TP-LINK Archer C9, we have tested it

The TP-LINK Archer C9 is a router that brings us all the advantages of the new WiFi AC network protocol . This protocol operates simultaneously in both the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and the 5 GHz bandwidth , a band that is less congested and that allows higher speeds ( up to 1,300 Mbps ). In addition, the Archer C9 incorporates Beamforming technology , which detects the position of our connected devices and boosts the WiFi signal towards them. All this with several advanced functions to improve its performance such as a USB 3.0 portto create our own network storage system, parental control or the ability to create a network and guests to keep our data safe. The Archer C9 from TP-LINK is available on the market for a price of approximately 140 euros . We tell you our impressions after trying it.

WiFi AC, the new era of Internet

You have probably already heard of WiFi AC or have seen it written in the specifications of a mobile phone or laptop. This protocol is being extended by a good number of launches in the last two years and represents a step forward in the performance and reliability of WiFi. This connection allows simultaneous connection to the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and the 5 GHz bandwidth. In the first case, it is the bandwidth used by the vast majority of technological equipment. But in addition, it is also used by other household appliances in the house, which generates a greater number of interferences. Nor is it a bandwidth prepared for the tendency of households to have more and more equipment connected at the same time (it is designed for a maximum of8 devices ).

The 5 GHz bandwidth opens the doors to greater speed and stability of the signal as there are fewer electronic devices that connect to this band. For example, it is a highly recommended width for users who regularly use online games. The Archer C9 takes this protocol and takes it to new heights with the ability to achieve up to 1,900 Mbps , 600 Mbps through the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and up to 1,300 Mbps through the width of 5 GHz. Therefore, it is a router that not only offers us a more stable connection and without interference with compatible equipment, but it will also be a tool that manages to adapt to the passage of time by channeling connections from ever faster network.

TP-LINK Beamforming Technology

But TP-LINK wants to go a step further in stability and signal quality thanks to its Beamforming technology . This technology analyzes the space in search of the devices that are connected to the network and boosts the signal in that direction. The difference with respect to a traditional router in this aspect is more notable the further we move away from the source and it has allowed us to continue to enjoy a good network connection even in the corners of the house where the WiFi signal is usually very weak. . All this with a good dual-core processor clocked at 1 GHz to ensure that the device is able to tackle numerous tasks at the same time without dropping performance. In addition, they includethree dual external antennas (for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bandwidth) that can be pulled out and ensure all-directional distribution of the network signal. In fact, it is one of the firm's models with the highest signal range.

Commissioning and connections

To start the TP-LINK Archer C9 , we must first connect it to a modem (for example, at home I had to connect it to the router that comes with Orange). In principle, the configuration is simple, but it can happen that these two devices interfere with each other. There are documents on the TP-LINK page itself that will help to solve these difficulties. The router configuration includes the establishment of two new WiFi networks, one that will operate in the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and the other in the 5 GHz bandwidth .In both cases, we must choose both the name that the network will have and the password that we will use from then on. Once configured, it is enough that we normally connect from our device to one of the two networks (depending on the use that we are going to give the network and depending on whether the device is compatible with 5 GHz bandwidth). We also have the option of using the WPS button included in the router to quickly configure the PC.

In addition to the connection through WiFi, we can also use one of the four Ethernet ports that the Archer C9 includes . These ports have a 10/100/1000 Mbps interface. Another feature that we really liked when testing it is the ability to create a separate guest network. This is an easy way to allow other people to browse the Internet but cannot access shared resources. Generally, this is a feature that we will use mainly in a business environment. When we are using the router at home we can establish certain restrictions so that the smallest of the home cannot access certain content. Another feature that the company has wanted to highlight is the option of using this router as a bridge to extend the WiFi signal and make it go further.

Within the connections we also have a USB 2.0 port and a USB 3.0 port. The first of them can be used, for example, to directly connect a printer without WiFi and make any computer connected to the network able to print directly through it. For this, the company has included its own application to easily configure this option. But in addition, the USB 3.0 port also opens the possibility of connecting an external hard drive and converting it into a network drive with which to share different multimedia files on all household devices.

Price and reviews

The TP-LINK Archer C9 can be found on the market for an approximate price of 140 euros. Without a doubt, an excellent tool to start enjoying the capabilities of the WiFi AC protocol . In addition, this equipment includes several technologies to improve the performance of the router, such as Beamforming technology that analyzes the devices on the network and boosts the signal in that direction. In addition, thanks to its USB ports we can connect different computers to share them on the network.

TP-LINK Archer C9

Design

Technology

Speeds and connections

Security

+ info

Price approx. 140 euros