TP links ac1200 things you need to know about it
A wireless router has become a staple in the majority of homes due to the use of the internet in everyday life. Whether you need to connect your phone, computer, laptop, television, or video games, a wifi router is necessary.
Need to know more about the tp-links AC 1200 and its upgraded versions? Read on to the following paragraphs to know all that you need to know.
Understand what is Modem/router confusion
Many people confuse wifi routers and modems as both are necessary to connect to the internet, but they are different. Both are small pieces of plastic hardware that sit on desks of tables in most homes. Both also have plugs and jacks on the back and are about the same size and shape.
Both also have to flashlights to indicate that they are working and online. Finally, both connect to a computer. Although both keep you connected, they do so with different jobs.
A modem connects to a cable or wire from outside and brings in internet data from all over the world. A separate wire goes from your modem to the computer if you are using a wired connection. However, modems are not smart pieces of machinery and cannot provide internet safety like a router.
A router, on the other hand, takes the digital signal from your modem and shares it to your internet connected devices. The router is important as it makes it harder to hack into your account. Routers will be the focus of this article. Some of the best will be reviewed along with a chart for easy comparison.
What is a TP-Link AC1200?
The TP-Link AC1200 is a 5GHz Gigabit dual-band wireless internet router, also called an Archer C1200. This particular router supports 802.11 ac, the next generation of wifi. Complete with upgrades up to 1200 Mbps of total available bandwidth, this router offers simultaneous dual-band networks with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz respectively.
Built to provide a strong signal, the TP-Link AC1200 comes with three external dual-band antennas for faster, reliable wireless performance at greater distances. This means that the internet will have a stronger signal throughout your house if it is of average size.
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The dual USB ports make it easy to share with printer, files, and media across your network and you can easily manage network settings from home or away with the home network or remote network options.
A full gigabit ethernet port makes connecting easy and free 24/7 technical support is available for assistance with setup or configuration as needed, with a dedicated email for messaging.
TP-Link Tether app for Android is also available for updates at home or away.
TP-Link AC1200: An Introduction
This router is perfect for HD streaming and smooth gaming experience without interruption. This is important because it allows every device that needs bandwidth what it needs by setting limits and controlling traffic with IP-Based QoS.
You are also able to set limits on when and how devices can connect to the internet, allowing you to keep children safer with parental controls. If you have guests, a separate guest network provides visitors with wifi access separate from the main network.
Setup is easy as you can establish a secure network with a push of the WPS button that enables advanced security encryption for data protection.
The Archer C1200’s Web UI allows for easy access to the latest firmware, alerting you to critical updates when they become available.
J.D. Power Ranked TP-Link ‘Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Wireless Routers’.
If you are still unsure about the TP-Links AC1200 then consider some of the customer reviews. These include:
- This router has been above expectations.
- This baby is very powerful
- Streaming problem is in the past now.
- The router was easy to install and configure to my specifications.
- Definitely worth what I paid for it and more.
- I’d recommend it to anyone that’s interested.
- I replaced another router that was giving me trouble with this and I have to say I’m VERY happy.
- Excellent signal reach and hasn’t dropped signal, install was simple as you can make it, took 1 minute.
- The range is good and provides good signal strength throughout our house. I would recommend this router, especially for the price/performance.
- This router hooked up super easy with their mobile app, set up my network ID and password quickly, set device-specific blackout periods (for the kiddos), and finally get every MBPS I pay for wirelessly! Had 7 devices using it and still got 60mbps down/10mbps upload!
With positive reviews such as these, how could anyone resist this well-priced router with easy set-up and plenty of technical support?
Setup
After purchase, setting up the TP-Links AC1200 is simple. To make it even easier, we have included the steps below. There are only four that should take less than five minutes including unboxing your new router.
Step 1:
Power on the router after plugging it in and connect it to your modem through the internet/ethernet cord. Place the cord in the large port on the back that is separated from the others.
Step 2:
Power off your modem, allowing it to completely shut down. Now power it back on and wait until it has fully booted up.
Step 3:
Download and launch the Tether app, then connect to the router’s wifi using your smartphone.
Step 4:
Select the router and follow in-app instructions to complete the setup.
The easy setup guide can be found here. A user guide with information about warranties and replacement parts can also be found online.
Further Options
There are few shoppers who would consider making the purchase of a router without comparing other brands. Allow us to take some of the legwork out of comparisons by offering them here.
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NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900
NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Dual Band Wifi Router offers smart parental controls and is fully compatible with Amazon Alexa (R7000). With a hefty price tag of 140 dollars, this router comes complete with a 1GHz Dual core processor and AC1900 wifi, 600 +1300 Mbps speed. The dynamic QoS prioritizes bandwidth by application and device for the best experience whether you are gaming or streaming movies.
