@MarcoRossi 

 

You cannot use a TP-Link Archer router and a Deco mesh system together to form a single, unified mesh network because they use different mesh technologies and software. However, you can use them by configuring the Deco system in Access Point (AP) mode, essentially using the Archer as the primary router and the Deco system to expand the network coverage wirelessly or via Ethernet backhaul. While this setup provides extended Wi-Fi coverage, it won't offer seamless roaming, and devices will treat the two networks as separate.
 

How to use them together:

 

1. Configure the Deco system in AP Mode:

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Connect the main Deco unit to your Archer router with an Ethernet cable. Then, set the Deco system to Access Point (AP) mode to integrate it with your existing Archer network. 

 

2. Disengage the Deco network's router functions:

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When in AP mode, the Deco units will only function as wireless access points, expanding your Wi-Fi signal. 

 

3. Use Archer's Wi-Fi:

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You can then turn off the Wi-Fi on your Archer router to avoid interference and allow the Deco system to provide all your Wi-Fi access. 

 

4. Or, connect the Archer to a Deco unit:

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Alternatively, you can connect the Archer router directly to your modem and then connect one of the Deco units to the Archer. Then, you can use the Deco units to mesh together, providing a larger Wi-Fi network without having two separate networks. 

Limitations:

• No Unified Mesh:

You will not experience the seamless roaming typically offered by a true mesh network when moving between the Archer and Deco systems. 

• Network Separation:

Devices will likely treat the Archer's network and the Deco system's network as separate entities. 

• Feature Limitations:

When the Deco system is in AP mode, you may lose access to features like QoS or parental controls that are managed by the primary router. 

 

  @MarcoRossi 

 

You could buy more BE9700  routers to extend your range if you want BUT you will need to make sure you run all the new ones in AP mode or you will be in a double nat situation.

 

Your best bet might be to switch from the archer routers and just go full deco mesh. This two pack of BE85 is a little more than buying 3 more BE9700 archer routers but it can cover up to 6400 Sq feet - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4W1L4B3?tag=bndecobe853-pack-20&th=1  

 

If you want to stick with the BE63 decos a two pack will cover up to 5800 Sq Feet - https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Deco-BE63-AI-Roaming-2-Pack/dp/B0CN8WBXY2?th=1

 

Use this link to compare the differences between the two pack of BE85 vs the BE63 model

 

https://www.tp-link.com/us/compare/?typeId=5757&productIds=68206%2C73574