The TP-Link Deco XE75 AXE5400 may not have the most exciting name or visually appealing design, but it packs a punch in terms of performance and affordability. This mesh router system consists of three plain cylindrical units that can easily blend into any home decor. While they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing routers on the market, they make up for it with their impressive features.
Each node of the Deco XE75 AXE5400 is equipped with three gigabit ethernet ports, allowing for easy connectivity to your modem and the option to use ethernet backhaul if needed. This is a luxury feature, as many mesh routers only offer one or two ethernet ports per node. The absence of a 2.5 Gbps port is not a major issue, as it is not commonly used by most users.
One of the standout features of the Deco XE75 AXE5400 is its use of the 6GHz band as backhaul. This band is reserved for backhaul by default, which makes sense considering that not many devices can access it directly yet. However, if you have multiple WiFi 6-enabled devices, you can choose to use the 6GHz band dynamically. The mesh system uses AI-driven technology to learn which devices require faster speeds and prioritizes their connections accordingly.
Setting up the Deco XE75 AXE5400 is a breeze. It only takes about 16 minutes from unboxing to completion. Simply download the companion app, create a TP-Link account, and follow the step-by-step setup process. The app guides you through connecting the first node, configuring any ISP-specific settings, and creating a network name and password. Once the primary node is set up, the app prompts you to turn on the other nodes and wait for them to connect to the mesh. Assigning names to each node based on their location in your home is also a straightforward process.
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While the setup process is seamless, one minor drawback is the length of the power cables for the UK models. The shorter cables may limit where you can place the nodes, particularly if you want to avoid interference by keeping them in visible locations.
In terms of performance, the Deco XE75 AXE5400 delivers excellent speeds and stability. After the initial setup, it takes about 10 minutes for the connection to stabilize. Speeds near the primary node average around 270 Mbps, even in locations two floors away or in signal dead spots. Ping times are consistently low, making for a reliable connection throughout your home.
The Deco app provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily manage your network. The home screen displays your network topography and shows which devices are connected to each node. The level of control within each submenu may not be as deep as some other routers, but it is sufficient for most users. You can change your network name and password, create a Guest Network, assign devices to family members for parental controls, and prioritize devices on the network. However, the app may struggle to identify each device accurately, requiring manual renaming for optimal organization.
Additional features of the Deco XE75 AXE5400 include smart home integrations with TP-Link’s own devices and Philips Hue, as well as Homeshield security features. The Homeshield Basic tier offers security threat scanning and robust parental controls. While some may have objections to certain content filtering options, the overall suite of features available for free is quite impressive.
In conclusion, the TP-Link Deco XE75 AXE5400 may not have the most appealing design, but it offers excellent performance, affordability, and a user-friendly interface. With its easy setup process, reliable connection, and additional features like ethernet ports and AI-driven mesh technology, it is a solid choice for those looking for a powerful yet affordable mesh router system.
