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TP-Link Archer C1200 router review

300 + 867 Mbps
IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
Broadcom BCM47189 @ 900 MHz
128 MB / 16 MB

TP-Link introduced the Archer C1200 router in 2016. It is powered by Broadcom BCM47189 @ 900 MHz chipset, 128 MB of RAM, and 16 MB of flash memory.

Excited to learn if the Archer C1200 lives up to expectations? Stay tuned for the answer!

Table of Contents

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 TP-Link Archer C1200, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.

TP-Link Archer C1200 / C1200

The Archer C1200 is a good choice for users. It is reliable and feature-rich, and it supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology. The USB connectors on the router add versatility to your network. They enable file sharing, printer sharing, and other USB functions. TP-Link is a well-respected manufacturer in the networking industry. They have a reputation for providing a variety of networking devices.

TP-Link Archer C1200 specifications

BrandTP-Link
NameArcher C1200
TypeC1200
Rating
Rated 4/5 based on 1510 user votes.
Launch2016

Body

Dimensions243 x 160.6 x 32.5 mm

If you have limited space, like in a small apartment or office, the dimensions can determine if it can fit there.

TP-Link Archer C1200 (C1200) / 3

System

ChipsetBroadcom BCM47189 @ 900 MHz
RAM128 MB
Flash16 MB
OSTP-Link
Power supply12 V / 1 A

The Broadcom BCM47189 @ 900 MHz CPU is key. It, along with factors like RAM and firmware, decides how well the router works. The 128 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. Upgrading router firmware has become simple and user-friendly. The TP-Link provides the right power supply. It is 12 V / 1 A, this matches the router's voltage needs.

TP-Link Archer C1200 (C1200) / 2

Network

ProtocolsIPv4
IPv6
LAN ports4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps
WAN ports1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps
Mobile networkno
VPN supportno

Like many modern routers, the TP-Link Archer C1200 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. Most networking equipment, like routers and switches, supports IPv4. The Archer C1200 router is also compatible with IPv6. IPv6 has a much bigger address space. It also offers many enhancements and improvements over IPv4. 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.

TP-Link Archer C1200 (C1200) / 1

Wireless

Antennas3 x 5 dBi
RP-SMA
2.4 GHzyes
5 GHzyes
60 GHzno
StandardsIEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
ClassAC1200
Speed300 + 867 Mbps
Transmit power23 dBm
SecurityWEP
WPA
WPA2
WPS
Guest networkyes

The 3 x 5 dBi, RP-SMA antennas allow sending and getting many data streams at once. This boosts overall throughput and improves Wi-Fi performance. The Archer C1200 is compatible with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks. To optimize your Wi-Fi experience, it's often recommended to use a combination of both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. 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. WEP was the first Wi-Fi security protocol. But it is now seen as weak and easy to hack. 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 ports1 x USB 2.0
Print serveryes
File serveryes

The USB 2 port has a maximum theoretical data transfer rate of 480 megabits per second (Mbps). A USB print server adds print functionality. You can manage settings, watch queues, and control access from one place. The Archer C1200 router lets you schedule backups. You can back up to the connected USB storage device.

Administration

Default IP192.168.0.1
Default usernameadmin
Default passwordadmin

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 TP-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

  • sufficient memory
  • IPv6 capable
  • high-speed LAN port
  • high-speed WAN port
  • works on 5 GHz band
  • WPS friendly
  • USB 2 compatible
  • printserver functionality
  • fileserver operation

Cons

  • insufficient flash
  • missing Wi-Fi 6 support
  • incompatible with WPA3

TP-Link Archer C1200 photos

TP-Link Archer C1200 / C1200 photo
TP-Link Archer C1200 / C1200 photo
TP-Link Archer C1200 / C1200 photo
TP-Link Archer C1200 / C1200 photo
TP-Link Archer C1200 / C1200

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Robert Miller
For over 15 years, I've immersed myself in the world of networking devices as a tech aficionado. I've dedicated myself to thoroughly testing and analyzing routers and other networking gear. I aim to provide thorough reviews. They will give you the knowledge needed to improve your network.
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