About This Guide
This guide complements the Quick Installation Guide, providing detailed information on each function of your router. It will help you configure these functions according to your needs. Please note that features may vary by model, software version, region, or ISP. All examples are for illustration and may not reflect your exact experience.
Conventions Used:
- Underlined: Hyperlinks to websites or specific sections.
- Teal Text: Emphasized content, menus, items, and buttons.
- Menu Structure (e.g., >): Indicates navigation paths within the router's interface.
- Note: Important information that, if ignored, could lead to malfunction or damage.
- Tips: Helpful information for better device usage.
- Symbols: Indicate actions like editing, deleting, enabling/disabling, or viewing more information.
For the latest software, management app, and utilities, visit the TP-Link Download Center.
Chapter 1: Get to Know About Your Router
1.1. Product Overview
The TP-Link AX router utilizes next-generation 802.11ax Wi-Fi Technology for peak performance. It features OFDMA and 1024QAM for a 4x improvement in throughput and enhanced network capacity and efficiency. It is also backward compatible with previous Wi-Fi standards. Setup and usage are simplified through an intuitive web interface and the TP-Link Tether app.
1.2. Appearance
1.2.1. Top Panel
The router's LEDs, located on the front, indicate the working status. Refer to the LED Explanation table for details.
LED Explanation
| LED | Status | Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Power | On | System started successfully. |
| Power | Flashing slowly | System starting up or firmware upgrading. Do not disconnect or power off. |
| Power | Flashing quickly | WPS connection in process. |
| Power | Off | Power is off. |
| 2.4GHz Wireless | On | 2.4GHz wireless band enabled. |
| 2.4GHz Wireless | Off | 2.4GHz wireless band disabled. |
| 5GHz Wireless | On | 5GHz wireless band enabled. |
| 5GHz Wireless | Off | 5GHz wireless band disabled. |
| Internet | Green On | Internet service available. |
| Internet | Orange On | WAN port connected, but internet service unavailable. |
| Internet | Off | WAN port unplugged. |
| Ethernet | On | At least one powered-on device connected to a LAN port. |
| Ethernet | Off | No powered-on device connected to a LAN port. |
| USB | On | USB device identified and ready for use. |
| USB | Off | No USB device plugged in. |
1.2.2. The Back Panel
The back panel includes ports for Power, WAN, LAN (1/2/3/4), USB, WPS/Wi-Fi, and Reset. It also features antennas for wireless operation.
Button and Port Explanation
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Power Port | Connects the router to a power socket via the power adapter. |
| Power On/Off Button | Powers the router on or off. |
| WAN Port | Connects to a DSL/Cable modem or Ethernet jack. |
| LAN Ports (1/2/3/4) | Connects PCs or other wired devices. |
| USB Port | Connects to a USB storage device. |
| WPS/Wi-Fi Button | Press for 1 second to start WPS process with your client. Press and hold for 2 seconds to turn the wireless function on or off. |
| Reset Button | Press and hold until all LEDs turn on to reset the router to factory default settings. |
| LED Button | Press for 1 second to turn the router's LEDs on or off. |
| Antennas | Used for wireless operation and data transmission. Orient them upright for optimal performance. |
Chapter 2: Connect the Hardware
2.1. Position Your Router
- Avoid placing the router in areas with moisture or excessive heat.
- Position the router where it can connect to multiple devices and a power source.
- Ensure cables and the power cord are safely placed to avoid tripping hazards.
- The router can be placed on a shelf or desktop.
- Keep the router away from devices emitting strong electromagnetic interference, such as Bluetooth devices, cordless phones, and microwaves.
2.2. Connect Your Router
Before you start: Unplug the power from your modem and remove its backup battery, if applicable.
Place the router horizontally and orient the antennas vertically. Follow the steps below for connection. If your internet connection uses an Ethernet cable directly from the wall, connect it to the router's WAN port and proceed with steps 3 and 4.
