TP-Link DECO-M4 user manual

The TP-Link Deco M4 is a mesh Wi-Fi system designed to provide seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home or office. It is primarily intended to be connected to your existing modem or router using an Ethernet cable for internet connectivity. However, it does offer an alternative wireless setup option called "Wireless Uplink" that allows you to connect the Deco M4 units without an Ethernet cable.
With Wireless Uplink, you can connect one Deco unit to your modem/router using an Ethernet cable, and then place the other Deco units within range to establish a wireless connection and extend the Wi-Fi coverage. The wireless connection between the Deco units will be used to transmit data, rather than using an Ethernet cable.
It's important to note that while Wireless Uplink eliminates the need for Ethernet cables between the Deco units, you still require an initial wired connection to your modem or router for internet access. Once the Deco units are wirelessly connected via Wireless Uplink, they will create a unified and seamless Wi-Fi network throughout your home.
It's recommended to refer to the user manual or setup guide that comes with your TP-Link Deco M4 for specific instructions on setting up the system using Wireless Uplink.

1. Start by plugging in all the Deco Units and make sure they are functioning correctly.
2. Download and Install the TP-link Deco App: You can download this app for free from either the Google Play Store for Android Devices or the App Store for iOS Devices.
3. Create an Account: After Downloading and opening the App, create a TP-link login account or if you already have an account, sign in.
4. Set Up the Main Deco: Click on the plus sign (+) on the upper right corner of the Interface and select the Deco Model type you are installing.
5. Following the app's instructions, add your first Deco: The first unit you set will act as the main router.
6. Choose Operating Mode: You will be asked to choose the operating mode for the Deco network. Select Access Point mode.
7. Locate your Deco: You'll now define where your Deco unit is located.
8. Connect Deco to Internet: Connect your Deco M4 to the internet using an Ethernet cable connected to your existing router or modem then wait for the Deco light to pulse blue.
9. Test Your Internet Connection: The Deco app will test your internet connection. Make sure, your Ethernet cables are properly connected.
10. Create Wi-Fi: Now, name your Wi-Fi and create a password for the network.
11. Add Additional Deco Units: If you have more than one Deco M4, you can add the other units to your network now. Follow the app's instructions. They should automatically replicate the settings of the main unit.
12. The last step is the placement for the additional Decos, you can choose any from the given choices.
13. Then wait until the configuration and setup is finished.
Please note, when the Deco units are in Access Point mode, some features like Antivirus, Parental Controls, and QoS are not available. This is because these features require the Deco units to be in Router mode. In Access Point mode, the Decos are simply extending the existing network and don't manage these settings.

Yes, you can use the TP-Link Deco M4 as a router. It is designed to function as a mesh Wi-Fi system, where multiple units work together to provide seamless wireless coverage throughout your home. You can connect the primary Deco unit to your modem and set it up as the main router, and then add additional units to expand the Wi-Fi coverage in your home.

To connect your TP-Link Deco M4 to your router, follow these steps:
1. Ensure that your modem is connected to the internet and is working properly.
2. Connect one end of the included Ethernet cable to the LAN port on your modem or existing router.
3. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the WAN port on the primary Deco M4 unit.
4. Connect the power adapter to the primary Deco M4 unit and plug it into a power outlet.
5. Download and install the Deco app on your smartphone or tablet.
6. Open the Deco app and tap "Launch" to start the setup process.
7. The app will ask you to choose your desired location for the Deco M4 unit. Select an appropriate location and tap "Next."
8. The app will detect the primary Deco unit and prompt you to power on the modem and ensure that it is connected to the internet.
9. Once the internet connection is established, follow the on-screen instructions to create a TP-Link ID and password. These credentials will be used to log in to the Deco app and manage your Deco system.
10. The app will guide you through the steps of adding additional Deco units to form a mesh network if desired. If you only have one Deco unit, you can skip this step.
11. Wait for the app to complete the setup process. It may take a few minutes for the Deco system to initialize and establish a connection with your modem/router.
Once the setup is complete, you should have a functioning Deco M4 network. You can use the Deco app to manage your network settings, including adjusting Wi-Fi settings, parental controls, guest network, and more.