TP-Link Archer A7 WiFi router: Pros and Cons
The TP-Link Archer A7 (A7) router released in 2017. It is powered by Qualcomm Atheros QCA9563 @ 750 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 A7 is 450 + 1300 Mbps. The router has 1 x 10/100/1000 Mbps WAN and 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps LAN ports.
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 A7, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The Archer A7 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, offering both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. The USB connectors on the router add versatility to your network. They enable file sharing, printer sharing, and other USB functions. TP-Link has established a solid reputation as a reliable and reputable networking brand.
TP-Link Archer A7 specifications
Brand | TP-Link |
---|---|
Name | Archer A7 |
Type | A7 |
Rating | |
Launch | 2017 |
Body
Dimensions | 243 x 160.6 x 32.5 mm |
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Weight | 413 g |
If you have limited space, like in a small apartment or office, the dimensions can determine if it can fit there. If you purchase a router online or have it shipped, the weight may affect the overall cost.
System
Chipset | Qualcomm Atheros QCA9563 @ 750 MHz |
---|---|
RAM | 128 MB |
Flash | 16 MB |
OS | TP-Link |
Power supply | 12 V / 1.5 A |
The Qualcomm Atheros QCA9563 @ 750 MHz CPU is key. It, along with factors like RAM and firmware, decides how well the router works. Some router features and software need a certain amount of RAM. They need it to work well. More storage space comes from a larger flash memory. It can accommodate future firmware upgrades. Upgrading router firmware has become simple and user-friendly. The TP-Link provides the right power supply. It is 12 V / 1.5 A, this matches the router's voltage needs.
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 |
The Archer A7 router has built-in security features. They protect your network and devices. Most networking equipment, like routers and switches, supports IPv4. The Archer A7 router is also compatible with IPv6. IPv6 has a much bigger address space. It also offers many enhancements and improvements over IPv4. If you have a 1 Gbps or faster internet plan, you need gigabit Ethernet ports. They are essential to use all the available bandwidth. This router ensures that you can use fast internet from your ISP fully.
Wireless
Antennas | 3 x 5 dBi fixed |
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2.4 GHz | yes |
5 GHz | yes |
6 GHz | no |
60 GHz | no |
Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Class | AC1750 |
Speed | 450 + 1300 Mbps |
Transmit power | 28 dBm |
Security | WEP WPA WPA2 WPS |
Guest network | yes |
The 3 x 5 dBi, fixed antennas allow sending and getting many data streams at once. This boosts overall throughput and improves Wi-Fi performance. The 2.4 GHz band is widely supported by many devices. This includes older ones that may not work with the 5 GHz band. This router operates on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. It lets you connect devices to the best band for their needs. The AC Wi-Fi router is backward compatible with older Wi-Fi devices that support 802.11a/b/g/n standards.
Real-world Archer A7 router speeds are lower than its theoretical maximum speed. 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 | 1 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 A7 router lets you schedule backups. You can back up to the connected USB storage device.
Administration
Default IP | 192.168.0.1 |
---|---|
Default username | admin |
Default password | admin |
If you can't log in to your TP-Link router's setup panel, try resetting it. A reset can help you troubleshoot. It is highly recommended to change the default password of your Archer A7 router. Do this after the initial setup.
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 A7 photos
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