D-Link Wireless AC1200 WiFi router: Pros and Cons
The D-Link Wireless AC1200 (DIR-842) router released in 2015. It is powered by Realtek RTL8197DN @ 660 MHz chipset, 64 MB of RAM and 8 MB of flash. The AC1200 router is compatible with IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards, and the maximum speed that you can get with Wireless AC1200 is 300 + 867 Mbps. The router has 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps WAN and 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps LAN ports.
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Our personal experiences and opinions form the basis of this article. We aimed to share insights on a topic, and we hoped others would find it useful and inspirational. The specs below rely on official manufacturer data, but we also consider user reviews. If you noticed any mistakes or missing details about the D-Link Wireless AC1200, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The Wireless AC1200 is a powerful router. It is full of features and made for advanced networking. D-Link has established a solid reputation as a reliable and reputable networking brand.
D-Link Wireless AC1200 specifications
| Brand | D-Link |
|---|---|
| Name | Wireless AC1200 |
| Type | DIR-842 |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2015 |
Body
| Dimensions | 190 x 133 x 38 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 288 g |
The dimensions and design of a router can impact its cooling capabilities. Routers with larger dimensions may have more space for internal cooling mechanisms. If you plan to mount your router on a wall or ceiling, the weight can affect the mounting process. It also affects the type of mounting hardware needed.
System
| Chipset | Realtek RTL8197DN @ 660 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 64 MB |
| Flash | 8 MB |
| OS | D-Link |
| Power supply | 12 V / 1 A |
The D-Link Wireless AC1200 router has a Realtek RTL8197DN @ 660 MHz processor. The 64 MB of RAM enables the router to handle multiple tasks and processes concurrently. Flash memory retains its data even when the router is off. This allows the router to keep its firmware and settings across reboots. D-Link often releases firmware updates. They improve the router's features, security, and bugs. They also add new features. The 12 V / 1 A PSU provides power to the router. If it breaks, you can replace it with a new one.
Network
| Protocols | IPv4 IPv6 |
|---|---|
| LAN ports | 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| WAN ports | 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Mobile network | no |
| VPN support | no |
Like many modern routers, the D-Link Wireless AC1200 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. The IPv4 is the fourth iteration of the Internet Protocol (IP). It is the most widely used version of IP on the internet today. The latest firmware supports IPv6. It provides a system to identify and locate computers on networks. Gigabit Ethernet ports support data transfer rates of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). A Gigabit WAN port is helpful. It is useful when your internet plan supports high speeds.
Wireless
| Antennas | 4 x 7 dBi RP-SMA |
|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | yes |
| 5 GHz | yes |
| 60 GHz | no |
| Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Class | AC1200 |
| Speed | 300 + 867 Mbps |
| Transmit power | 23 dBm |
| Security | WPA WPA2 WPS |
| Guest network | yes |
This router has 4 x 7 dBi, RP-SMA antennas. Antennas are key parts of wireless routers. They send and receive radio signals to make wireless connections. The Wireless AC1200 is compatible with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks. The 5 GHz band is less crowded. This leads to less interference and a clearer wireless signal. The Wireless AC1200 router is 5 GHz capable. The Wi-Fi router offers fast data speeds. They are good for streaming HD video, online gaming, and large file transfers.
The top speed, 300 + 867 Mbps, is the highest data rate the router can reach. It's the theoretical limit in perfect conditions. The introduction of WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) improved upon WEP. It provides stronger security. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) provides an easy method. It connects devices to a Wi-Fi network.
Connectivity
| USB ports | no |
|---|---|
| Print server | no |
| File server | no |
The Wireless AC1200 router doesn't have file-server or print-server functionality.
Administration
| Default IP | 192.168.1.1 |
|---|---|
| Default username | Admin |
| Default password | [blank] |
Changing the password often is a good security practice. It protects your network and devices from unauthorized access. Changing the default password improves your router's security. It reduces the risk of unauthorized individuals controlling your network.
Pros and Cons
Every router, including this D-Link one, has its good sides and not-so-good sides. Let's take a closer look at both to get a full understanding of what this router can do. We'll talk about what it does well and also where it could use some improvements. Just remember, this is just what I think, and you might see things differently.
Pros
- lightweight
- sufficient memory
- IPv6 capable
- high-speed LAN port
- high-speed WAN port
- works on 5 GHz band
- WPS friendly
Cons
- insufficient flash
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- incompatible with WPA3
- no USB connectivity
D-Link Wireless AC1200 photos
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