Quick Installation Guide

Access Point Mode (Default)

Transforms your existing wired network to a wireless one.

Setup Diagram Description: A wired network connection is shown. An existing router is connected via an Ethernet cable (Step A) to the TL-WA1201 access point (Step B). The access point then broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal (TL-WA1201's SSID) to wireless devices (Step C, D).

1. Connect the access point according to Steps A to D in the diagram.
2. Turn on the power, and wait until the wireless status indicator LEDs are lit and stable.
3. Use the default SSID and Password printed on the label of the access point to join its Wi-Fi network.
4. Note: You can surf the internet now. For your wireless network security, it is recommended to change the default SSID (network name) and the password of your Wi-Fi network. To do so, perform the following steps.
5. Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkap.net. Create a password to log in.
6. Go to Quick Setup, select Access Point mode and click Next. Follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the configuration.
7. Now, reconnect your wireless devices to the new Wi-Fi network.
8. Enjoy!

Range Extender Mode

Extends the range of an existing Wi-Fi network.

Setup Diagram Description: A wireless network extension is shown. An existing host AP's Wi-Fi signal is received by the TL-WA1201 access point (Step A). The TL-WA1201 then rebroadcasts an extended Wi-Fi signal (TL-WA1201's SSID) to wireless devices, or connects wired devices via Ethernet (Step B).

1. Connect the access point according to Steps A and B in the diagram.
2. Turn on the power, and wait until the wireless status indicator LEDs are lit and stable.
3. Use the default SSID and Password printed on the label of the access point to join its Wi-Fi network.
4. Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkap.net. Create a password to log in.
5. Go to Quick Setup, select Range Extender mode and click Next. Follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the configuration.
6. Relocate the access point to a suitable place. For details, refer to the tips below.
7. Now, connect your devices to the access point wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable.
8. Enjoy!

Tips for Optimal Wireless Signal

• Halfway is the best way: Generally, the ideal location for a repeater is about halfway between your wireless router and your wireless clients, ensuring the location is within the range of the host router. If not possible, place it closer to your wireless router for stable performance.
• Less obstacles ensure better performance: Choose a location with fewer obstacles that may block the signal between the access point and the host network. An open corridor or a spacious location is ideal.
• Less interference provides more stability: Choose a location away from Bluetooth devices and other household electronics, such as cordless phones, microwaves, and baby monitors, to minimize signal interference.

Illustration Description: An illustration shows a wireless router, the TL-WA1201 access point placed halfway between the router and devices, and the devices receiving the signal. This visually represents the 'halfway is the best way' tip.

Client Mode

Connects your wired devices to a wireless network.

Setup Diagram Description: A wired device connects wirelessly. A host AP's Wi-Fi signal is received by the TL-WA1201 access point (Step A). The TL-WA1201 then provides a wired Ethernet connection to a device like a TV or game console (Step B).

1. Connect the access point according to Steps A to B in the diagram.
2. Turn on the power, and wait until the wireless status indicator LEDs are lit and stable.
3. Use the default SSID and Password printed on the label of the access point to join its Wi-Fi network.
4. Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkap.net. Create a password to log in.
5. Go to Quick Setup, select Client mode and click Next. Follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the configuration.
6. Now, connect your wired device to the access point via an Ethernet cable.
7. Enjoy!

Multi-SSID Mode

Creates multiple wireless networks to provide different security and VLAN groups.

Setup Diagram Description: Multiple isolated wireless networks are shown. An existing router connects to the TL-WA1201 access point (Steps A-D). The access point broadcasts multiple SSIDs (SSID 1 for VLAN 1, SSID 2 for VLAN 2, etc.), allowing devices to connect to different virtual networks.

1. Connect the access point according to Steps A to D in the diagram.
2. Turn on the power, and wait until the wireless status indicator LEDs are lit and stable.
3. Use the default SSID and Password printed on the label of the access point to join its Wi-Fi network.
4. Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkap.net. Create a password to log in.
5. Go to Quick Setup, select Multi-SSID mode and click Next. Follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the configuration.
6. Now, connect your wireless devices to the Wi-Fi networks.
7. Enjoy!
8. Tip: If you want to isolate different networks, go to Wireless > Wireless Settings, click the edit icon of each SSID entry and set different VLAN IDs.

Power on via the PoE Injector

Power the device with the included passive PoE injector when the access point is located far from a power outlet.

Note: The passive PoE injector supports a cable length up to 30 meters, but the value may vary due to the environment.

Setup Diagram Description: Power delivery via PoE is shown. An existing router is connected via Ethernet to a Passive PoE Injector. The injector then powers the TL-WA1201 access point via an Ethernet cable, allowing placement away from a power outlet.