5438 User Manual
5438 User Manual
User Guide
AC1900 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router
REV1.2.0 1910011420
Contents
About This Guide................................................................................................1
FAQ......................................................................................................................91
Specifications................................................................................................. 102
About This Guide
This guide provides details of each function and shows how to configure the router
appropriate to your needs. In addition to this guide, a Quick Installation Guide is also
released with each TP-LINK router, you are suggested to configure your router for quick
Internet setup by following the published Quick Installation Guide before you get
started with a further configuration.
Conventions
In this guide the following conventions are used:
Convention Description
router Stands for AC1900 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router without any explanation.
Parameters provided in the screenshots are just references for setting up the device,
parameters which may differ from the actual situation. You can set the parameters according to
your demand.
The demonstrated screenshots may look a little different from the actual web page of
screenshots your device due to the various firmware versions. Please just configure your product
based on the actual web page.
Blue Italic Hyperlinks are in blue italic. You can click to redirect to a website or a specific section.
Contents to be emphasized and texts on the web page are in blue, including the
Blue
menus, items, buttons, etc.
The menu structures to show the path to load the corresponding page. For example,
> Advanced > Wireless > MAC Filtering means the MAC Filtering function page is under
the Wireless menu that is located in the Advanced tab.
Note: Ignoring this type of note might result in a malfunction or damage to the device.
Tips: Indicates important information that helps you make better use of your device.
1
Chapter 1
1. 1. Product Overview
What This Product Does
The Archer C9 AC1900 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router integrates 4-port Switch,
Firewall, NAT-router and Wireless AP. Powered by 3x3 MIMO technology, the AC1900
Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router delivers exceptional range and speed, which can fully
meet the need of Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) networks and the users demanding
higher networking performance. Your wireless connections are radio band selectable
to avoid interference in your area, and the four built-in Gigabit ports supply high-speed
connection to your wired devices.
Incredible Speed
The Archer C9 AC1900 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router provides up to 1900Mbps
wireless connection with other wireless clients. The incredible speed makes it ideal for
handling multiple data streams at the same time, which ensures your network stable and
smooth. The performance of this 802.11ac wireless router will give you the unexpected
networking experience at speed much faster than 802.11n. It is also compatible with all
IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g products.
Guest Network
Guest Network Access provides secure Wi-Fi access for guests sharing your home or
office network in a controlled manner without exposing private Wi-Fi access codes or
other personal data.
IPv6 Supported
Archer C9 supports IPv6, which is the foundation of the next generation of the Internet
and enables a range of new services and improved user experience.
3
Chapter 1 Get to Know About Your Router
Tether APP
TP-LINK Tether provides the easiest way to access and manage your router with your
devices.
Simple Installation
Since the router is compatible with virtually all the major operating systems, it is very
easy to manage. Quick Setup Wizard is supported and detailed instructions are provided
step by step in this user guide. Before installing the router, please look through this
guide to know all the router’s functions.
1. 2. Main Features
Wireless and Wired Performance
• Complies with IEEE 802.11ac
• One 10/100/1000M Auto-Negotiation RJ45 Internet port, four 10/100/1000M Auto-
Negotiation RJ45 Ethernet ports, supporting Auto MDI/MDIX
• Provides a USB 3.0 port and a USB 2.0 port supporting file sharing and print server
• Provides WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK authentication, TKIP/AES encryption
security
• Shares data and Internet access for users, supporting Dynamic IP/Static IP/PPPoE/
PPTP/ L2TP Internet access
• Supports simultaneous 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections for 1900Mbps of total available
bandwidth
• Supports Virtual Server, Special Application and DMZ host
• Supports UPnP, Dynamic DNS, Static Routing
• Provides Automatic-connection and Scheduled Connection on certain time to the
Internet
• Built-in NAT and DHCP server supporting static IP address distributing
• Supports Parental Control and Access Control
• Connects Internet on demand and disconnects from the Internet when idle for PPPoE
• Provides WEP encryption security and wireless LAN ACL (Access Control List)
• Supports Flow Statistics
• Supports IPv6
• Supports firmware upgrade and Web management
4
Chapter 1 Get to Know About Your Router
1. 3. Panel Layout
The router’s LEDs are located on the front panel (View from left to right).You can check
the router’s working status by following the LED Explanation table.
LED Explanation
5
Chapter 1 Get to Know About Your Router
LED Explanation
(Internet) Orange The Internet port is connected, but the Internet is inaccessible.
Off The Internet port isn’t connected, and the Internet is inaccessible.
(USB 1) Flashing The router is identifying the device connected to the USB 2.0 port.
(USB 2) Flashing The router is identifying the device connected to the USB 3.0 port.
Note:
After a device is successfully added to the network by WPS function, the WPS LED will keep on for about 5 minutes
and then turn off.
6
Chapter 1 Get to Know About Your Router
US
B
3.0
The following parts are located on the back panel (View from left to right).Refer to the
following for detailed instructions.
Item Description
USB 2.0 The USB 2.0 port connects to a USB 2.0 storage device or a USB 2.0 printer.
