Archer C5 AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router

Some ISPs require that you register the MAC Address of your adapter. Changes are rarely needed here.

WAN MAC Address - This field displays the current MAC address of the Internet port. If your ISP requires you to register the MAC address, please enter the correct MAC address into this field in XX-XX-XX-XX-XX-XX format (X is any hexadecimal digit).

Your PC's MAC Address - This field displays the MAC address of the PC that is managing the router. If the MAC address is required, you can click the Clone MAC Address button and this MAC address will fill in the WAN MAC Address field.

Click Restore Factory MAC to restore the MAC address of Internet port to the factory default value. Click the Save button to save your settings.

Note:

Only the PC on your LAN can use the MAC Address Clone function.

4.5Dual Band Selection

Choose menu “Dual Band Selection”, and you can choose the working frequency for your router. It is recommended that your computers and devices running video and voice applications use the 5GHz band, while your guest access and computers that are only browsing the web use the 2.4GHz band.

Figure 4-12 Dual Band Selection

Concurrently with 2.4GHz and 5GHz (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) - Choose this option, and then the router will work concurrently in 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency.

Only work in 2.4GHz (802.11b/g/n) - Choose this option, and then the router will only work in 2.4GHz frequency. You can use the 2.4GHz band to connect to many classic wireless devices like gaming consoles, laptops, DVRs, ect.

Only work in 5GHz (802.11a/n/ac) - Choose this option, and then the router will only work in 5GHz frequency. This band is less crowded and is used for time-sensitive music, video streaming or gaming. Using this band can avoid interference with 2.4GHz networks or noisy devices like cordless phones and microwave ovens.

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TP-Link AC1200 manual Dual Band Selection

AC1200 specifications

The TP-Link AC1200 is a dual-band wireless router that stands out in the competitive market of home networking equipment. Combining performance, reliability, and affordability, this router caters to the needs of various users—from casual internet surfers to high-demand gamers.

One of the main features of the TP-Link AC1200 is its dual-band capability, offering both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. The 2.4 GHz band provides a broader coverage area, making it suitable for browsing and streaming video from farther distances. In contrast, the 5 GHz band delivers faster speeds, making it ideal for online gaming and HD streaming, reducing lag and buffering.

With a total wireless speed of up to 1200 Mbps—300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band—the AC1200 ensures efficient data transfer for multiple devices simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial in homes with multiple users who may be streaming, gaming, and browsing at the same time.

The TP-Link AC1200 employs advanced wireless technologies like 802.11ac, which enhances overall network performance and efficiency. This technology utilizes beamforming, a feature that helps direct the Wi-Fi signal towards connected devices rather than broadcasting it uniformly. This focused connection results in stronger and more stable signals, especially in larger homes or areas with interference.

Another notable characteristic is its four Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing users to connect wired devices for a more stable internet connection. This feature is essential for activities that require a consistent connection, such as gaming or video conferencing. The WAN port also supports connecting to a modem, making it easy to set up a home network.

In terms of security, the TP-Link AC1200 is equipped with WPA/WPA2 encryption, protecting users’ data against unauthorized access. It also provides the option for parental controls, enabling users to manage and restrict internet access for specific devices, which can be particularly useful for families.

Finally, the TP-Link Tether app enhances user experience by simplifying the router's setup and management process. Through the app, users can control settings, monitor network activity, and troubleshoot issues, all from their smartphone.

In summary, the TP-Link AC1200 is a versatile router that balances speed, coverage, and security features, making it a solid choice for everyday internet users seeking dependable home networking solutions.