Buffalo AirStation AC1200 router review
Buffalo introduced the AirStation AC1200 router in 2013. It is powered by MediaTek MT7620A @ 580 MHz chipset, 128 MB of RAM, and 16 MB of flash memory.
Curious to see if this router impresses? Keep scrolling!
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 Buffalo AirStation AC1200, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The AirStation AC1200 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, offering both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Buffalo is a well-established brand and has a significant market presence globally.
Buffalo AirStation AC1200 specifications
| Brand | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| Name | AirStation AC1200 |
| Type | WHR-1166D |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2013 |
Body
| Dimensions | 159 x 131 x 55 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 281 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 | MediaTek MT7620A @ 580 MHz |
|---|---|
| RAM | 128 MB |
| Flash | 16 MB |
| OS | Buffalo |
| Power supply | 12 V / 1 A |
The Buffalo AirStation AC1200 router has a MediaTek MT7620A @ 580 MHz processor. 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. Buffalo 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 Mbps |
| WAN ports | 1 x 10/100 Mbps |
| Mobile network | no |
| VPN support | no |
Like many modern routers, the Buffalo AirStation 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. The WAN port on the AirStation AC1200 router is a Fast Ethernet port, not a Gigabit Ethernet.
Wireless
| Antennas | 2 x 2 dBi internal |
|---|---|
| 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 | 20 dBm |
| Security | WEP WPA WPA2 WPS |
| Guest network | no |
This router has 2 x 2 dBi, internal antennas. Antennas are key parts of wireless routers. They send and receive radio signals to make wireless connections. The 2.4 GHz band is widely supported by many devices. This includes older ones that may not work with the 5 GHz band. The 5 GHz band is less crowded. This leads to less interference and a clearer wireless signal. The AirStation 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. 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 | no |
|---|---|
| Print server | no |
| File server | no |
The AirStation AC1200 router doesn't have file-server or print-server functionality.
Administration
| Default IP | 192.168.11.1 |
|---|---|
| Default username | admin |
| Default password | password |
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 Buffalo 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
- works on 5 GHz band
- WPS friendly
Cons
- insufficient flash
- lack of Gigabit LAN
- Non-gigabit WAN port
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- incompatible with WPA3
- no USB connectivity
Buffalo AirStation AC1200 photos
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