Pressing this button for less than 5 seconds enables the WPS function. If your
client devices, such as wireless adapters, that support Wi-Fi Protected Setup, then
you can press this button to quickly establish a connection between the router
and client devices and automatically configure wireless security for your wireless
Reset/WPS network.
Pressing this button for more than 5 seconds enables the Reset function. With
the router powered on, press and hold the Reset/WPS button for approximately 8
seconds. And then release the button and wait the router to reboot to its factory
default settings.
Internet This port is where you will connect the DSL/cable Modem, or Ethernet.
7
Chapter 1 Get to Know About Your Router
Item Description
Ethernet (1, 2, 3, 4) These ports (1, 2, 3, 4) connect the router to the local PC(s).
The Power socket is where you will connect the power adapter. Please use the
Power
power adapter provided.
The following parts are located on the side panel (View from top to bottom).
Item Description
WiFi The button for the wireless function.
USB 3.0 The USB 3.0 port connects to a USB 3.0 storage device or a USB 3.0 printer.
8
Chapter 2
Power adapter
Archer C9
4 Turn on the Archer C9.
Internet
1 Turn off the modem,
and remove the backup
battery if it has one.
1 ) Turn off the modem, and remove the backup battery if it has one.
10
Chapter 2 Connect the Hardware
2 ) Connect the modem to the Internet port on your Archer C9 with an Ethernet
cable.
3 ) Turn on the modem, and then wait about 2 minutes for it to restart.
4 ) Turn on the router.
5 ) Verify that the following LEDs are on and solid before continuing with the
configuration.
Note:
If the 2.4G LED and 5G LED are off, please press the WiFi button on the side panel for about 2 seconds.
And 5 seconds later check the LEDs again.
Ethernet cable
• Method 2: Wirelessly
Use the default wireless network name (SSID) and password printed on the product
label on the rear panel of the Archer C9 to connect wirelessly.
Model: C9 IC:8853A-C9
Power: 12V 3.3A FCC ID:TE7C9
Default Access:
AC1900 Wireless Dual http://tplinkwifi.net This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions:(1) This device may not cause
Band Gigabit Router Username: admin harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
Password: admin received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
11
Chapter 2 Connect the Hardware
.PEFM$ IC:8853A-C9
1PXFS7" FCC ID:TE7C9
%FGBVMU"DDFTT
"$8JSFMFTT%VBM IUUQUQMJOLXJGJOFU This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
6TFSOBNFBENJO subject to the following two conditions:(1) This device may not cause
#BOE(JHBCJU3PVUFS harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
1BTTXPSEBENJO received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
close
12
Chapter 3
With a Web-based utility, it is easy to configure and manage the rouer. The Web-based
utility can be used on any Windows, Macintosh or UNIX OS with a Web browser, such as
Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox or Apple Safari.
Follow the steps below to log into your router.
1. Set up the TCP/IP Protocol in Obtain an IP address automatically mode on your
computer.
2. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and password you set for the
router.
Note:
If the login window does not appear, please refer to FAQ > Q3. I cannot login to the router’s web management page,
what can I do?
14
Chapter 4
Set Up Internet
Connections
This chapter introduces how to connect your router to the Internet. The router is
equipped with a web-based Quick Setup wizard. It has many ISP information built
in, automates many of the steps and verifies that those steps have been successfully
completed. Furthermore, you can also set up an IPv6 connection if your ISP provided
IPv6 service.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Quick Setup
• Manually Configure Your Internet Connection Settings
• Setting Up an IPv6 Internet Connection
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
4. 1. Quick Setup
The Quick Setup Wizard will guide you through the process to set up your router to
access the Internet.
Tips:
If you need the IPv6 Internet connection, please refer to the section of 4. 3. Setting Up an IPv6 Internet Connection.
Follow the steps below to set up your router to access the Internet.
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the password you set for the router.
2. Go to Quick Setup on the top of the page.
3. Select your Region and Time Zone from the drop-down list and click Next.
Note:
Per FCC regulations, all Wi-Fi products marketed in the U.S. must be fixed to the U.S. region only.
4. Click Auto Detect and the router will detect your connection type automatically.
Note:
You can also choose the connection type manually. If you use DSL line and you are only provided an account name
and a password by your ISP, choose PPPoE. If you use cable TV or fiber cable, choose Dynamic IP. If you are provided
more information such as IP address, Subnet Mask and Default Gateway, choose Static IP. Contact your ISP if you are
not sure about the Internet connection information.
5. In this case, the router automatically detects Dynamic IP as the connection type.
Click Next.
16
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
6. Follow the instructions on the page to decide whether to clone MAC Address. Click
Next.
Note:
1. You may customize your 2.4GHz/5GHz SSID and password. Once done, the wireless connection will disconnect
automatically, and you must then use the new SSID/password to regain access to the Internet.
2. Tick Hide SSID if you want to hide this wireless network name.
17
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
9. Click Test Internet Connection.If you successfully connect to the Internet, the screen
will display as follows.
10. Now your computer and WiFi device can connect to the Internet!
Tips:
You can connect your computer to the router’s LAN port using an Ethernet cable to join the local area network. You
can also find and select the wireless network name on your WiFi device to join the WiFi network.
