleeping Mode > LED Control.
2. Choose Always Open, Always Close, or Close Schedule.
3. If Close Schedule is selected, configure the time period.
4. Click OK.

5.4.2 WiFi Schedule

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Sleeping Mode > WiFi Schedule.
2. Enable or Disable WiFi Schedule.
3. If enabled, set the time period (Turn WiFi Off At) and days (Turn WiFi Off On) when the WiFi network will be disabled.
4. Click OK.

5.5 Advanced Settings

Access advanced network configurations.

5.5.1 MAC Address Filter

Control internet access for specific devices based on their MAC addresses.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > MAC Address Filter.
2. Choose Filter Mode:
   • Blacklist: Disallow listed MAC addresses.
   • Whitelist: Allow only listed MAC addresses.
3. Add MAC addresses to the respective list.
4. Click OK.

5.5.2 IPTV

Enable IPTV service if provided by your ISP.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > IPTV.
2. Enable IPTV.
3. Select VLAN type (Default, Shanghai VLAN, Manual VLAN) based on your ISP's information.
4. Click OK. The router will reboot.

5.5.3 IP-MAC Binding

Assign fixed IP addresses to LAN clients to ensure consistent access for services like FTP servers.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > IP-MAC Binding.
2. Enter the desired IP Address and the client's MAC Address.
3. Click the add button (+).
4. Click OK.

5.5.4 Port Forwarding

Allow internet users to access services (e.g., FTP server) on your local network.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > Port Forwarding.
2. Enter Internal IP Address (of the server), Internal Port, External Port, and Protocol (Both recommended).
3. Click the add button (+).
4. Click OK.

5.5.5 DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name System)

Access your router or internal servers using a fixed domain name even with a dynamic WAN IP address.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > DDNS.
2. Enable DDNS.
3. Choose a Service Provider (e.g., oray.com).
4. Enter your DDNS User Name and DDNS Password.
5. Click OK.

5.5.6 DMZ Host (Demilitarized Zone)

Expose a specific device on your LAN to the internet, useful for gaming or video conferencing. Use with caution as it bypasses the router's firewall for that device.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > DMZ Host.
2. Enable DMZ Host.
3. Enter the Host IP Address of the device to be exposed.
4. Click OK.

5.5.7 UPnP (Universal Plug and Play)

Automatically opens ports for UPnP-based applications like P2P programs.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > UPnP.
2. Enable or Disable UPnP.
3. Click OK.

5.5.8 Firewall

Protects your router from external Ping attacks.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Advanced > Firewall.
2. Enable or Disable Firewall.
3. Click OK.

5.6 IPv6 Settings

Configure IPv6 connectivity for your network.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to IPv6.
2. Enable IPv6.
3. Choose your Connection Type (PPPoEv6, DHCPv6, Static IPv6) based on your ISP's IPv6 service.
4. Enter required parameters (e.g., IPv6 Username/Password for PPPoEv6, IPv6 Address/Prefix Length for Static IPv6).
5. Configure IPv6 LAN Settings if needed (IPv6 LAN Address, IPv6 LAN Prefix Length, DHCPv6 Address Assignment Method).
6. Click OK.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Login Password Management

Secure your router's web UI.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Administration > Login Password.
2. If it's the first time, set a New Password and Confirm Password.
3. If a password is already set, enter the Old Password, then set and confirm the New Password.
4. Click OK.

6.2 WAN Parameters

Adjust advanced WAN settings.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Administration > WAN Parameters.
2. Server Name / Service Name: Configure if required by your ISP for PPPoE.
3. MTU Value: Adjust if experiencing issues with specific websites or email. Recommended range is 1400-1500.
4. Clone WAN MAC Address: If your ISP binds internet access to a specific MAC address, you can clone the MAC address of a working device.
5. Change WAN Speed: If experiencing connectivity issues, try setting WAN Speed to 10 Mbps Full Duplex or Half Duplex.
6. Click OK.

6.3 LAN Parameters

Configure your local area network settings.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Administration > LAN Parameters.
2. Adjust LAN IP Address, Subnet Mask.
3. Configure DHCP Server settings (Enable/Disable, Start IP Address, End IP Address).
4. Set Preferred DNS Server and Alternate DNS Server.
5. Click OK.

6.4 Remote Web-based Management

Allow remote access to your router's web UI for troubleshooting or management.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Administration > Remote Web-based Management.
2. Enable Remote Web-based Management.
3. Set Management IP Address to All or Specific (enter an IP address).
4. Set a Port number (1025-65535 recommended).
5. Click OK.

6.5 Date & Time

Ensure correct system time for time-based functions.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Administration > Date & Time.
2. Set the correct Time Zone. The router will synchronize time with the internet.
3. Click OK.

6.6 Device Management

Perform essential device operations.

