Quick Installation Guide

Wireless Gigabit Access Point TL-WA1201

Before You Start

Choose the appropriate operation mode based on your scenario.

Scenario	Operation Mode
You want to transform your wired (Ethernet) network to a wireless one.	Access Point Mode (Default Mode)
You are in a Wi-Fi dead-zone or a place with weak wireless signal. You want to have a larger effective range of the wireless signal throughout your home or office.	Range Extender Mode
You have a wired device with an Ethernet port and no wireless capability, for example, a Smart TV, Media Player, or game console. You want to connect it to the internet wirelessly.	Client Mode
You want to connect your devices to different wireless networks and become isolated by VLANs.	Multi-SSID Mode

Configure the Access Point

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).

Connect the access point according to Steps A to D in the diagram.
Turn on the power, and wait until the wireless status indicator LEDs are lit and stable.
Use the default SSID and Password printed on the label of the access point to join its Wi-Fi network.
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.
Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkap.net. Create a password to log in.
Go to Quick Setup, select Access Point mode and click Next. Follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the configuration.
Now, reconnect your wireless devices to the new Wi-Fi network.
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).

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

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

Connect the access point according to Steps A to D in the diagram.
Turn on the power, and wait until the wireless status indicator LEDs are lit and stable.
Use the default SSID and Password printed on the label of the access point to join its Wi-Fi network.
Launch a web browser and enter http://tplinkap.net. Create a password to log in.
Go to Quick Setup, select Multi-SSID mode and click Next. Follow the step-by-step instructions to complete the configuration.
Now, connect your wireless devices to the Wi-Fi networks.
Enjoy!
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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How do I restore the access point to its factory default settings?

With the access point powered on, use a pin to press and hold the Reset button until all LEDs turn off, then release the button.

Note: Resetting the access point will clear all previous configurations, and the access point will reset to the default Access Point mode.

Visual Description: A small reset button, typically located on the back or bottom of the device, which can be pressed with a pin.

Q2. What should I do if I cannot access the web management page?

If the computer has a static IP address, change its settings to obtain an IP address automatically.
Verify that http://tplinkap.net or http://192.168.0.254 is correctly entered in the web browser.
Use another web browser and try again.
Reboot your access point and try again.
Power off your host AP and enter http://tplinkap.net in the web browser to try again.

Q3. How do I recover the access point's web management password or retrieve my Wi-Fi password?

If you forget the password for the web management page, refer to Q1 to reset the access point to its factory default settings. Then create a new login password.
If you forget your Wi-Fi password, but are able to log in to the web management page, log in and go to Wireless > Wireless Settings to retrieve or reset your Wi-Fi password.

Q4. What should I do if my wireless network is not stable?

This could be caused by interference. You can try the following methods:

Log in to the web management page. Go to Wireless > Wireless Settings and change your wireless channel to a different one.
Move the access point to a new location away from Bluetooth devices and other household electronics, such as cordless phones, microwaves, and baby monitors, to minimize signal interference.

Safety Information

Keep the device away from water, fire, humidity, or hot environments.
Do not attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify the device. For service, contact TP-Link.
Do not use any chargers other than those recommended.
Do not use a damaged charger or USB cable to charge the device.
Do not use the device where wireless devices are not allowed.
The adapter shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.

Please read and follow the above safety information when operating the device. TP-Link cannot guarantee that no accidents or damage will occur due to improper use of the device. Please use this product with care and operate at your own risk.

Declarations of Conformity

TP-Link hereby declares that the device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of directives 2014/53/EU, 2009/125/EC, 2011/65/EU and (EU) 2015/863. The original EU declaration of conformity may be found at https://www.tp-link.com/en/support/ce/.

TP-Link hereby declares that the device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the Radio Equipment Regulations 2017. The original UK declaration of conformity may be found at https://www.tp-link.com/support/ukca/.

Support Information

For technical support, replacement services, user guides, and other information, please visit https://www.tp-link.com/support, or scan the QR code.

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