18
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
Follow the steps below to check or modify your Internet connection settings.
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the password you set for the router.
2. Go to Basic > Internet on the left to enter the setting page.
3. Select your Internet connection type from the drop-down list.
Note:
If you are unsure what your connection type is, click Auto Detect. Since different connection types need different
cables and connection information, you can also refer to the demonstrations in Step 4 to judge your connection
type.
4. Follow the instructions on the page to continue the configuration. Parameters on the
figures are just used for demonstration.
1 ) If you choose Dynamic IP, you need to select whether to clone the MAC address.
Dynamic IP users are usually equipped with cable TV or fiber cable.
2 ) If you choose Static IP, enter the information provided by your ISP in the
corresponding fields.
19
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
3 ) If you choose PPPoE, enter the username and password provided by your ISP.
PPPoE users usually have DSL cable.
4 ) If you choose L2TP, enter the username and password and choose the Secondary
Connection provided by your ISP. Different parameters are needed according
to the Secondary Connection.
20
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
5 ) If you choose PPTP, enter the username, password and choose the Secondary
Connection provided by your ISP. Different parameters are needed according
to the Secondary Connection.
5. Click Save to make the settings take effect. To check your Internet connection, click
Network Map on the left of the page.
Note:
It may take 1-2 minutes to make the settings valid.
6. After the connection succeed, the screen will display as follows. Here we take PPPoE
as an example.
21
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
Tips:
1. If your Internet connection type is Bigpond Cable, please go to Advanced > Network > Internet.
2. If you use Dynamic IP and PPPoE and you are provided any other parameters that are not required on the page,
please go to Advanced > Network > Internet to complete the configuration.
3. If you still cannot connect to the Internet, refer to FAQ for further instructions.
22
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
Tips:
If you do not know what your Internet connection type is, contact your ISP or judge according to already known
information provided by your ISP.
23
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
3 ) PPPoE: Fill in the Username and Password. Click Advanced to have more
configuration if ISP requires. Click Save to save the settings and then click
Connect to finish the configuration.
24
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
25
Chapter 4 Set Up Internet Connections
5. Configure LAN ports. Windows users are recommended to choose from the first two
types. Fill in Address Prefix provided by ISP, and click Save to save the settings.
Tips:
Find Help on the management interface to know more about items.
6. Click Status to check whether you succeed or not. The following figure is an example
of a successful PPPoE configuration.
Tips:
Visit FAQ if there is no Internet connection.
26
Chapter 5
Guest Network
This function allows you to provide Wi-Fi access for guests without disclosing your
main network. When you have guests in your house, apartment, or workplace, you can
create a guest network for them. In addition, you can limit the network authorities for
guests to ensure network security and privacy.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Create Guest Network
• Customize Guest Network Options
Chapter 5 Guest Network
4. Click Save. Now your guests can access your guest network using the SSID and
password you set!
Tips:
To view guest network information, go to Advanced > Status and find the Guest Network section.
28
Chapter 5 Guest Network
29
Chapter 6
USB Application
This chapter describes how to share and access USB devices connected to the router
among different clients.
The router only supports USB external flash drives, hard drives and USB printers, and
does not support USB 3G/4G modems.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Local Storage Sharing
• Remote Access via FTP Server
• Media Sharing
• Printer Sharing
Chapter 6 USB Application
Tips:
You can also access all folders by using your Network/Media Server Name. Refer to To Customize the Address of
the USB Disk to learn more.
31
Chapter 6 USB Application
2. Go to Basic or Advanced > USB Settings > Sharing Access. Focus on the Folder Sharing
section. Click the button to disable Share All, then click Add to add a new sharing
folder.
3. Select the Volume Name and Folder Path, then enter a Folder Name as you like.
4. Decide the way you share the folder:
• Allow Guest Network Access: If you select this check box, guest network can
access to the this folder.
• Enable Authentication: Select to enable authentication for this folder sharing,
and you will be required to use a username and password to access the USB
disk. Refer to To Set up Authentication for Data Security to learn more.
• Enable Write Access: If you select this check box, network clients can modify
this folder.
• Enable Media Sharing: Select to enable media sharing for this folder, and you
can view photos, play music and watch movies stored on the USB disk directly
from DLNA-supported devices. Click Media Sharing to learn more.
5. Click OK.
Tips:
The router can share 32 volumes at most. You can click on the page to detach the corresponding volume you do
not need to share.
32
Chapter 6 USB Application
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, then log in with the username and password you set for the
router.
2. Go to Advanced > USB Settings > Sharing Access. Focus on the Sharing Account section.
3. Choose to use the default Account (admin) or use a new account and click Save.
4. Enable Authentication to apply the account you just set.
• If you leave Share All enabled, click the button to enable Authentication for all
folders.
33
Chapter 6 USB Application
4. Now you can access the USB disk with \\My-Share (smb://My-Share for Mac).
34
Chapter 6 USB Application
1 ) Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, then log in with the username and password you set
for the router.
2 ) Go to Advanced > USB Settings > Sharing Access.
3 ) Choose to Use default Account (admin) or Use New Account and click Save.
