TP-Link Archer D7 WiFi router: Pros and Cons
The TP-Link Archer D7 (D7) router released in 2014. It is powered by Qualcomm Atheros QCA9558 @ 720 MHz chipset, 128 MB of RAM and 16 MB of flash. The AC1750 router is compatible with IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards, and the maximum speed that you can get with Archer D7 is 450 + 1300 Mbps. The router has 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps WAN and 3 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 TP-Link Archer D7, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The Archer D7 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 has a history of introducing innovative features and technologies into their products.
TP-Link Archer D7 specifications
| Brand | TP-Link |
|---|---|
| Name | Archer D7 |
| Type | D7 |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2014 |
Body
| Dimensions | 229 x 160 x 37 mm |
|---|
If you have limited space, like in a small apartment or office, the dimensions can determine if it can fit there.
System
| Chipset | Qualcomm Atheros QCA9558 @ 720 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 128 MB |
| Flash | 16 MB |
| OS | TP-Link |
| Power supply | 12 V / 2.5 A |
The Qualcomm Atheros QCA9558 @ 720 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 / 2.5 A, this matches the router's voltage needs.
Network
| Protocols | IPv4 IPv6 |
|---|---|
| LAN ports | 3 x 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| WAN ports | 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Mobile network | no |
| VPN support | no |
Like many modern routers, the TP-Link Archer D7 supports many features and tech. They improve your network's connectivity and security. Most networking equipment, like routers and switches, supports IPv4. The Archer D7 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.
Wireless
| Antennas | 3 x 3 dBi RP-SMA |
|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | yes |
| 5 GHz | yes |
| 60 GHz | no |
| Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Class | AC1750 |
| Speed | 450 + 1300 Mbps |
| Transmit power | 23 dBm |
| Security | WEP WPA WPA2 WPS |
| Guest network | yes |
The 3 x 3 dBi, RP-SMA antennas allow sending and getting many data streams at once. This boosts overall throughput and improves Wi-Fi performance. The router supports the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. 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, 450 + 1300 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 ports | 2 x USB 2.0 |
|---|---|
| Print server | yes |
| File server | yes |
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 D7 router lets you schedule backups. You can back up to the connected USB storage device.
Features
| Specials | RJ11 connector ADSL modem |
|---|
The RJ11 port allows you to connect your telephone line to the router.
Administration
| Default IP | 192.168.1.1 |
|---|---|
| Default username | admin |
| Default password | admin |
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
- telephone line
Cons
- insufficient flash
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- incompatible with WPA3
TP-Link Archer D7 photos
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