MERCUSYS TL-WR940N Wireless N300 Home Router Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The MERCUSYS TL-WR940N Wireless N300 Home Router is designed to provide reliable and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity for your home network. Featuring Wireless N technology, it delivers speeds of up to 450Mbps, ideal for everyday internet activities such as web browsing, email, and streaming standard-definition video. Equipped with three external antennas, it ensures broad wireless coverage and stable connections. The router also includes IP QoS for bandwidth management and a convenient WPS button for easy wireless security setup.

Figure 1: Front view of the MERCUSYS TL-WR940N Wireless N300 Home Router.

2. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• MERCUSYS TL-WR940N Wireless N300 Home Router
• Ethernet Cable
• Power Adapter
• Quick Installation Guide (This document)

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Connect the Hardware

1. Power Off: Unplug the power from your modem (if any) and remove the backup battery if it has one.
2. Connect the Router: Connect the powered-off modem to the router's blue WAN port using an Ethernet cable.
3. Connect Power Adapter: Connect the power adapter to the router's Power port and plug it into a power outlet. Press the On/Off button to turn on the router.
4. Power On Modem: Power on your modem and wait approximately 2 minutes for it to restart.
5. Verify LED Status: Check the LED indicators on the front panel. The Power, Internet, and Wi-Fi LEDs should be solid green, indicating a successful connection.

Figure 2: Back view of the router with ports and buttons.

3.2 Configure the Network

You can configure your router using either the TP-Link Tether app or a web browser.

• Via TP-Link Tether App: Download the Tether app from the App Store or Google Play. Open the app, log in with your TP-Link ID, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup and connect to the internet.
• Via Web Browser: Connect your computer to the router wirelessly (using the default Wi-Fi name and password printed on the label at the bottom of your router) or with an Ethernet cable to one of the LAN ports. Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkwifi.net or http://192.168.0.1 in the address bar. Create a password to log in and follow the step-by-step instructions to set up your internet connection.

4. Hardware Overview

4.1 Front Panel LEDs

The front panel features several LED indicators that provide information about the router's status:

• Power LED: Indicates the power status of the router. Solid green means the router is powered on and functioning correctly.
• System LED: Indicates the system status. Solid green means the system is operating normally.
• WAN LED: Indicates the status of the WAN (Internet) connection. Solid green means a stable internet connection.
• LAN LEDs (1-4): Indicate the status of the LAN ports. Solid green means a device is connected to the corresponding LAN port.
• Wi-Fi LED: Indicates the wireless network status. Solid green means the Wi-Fi is active.
• WPS LED: Flashes during a WPS connection attempt.

4.2 Rear Panel Ports and Buttons

• WAN Port (Blue): Connects to your modem for internet access.
• LAN Ports (Orange, 1-4): Connect to wired devices such as computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles.
• Power Port: Connects to the provided power adapter.
• On/Off Button: Powers the router on or off.
• WPS/Reset Button: Press for a few seconds to initiate WPS for easy wireless connection. Press and hold for 10 seconds to reset the router to factory default settings.
• USB Port: (If available on your model) Can be used for file sharing or connecting a USB storage device.

4.3 Antennas

The TL-WR940N features three external antennas. For optimal wireless performance, ensure the antennas are oriented vertically. You can adjust their direction to optimize signal strength in specific areas of your home.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Connecting to Wi-Fi

To connect your wireless devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.) to the router's Wi-Fi network:

1. On your device, search for available Wi-Fi networks.
2. Select the network name (SSID) printed on the label at the bottom of your router.
3. Enter the Wi-Fi password (also on the label) when prompted.
4. Alternatively, press the WPS button on the router and then on your WPS-compatible device to establish a secure connection without entering a password.

5.2 Managing Your Network

Use the Tether app or the web management interface to:

• Change Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password.
• Set up a Guest Network for visitors.
• Configure Parental Controls to manage internet access for specific devices.
• Utilize IP QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritize bandwidth for certain applications or devices.
• View connected devices and network status.

6. Maintenance

• Regular Reboots: Periodically reboot your router (e.g., once a month) by unplugging it for 10 seconds and then plugging it back in. This can help clear temporary issues and improve performance.
• Firmware Updates: Check the MERCUSYS website for the latest firmware updates. Keeping your firmware up-to-date ensures optimal performance, security, and access to new features.
• Placement: Place the router in a central location, away from obstructions and interference sources (e.g., microwaves, cordless phones) for best Wi-Fi coverage.
• Cleaning: Keep the router clean and free of dust to ensure proper ventilation.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Internet Access:
  • Check if the WAN LED is solid green. If not, ensure the Ethernet cable from the modem is securely connected.
  • Reboot your modem and router.
  • Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to ensure the service is active.
• Weak Wi-Fi Signal or Dead Zones:
  • Relocate the router to a more central position.
  • Adjust the antennas for better signal direction.
  • Avoid placing the router near large metal objects or appliances that emit strong electromagnetic interference.
• Cannot Access Web Management Page:
  • Ensure your device is connected to the router's Wi-Fi or via an Ethernet cable.
  • Verify that you are entering the correct address (http://tplinkwifi.net or http://192.168.0.1).
  • Clear your browser's cache or try a different browser.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official MERCUSYS website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Online Resources: Visit www.mercusys.com for FAQs, firmware updates, and additional support documentation.