Now different clients with Internet connection can access the USB disk:
• To download, open a web browser and type the server address ftp://<WAN
IP address of the router>:<port number> (such as ftp://59.40.2.243:21),
or if you set up a domain name for your router you can type the server
Computer address ftp://<domain name of the router>:<port number> (such as ftp://
MyDomainName:21) in the address bar, then press Enter on the keyboard.
• To upload, use a third-party app for network files management.
Tips:
Go to 11. 4. Set Up a Dynamic DNS Service Account to learn how to set up a domain name for you router.
36
Chapter 6 USB Application
5. Click OK.
Tips:
The router can share 32 volumes at most. You can click on the page to detach the corresponding volume you do
not need to share.
6. 3. Media Sharing
The feature of Media Sharing allows you to view photos, play music and watch movies
stored on the USB disk directly from DLNA-supported devices, such as your computer,
pad and PS2/3.
37
Chapter 6 USB Application
Now the DLNA-supported devices (such as your computer and pad) connected to
the router can detect and play the media files on the USB disks.
1. Open the Windows Media Player.
2. Click the media server name (such as Genie Media Severs) under the list of Other
Libraries, then you can directly view photos, play music and watch movies that
you share on the USB disks.
Windows
computer
38
Chapter 6 USB Application
Tips:
The router can share 32 volumes at most. You can click on the page to detach the corresponding volume you do
not need to share.
6. 4. Printer Sharing
The feature of Printer Sharing helps you share a printer with different computers
connected to the router.
Note:
Printers unlisted may be incompatible with the router. You can check Printer Compatibility List to verify whether
your printer is supported by the router: http://www.tp-link.com/common/compatible/print-server/.
39
Chapter 6 USB Application
1 ) Double-click the icon on your desktop to launch the USB Printer Controller.
2 ) Highlight the printer you share.
Windows
Mac
3 ) Click the Auto-Connect for printing tab to pull down a list, then select Set Auto-
Connect Printer.
40
Chapter 6 USB Application
Windows
Mac
4 ) Select the printer you share, then click Apply.
Windows
41
Chapter 6 USB Application
Mac
5 ) You will see the printer marked as Auto-Connect Printer. Now you can print
with this printer.
Windows
Mac
Tips:
The Print Server also allows different clients to share the scan feature of MFPs (Multi-Function Printers). To
scan with TP-LINK USB Printer Controller, right-click the printer and select Network Scanner. Then, a scanning
window will pop up. Finish the scanning process by following the on-screen instructions.
42
Chapter 7
Parental Controls
This function allows you to block inappropriate, explicit and malicious websites, and
controls access to specified websites at specified time.
Chapter 7 Parental Controls
How can I 1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and
do that? password you set for the router.
2. Go to Basic or Advanced > Parental Controls and enable
Parental Controls.
3. Click Add. And then Click View Existing Devices, and select
the access device. Or, input the Device Name and MAC
Address manually.
44
Chapter 7 Parental Controls
4. Click the icon to set the Internet Access Time. Drag the
cursor over the appropriate cell(s) and click OK.
5. Enter a Description for the entry. Keep the Enable This Entry
checkbox available. Click OK.
45
Chapter 7 Parental Controls
46
Chapter 7 Parental Controls
Done! Now you can control your children’s Internet access according
to your needs.
47
Chapter 8
QoS
This chapter introduces how to create a QoS rule to specify prioritization of traffic and
minimize the impact caused when the connection is under heavy load.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Prioritize Internet Traffic with Quality of Service
• Update the Database
Chapter 8 QoS
b . Deselect Enable NAT Boost and click Save, then click OK on the prompt
window.
49
Chapter 8 QoS
7 ) Click Save.
50
Chapter 8 QoS
Tips:
If your application isn’t listed on the screen, click Custom Application to add
application manually.
51
Chapter 8 QoS
c . Click OK.
52
Chapter 8 QoS
Tips: If you want to delete a QoS rule, click to remove the responding rule from
the list.
53
Chapter 9
Network Security
This chapter guides you on how to protect your home network from cyber attacks
and unauthorized users by implementing these three network security functions. You
can protect your home network against DoS (Denial of Service) attacks from flooding
your network with server requests using DoS Protection, block or allow specific client
devices to access your network using Access Control, or you can prevent ARP spoofing
and ARP attacks using IP & MAC Binding function.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Protect the Network from Cyber Attacks
• Access Control
• IP & MAC Binding
Chapter 9 Network Security
5. Select Ignore Ping Packet From WAN Port if you want to ignore the ping packets
from WAN port.
6. Select Forbid Ping Packet From LAN Port if you want to ignore the ping packets
from LAN port.
7. Click Save to make the settings effective.
9. 2. Access Control
Access Control is used to block or allow specific client devices to access your network
(via wired or wireless) based on a list of blocked devices (Blacklist) or a list of allowed
devices (Whitelist).
I want to: Block or allow specific client devices to access my network (via
wired or wireless).
How can I 1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and
do that? password you set for the router.
2. Go to Advanced > Security > Access Control.
56
Chapter 9 Network Security
57
Chapter 9 Network Security
3 ) Enter the Device Name and MAC Address (You can copy
and paste the information from the following list if the
device is connected to your network).
