TP-Link Archer C9 router review
TP-Link introduced the Archer C9 router in 2014. It is powered by Broadcom BCM4709 @ 1 GHz chipset, 128 MB of RAM, and 16 MB of flash memory.
Curious to see if this router impresses? Keep going!
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 C9, please let us know. Furthermore, we strive to deliver a thorough and precise overview.
The Archer C9 is a popular router. It offers great networking. This is thanks to its advanced features and cutting-edge technology. You can connect supported USB devices to the router. Many people see TP-Link as offering products that give good value for the price.
TP-Link Archer C9 specifications
Brand | TP-Link |
---|---|
Name | Archer C9 |
Type | C9 |
Rating | |
Launch | 2014 |
Body
Dimensions | 221 x 86 x 168.5 mm |
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The dimensions and design of a router can impact its cooling capabilities. Routers with larger dimensions may have more space for internal cooling mechanisms.
System
Chipset | Broadcom BCM4709 @ 1 GHz |
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RAM | 128 MB |
Flash | 16 MB |
OS | TP-Link |
Power supply | 12 V / 3.3 A |
The TP-Link Archer C9 router has a Broadcom BCM4709 @ 1 GHz 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. TP-Link often releases firmware updates. They improve the router's features, security, and bugs. They also add new features. The 12 V / 3.3 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 TP-Link Archer C9 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 | 3 x 4 dBi RP-SMA |
---|---|
2.4 GHz | yes |
5 GHz | yes |
60 GHz | no |
Standards | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
Class | AC1900 |
Speed | 600 + 1300 Mbps |
Transmit power | 23 dBm |
Security | WEP WPA WPA2 WPS |
Guest network | yes |
This router has 3 x 4 dBi, RP-SMA 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 Archer C9 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, 600 + 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 | 1 x USB 2.0 1 x USB 3.0 |
---|---|
Print server | yes |
File server | yes |
The USB 2 port has a maximum theoretical data transfer rate of 480 megabits per second (Mbps). The USB 3 ports provide a fast interface for external storage with data transfer rates of up to 4.8 Gbps. USB print servers let you connect a USB printer to your network. This makes it accessible to many devices. You can connect external storage devices such as USB flash drives or USB hard drives to your router.
Administration
Default IP | 192.168.0.1 |
---|---|
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
- decent Wi-Fi performance
- WPS friendly
- USB 2 compatible
- USB 3 compatible
- printserver functionality
- fileserver operation
Cons
- insufficient flash
- missing Wi-Fi 6 support
- incompatible with WPA3
TP-Link Archer C9 photos
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