TP-Link Archer A5 AC1200 WiFi Dual Band Wireless Router User Manual

1. Introduction

The TP-Link Archer A5 AC1200 WiFi Dual Band Wireless Router provides high-speed internet connectivity for your home or office network. Featuring simultaneous 2.4GHz (300 Mbps) and 5GHz (867 Mbps) connections, it delivers a total available bandwidth of 1200 Mbps, supporting the 802.11ac standard. Equipped with four external antennas, it ensures stable wireless connections and optimal coverage. This router also supports IGMP Proxy/Snooping, Bridge, and Tag VLAN to optimize IPTV streaming, and includes an Access Point mode for creating new Wi-Fi access points. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Archer A5 router.

Figure 1: Front view of the TP-Link Archer A5 AC1200 Wireless Router.

2. Package Contents

Verify that your package contains the following items:

• AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Router Archer A5
• Power supply unit
• Ethernet Cable
• Quick Installation Guide

Figure 2: The TP-Link Archer A5 router and its included accessories.

3. Hardware Overview

3.1 Front Panel (LED Indicators)

The front panel of the Archer A5 features LED indicators that display the router's status and activity. These indicators typically include Power, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), WAN, and LAN status.

Figure 3: Front panel of the Archer A5 router.

3.2 Rear Panel (Ports and Buttons)

The rear panel provides all necessary ports for connectivity and control buttons.

• Power Port: Connects to the included power adapter.
• Power On/Off Button: Used to turn the router on or off.
• Reset Button: Press and hold to restore factory default settings.
• WAN Port (Blue): Connects to your modem or internet service provider's Ethernet cable.
• LAN Ports (Orange, 4x): Connects to wired devices such as computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles.

Figure 4: Rear panel with power, WAN, and LAN ports.

3.3 Antennas

The Archer A5 is equipped with four external antennas to enhance Wi-Fi coverage and signal strength across both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

Figure 5: Angled view of the Archer A5 router.

4. Setup and Configuration

4.1 Initial Connection

1. Power On: Connect the power adapter to the router's power port and plug it into a power outlet. Press the Power On/Off button if necessary.
2. Connect to Modem: Connect your modem's Ethernet cable to the blue WAN port on the Archer A5 router.
3. Connect to Computer: Connect your computer to one of the orange LAN ports on the router using the provided Ethernet cable, or connect wirelessly using the default Wi-Fi SSID and password found on the product label.

4.2 Accessing the Web Management Interface

1. Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
2. In the address bar, type http://tplinkwifi.net and press Enter. You can find this default access address on the product label.
3. Enter the administrator password. If you are logging in for the first time, you may need to create a password. For some routers, the default username and password are both 'admin'.
4. Follow the Quick Setup wizard to configure your internet connection and wireless settings.

4.3 Basic Wireless Settings

After logging in, navigate to the Basic > Wireless section to customize your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Remember to save your changes.

4.4 Advanced Wireless Settings

For advanced users, the Advanced > Wireless > Wireless Settings section allows you to modify parameters such as Wi-Fi channel, channel width, and transmit power. Adjusting the Wi-Fi channel can help avoid interference from neighboring networks, potentially improving performance. Save changes after modification.

5. Operating Modes

5.1 Access Point Mode

The Archer A5 supports Access Point (AP) mode, allowing it to function as a Wi-Fi access point to extend your existing wired network with wireless capabilities. To enable this mode, navigate to Advanced > Operation Mode in the web management interface and select Access Point mode.

6. Maintenance

6.1 General Care

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your router, keep it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. Avoid placing heavy objects on the router.

6.2 Firmware Updates

Periodically check the TP-Link official website for firmware updates. Updating the firmware can improve performance, add new features, and enhance security. Follow the instructions provided on the website for safe firmware upgrades.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 No Internet Access

• Check all cable connections: Ensure the Ethernet cable from your modem is securely connected to the router's blue WAN port.
• Restart your modem and router: Power off both devices, wait for 30 seconds, then power on the modem first, followed by the router.
• Verify internet settings: Log into the web management interface and check your WAN settings.

7.2 Poor Wi-Fi Signal or Speed

• Relocate the router: Place the router in a central location, away from obstructions and interference sources (e.g., cordless phones, microwaves).
• Adjust antenna direction: Orient the four external antennas for optimal signal reception.
• Change Wi-Fi channel: Access advanced wireless settings to select a less congested Wi-Fi channel.
• Ensure devices support dual-band: Connect 5GHz-compatible devices to the 5GHz network for higher speeds.

7.3 Forgot Web Management Password

If you forget your administrator password, you can reset the router to factory default settings by pressing and holding the Reset button on the rear panel for approximately 5-10 seconds while the router is powered on. This will erase all custom configurations, and you will need to set up the router again.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

The TP-Link Archer A5 router typically comes with a 1-year warranty. For detailed warranty information, technical support, or to register your product, please visit the official TP-Link website or contact their customer service. In case of product quality-related issues, you may be asked to reach out to the brand’s customer service support for resolution.