D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper installation and optimal performance of your device.

Key Features:

• High-power amplifiers (1000mW): Delivers wider Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.
• SmartConnect: Automatically balances wireless devices between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for optimized performance.
• Smart Beam Forming: Enhances wireless signal strength and throughput by directing signals to connected devices.
• Dual Core Processor: Ensures faster wireless speeds, improved coverage, and reliable connections.
• Dual Band Wireless: Supports simultaneous operation on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for versatile connectivity.
• Built-in Gigabit Ports: Provides fast and reliable wired connections for your devices.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all the following items are included in your D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router package:

• D-Link DIR-879 Device
• Power Adapter
• Ethernet Cable (RJ45 Cable)
• Quick Installation Guide (QIG)
• Wi-Fi Configuration Card

This image displays the D-Link DIR-879 router along with its included accessories: power adapter, Ethernet cable, and documentation.

3. Physical Overview

Familiarize yourself with the physical components and ports of your D-Link DIR-879 router.

Top View:

This image shows the top-down view of the D-Link DIR-879 router, highlighting its distinctive orange and black design with integrated antennas.

Back Panel:

This image provides a clear view of the router's back panel, detailing the power input, power button, Router/Extender switch, reset button, WPS button, four Gigabit LAN ports, and the Internet port.

• Power Input (12V-2A): Connect the provided power adapter here.
• Power Button: Turns the router on or off.
• Router/Extender Switch: Selects the operating mode for the device (Router or Wi-Fi Extender).
• Reset Button: Used to restore the router to factory default settings.
• WPS Button: For quick and secure connection of WPS-compatible devices.
• Gigabit LAN Ports (1-4): Connect wired devices such as computers, gaming consoles, or smart TVs.
• Internet Port: Connect your modem to this port for internet access.

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router.

4.1 Initial Connection

1. Power On: Connect the provided power adapter to the router's power input and plug it into a power outlet. Press the power button.
2. Connect to Modem: Connect one end of the included Ethernet cable to your modem's LAN port and the other end to the Internet port on your DIR-879 router.
3. Connect to Computer (Optional): For initial setup, you can connect a computer to one of the router's Gigabit LAN Ports (1-4) using an Ethernet cable. Alternatively, connect wirelessly using the Wi-Fi details on the configuration card.

This diagram illustrates the correct way to connect your D-Link DIR-879 router to your internet modem and other devices for initial setup.

4.2 Configuration Wizard

Once connected, use the web-based setup wizard to configure your router:

1. Access Web Interface: Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox) on a connected computer or mobile device.
2. Enter Router IP: Type the router's default IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or dlinkrouter.local) into the address bar and press Enter.
3. Follow Wizard: The D-Link setup wizard will guide you through configuring your network and Wi-Fi settings.
4. Set Wi-Fi Details: Create a unique Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and a strong password.
5. Set Admin Password: Establish a secure administrator password for accessing the router's settings.

This video demonstrates the initial setup process for the D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router, including connecting cables and navigating the web-based configuration wizard to set up network settings and passwords.

5. Operating the Router

The D-Link DIR-879 offers several features to enhance your network experience.

5.1 Dual Band Wireless

The router operates on two distinct wireless frequency bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 2.4GHz band provides broader coverage and is suitable for general internet use, while the 5GHz band offers faster speeds and is ideal for bandwidth-intensive activities like HD streaming and online gaming, especially for devices closer to the router.

5.2 SmartConnect Technology

SmartConnect intelligently detects the wireless capabilities of your devices and automatically assigns them to the most appropriate Wi-Fi band. This feature helps to balance the network load, reduce interference, and ensure each device receives optimal performance without manual selection.

5.3 Smart Beam Forming

Smart Beam Forming technology focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly towards your connected wireless devices. Instead of broadcasting Wi-Fi in a general area, it intelligently directs the signal, significantly improving signal strength, coverage, and data throughput, particularly for devices located further away from the router.

5.4 Guest Zone

The Guest Zone feature allows you to create a separate, isolated Wi-Fi network for visitors. This provides internet access to your guests without granting them access to your main network, personal files, or connected devices, enhancing your network security and privacy.

5.5 Quality of Service (QoS) Engine

The Intelligent QoS engine prioritizes network traffic to ensure that critical applications and devices receive the necessary bandwidth. This helps to prevent lag and buffering for activities such as online gaming, video conferencing, and HD media streaming, even when multiple devices are active on the network.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance, especially firmware updates, is essential for the security and performance of your router.

6.1 Firmware Upgrade

Keeping your router's firmware updated ensures you have the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements.

1. Access Web Interface: Log in to the router's web interface using your administrator password.
2. Navigate to Upgrade: Go to the "Management" section and select "Upgrade" or "Firmware Update."
3. Check for New Firmware: You can either click "Check for New Firmware" to allow the router to automatically detect updates or manually download the latest firmware file from the official D-Link support website and then use the "Select File" option to upload it.
4. Initiate Upgrade: Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the firmware upgrade process. Do not power off the device until the Firmware Upgrade is complete to avoid damaging the router.

This image displays the firmware upgrade interface within the D-Link router's management settings, showing current firmware version and options to check for new firmware or upload manually.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your D-Link DIR-879 router.

7.1 Loss of Wi-Fi Signal or Drops

If you experience intermittent signal loss or frequent disconnections, consider the following:

• Firmware Update: Ensure your router's firmware is updated to the latest version. Updates often include stability improvements and bug fixes.
• Router Placement: Position the router in a central location, away from obstructions and devices that may cause interference (e.g., microwaves, cordless phones).
• SmartConnect Behavior: While SmartConnect optimizes band selection, in some specific environments or with certain devices, it might lead to unexpected band switching. If issues persist, consider disabling SmartConnect and manually configuring separate SSIDs for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

7.2 No USB Ports

The D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 router is designed for high-performance wireless networking and does not include USB ports. This means it cannot directly support external storage devices (like USB hard drives) or USB-connected printers for network sharing. If these features are required, an alternative networking solution or a separate network-attached storage (NAS) device would be necessary.

7.3 Router/Extender Mode Switch

The physical switch on the back of the router allows for easy selection between Router mode and Extender mode. If you intend to use the device as a Wi-Fi extender to boost your existing network's range, ensure the switch is set to "Extender" before proceeding with the specific setup instructions for extender mode. If using it as your primary internet router, set it to "Router" mode.

8. Specifications

Below are the detailed technical specifications for the D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router:

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical assistance, please refer to the following resources:

• Warranty Description: The D-Link DIR-879 AC1900 EXO Wi-Fi Router comes with a 1-year limited warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
• Online Support: Visit the official D-Link support website (dlink.com/support) for access to FAQs, comprehensive troubleshooting guides, and the latest firmware downloads.
• Contact Support: For direct technical assistance, refer to the D-Link website for various contact options, including live chat, email support, or phone support, available during business hours.