Tp-Link Archer C5400x Router Review: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly Of This Wi-Fi Router
The TP-Link Archer C5400X is a wireless router with advanced features that promise to provide the user with an improved network experience. This article will review the good, bad, and ugly aspects of this device. Through an in-depth analysis of various features, this article will attempt to provide readers with an understanding of what they should expect from this product.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X has several impressive specifications that may appeal to users looking for superior performance and reliability when using their networks. It is a tri-band router capable of providing speeds up to 5400 Mbps on two frequency bands and 1000 Mbps on one frequency band.
It also has eight external antennas and MU-MIMO technology, which allows multiple devices to access the network simultaneously without compromising speed or performance. Furthermore, it includes parental control options, allowing users to limit internet access for certain users or devices.
Finally, the TP-Link Archer C5400X offers additional features such as a built-in antivirus system, cloud storage support, and even voice command capabilities through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Despite these promising aspects, there are still some potential negatives that need to be taken into account when considering this router.
This article will explore all the pros and cons associated with the TP-Link Archer C5400X in order to help readers make an informed decision about whether it is right for them.
Overview
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is a wireless device designed to provide high-speed internet access for multiple devices. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology which provides faster speeds and wider coverage than previous generations of routers. The device also features MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, which enables simultaneous streaming on multiple devices without any slowdown in performance. It has 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports and a USB 3.0 port for connecting external storage devices.
Additionally, it comes with built-in support for Alexa voice commands and a mobile app for easy setup and management of the router. The Archer C5400X also includes advanced security features such as WPA2/WPA3 encryption, parental controls, and guest networks. All these features make this router an ideal choice for households that need reliable internet connection with enhanced security.
In terms of performance, the Archer C5400X delivers good speed and coverage in both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands while maintaining good signal strength over large distances. The device is also compatible with most Wi-Fi enabled devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles and smart TVs. Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is an excellent choice for homes looking for an affordable yet powerful Wi-Fi router solution.
Design & Features
The TP-Link Archer C5400X is an advanced Wi-Fi router with a wealth of features. Its sleek design and robust construction make it easily recognizable among its competitors. The five antennas that come with the router are adjustable and can be configured to provide optimum signal coverage. Additionally, the router is equipped with a 1.8GHz quad-core processor and three co-processors for maximum speed and performance.
One of the most impressive features of the TP-Link Archer C5400X is its comprehensive set of ports, including four Gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, one WAN port and one eSATA port.
This allows users to connect multiple devices such as gaming consoles, printers, smart TVs, etc., allowing them to enjoy seamless network connections without any interruption in service. Furthermore, this router also comes with MU-MIMO technology which allows simultaneous streaming on multiple devices at high speeds without lagging or buffering issues.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X also offers excellent security features such as guest networks, malware protection, parental controls, and more – all accessible via the easy-to-use mobile app or web interface. Overall, this router provides a great combination of performance and features that makes it a great choice for home users looking for reliable Wi-Fi coverage and plenty of options for customizing their home network setup.
Setup Process & Compatibility
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router has a straightforward setup process. It arrives with an easy-to-follow quick setup guide that can be used to install the router in minutes. The initial steps involve connecting the main power cord and the Ethernet cable to the router. Next, the user is prompted to enter their wireless network name and password into the accompanying web interface. Once these steps are completed successfully, the router is ready for use.
In terms of compatibility, this model works with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, as well as dual band support for simultaneously streaming both frequency bands.
The router also supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard and is backward compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n standards, making it suitable for most home networks or small businesses. Additionally, this model supports beamforming technology which helps to ensure that a strong wireless signal is delivered throughout all areas of a home or business premises.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router has an intuitive setup process and offers excellent compatibility with multiple wireless standards that make it suitable for many different users’ needs. With its support of beamforming technology, it delivers a reliable wireless signal even over large distances within buildings or homes.
Network Performance
The TP-Link Archer C5400X router is designed to deliver fast speeds and reliable connections for multiple devices. With its four detachable external antennas, the router has a combined Wi-Fi speed of up to 5400 Mbps (1733 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 4167 Mbps on the 5 GHz band).
The router has MU-MIMO technology, which ensures that multiple devices can use the same frequency at the same time without causing any interference or performance degradation. Additionally, it supports Beamforming+ technology, which helps improve wireless coverage by focusing signals towards connected devices.
In terms of performance, the Archer C5400X is capable of delivering an impressive range. Tests showed that it was able to cover an area of up to 7500 square feet with consistent signal strength throughout.