4 ) Click OK.
Done! Now you can block or allow specific client devices to access your
network (via wired or wireless) using the Blacklist or Whitelist.
How can I 1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and
do that? password you set for the router.
2. Go to Advanced > Security > IP & MAC Binding.
3. Enable IP & MAC Binding.
58
Chapter 9 Network Security
59
Chapter 10
NAT Forwarding
Router’s NAT (Network Address Translation) feature makes the devices in the LAN use
the same public IP address to communicate in the Internet, which protect the local
network by hiding IP addresses of the devices. However, it also brings about the
problem that external host cannot initiatively communicate with the specified device
in the local network.
With forwarding feature the router can penetrate the isolation of NAT and allows the
external hosts in the Internet to initiatively communicate with the devices in the local
network, thus to realize some special functions.
TP-LINK router includes four forwarding rules. If two or more rules are set, the priority
of implementation from high to low is Virtual Servers, Port Triggering, UPNP and DMZ.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Share Local Resources in the Internet by Virtual Server
• Open Ports Dynamically by Port Triggering
• Make Applications Free from Port Restriction by DMZ
• Make Xbox Online Games Run Smoothly by UPnP
Chapter 10 NAT Forwarding
I want to: Share my personal website I’ve built in local network with my
friends through the Internet.
For example, the personal website has been built in my home
PC (192.168.0.100). I hope that my friends in the Internet can
visit my website in some way. The PC is connected to the router
with the WAN IP address 218.18.232.154.
Personal Website
Router
Home
61
Chapter 10 NAT Forwarding
Tips:
1. It is recommended to keep the default settings of Internal Port and Protocol if you
are not clear about which port and protocol to use.
2. If the service you want to use is not in the Service Type, you can enter the
corresponding parameters manually. You should verify the port number that the
service need.
3. You can add multiple virtual server rules if you want to provide several services in
a router. Please note that the External Port should not be overlapped.
Done! Users in the Internet can enter http:// WAN IP (in this example:
http:// 218.18.232.154) to visit your personal website.
Note:
Your configurations will not take effect if NAT function is disabled. Then you should
go to Advanced > System Tools > System Parameters page to enable NAT.
Tips:
1. WAN IP should be a public IP address. For the WAN IP is assigned dynamically by
ISP, it is recommended to apply and register a domain name for the WAN refer to
11. 4. Set Up a Dynamic DNS Service Account. Then you can use http:// domain name
to visit the website.
2. If you have changed the default External Port, you should use http:// WAN IP:
External Port or http:// domain name: External Port to visit the website.
62
Chapter 10 NAT Forwarding
Note:
Your configurations will not take effect if NAT function is disabled. Then you should go to Advanced > System Tools >
System Parameters page to enable NAT.
Tips:
1. You can add multiple port triggering rules according to your network need.
2. The triggering ports can not be overlapped.
3. If the application you need is not listed in the Existing Applications list, please enter the parameters manually.
You should verify the external ports the application uses first and enter them into External Port field according
to the format the page displays.
63
Chapter 10 NAT Forwarding
applications, such as IP camera and database software, you can set the PC to be a DMZ
host.
Note:
DMZ is more applicable in the situation that users are not clear about which ports to open. When it is enabled, the
DMZ host is totally exposed to the Internet, which may bring some potential safety hazard. If DMZ is not in use,
please disable it in time.
I want to: Make the home PC join the Internet online game without port
restriction.
For example, due to some port restriction, when playing the
online games, you can login normally but cannot join a team
with other players. To solve this problem, set your PC as a DMZ
with all ports opened.
seamless connection of the network. You may need to enable the UPnP if you want
to use applications for multiplayer gaming, peer-to-peer connections, real-time
communication (such as VoIP or telephone conference) or remote assistance, etc.
Tips:
1. UPnP is enabled by default in this router.
2. Only the application supporting UPnP protocol can use this feature.
3. UPnP feature needs the support of operating system (e.g. Windows Vista/ Windows 7/ Windows 8, etc. Some of
operating system need to install the UPnP components).
For example, when you connect your Xbox to the router which has connected to
the Internet to play online games, UPnP will send request to the router to open the
corresponding ports allowing the following data penetrating the NAT to transmit.
Therefore, you can play Xbox online games without a hitch.
LAN WAN
Xbox Router
If necessary, you can follow the steps to change the status of UPnP.
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and password you set for the
router;
2. Go to Advanced > NAT Forwarding > UPnP and toggle on or off according to your
needs.
Note:
Your configurations will not take effect if NAT function is disabled. Then you should go to Advanced > System Tools >
System Parameters page to enable NAT.
65
Chapter 11
I want to: Configure IPTV setup to enable Internet /IPTV /Phone service
provided by my Internet Service Provider (ISP).
How can 1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and
I do that? password you set for the router.
2. Go to Advanced > Network > IPTV to open the configuration
page.
3. If your ISP provide the networking service based on IGMP
technology, e.g., British Telecom(BT) and Talk Talk in UK:
1 ) Select the IGMP Proxy checkbox and select the IGMP
Version, either V2 or V3, according to information
provided by your ISP.
