Configuration Guide How to set up Ethernet Backhaul with your Deco devices
Ethernet Backhaul is a feature that makes it possible to wire the Deco units together to optimize the bandwidth and network stability.
Normally, after wired Deco units with an Ethernet cable, the Ethernet backhaul will take effect automatically.
Typical connection structures for Ethernet Backhaul
QA
Q1: Which switch models support Ethernet backhaul?
Most of the switches on the market support Deco's Ethernet backhaul feature. If you don’t have a switch or if your switch is verified not compatible with Deco Ethernet Backhaul, the following models will be a good choice:https://www.tp-link.com/home-networking/all-soho-switch/
Q2: To use the Ethernet Backhaul feature, do I need to wire all my Deco units?
Nope. The following network layout works as well.
Q3: How do I know if Ethernet Backhaul takes effect?
Q4: Why my satellite Deco's signal source shows "Wi-Fi" instead of "Ethernet" in the Deco app even if the main Deco and the satellite Deco are connected to the same switch?
Please refer to the suggestions on this link:Ethernet Backhaul not working
Q5: Why my Deco units become unstable once they're connected via a switch?
The Deco Ethernet backhaul feature is based on the standard IEEE 1905.1 protocol. However, we find that some switches, mainly the D-Link switches, will not forward packets based on IEEE 1905.1 protocol, causing all Deco units in a network loop and becoming quite unstable, you might consider changing another switch or contacting switch’s support directly. TP-Link Switches are mostly compatible with our Deco’s Ethernet backhaul.
Q6: Can I set up different Deco models such as M5 and M9 Plus together through Ethernet backhaul?
Yes, just configure and add different Deco models in the same Deco network. After that, you can wire them to set up the Ethernet backhaul connection.
You could refer to the link to learn how to add different Deco models in the same network.
Q7: Can I use one Ethernet port on the Deco for Ethernet backhaul and the other to connect a computer?
Yes. For more details, please refer to How to use Ethernet Ports on Deco?
Q8: Can I use a pair of powerline adapters to build Ethernet Backhaul, like Main Deco---master Powerline adapter~~~extended Powerline adapter---satellite Deco?
Yes and please keep in mind that the Ethernet Backhaul speed now will depend on both the Ethernet cable quality and Powerline rate.
Related Article: General questions about Ethernet Backhaul feature on your Deco
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Hi, I checked from the cloud server that the main Deco X60 is still online so I guess only the 4th Deco turn red? The rest of the 3 are still good?
Here are some suggestions for you:
1. More the office Deco a little bit closer to the other Decos in case it is caused by the distance.
2. if it is still red, please remove it from Deco APP by clicking the top three dots.
3.Wait until the office Deco back to blinking blue and add it on the Mesh again.
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@TP-Link Deco
Hi there.
I have a network as follows: Modem-Wired switch-And the rest of the peripherals.
I have tried everything by setting the main Deco M4 to the wired switch, but it refuses to get internet that way. The ONLY dhcp is from the modem. Deco is set to AP mode as well.
I want to have it like this: Modem-Wired switch and then Deco plus all peripherals.
Right now, i have to use the Deco as a wired switch for it to work and only use peripherals in wifi mode, which isn't god enough. As soon as i connect the Deco to a switch, it disables internet.
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Hi, I am moving to a new house and is deciding if I should network the 2 floors with CAT 6, 6a, 7 or 8 with an effort to future proof the setup.
I will be using my Deco M9 Plus for a while so wanted to check if the M9 Plus are compatible with CAT8 cables.
Appreciate your confirmation.
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Anytime you can cable a connection, you'll be much better off, plain and simple. Especially if it is a device providing a service (NAS, printer, etc.) needing consistent high throughout (why do most of your 4k streaming devices come with a Ethernet port) or needs super low lag (think gaming or zoom calls)
As far as CAT8 vs CAT6, you'll never notice the difference. You have to have a data Center with crazy high demand to NEED CAT8. CAT6 cable will be just fine. Use the savings to run dual connections from a central location (router and extrs switch go here) to your desk and home theater areas. You'll benefit most from those
Hint: Stairway walls usually run from basement to attic
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re: cabling in new (or re-) construction
Definitely cable when feasible. And redundancy. Things happen, and cables or connectors get damaged. Or shorted out. Or corroded.
I have 15-year old CAT5A cabling in our house ... and it is still faster than WiFi6. It's been through multiple upgrades in ALL the components connected to the cables ... and is still not the bottleneck in performance.
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If your "modem" is just a modem and not a router,most will only allow one device to connect (normally a router) you may need to connect your first deco to it in router mode via one Ethernet port then user the other port for the switch
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Hi, Deco M9 plus does support cat8.
And M9 Plus is Gigabits Ethernet port, maybe Cat 8 is too much for it.
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Dear all,
Thanks for your responses.
Vincent
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@TP-Link Deco Will it work perfectly in my Situation . I have already asked before but didnt get the complete answer properly
From this . 
This is my current network setup. I want to change the complete layout of the networking.
All the rooms have CAT6 Wire Socket added near beds for Routers and one near TV for direct TV support.
I want to add Deco system to complete home network for free roaming situation where i am stuck here with all individual access points .
Planning to change the setup as
Deco M4 or other Deco Device as main device as Router (Uses PPPoE Auth by my ISP want to know if it will support it or not) and connect to
TP Link Switch with POE prefer (TP-Link 16 Port Gigabit PoE Switch 8 PoE Port+ Model No: TL-SG1016PE) and connect to
Deco Device for Individual rooms as Slave device. I can also use TV Area connection for setting up deco device.
Update: PoE Cameras are not going to be not any more as i am going to use Wifi based Camera / Ethernet backhaul for Smart Camera with Micro SD Slots.
Will Deco device work perfectly as mentioned above ?
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