Completely compatible with Amazon Echo/Alexa means you can control your home network through the use of voice commands. Beamforming plus improves range and overall performance while the high powered amplifiers and antennas extend coverage throughout your house.
Open the VPN Connect app to access your network remotely through your mobile device that also allows the ReadySHARE Vault to automatically backup software for your Windows PC. This router works for both wired and wireless computers to connect to the same router.
Pro
- Connects to Windows 7,8,8.1, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS, UNIX, or Linux
Cons
- Requires 1 AAA battery
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TP-LINK AC1900 Smart Wireless Router
The TP-Link AC1900 Smart Wireless Router – High Speed, Long Range, Dual Band Gigabit WiFi Internet Router for Home offers Beamforming and is ideal for gaming. Also known as the Archer C9, this router is compatible with all 802.11 ac and older wifi devices.
Perfect for a home with long range coverage, three external antennas, and a gigabit router, the TP-Link AC1900 has a powerful dual-core processor that easily handles multiple devices, including Alexa, enabled devices. The build makes for an easy to share media option with 1x USB 3.0 and a single 2.0 port for printer, file, and media sharing across the network.
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With this particular unit, a leading 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support are standard. A price tag approximately $100 means this powerful little router will not break the bank when you need it most.
Pro
- Handles multiple devices
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Larger price tag than some
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TP-LINK AC2300 Smart WiFi Router
The TP-ink AC2300 Smart wifi Router – Long Range by RangeBoost is a reasonably priced high-end router. Coming in at nearly 125 dollars, this powerful 1.8 GHz dual-core 64 bit CPU with 2 coprocessors provides stream processing architecture for smoother performance and considerable multi-tasking. Providing faster wifi capabilities, the TP-Link AC2300 allows you to enjoy 4K videos and play games simultaneously without a problem.
Set up a personal VPN server with an open client to browse the web and access files without paying a subscription using the Vonn Server. Using a wifi range booster the router’s ability to detect and receive wifi signals from devices that are further away is amplified. Beamforming technology locates the wifi devices and focuses the router’s wireless signal to them automatically.
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In effect with efficient wifi distribution and airtime fairness equally divides attention between newer and older devices to improve performance and reliability without limiting your personal network. For those that are computer savvy, team up two of the four Gigabit LAN ports to double the connection speeds from 1 Gaps to 2 Gaps with link aggregation.
To make things even better, enjoy AP mode with an easy switch to enjoy faster wifi without replacing your router or sip-required gateway. Best of all, this router comes with a standard 2-year warranty and unlimited 24/7 technical support as needed.
Pro
- Warranty
- Link aggregation
- Vonn server
Cons
- Price
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TP-Link AC3150 Wireless Wi-Fi Router
The TP-Link Archer C3150 V2 Wireless Router is a must have for those who game and enjoy fast wifi. Enjoy 4K HD video and online play simultaneously without losing speed or connection.
The NitroQAM and 4 streams technology deliver a whopping 3150Mbps wifi speeds over dual 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz bands. The AC3150 class MU-MIMO works with BCM/QCA based clients to provide up to 3 times the performance boost.
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Take things further with the dual-core 1.4Ghz CPU for multitasking like USB storage and a VPN connection. The custom quality of service (QoS allows you to prioritize bandwidth for your favorite activities and devices for the fastest performance, while the TP-Link HomeCare protects every single connected device from the latest threats with built-in security, antivirus, and parental controls. The router and AP dual mode fit any network environment. The TP-Link AC3150 Router provides a leading 2-year warranty and 24/7 technical support.
Pro
- Warranty
- Fast speeds
- 4 stream technology
Cons
- Pricey
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TP-Link AC5400 Tri-Band Smart WiFi Gaming Router
Gamers rejoice with the TP-Link AC5400 Tri- Band Smart WiFi Gaming Router. With excellent reviews, this battle-tested router provides 4K video and the ability to play online games simultaneously with ultra-fast 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MINO wifi. Speaking of wifi, this lightning-fast AC5400 triband with 4 streams and NItroQAM technology delivers up to 5400 Mbps speeds over one 2.4GHz and two 5GHz with eight external antennas.
Multi-user support from MU-MIMO technology supports connections without interruption using a 1.4Ghz dual-core CPU and 3 co-processors. The unique antivirus, TP-Link HomeCare protects every single device from the latest threats with security, parental controls, and antivirus.
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It is even possible to set up a personal VPN server with an OpenVPN client to browse the web and access files without a paid VPN subscription.
To round things out, this router works with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT with industry leading 2-year warranty and unlimited technical support.