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Chapter 11 Customize Your Network Settings
2 ) Click Save.
3 ) After configuring IGMP proxy, IPTV can work behind your
router now. You can connect your set-top box to any of
the router’s LAN port.
If IGMP is not the technology your ISP apply to provide
IPTV service:
1 ) Select the Enable IPTV check box.
2 ) Select the appropriate Mode according to your ISP. Select
Bridge if your ISP is not listed and no other parameters
are required, and then skip to Step 4. Select Custom if
your ISP is not listed but provides necessary parameters.
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Chapter 11 Customize Your Network Settings
2. Click View Exsiting Devices or enter the MAC address of the client device.
3. Enter the IP address to set to the client device.
4. Enter the Description for the rule.
5. Select the Enable This Entry checkbox.
6. Click OK.
The IP address reservation is configured successfully, and you can see the rule shown
as below.
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Chapter 11 Customize Your Network Settings
4. Enter the username, password and domain name of the account (such as lisadns.
ddns.net).
5. Click Login and Save.
Tips:
If you want to use a new DDNS account, please Logout first, then login with the new account.
I want to: Visit multiple networks and multiple servers at the same time.
For example, in a small office, my PC can surf the Internet, but I
also want to visit my company’s network. Now I have a switch and
another router. I connect the devices as shown in the following
figure so that the physical connection between my PC and my
company’s server is achieved. To surf the Internet and visit my
company’s network at the same time, I need to configure the
static routing.
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Chapter 11 Customize Your Network Settings
Router 1 Router 2 PC 1
WAN: 172.30.30.100
PC 2
192.168.0.100
7. Check the System Routing Table below. If you can find the
entry you set in the System Routing Table, the static routing
is set successfully.
Done! Open a web browser on your PC. Enter the company server’s IP
address to visit the company network.
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Chapter 11 Customize Your Network Settings
¾¾ To change the wireless network name (SSID) and wireless password of 2.4GHz
or 5GHz:
Create a new SSID in Wireless Network Name (SSID) and customize the password for the
network in Password. The default SSID is TP-LINK_XXXX for 2.4GHz, TP-LINK_XXXX_5G
for 5GHz, and the value is case-sensitive.
Note:
If you use a wireless device to change the wireless settings, you will be disconnected when the settings are effective.
Please write down the new SSID and password for future use.
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Chapter 11 Customize Your Network Settings
Note:
1. If you want to enable/disable the WPS feature, go to System Tools > System Parameters > WPS, select or clear the
Enable WPS check box.
2. PIN (Personal Identification Number) is an eight-character identification number preset to each router. WPS
supported devices can connect to your router with the PIN. The default PIN is labeled on the bottom of the router.
2. Success will appear on the above screen and the WPS LED on the router will keep on
for five minutes if the client has been successfully added to the network.
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Chapter 12
This chapter will show you the configuration for managing and maintaining your router.
This chapter includes the following sections:
• Set Up System Time
• Test the Network Connectivity
• Upgrade the Firmware
• Backup and Restore Configuration Settings
• Change the Administrator Account
• Password Recovery
• Local Management
• Remote Management
• System Log
• Monitor the Internet Traffic Statistics
Chapter 12 Manage the Router
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
2. Select the correct Start date and time when daylight saving time starts at your local
time zone.
3. Select the correct End date and time when daylight saving time ends at your local
time zone.
4. Click Save to make the settings effective.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
The figure below indicates the proper connection between the router and the Yahoo
server (www.Yahoo.com) tested through Ping.
The figure below indicates the proper connection between the router and the Yahoo
server (www.Yahoo.com) tested through Traceroute.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
2. We strongly recommend you backup the current configuration settings before resetting the router.
3. Enter the old username and old password. Enter the new username and enter the
new password twice (both case-sensitive). Click Save.
Use the new username and password for the following logins.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
3 ) Click View Existing Devices and select the device to manage the router from
the Existing Devices list, or enter the MAC address of the device manually.
4 ) Specify a Description for this entry.
5 ) Select the Enable This Entry checkbox.
6 ) Click OK to make the settings effective.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
Devices using this WAN IP can manage the router by logging in to http://Router’s WAN
IP:port number (such as http://113.116.60.229:1024).
Tips:
The router’s WAN IP is usually a dynamic IP. Please refer to 11. 4. Set Up a Dynamic DNS Service Account if you want to
log in to the router through a domain name.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
1 ) From: Enter the email address used to send the system log.
2 ) To: Enter the recipient’s email address, which can be the same to or different
from the sender’s email address.
3 ) SMTP Server: Enter the SMTP server address.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
Tips: SMTP server is available for users in most webmail systems. For example, the SMTP server address of
Hotmail is smtp-mail.outlook.com. You can refer to their Help page to learn the SMTP server address.
5 ) Username: Enter the email address used to send the system log.
6 ) Password: Enter the password to login the sender’s email address.
7 ) Select Enable Auto Mail.
Tips: The router will send the system log to the designated email address if this option is enabled.
8 ) Set a fixed time. The recipient will receive the system log sent at this time every
day.
5. Click Save.
b. Deselect Enable NAT Boost and click Save, then click OK on the prompt window.
