The TP-Link Archer C7 is a high-performance router that lasts at least four years. It is easy to use, has wonderful features, and a great range. With TP-Link dedication to quality and functionality, users can put this router to good use.
With the router market valued at $10.5B (2020) and steadily increasing at 8.4% annually, companies continuously improve and innovate their products to stay on top. TP-Link ranks 6th in the most popular internet equipment, with Northern America taking the most significant market share since its incorporation in 1996.
PROS
CONS
HARDWARE & SPECS
Main Features & Benefits
The TP-Link Archer C7 router has excellent features that buyers should consider but check all the buying options before committing to one.
Versatile and Durable
The TP-Link Archer C7 works both as a router and access point. As a router, it has 4 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports to add your wired devices such as desktop computers, gaming consoles, and network switches. Adding a gaming modem keeps your network up and going at all times. Most importantly, setting it in the router mode allows you to get a connection for your wireless devices.
As an access point, the antennas make sure that it gets the coverage it needs. It creates a local area network via an Ethernet cable. This mode is perfect to use when setting up guest Wi-Fi access. Use the Operation Mode tab of the TP-Link user interface to switch between router and access point modes.
Works with a Mesh System
If you want to increase your router range and coverage, setting up a mesh system does that for you. Each of these units adds up to 2500 sqft coverage to any building.
Reliable Wi-Fi
This router runs on a dual-band frequency with powerful omnidirectional antennas and an amplifier to give good wireless coverage. It has a 1750Mbps total maximum speed. On the 2.4GHz band, it runs at 450Mbps and 1300 on the 5GHz band. If you are on a Gigabit internet plan and want more Wi-Fi throughput, you can choose the TP-Link Archer AC4000.
Intuitive User Interface
Both the web-based and TP-Link Tether app has an intuitive user interface. From here, you can see the network map where you can see the connectivity within your network. This map includes the router you are connected to, the number of wired and wireless devices connected to your router, and other devices connected to it, including flash drives and printers connected to your USB ports.
You can also switch between router mode and AP mode in the user interface, set up security and parental control settings, configure QoS, USB settings. You can track your router’s performance from the user interface.
Easy and Faster File Sharing
Don’t you find it annoying to bring your device everywhere around the house to turn on your playlist or watch your videos? With this router’s DLNA sharing capability, you can now share your multimedia file into your network and access it through any device within your network.
You can also download files from the cloud storage without turning on your computer since you can do it directly on your router with the USB ports’ help. Aside from that, the USB ports also enable you to share files and access them from your network devices remotely.
Easy Installation
Installation is easy with the TP-Link Archer C7. Just open the http://tplinkwifi.net on your address bar to access the user interface. Choose Auto-Detect in the Quick Setup tab, so the interface detects the router you want to set up. You can also connect to the two bands concurrently or choose between the 5GHz and 2.4GHz.
Excellent Security Features
This router uses the WPA-PSK and WPA2-PSK encryption for your network. It also has access controls so you can block inappropriate content and websites. However, to use this, you need to enter all websites that you want to block manually. Make a separate file for this so you can copy and paste everything when you reset your router, and all settings revert to the default one.
Cons
Needs Frequent Reboots
Reboots take time which translates to less work done. To solve this issue, reset your router and find a better position for it.
Connectivity Issues on the 5GHz Band
Connection drops intermittently on the 5GHz band, which can be very annoying, especially if you are in the middle of downloading or uploading essential files. A few hacks to solve this issue includes finding a better position for your router, away from interference and barriers.
Updating your firmware is another thing. You can try adjusting the antennas to optimize your router’s function. You can also go for a tri-band router so you can have more bands to choose from.
Only One USB Port
This router will have been better if it has more than one USB port to add a printer and a USB-enabled storage device. With only one USB port, you’ll need to remove your printer if you want to share files through the USB port.
Does Not Have a Web-Based Graphical UI
Since this router is an old model, it does not have a web-based graphical UI, so it is not very useful for visually-challenged users because of the text-based UI.
What is the TP-Link Archer C7 Best For?
The TP-Link Archer C7 has many virtues and features that buyers should root for, and most users love something that will solve their most pressing issues.
Best Hardy Router
The TP-Link Archer C7 is very durable, and you can count on it to keep working after years of use. The casing is sturdy, with a glossy enclosure made of high-quality, recyclable ABS plastic. The hardware is all tested to withstand the most rigorous internet use. It also does not get too warm quickly, which affects performance.
Best Free VPN Server
This router serves as a VPN server, using PPTP VPN and Open VPN to keep you anonymous, especially if connected to a public network. Having a free VPN service lets you save on a monthly subscription, mainly if you only use it occasionally. You also get location-based perks that non-VPN users cannot enjoy.
Best Value
TP-Link routers are best known for their affordability and value, so you’ll do yourself a favor if you are on a tight budget but wants a router that works. Some routers having the same features can cost almost twice as much as this router.
What Buyers Say About the TP-Link Archer C7
Here are some reviews from credible buyers so you can see that our claims in this review are accurate.
FIVE STARS. These units come with a 2-year warranty, and mine (which was the V2 model, not the current V5) lasted for more than four years. In tech terms, that's a whole generation, and I had a gigabit connection through most of that time. If you have less than a Gigabit connection, then this is the best modem for you, and you'll pay $35 less than what I paid for it when it was the latest and greatest model. I can wholly recommend this modem for all users 1 Gigabit and under.
I purchased the TP-Link Archer C7 v5 nearly a year ago during the Summer of 2019, and I've had no issues with it whatsoever. Its coverage is very good all-around my double-wide house and even retains my ISP's maximum bandwidth of 18Mb as far as 100-150ft (~30-50m) from the house. I can't recall a time that it's ever crashed. The admin interface is simple and includes a surprisingly robust amount of features. It even has a built-in VPN if you need to access your home network out in public. Most hardware revisions are also supported by DD-WRT if you ever feel the need to flash your own firmware. Overall I'd say it's a very reliable router that performs better than I expected it to, and for a reasonable price to boot.
The router works great! The interface is clean and intuitive. No connection issues out of the box. The router has worked solidly for a little over 4 years. Had a recent issue where I thought the WAN port wasn't working but eventually figured out that Comcast was the culprit. Had to clone my MAC, and everything worked again. Comcast charges at least $7/month in rental fees for their gateway, so this router pretty much paid for itself after a year. This is my first purchase from TP-Link, and I'm pleased so far.
Conclusion
Given the many features above, we believe that the TP-Link Archer C7 is an excellent addition to your network with its affordable price, easy installation, and user-friendly interface.
It costs less than most routers in its league, but it has proven its mete with years of satisfactory service for its users.
It is also effortless to install. You can do it through the web-based interface or the TP-Link Tether app. The user interface is also straightforward to use and navigate that even newbies don’t have issues with its use.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab the TP-Link Archer C7 and go big on savings and functionality.