Pro
- High speeds
- HomeCare protection
- Alexa connect
Cons
- Large price
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TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router
The TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router has it all for those who need a router that is easy, fast, and function with a lower price tag. Easily connect to Alexa and fully compatible with all wifi devices 802.11ac and older, the AP-Link AC1750 offers dual-band router upgrades to 1750Mbps while reducing buffering. I
deal for those with 4K streaming with 3 external antennas for long range wifi, this gigabit router has LAN ports for fast access to multiple devices. Perfect for gaming with an integrated USB port to easily share media and files, the TP-Link Tether app will help you easily set up and manage your network at home or remotely.
Pro
- Price
- TP-Link Tether for support
Cons
- Not as strong as other routers
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Why Should You Buy the TP Links AC1200?
If you are looking for an affordable router that will offer wifi to your entire house with reliability then the TP-Links AC1200 is perfect. For those who stream Netflix, play simple games on their phone, or enjoy a time of Facebook, this is a great choice. Ideal for those running older computers and systems as well as it is highly compatible
Who Should Not Buy the TP-Links AC1200?
Those who use numerous streaming and 4K devices simultaneously or who have many users on a single router at once, may not do well with the TP-Links AC1200. Gamers could likely game well as long as others were not logged onto the wifi signal as this may cause delays.
Although a wide range is offered, a stronger router would best serve larger or multiple levels houses. If you have multiple users or gamers that want to live stream and use other devices, products such as the Nighthawk and AC5400 would be best, especially for newer systems.
FAQs
Do routers enable multiple devices to use the internet at the same time?
Most routers do enable multiple users on the same router. However, find a router with a stronger signal (refer to chart) and one that supports multi-user streaming for several users doing wifi rich activities like gaming or streaming.
Can a router be mounted?
Most routers can easily be mounted to the wall as the majority have inserts that allow it to hang, though many people choose to allow it to rest on a table or desk for easy access.
What is the difference between gigabit and Ethernet?
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Gigabit gives you speed up to 1000Mbits/s(1Gbits/s) while fast ethernet gives you speed up to 100Mbits/s. When choosing an ethernet switch, bear in mind how much speed you will get from your ISP (if this is the purpose of the switch) and the speed of your LAN ports(ethernet ports) on your connecting devices(e.g. pc). if your ISP provides you with speed under 100Mbits/s, a gigabit switch is not necessary and basically a waste of money. If your ISP provides you with speed over 100Mbits/s and your pc (or connecting devices) does not have gigabit LAN ports, the gigabit switch is not necessary; because you will not get speeds over 100Mbits/s.
Do the AC1200 have a removable antenna?
No, the antenna is not removable but are adjustable for the best signal.
Do I need only the router to get WiFi?
No, you must have a modem connected to an internet service provider (ISP). The ISP typically includes the modem with installation, then your router plugs into the ISP modem to provide wifi. However, your device must be wifi enabled for this to be effective.
Are the AC1200 difficult to set up?
No, this router offers simple out of the box setup and technical support if needed.
Is the AC1200 router compatible with 802.11?
Yes, this router is fully compatible.
Do the AC1200 require batteries?
No, this router is plugged into a 110/240 outlet. No batteries required.
Does the USB port on the AC1200 supports a MAC?
Yes, the AC1200’s USB port supports both NTFS and FAT32 file systems to allow for media sharing.
Is a password required for this router?
This router can be used without a password, but for added protection, a password is recommended.
Conclusions
Choosing the right router can be confusing. There are many options in a variety of prices from $50 to well over $300. To find the router that is right for your situation take a few things into account: what the router will be used for, the number of connected devices, internet service provider speeds, and house size.
Obviously, the router will be used to connect wirelessly to different wifi enabled devices, but these types of devices can vary greatly. If the users are going to be streaming videos or gaming then a faster and stronger router is needed.
However, if most of the time users are simply watching a movie, checking email, or playing a simple, basic online game then a cheaper, not as powerful router should function fine. Next, you should consider the number of connected devices that will be used simultaneously. I
f you live alone, using a weaker router for live action gameplay should be fine, but multiple users will require more bandwidth to avoid interruptions in the signal. While a user cannot control internet server provider (ISP) speeds, knowing your speed can help you choose an appropriate router.
Even if a router can process higher speeds, if the internet service provider does not offer those speeds, it is useless. Finally, house size, type of materials, and levels can affect router reliability.
Sometimes a router will do fine in a two-story house, but at other times you may need an extender for a strong consistent signal throughout the house.
If you live in a large spread out home a stronger router can be beneficial. That being said, make sure to place your router near the central point in the home for the furthest reaching signal.
We hope that you will choose the TP-Link AC1200 router for both the affordable price and ability. This router is well made and has been presented in comparison to other, similar routers for your comparison and understanding.