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Chapter 12 Manage the Router
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FAQ
Q1. What can I do if I forgot my wireless password?
The default password is labeled at the back of the router. If the password has been
altered, please connect the router to the computer using a cable and follow the steps
below:
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and password you set for the
router.
2. Go to Advanced >Basic > Wireless, locate the password on the loading page, and mark
down your new password for future use.
Q2. How to retrieve the username and password of the web management
page?
The default username and password of the web management page are admin (in lower
case). If the password has been altered, please follow the steps below:
If you have altered the login username and password, and Password Recovery is
enabled:
Note: Ensure the Internet access is available before using this method.
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net;
2. Click Forget password > Send Code, the verification code will be sent to the mailbox
you set when enabling Password Recovery;
3. Login to your mailbox to copy the verification code;
4. Paste the verification code on the window which pops up in Step 2;
5. Click Confirm (the login username and password will be reset as admin after the
click);
6. Enter admin (in lower case) as both username and password to login.
Tips: Please refer to 12. 6. Password Recovery to learn how to configure Password Recovery.
If you have altered the username and password but Password Recovery is disabled:
1. Reset the router to factory default settings: Press and hold the Reset button for at
least 10 seconds and then release;
2. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net;
3. Enter admin (in lower case) as both username and password to login.
Note: You’ll need to reconfigure the router to surf the Internet once the router is reset, and please mark down your
new password for future use.
Q3. I cannot login to the router’s web management page, what can I do?
This can happen for a variety of reasons, please try the methods below and try again.
91
1. Make sure the router connects to the computer correctly and the corresponding LED
indicator(s) light up.
2. Make sure the IP address of your computer is configured as Obtain an IP address
automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
3. Make sure the http://tplinkwifi.net you input is right.
4. Check your computer’s settings:
1 ) Go to Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet, and click View network status
and tasks;
2 ) Click Internet Options on the bottom left;
3 ) Click Connections, select Never dial a connection;
4 ) Click LAN settings, deselect the following three options and click OK;
92
5 ) Go to Advanced > Restore advanced settings, click OK to save the settings.
93
Open a web browser and login again. If login still fails, please contact the technical
support.
1. Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and password you set for the
router.
2. Configure the IP address of the router:
1 ) Go to Advanced >Network > LAN, configure the IP address of the extended
router to be in the same subnet with the root router; (For example, the IP
address of the root router is 192.168.0.1, the IP address of the extended router
can be 192.168.0.2~192.168.0.254. We take 192.168.0.2 as example.)
2 ) Click Save.
Note: Login to the web management page again if the IP address of the router is altered.
94
4. Disable DHCP:
1 ) Go to Network > DHCP Server;
2 ) Deselect Enable DHCP Server;
3 ) Click Save.
Now you can login to the web management page, click Advanced > Status > Wireless
to check the WDS status. When the WDS status is Run, it means WDS bridging is
successfully built.
95
1. Your computer might not recognize any DNS server addresses, please manually
configure DNS server.
1 ) Go to Advanced > Network > DHCP Server;
2 ) Enter 8.8.8.8 as Primary DNS, click Save.
Tips: 8.8.8.8 is a safe and public DNS server operated by Google.
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Note: You’ll have to reconfigure the router to access the Internet once the router is reset.
1 ) Reset the router to factory default settings: press and hold the RESET button for
at least 10 seconds and then release;
2 ) Reconfigure the router with the help of 4. 1. Quick Setup.
4. Please refer to 12. 3. Upgrade the Firmware to upgrade the firmware of the router.
As the follow picture shows, if the IP Address is 0.0.0.0, please try the methods below
and try again:
97
Tips:
• Some ISP will register the MAC address of your computer when you access the Internet for the first time
through their Cable modem, if you add a router into your network to share your Internet connection, the
ISP will not accept it as the MAC address is changed, so we need to clone your computer’s MAC address to
the router.
• The MAC addresses of a computer in wired connection and wireless connection are different.
1 ) Visit http://tplinkwifi.net, and log in with the username and password you set
for the router;
2 ) Go to Advanced > Network > LAN;
3 ) Modify the LAN IP address as the follow picture shows. Here we take 192.168.2.1
as an example;
4 ) Click Save.
100
If you can find your wireless network but fail to connect, please follow the steps
below:
• Authenticating problem, password mismatch:
1. Sometimes it will ask you to type in a PIN number when you connect to the wireless
network for the first time. This PIN number is different from the Wireless Password/
Network Security Key, usually you can only find it on the back of your wireless router;
2. If you cannot find the PIN or PIN failed, you may choose Connecting using a security
key instead, and then type in the Wireless Password/Network Security Key;
3. If it continues on saying Network Security Key Mismatch, it is suggested to confirm
the wireless password of your wireless router;
Note: Wireless Password/Network Security Key is case sensitive.