Furthermore, tests showed that the router was able to maintain a stable connection even when there were obstructions in between it and the device being tested. This is due to its two powerful amplifiers and four external antennas that help increase its range and eliminate dead spots in your home or office space.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X performs well in terms of network performance with reliable connections over large areas and consistent signal strength throughout. It also has advanced features like MU-MIMO technology and Beamforming+ technology for improved coverage and stability. As such, this router offers great value for money as it provides a robust network experience at an affordable price point.
Range & Coverage
Moving on from the network performance of the TP-Link Archer C5400X router, it is necessary to discuss the range and coverage offered by this device. In terms of range, this router provides a strong signal within its operating distance. The wireless coverage also extends to up to 5,000 square feet without any major drop in connection strength. This makes it an ideal choice for larger homes or offices where there are multiple users connected to the same network.
The Archer C5400X also has several features that improve its range and coverage, such as:
- 4-Stream Technology: This technology boosts both range and speeds by combining four data streams into one powerful signal.
- Beamforming+: This technology focuses the Wi-Fi signal directly at connected devices instead of broadcasting it in all directions, thus improving connection strength and speed.
- MU-MIMO Technology: This allows multiple devices to access the same connection simultaneously without any loss in performance or speed.
- High Powered Amplifiers: These amplifiers boost both the transmission power and coverage of the router from up to 5,000 square feet away.
These features combine with a powerful antenna array for increased reliability and extended coverage area which make this router an ideal choice for larger environments needing wide area Wi-Fi coverage. In addition, its advanced security features help protect user data from unauthorized access or malicious attackers when connected to public networks. All these features make this router perfect for those who need superior range and coverage in their home or office network setup.
Security Features
The TP-Link Archer C5400X router is equipped with many security features that protect the user and their network. It includes a built-in firewall system to prevent malicious attacks, as well as WPA3 encryption protocol to keep data secure while connected to the internet.
Additionally, it has parental controls to help monitor and limit access to certain websites or services. Finally, the router comes with a Guest Network feature which allows visitors to access the internet without connecting directly to the home network. This ensures that any potentially dangerous activities are kept separate from the main network. All of these features ensure that users have a secure connection when using their Wi-Fi router.
Parental Controls
The TP-Link Archer C5400X is equipped with several parental controls that can help parents supervise their children’s internet activities and restrict access to specific websites. The parental control features are user-friendly and easy to navigate.
The following table outlines the main features of this router’s parental controls:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Website Blocker | Allows parents to block certain websites by URL or keyword. It also allows for the creation of a whitelist for approved websites. |
| Time Scheduling | Allows parents to set up daily schedules for when the internet can be accessed, as well as when access will be blocked. |
| Age-Based Profiles | Enables parents to create separate profiles based on age range, which can have different settings applied depending on the needs of each child. For example, creating a profile for a teenager may allow more freedom than one created for a younger child. |
The Archer C5400X also allows parents to monitor the types of websites their children are visiting, including any searches made on search engines such as Google or Bing. This feature provides an added layer of protection against inappropriate content and potential phishing attempts by malicious sites.
Overall, the parental control features of the TP-Link Archer C5400X provide an effective way for parents to ensure their children remain safe while browsing online. With its user-friendly interface and robust controls, this router is an ideal choice for families with young children who need to be protected from inappropriate content online.
Mu-Mimo Capability
The TP-Link Archer C5400x router is equipped with Multi-User Multiple Input/Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) technology. This feature allows the router to send and receive data simultaneously, so multiple devices can be handled simultaneously on a single network. As a result, MU-MIMO capability enables increased speed and performance for users of the router.
Benefits of MU-MIMO include:
- Improved speeds – MU-MIMO increases speeds by allowing the router to communicate with multiple devices at once, allowing more users to access the network with greater performance.
- Reduced latency – MU-MIMO reduces latency by providing simultaneous communication between devices, meaning that all connected devices are served simultaneously instead of one at a time.
- Increased capacity – With MU-MIMO, more data can be transmitted per second and more users can be served at any given time without sacrificing speed or performance.
- Improved battery life – By reducing latency and improving speed, MU-MIMO improves battery life significantly when compared to other routers without this technology installed.
The TP-Link Archer C5400x router is an excellent choice for users looking to take advantage of MU-MIMO technology in an affordable package. The increased speed and performance provided by the router make it well suited for home or small business use. Additionally, its low price point makes it attractive to budget conscious consumers looking for reliable Wi-Fi coverage in their homes or businesses without breaking the bank.