1. Log in to the web UI and navigate to Administration > Device Management.
2. Reboot: Click Reboot to restart the router.
3. Reset: Click Reset to restore factory settings. (Warning: All configurations will be lost).
4. Backup/Restore Configuration:
   • Backup: Click Backup to save current configurations to your computer.
   • Restore: Click Restore to upload a previously saved configuration file.
5. Export System Log: Click Export to save system logs for troubleshooting.
6. Upgrade Firmware:
   • Local Upgrade: Download firmware from www.tendacn.com, then upload the .bin file.
   • Online Upgrade: Follow on-screen instructions for automatic firmware updates.
7. Automatic Maintenance: Enable this function to allow the router to reboot automatically during low traffic periods (e.g., 02:00-05:30 AM) to improve stability.

7. Troubleshooting

• Cannot access Web UI:
  • Ensure the router is powered on.
  • If using a computer, ensure it obtains an IP address automatically (refer to Appendix A.1).
  • If using a smartphone, disable cellular network.
  • Try resetting the router.
• Internet connection issues:
  • Verify WAN port connection and cable integrity.
  • Confirm PPPoE username/password (case-sensitive).
  • Ensure correct connection type (PPPoE, Dynamic IP, Static IP) is selected.
  • Power cycle the modem and router.
  • Contact your ISP if "No response from the remote server" or "Dial-up connection succeeded but internet inaccessible" errors occur.
  • If "The router has obtained a valid IP address but cannot access the Internet", try cloning MAC address or reconfiguring.
• WiFi extender mode connection failed:
  • Ensure correct WiFi password for the upstream network (case-sensitive).
  • Ensure the new router is within the wireless coverage of the upstream router.
  • Relocate the new router for better signal (between original router and uncovered area, away from interference, above ground).
• Cannot access internet after AP mode setup:
  • Ensure the existing router is connected to the internet.
  • Ensure your wireless devices are connected to the correct WiFi network of the new router.
  • If a computer connected to the router cannot access the internet, ensure it's configured to obtain an IP address and DNS server automatically.
• Internet users cannot access FTP server (Port Forwarding/DDNS/DMZ):
  • Ensure the internal port number in port forwarding matches the server's service port.
  • Temporarily disable firewall, antivirus software, and security guards on the FTP server host.
  • Ensure the router obtains a public IP address.
  • The LAN port number and WAN port number can be different.
• IPv6 network test fails:
  • Ensure correct WAN IPv6 address is entered.
  • Ensure devices obtain IPv6 address through DHCPv6.
  • Consult your ISP.
• Forgot login password:
  • Reset the router to factory settings using the WPS/RST button (hold for ~8 seconds). This will clear all configurations.
• Firmware upgrade issues:
  • Ensure the firmware is applicable to your router model.
  • Perform upgrade via a wired connection to a LAN port.
  • Do NOT power off the router during upgrade.

8. Specifications

9. User Tips

• For optimal performance, place the router in a central location, away from obstructions and interference sources like microwaves or cordless phones.
• Utilize the Tenda WiFi App for convenient remote management of your network settings, including parental controls and guest networks.
• If you experience slow speeds or connection drops, try adjusting the WiFi signal strength in the web UI. A lower setting might be sufficient for smaller areas and can reduce interference.
• Regularly check for firmware updates on www.tendacn.com to ensure your router has the latest features and security enhancements.
• When setting up a guest network, consider enabling the bandwidth limit to ensure your main network's performance isn't impacted by guest usage.

10. Warranty and Support

For additional documents, product information, or technical assistance, please refer to the following resources:

• Official Website: Visit www.tendacn.com and search for your product model.
• User Manual (PDF): A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download. You can access it directly via this link: Tenda AC1200 Dual-band Router User Guide (PDF).
• Technical Support Hotlines:
  • Global: (86) 755-27657180 (China Time Zone)
  • United States: 1-800-570-5892 (Toll Free: 7 x 24 hours)
  • Canada: 1-888-998-8966 (Toll Free: Mon - Fri 9 am - 6 pm PST)
  • Hong Kong: 00852-81931998
• Email Support: support@tenda.com.cn

Appendix

A.1 Configuring the computer to obtain an IPv4 address automatically

This section provides instructions for configuring your computer to automatically obtain an IPv4 address, which is often necessary for initial router setup or troubleshooting network connectivity. The procedures are similar for wired and wireless network adapters.

A.1.1 Windows 10

1. Click the network icon in the bottom right corner of the desktop and choose Network settings.
2. Click Change adapter options.
3. Right-click on the connection that is being used (e.g., Ethernet) and then click Properties.
4. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
5. Select Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
6. Click OK, then Close.

A.1.2 Windows 8

1. Right-click in the bottom right corner of the desktop and choose Open Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Ethernet and then Properties.
3. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
4. Select Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
5. Click OK, then Close.

A.1.3 Windows 7

1. Click the network icon in the bottom right corner of the desktop and choose Open Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Local Area Connection and then Properties.
3. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
4. Select Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
5. Click OK, then Close.

A.2 Default Parameters

This table lists the default settings for various router parameters.

A.3 Acronyms and Abbreviations

This table provides a list of acronyms and their full spellings used in this manual.