Switching a Deco to Access Point (AP) Mode

Access Point mode aims to extend the existing wired network and expand the wireless coverage for a home network. At this time, the Deco system will not create its own subnet but purely forward data between the root router and the clients.

Note:

1. Always keep the Deco’s firmware up to date to use AP mode. If you’re not sure, please open Deco app, tap “More”, then select “Update Deco” for a check.

2. In AP mode, the Deco system will not act as a DHCP server to assign IP addresses to the clients. Please make sure you have enabled the DHCP server function on the root router.

3. In AP mode, since all the clients are managed by the root router, some advanced features will not be available in the Deco app, including Antivirus, Parental Controls, Port Forwarding, Address Reservation, TP-Link DDNS, etc.

4. Ethernet backhaul also works in AP mode.

Typical Setup

Step 1. Launch the Deco app, tap “More” on the bottom right corner, and then tap “Advanced”.

Step 2. Tap “Operating Mode”, then choose “Access Point” mode. The app will indicate to reboot the router, tap “OK”.

Step 3. Wait for about 2 minutes until the LED light begins to show as solid green which indicates the Deco is running in AP mode.

In AP mode, you’re able to change some basic settings in the Deco app including Wireless Settings, LED Control, etc. You can refer to the link to know the differences between the Access Point and Router mode.

In addition, you can also tap “Advanced”, then tap “Operating Mode” to switch back to “Router” mode.