Quality Of Service (Qos) Settings
Moving from the MU-MIMO capability of the TP-Link Archer C5400X, this section will look into the quality of service (QOS) settings offered by the router. QOS settings are used to prioritize network traffic and direct it to the most appropriate applications and devices. This is particularly useful for those who use several devices on their network simultaneously or require a smooth streaming experience while gaming or watching videos.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X offers a range of QoS settings that allow users to assign different priorities to each device on their network. Through this feature, users can customize their bandwidth usage according to their individual needs and requirements.
Additionally, this router also allows users to set up parental controls to limit children’s access to certain websites or apps and block any inappropriate content. This helps ensure that everyone in the household has access to a safe online environment.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X provides an impressive range of QOS settings which allow users to customize their network traffic and ensure that all connected devices have an optimal connection speed and performance. With its parental control features, it also provides peace of mind for parents who want to ensure that their children are safe when using the internet.
User Interface & App Support
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router offers a user interface and app support that make it an ideal choice for home and small business networks. The user interface is intuitive, easy to navigate and includes a quick setup wizard with step-by-step instructions for setting up the router. Additionally, the router supports a variety of mobile apps such as tpCamera, tpCloud, tpLink HomeCare, tpLink Print Server, and more.
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
| UI | Intuitive & Easy to Navigate | No Support for Third-Party Apps |
| App Support | Variety of Mobile Apps Supported | Limited Functionality in Some Apps |
| Setup Wizard | Step by Step Instructions Provided | Not All Features are Included in Setup Wizard |
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router provides a user friendly experience with many features that make it an ideal choice for home and small business networks. The intuitive user interface makes navigation simple while the wide range of supported apps offer extra functionality. However, some users may find the lack of third party app support limiting. Additionally, the setup wizard does not include all features so users must refer to product manual for complete instructions.
Value For Money
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router offers an excellent value for money. Its features offer a great deal of performance for its price.
Firstly, it has a dual-core processor and four high-power antennas which are capable of delivering strong wireless signals over a wide range of distances.
Secondly, the router also offers advanced security measures such as WPA3 encryption and MU-MIMO technology to ensure that users’ data is always kept safe.
Lastly, the router includes parental control settings which allow parents to monitor their children’s online activities.
The router also comes with a three year warranty, making it an attractive option for those who are looking for an affordable yet reliable device.
In addition, the router is compatible with the popular smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home which adds even more value to its already impressive feature set. The overall design of the router ensures that it fits into any modern home décor while still being able to provide high performance speeds.
In summary:
- Dual core processor and four high power antennas deliver strong wireless signals over long distances
- Advanced security features such as WPA3 encryption and MU-MIMO technology ensures data safety
- Compatible with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Home
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is definitely a great value for money product that provides an impressive feature set along with reliable performance at an affordable price point.
Pros And Cons
Having discussed the value for money of the TP-Link Archer C5400X router, it is now time to look at some of its pros and cons. The Archer C5400X is a feature-rich device that provides superior performance, robust security features, and a comprehensive suite of management tools. It also has an easy setup process, allowing users to quickly get up and running. On the other hand, some users may find the cost of this router prohibitively expensive.
In terms of performance, the Archer C5400X offers speeds up to 574Mbps at 2.4GHz and 1201Mbps at 5GHz. This makes it ideal for streaming HD videos or playing online games without any lag or buffering issues. It also has four antennas that help increase its range significantly compared to other routers in its class.
Security-wise, the router comes with WPA2/WPA3 encryption as well as a firewall for added protection against malicious attacks. Additionally, it has parental controls which can be used to manage family internet usage.
The Archer C5400X also includes several advanced management tools such as Dynamic QoS (Quality of Service) and Beamforming+ technology for improved network stability and reliability. Furthermore, its web interface is user-friendly and intuitively designed for easier navigation and configuration. Finally, despite its high price tag, there are no monthly subscription fees associated with using this router which could make it more affordable in the long run.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X is an excellent choice for those who want superior performance coupled with robust security features and comprehensive management tools all in one device. However, potential buyers should keep in mind that this router carries a hefty price tag which may not be suitable for everyone’s budget.