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Specifications
General
IEEE 802.11ac, IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11e,
Standards
IEEE 802.11i, IEEE 802.1X, IEEE 802.3X, IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3ab
Protocols TCP/IP, PPPoE, DHCP, ICMP, NAT, SNTP
1 10/100/1000M Auto-Negotiation Internet RJ45 port;
Ports 4 10/100/1000M Auto-Negotiation Ethernet RJ45 ports supporting Auto MDI/MDIX;
2 USB ports supporting storage/FTP/Media/Print Server;
10BASE-T: UTP category 3, 4, 5 cable (maximum 100m)
EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (maximum 100m)
100BASE-TX: UTP category 5, 5e cable (maximum 100m)
Cabling Type
EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (maximum 100m)
1000BASE-TX: UTP category 5, 5e cable (maximum 100m)
EIA/TIA-568 100Ω STP (maximum 100m)
Wireless
Frequency Band* 2.4GHz, 5GHz
11b: 1/2/5.5/11Mbps
11a/g: 6/9/12/18/24/36/48/54Mbps
Radio Data Rate
11n: up to 450Mbps
11ac: up to 1.3Gbps
Frequency Expansion DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum)
11ac: 256-QAM for OFDM
Modulation 11n/g/a: QPSK,BPSK,16-QAM, 64-QAM for OFDM
11b: CCK,DQPSK,DBPSK
Security WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA2-PSK/WPA-PSK
5G: 11a 6Mbps: -92dBm;11a 54Mbps: -74dBm;11ac HT20: -66dBm;11ac HT40:
Sensitivity -62dBm;11ac HT80: -59dBm;
2.4G:11b 1M: -96dBm;11g 54M: -73dBm;11n HT20: -70dBm;11n HT40: -67dBm;
* Only 2.412GHz~2.462GHz is allowed to be used in USA, which means only channel 1~11 is available for American
users to choose.
102
COPYRIGHT & TRADEMARKS
Specifications are subject to change without notice. is a registered trademark
of TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. Other brands and product names are trademarks
or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
No part of the specifications may be reproduced in any form or by any means or
used to make any derivative such as translation, transformation, or adaptation
without permission from TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. Copyright © 2015 TP-LINK
TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. All rights reserved.
103
FCC STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
1 ) This device may not cause harmful interference.
2 ) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Note: The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or TV interference caused by
unauthorized modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
104
CE Mark Warning
This is a class B product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio
interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
National Restrictions
This device is intended for home and office use in all EU countries (and other countries
following the EU directive 1999/5/EC) without any limitation except for the countries
mentioned below:
Country Restriction Reason/remark
Bulgaria None General authorization required for outdoor use and public service
Outdoor use limited
Military Radiolocation use. Refarming of the 2.4 GHz band has been
to 10 mW e.i.r.p.
France ongoing in recent years to allow current relaxed regulation. Full
within the band
implementation planned 2012
2454-2483.5 MHz
Italy None If used outside of own premises, general authorization is required
5150-5250 MHz
Country Restriction Reason/remark
Bulgaria Not implemented Planned
Military Radiolocation use. Refarming of the 2.4 GHz band has been
Croatia License required ongoing in recent years to allow current relaxed regulation. Full
implementation planned 2012
Italy General authorization required if used outside own premises
General authorization required for network and service supply (not for
Luxembourg None
spectrum)
Russian Federation No info
5250-5350 MHz
Country Restriction Reason/remark
Bulgaria Not implemented Planned
Croatia License required
Italy General authorization required if used outside own premises
General authorization required for network and service supply (not for
Luxembourg None
spectrum)
Russian Federation No info
105
5470-5725MHz
Country Restriction Reason/remark
Bulgaria Not implemented Planned
Relevant+ provisions for the implementation of DFS mechanism
France
described in ETSI standard EN 301 893 V1.3.1 and subsequent versions
Italy General authorization required if used outside own premises
General authorization required for network and service supply (not for
Luxembourg None
spectrum)
Russian Federation No info
Turkey Not implemented Defence systems
106
Korea Warning Statements:
당해 무선설비는 운용중 전파혼신 가능성이 있음.
Safety Information
• When product has power button, the power button is one of the way to shut off the
product; when there is no power button, the only way to completely shut off power
is to disconnect the product or the power adapter from the power source.
107
• Don’t disassemble the product, or make repairs yourself. You run the risk of electric
shock and voiding the limited warranty. If you need service, please contact us.
• Avoid water and wet locations.
This product can be used in the following countries:
AT BG BY CA CZ DE DK EE
ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IT
LT LV MT NL NO PL PT RO
RU SE SK TR UA US
108
TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
For the following equipment:
Product Description: AC1900 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router
Model No.: Archer C9
Trademark: TP-LINK
We declare under our own responsibility that the above products satisfy all the technical regulations
applicable to the product within the scope of Council Directives:
Directives 1999/5/EC, Directives 2004/108/EC, Directives 2006/95/EC, Directives 1999/519/EC,
Directives 2011/65/EU
The above product is in conformity with the following standards or other normative documents
EN 300 328 V1.8.1
EN 301 489-1 V1.9.2 & EN 301 489-17 V2.2.1
EN 55022: 2010 + AC: 2011
EN 55024: 2010
EN 60950-1: 2006 + A11: 2009 + A1: 2010 + A12: 2011 + A2: 2013
EN 50385: 2002
EN 301 893 V1.7.1
Yang Hongliang
Product Manager of International Business Date of issue: 2015/08/21