Tp-Link Deco M5 Review
What’s Mesh Wifi?
Mesh WiFi systems are more powerful than traditional routers because they have multiple devices that can work in concert to offer stronger coverage. Deco M5 twin packs, which I’m reviewing today, include 2 units that each contain the main mesh router as well as a single node.
TP Link Deco M5 has the ability to replace any router that was provided by you ISP. For most Malaysians, the new router can be removed and the Deco M5 unit connected directly to Maxis Fibre/Unifi.
Are there any other units that can be used? They are known as the mesh nodes and they wirelessly link with the main unit and then work together as a system to blanket your home with a strong and reliable WiFi connection. TP-Link estimates that Deco units can handle up to 100 devices. They are also capable of handling 32 mesh nodes. If you need more WiFi coverage, you can simply buy more Deco units.
The best thing about TP-Link Deco WiFi mesh WiFi is its ease of use. There’s just one WiFi name throughout the entire network which means I can walk around my entire home without my phone dropping the WiFi connection.
TpLink Deco-M5 Router Review : This Mesh Network Has A Side Of Antivirus
Much more than a me-too product, the Deco M5 delivers both innovation and performance.
With the Deco M5, TP-Link enters strong into whole-home Wi-Fi. This router performs very well and has one uncommon feature: integrated antivirus/antimalware (from Trend Micro) that can protect all the devices on your network. You will need to purchase a $300 3-pack if you wish one. It’s not currently available.
TP-Link tells me that single units will eventually be available for $129 each, which is good news for folks living in smaller spaces. You might only need one Deco M5 to create a tiny studio apartment. It’s not faster than pricier routers from Linksys and Netgear, but it is a very good value overall.
The nodes, like all of the mesh routers in our review to date are functionally identical up until you setup the system. You can make one a router. Once that is done, you can add access points to your home. Each node uses the same SSID (Service Set Identifier, essentially) and clients are directed to the node that has the best connection to the internet.
An LED multicolor on the router shows its status. Amber at startup, blinking amber if offline and blue when pairing with Bluetooth. While functioning normal, it displays normal information.
Every node is equipped with two gigabit Ethernet ports. These port can either be used to connect to your broadband gateway or to establish a connection to your rest of the network. An LED with one multicolored color at its top signals status. (Yellow to indicate startup, blue to pair, and green to normal operation). Although the Deco M5 only has one USB C port, it’s used for power. It won’t let you plug in storage devices or printers to be shared over the network. This router will not be capable of connecting a USB Z-Wave, ZigBee or ZigBee dongle for smart home use.
.Tp-Link Deco M5 Review