Alternatives
The Archer C5400X is a powerful Wi-Fi router, but it may not be for everyone. As such, this section will explore some alternatives to the router. One alternative is the Asus RT-AC86U Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router. This router has an impressive range of up to 5400Mbps and is also equipped with MU-MIMO technology for faster download speeds. Additionally, this router contains advanced security features like WPA3 encryption and parental control capabilities.
The Linksys WRT3200ACM is another viable option for those seeking a powerful router. It offers 802.11ac dual-band speeds of up to 3200Mbps, as well as four external adjustable antennas that promise improved coverage throughout your home or office space. Additionally, the WRT3200ACM supports multiple user access which allows simultaneous streaming from multiple devices without sacrificing speed or performance.
The TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router offers great value for its price point and is suitable for those who don’t need the highest end models. The AC1750 provides dual-band speeds of up to 1750Mbps and four antennas that promote greater coverage over vast spaces. Furthermore, this router comes with robust security protocols including IPv6 support and WPA/WPA2 encryption for added protection against hackers and malicious software attacks.
Considering all options, it becomes clear that there are many different routers available on the market today that can meet one’s individual needs and preferences when it comes to home or office networking solutions. Each offers different features and benefits so researching them thoroughly before making a purchase decision is recommended in order to find the right fit for you.
Final Verdict
To assess the overall performance of the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router, it is important to consider all aspects of its features, from the good to the bad and the ugly. This can be done by comparing its features in a table format. The table below outlines these features for easy comparison.
| Features | Good | Bad | Ugly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Fast connection speed up to 5400 Mbps with MU-MIMO technology | Limited range with MU-MIMO technology | Expensive price point compared to competitors with similar speeds |
| Security | WPA3 encryption protocol for extra security protection against hackers and malicious actors | No support for VPNs or other advanced security protocols like OpenVPN or IPSec over UDP/TCP port forwarding | None identified on this feature specifically |
| Setup | Easy setup process using web browser or mobile app with device cloning feature for fast setup times | Included companion app has limited functionality and can be glitchy at times during setup process | None identified on this feature specifically |
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router offers fast connection speeds, enhanced security protection, and an easy setup process – making it a great choice for users seeking reliable wi-fi performance without compromising on security.
However, it does come at a more expensive price point than other routers offering similar speeds as well as lacking some advanced security features. Ultimately, buyers will have to weigh their budget restrictions against their need for speed and robust security when considering purchasing the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router.
Frequently Asked Questions
The TP-Link Archer C5400X router is a powerful Wi-Fi router with many features. With its advanced performance and various features, this router is highly versatile and suitable for a variety of uses. This article will discuss the frequently asked questions about the TP-Link Archer C5400X router.
- What are the main features offered by the TP-Link Archer C5400X?
- MU-MIMO Technology
- 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Tri-Band Wi-Fi support
- How does the TP-Link Archer C5400X benefit users?
The TP-Link Archer C5400X offers users improved network performance, faster speeds, and greater range than other routers on the market, making it an ideal choice for those who need high performance from their home or office networks. Additionally, it can be used to stream media content wirelessly without buffering or lag issues. - Is there any drawback to using this router?
Although the TP-Link Archer C5400X offers great performance and features, it is not compatible with all devices and may require additional setup steps to get up and running. Additionally, some users may find that its large size makes it difficult to install in smaller spaces.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X is an excellent Wi-Fi router for those who need robust performance from their home or office networks. It provides fast speeds, reliable connectivity, and plenty of features that make it suitable for a wide range of uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Reset The Tp-Link Archer C5400x Router?
Resetting a router can be an important step in troubleshooting and restoring functionality to the device. The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is no exception. In this article, we will explain how to reset the router.
The first step is to locate the reset button on the router itself. It should be easily accessible along with other ports and buttons used for setup and connectivity purposes. Once located, press and hold the reset button for approximately 10 seconds or until all of the lights on the router blink simultaneously, indicating that it has been reset.
In some cases, a complete factory reset may be necessary if more advanced settings have been implemented within the router’s configuration menu. To do this, access the configuration page via web browser by entering 192.168.0.1 into the address bar and logging in with administrative credentials. From there, click System Tools > Factory Defaults to initiate a factory default reset of all settings on the router.
By following these steps, users should be able to successfully reset their TP-Link Archer C5400X Router in order to restore its normal functioning capabilities.
Does The Tp-Link Archer C5400x Router Have A Guest Network Feature?
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is a Wi-Fi router that is used to provide a wireless connection for users. An important feature to consider when evaluating this router is if it has a guest network feature.
