What is MLO (Multi-Link Operation)?  

Multi-Link Operation (MLO), is a key feature of Wi-Fi 7 (also known as 802.11be) technology, that increases capacity by simultaneously sending and receiving data across different frequency bands and channels (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz).  With MLO, Wi-Fi 7 supports establishing multiple links simultaneously between the Station (STA, such as the phone) and Wi-Fi access point (AP, such as the router and Deco).

 

Advantage of MLO Network

Traditional WiFi devices use a single link to transmit data. With different Multi-link Operation ( MLO ) Modes, Wi-Fi 7 enables devices to use multi-link aggregation to achieve higher throughput, lower latency, and higher reliability, which also enables devices to use multi-link seamless dynamic switching to achieve load balancing and lower latency.

Router

Deco

 

Note: Ideally, connecting to MLO network enhances throughput, reduces latency, and improves network efficiency. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of MLO depends on the compatibility between the AP and the STA. While Wi-Fi 7 routers are equipped with MLO capabilities, the level of support for MLO on clients such as smartphones and network cards can vary

 

How to configure MLO network

For Wi-Fi 7 Router

There are two methods to configure MLO network:

• Through the web management page:

Login the web management interface of the Router (http://tplinkwifi.net), go to Advanced > Wireless > Wireless settings > Enable MLO network and customized settings.

 

• Through the Tether APP:

Open the Tether APP and login the Router, go to Tools > Wireless Settings > MLO network, then you can enable it and customized the settings.

 

For Wi-Fi 7 Deco

Please go to Deco APP > Wi-Fi Settings > Enable MLO Network, then set the SSID and Password for the network.

Q&A

 

Q1. How Can I Use MLO?
A: The STA and AP both need to support Wi-Fi 7 and MLO. Notice that the 6 GHz band is not required for MLO. Some Wi-Fi 7 routers may only support one 2.4 GHz band and one or two 5 GHz bands. MLO enables your devices to connect to all the WiFi bands at the same time.
Currently, Archer BE900 does not support MLO network.

Q2. Can only Wi-Fi 7 clients connect to the MLO network?
A: NO. All clients can connect to a MLO network. However, in previous Wi-Fi generations, including Wi-Fi 6/ Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 5, a device can only connect to one Wi-Fi band — either the 2.4 GHz band or 5 GHz band or 6 GHz band. 

Q3. Can all 2.4GHz band, 5GHz band, and 6GHz band be linked to a MLO network for TP-Link Deco/Wi-Fi routers?
A: The wireless bands need to support 802.11be protocol first to be integrated into MLO Network.
Usually, MLO Network operates on 5 GHz+6 GHz by default and 2.4 GHz is an alternative.

Q4. Can I use the same network name on MLO network and Main Network?
A: No, the network names of the MLO network and the main network need to be separated. But the Wi-Fi password can be the same.

Q5. What security encryption types are supported by a MLO network?
A: Only WPA3 and OWE.

Q6. What should I do if the MLO network performance is not as good as expected?
A: We recommend reading FAQ3911 for reference.

Q7. What should I do if no internet access when connecting to the MLO network?
1) Reboot the end device.
2) Disable and enable the MLO network again.
3) Change the MLO's WiFi name and password.
4) Try different end devices.
If it is still not working, please kindly provide the following information:
1) Use the same end device to connect the main network and check if it is working.
2) Check the IP address when connecting to MLO network
3) Share the model number and OS of the device that failed to access internet.

Q8. Can Satellite Devices extend the MLO network when building an EasyMesh Network?
No, MLO network can't be extended in an EasyMesh network.

 

Related articles:

What is WiFi 7’s Multi-Link Operation (MLO)?
Why is my MLO network performance not as good as expected?