@Parzuwu 

The ping spikes you're seeing (to the router IP itself) are classic symptoms of unstable wireless backhaul in a Deco mesh system. This affects only the satellite because your device is connected there, and the satellite has to hop traffic wirelessly back to the main Deco (and then to the internet). It explains why high-bandwidth activities like speed tests or downloads don't trigger it as much—those are more tolerant of jitter, while gaming (low-latency UDP packets) shows it immediately.

Quick Diagnostics (Do These First)

1. Open the Deco app → Go to the Network Map (or Globe icon) → Tap your satellite Deco.
   • Check the backhaul/signal status. It should ideally say "Excellent" or "Good" and show the connection type (WiFi backhaul).
   • Note the signal strength between main and satellite. Weak/fair/poor backhaul is the #1 cause of exactly these random high-latency spikes.

      

2. Run a continuous ping from a device wired to the satellite (if possible) and compare to wireless. Also ping from a device on the main Deco to confirm the issue is satellite-specific.

Most Effective Fixes (In Order of Impact)

Best solution: Use Ethernet backhaul if possible.

Run a cable (Cat5e or better) from a LAN port on the main Deco to a LAN port on the satellite. This eliminates the wireless hop entirely and dramatically reduces latency/jitter for gaming. Deco supports this well.

tp-link.com

If wired backhaul isn't feasible:

• Improve wireless backhaul

• Move the satellite closer to the main Deco (aim for line-of-sight or minimal walls; 25-30 ft ideal).
• Reduce interference: Place units away from microwaves, cordless phones, thick walls, metal, mirrors, or dense furniture.
• In the Deco app, run Network Optimization (it scans and picks better channels).

• Firmware update:

• Your version (1.4.5) is outdated. Newer releases (up to 1.6.x or 1.8.0 depending on your exact hardware sub-version) include stability improvements. Update via the Deco app.

  tp-link.com

• WiFi settings tweaks (in Deco app > More > Wi-Fi Settings > Advanced):

• Try High Capacity mode if available (this can prioritize 5 GHz backhaul and reduce 2.4 GHz usage for backhaul in some cases).

  reddit.com

• Manually select less congested channels if the option is there (avoid auto if possible).
• Test separating bands or using "Optimal Performance" vs. High Capacity.

• Other quick checks:

• Disable QoS if enabled (it can sometimes introduce latency).
• Set DNS to 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8 on the Deco or client.
• Reduce connected devices temporarily or prioritize your gaming device in the app.
• Restart the entire mesh (unplug satellites first, then main).

Why Not High Network Usage?Wireless backhaul shares the same radio(s) for client traffic + backhaul traffic. Bursty or specific patterns (like gaming packets) can cause queuing/delays on the backhaul link, even if overall bandwidth use is low. Continuous high throughput (speed test/download) often keeps things steadier or exposes different issues.

If these don't resolve it, provide:

• Backhaul status/signal from the app.
• Number of devices on the network.
• Distance/walls between main and satellite.
• Whether the client is on 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz.

Many Deco X50 users report similar issues resolved by better placement, Ethernet backhaul, or firmware updates.

  @Parzuwu Are you testing ping from Satallite Deco to Main Deco on WiFi ? You can test ping by using ethernet cable on Satellite Deco and then start pinging to Main Deco.

  @Parzuwu 

From what I can see on the forums there is no beta firmware for you to try however, the tp-link staff has access to beta's that I do not have access to. 

@Solla-topee 

Any betas in your bag of tricks? 

  @Parzuwu 

Hi,
I have escalated your case to our tech team, and they will contact you via email to assist you further. Please wait patiently.
Best Regards