This router does indeed have the capability of providing a guest network. This allows the user to create a separate network for guests, keeping the main home network secure and private. A great advantage of this feature is that it can be used to grant access to the internet for visitors or other temporary users, without having to hand out the password for the main home network.
Furthermore, this router also offers advanced management options to control who has access and when they are able access it. It also allows users to set time limits, as well as limiting other aspects such as bandwidth allocation and website access. In addition, these settings can also be easily modified or revoked at any time.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router offers many advantages with regard to its guest networking capabilities:
- Easy setup and advanced management options
- Ability to set time limits on guest access
- Limit bandwidth allocation and website access
- Option to revoke or modify settings at any time
These features make it an ideal choice for users who require safe and secure guest network access.
Is The Tp-Link Archer C5400x Router Compatible With Mac Devices?
The question of whether the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is compatible with Mac devices is an important one. With the ubiquity of Apple products in modern society, it is essential for any router to be able to support Mac computers and other devices. This article seeks to answer this question by exploring the compatibility of this router with Mac systems.
To begin, it is important to note that the TP-Link Archer C5400X does indeed come with support for Mac devices. Specifically, this router supports all versions of Apple AirPort Extreme Cards, AirPort Express Cards and Time Capsules.
This means that users should have no difficulty connecting their Apple systems to the router. Furthermore, this router also comes with a USB 3.0 port which can be used to connect a printer or external hard drive directly and will work with any operating system including Mac OS X.
In addition, the TP-Link Archer C5400X has a dedicated app for both iOS and Android devices which can be used to configure and control settings on the router itself. This app works perfectly on Macs as well as other mobile devices and allows users to customize their network settings according to their needs.
All in all, it appears that the TP-Link Archer C5400X is indeed compatible with Mac systems, making it an ideal choice for those who use Apple products regularly.
What Is The Maximum Speed Of The Tp-Link Archer C5400x Router?
The maximum speed of a router is an important factor to consider when purchasing one. This is especially true for those who need higher bandwidths for gaming, streaming, or downloading large files. The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router has a maximum speed of 5400 Mbps, making it one of the fastest routers on the market today.
Not only does this router have impressive speeds, but it also features MU-MIMO technology, which allows multiple devices to be connected to the same network simultaneously without sacrificing connection quality or speed. In addition, it has 4 external antennas that help provide coverage up to 2,500 square feet and four gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections. It also comes equipped with dual-core processors and 256MB RAM for high performance and efficient routing capabilities.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is a great choice for those looking for fast speeds and reliable performance in their home networks. Its impressive speeds and advanced features make it an ideal option for gamers and power users alike. With its ability to connect multiple devices at once and provide coverage over large distances, this router is sure to meet your needs no matter what you use it for.
Does The Tp-Link Archer C5400x Router Support Vpns?
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is a Wi-Fi router that has been reviewed for its good, bad and ugly points. This article will examine the question of whether or not it supports VPNs.
To begin, an understanding of what a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is necessary. A VPN is a secure connection between a device and a network over the internet. It encrypts data while in transit and provides additional security measures such as authentication and tunnelling protocols.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router does support VPNs, with the ability to connect up to two separate VPNs at once, compatible with OpenVPN, PPTP and L2TP protocols.
Additionally, the IPSec Pass Through feature on this router means that users can access their corporate resources securely from home or any other remote location. This feature also helps to improve network performance by providing higher security for data travelling through public networks.
In sum, the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router does have VPN capabilities, which allow users to connect up to two separate VPNs at once using compatible OpenVPN, PPTP and L2TP protocols. It also has an IPSec Pass Through feature which enhances security when accessing corporate resources from remote locations.
Conclusion
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is a powerful Wi-Fi router with plenty of features to offer. It has an easy reset process, a guest network feature, and compatibility with Mac devices. Additionally, it offers maximum speeds of up to 5400 Mbps and supports VPN connections. This makes it suitable for both general home use as well as professional applications.
Overall, the TP-Link Archer C5400X Router offers a great combination of performance and features that make it an ideal choice for many users. Its strong connection speed, wide range of compatible devices, and support for VPNs make it a versatile device that can meet the needs of many different situations. Its easy setup process ensures that even novice users can get up and running quickly.
The TP-Link Archer C5400X Router is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and powerful Wi-Fi router. Its combination of features and performance make it suitable for both home use and more demanding professional applications. The ease of setup also means that even inexperienced users can get going quickly without too much hassle.
