2
Votes

VLAN per SSID, Network Segmentation & Advanced Administration on Deco XE75 Pro

 
2
Votes

VLAN per SSID, Network Segmentation & Advanced Administration on Deco XE75 Pro

VLAN per SSID, Network Segmentation & Advanced Administration on Deco XE75 Pro
VLAN per SSID, Network Segmentation & Advanced Administration on Deco XE75 Pro
Yesterday
Model: Deco XE75 Pro  
Hardware Version:
Firmware Version:

Dear TP-Link Support Team,

I am writing to formally request the implementation of several critical networking features on the Deco XE75 Pro (and the Deco product line in general), which are currently absent and represent a significant limitation for any user who takes network security seriously.

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1. VLAN TAGGING PER SSID

The Deco XE75 Pro does not support VLAN tagging on individual SSIDs. This makes it impossible to properly segment a home or small office network into isolated security zones — for example:

- VLAN 10: Trusted devices (PCs, laptops, phones)
- VLAN 20: IoT devices (smart plugs, lights, hubs)
- VLAN 30: IP cameras (isolated, no access to other segments)
- VLAN 40: Media devices (Smart TVs, AV receivers)

Without VLAN per SSID support, the Deco system cannot be meaningfully integrated into any managed network environment with proper L2 segmentation. Every competing enterprise-grade access point (Ubiquiti UniFi, TP-Link Omada, Cisco) supports this as a basic feature.

I would like to point out an additional irony here: TP-Link's own Tapo camera lineup (C325WB, C520WS, C425, etc.) cannot be properly isolated from trusted devices when using Deco as the wireless infrastructure. A user who purchases both Deco and Tapo products expecting them to work together securely will find that the two product lines are fundamentally incompatible from a network security standpoint. The cameras end up on the same flat network as PCs and personal data — directly contradicting every piece of security advice TP-Link publishes.

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2. ADVANCED ADMINISTRATION INTERFACE

The Deco mobile app, while user-friendly, is severely limited for any user with intermediate or advanced networking knowledge. It lacks:

- VLAN configuration
- Per-SSID band steering control
- Manual radio channel assignment (not just optimization)
- Detailed client association data
- Traffic monitoring per SSID or VLAN
- ACL / firewall rules at the AP level

A web-based administration interface (similar to what TP-Link already provides on the Omada EAP series) would be a significant step forward. The Deco hardware is clearly capable — the limitation is entirely software-driven.

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3. SSH ACCESS OR ADVANCED CLI

For technically proficient users, SSH access to the Deco units would allow direct configuration, scripting, and integration with network management tools. This is standard practice on enterprise access points and even on many consumer routers. Locking down the platform entirely to a mobile app alienates the exact users who would deploy Deco in more complex environments — and who are most vocal in communities and reviews.

I understand there are valid reasons to restrict this for average consumers. A reasonable middle ground would be an "Advanced Mode" toggle in the Deco app or web interface, accessible after explicit user confirmation, which unlocks VLAN, SSH, and advanced radio settings.

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CONCLUSION

TP-Link regularly publishes security guidance recommending network segmentation, IoT isolation, and VLAN-based architecture. It is contradictory to publish this guidance while simultaneously selling mesh access points that are architecturally incapable of implementing it.

The Deco XE75 Pro is an excellent product in terms of RF performance, seamless roaming, and ease of setup. It deserves an administration layer that matches its hardware capabilities. Competitors — including TP-Link's own Omada line — already provide this.

I would appreciate a formal response regarding:
1. Whether VLAN per SSID is on the product roadmap for the Deco XE75 Pro
2. Whether a web-based or advanced administration interface is planned
3. Whether SSH or any form of advanced CLI access is under consideration

Thank you for your time and I hope this feedback contributes to the improvement of the Deco platform.

Best regards

#1
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1 Reply
Re:VLAN per SSID, Network Segmentation & Advanced Administration on Deco XE75 Pro
8 hours ago - last edited 8 hours ago

  @Johnny007 

Thank you for your recognition of the Deco XE75 Pro and the in-depth consideration of network management features. They are indeed areas of interest for many advanced users and technology enthusiasts.

The Deco Mesh system is committed to providing an easy setup and reliable performance for all levels of home network users. Simplicity, stability, and speed would still be the main focus. Introducing VLAN functionality based on SSIDs would significantly increase setup complexity, which is still not planned on the firmware roadmap. For network segmentation needs, we recommend our Omada EAP series, which offers enterprise features including multi-SSID VLAN binding.

 

The primary management tool strategy will continue to focus on optimizing the Deco App.  We will continue to add popular advanced features to the app via firmware updates (such as DoT&DoT, Internet Backup, and ECO Mode). However, there isn't a plan to develop an advanced web-based management interface.

 

Regarding SSH/CLI access, there is still no intention to open SSH or any form of command-line interface (CLI) access to general users. Granting access to the underlying system introduces uncontrollable risks, which could affect the overall stability of the Mesh network. We do provide customized versions of Deco for Internet Service Providers. These versions may include extended management capabilities required by service providers. If you represent a business or have specific commercial deployment scenarios, we recommend contacting the local sales channel to evaluate whether a customized solution meets your needs:https://service-provider.tp-link.com/tauc/


Your input is highly valuable and represents the voice of some advanced user groups. We will consider such requirements as references for future product line planning and definition, exploring possibilities to balance ease of use with flexibility without compromising the experience for the vast majority of users.

Best regards.

#2
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