Earth Day is here, and this year’s theme is Our Power, Our Planet.

Over time, more and more devices are connecting to home networks, and most routers run 24/7, so even small efficiency tweaks can help reduce wasted energy.

If your Archer, Range Extender, or Deco model supports features like ECO Mode, Transmit Power, or Band Scheduling, LED Control, and Power Scheduling, you may be able to reduce power use during low-activity hours—while keeping your network reliable.

 

But What Do You Think? Which Power-Saving Design Do You Prefer for Your Network?
 

Vote Now on Reddit

 

 What is ECO Mode?

 

On supported models, ECO Mode is designed to reduce energy consumption by lowering device power use when full performance isn’t needed.

Learn More: What is ECO mode, and how do you configure it on Deco?

Deco Tip: Be aware that some Deco features are reliant on all nodes in the network being compatible with the feature.

Where to Find ECO Mode

• On Deco: In the Deco app, ECO Mode is typically found under More > ECO Mode (availability depends on your Deco network and software).
• On Archer Routers: On some routers, ECO Mode can be configured in the web UI (often under an Advanced/System area) or in the Tether app (commonly under More > ECO Mode). 
• On Range Extenders: In the Range Extender's Web UI, you can find most Power Saving Settings under Advanced > System Tools > ECO Mode.
  • Note: Depending on your TP-Link network device, you may be able to make use of additional Power Saving features, like Transmit Power, LED Control, and Power Schedule!
     

ECO Mode Frequently Asked Questions
 

• Will ECO Mode Slow Down my Wi-Fi?

  • Some ECO Mode Settings may slightly reduce performance; choose lighter options (e.g., Balanced Mode) if you want minimal impact.

 

• Why did ECO Mode disappear From my Deco App?
  • ECO Mode can disappear if your Deco Mesh Network includes a Deco unit that doesn’t support it.

 

• Does Using ECO Mode Mean I’m Fully Turning My Wi-Fi Off?
  • Not necessarily. Some ECO implementations focus on lowering power or scheduling specific components (Wi-Fi/LED), while others use preset modes. 

 

 

  Automating Wi‑Fi Bands for Smarter Power Use

If you want to go beyond basic Wi-Fi power saving, Archer Router users can tap into features like automating Wi-Fi bands to balance performance and energy efficiency throughout the day.

 

Not all Wi-Fi bands need to run 24/7. Different bands serve different roles, and keeping high‑performance bands active when they’re not needed can waste power.

 

• 2.4 GHz is ideal for low‑power, always‑on devices like smart plugs and sensors due to its long range and lower energy requirements.
• 5 GHz works well for everyday tasks—work, school, and streaming—when moderate speed and performance are needed.
• 6 GHz delivers peak performance for gaming and high‑bandwidth devices but is best scheduled only when that performance is actually required.

 

Using wireless schedules and ECO Mode together allows your network to scale up during busy hours and scale back automatically during low‑usage periods, reducing unnecessary power draw without impacting daily use. 
 

Want Practical Examples and Sample Schedules for Archer Routers?
Check out the full community post here: Save Power by Scheduling Your Wi‑Fi Bands
 

 

  One-Week ECO Challenge

• Day 1: Turn off LEDs at night
• Day 2: Add a lightweight power-saving schedule 
• Day 3: Adjust Wi-Fi schedule (if it fits your household)
• Day 7: Share what you kept + what you reverted

 

Network Power Saving options don't end with just these features―you can save power on your connected network devices and USB peripherals, too! For tips on how to optimize Power Savings on devices like USB and PCIe Wi-Fi Adapters and USB Hubs/Converters, check out our Knowledge Base Article: Helpful Tips for Saving Power on USB and PCIe Devices