| TP-Link Archer AC2600 | Linksys EA8500 | |
|---|---|---|
 |
 |
|
| WiFi Performance | AC2600 WiFi (800 + 1733 Mbps) | AC2600 WiFi (800 + 1733 Mbps) |
| WiFi Band | 2.4GHz & 5GHz | 2.4GHz & 5GHz |
| Ethernet Ports | 4 Gigabit LAN port 1 Gigabit WAN port |
4 Gigabit LAN port 1 Gigabit WAN port |
| USB Ports | 2 USB 3.0 Ports | 1 USB 3.0 port 1 USB 2.0/eSata port |
| CPU | 1.4 GHz dual-core processor | 1.4 GHz dual-core processor |
| Memory | 512MB | 512MB |
| Antennas | 4 Detachable antennas | 4 external adjustable antennas |
| MU-MIMO Support | Yes | Yes |
| MSRP | $249.99 | $279.99 |
TP-Link is one of the global providers of networking products and recently introduced the Archer AC2600 router. The dual-band device was designed to handle the wireless networking demands of homes or small businesses. The Archer AC2600 has the advanced technology needed to support multiple wireless devices simultaneously and effectively.
Benefit of Dual-Bands
The Archer AC2600 broadcasts on two frequencies: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. For years, routers only used the 2.4 GHz frequency. However, with the many electronic devices used in most homes and other interior environs today, the frequency is either interrupted or over-saturated. The easiest solution to solving the problem is to have another frequency. The 5 GHz bandwidth is not as widely used and thus does not experience the same degree of congestion and interference. The Archer AC2600 router enables users to designate the broadcast over the 2.4 GHz frequency, the 5 GHz frequency or both simultaneously.
Qualcomm Technology
The technology within the unit features Qualcomm® VIVE™ 802.11ac, which provides speeds up to 2.6 Gbps whether using the 2.4 GHz band at 800 Mbps, the 5 GHz band at 1733 Mbps or a combination of the two. The Archer also has Qualcomm® MU EFX. The multi-user MIMO technology offers a greater degree of efficiency when operating multiple devices on crowded networks. This means that while older routers provided point-to-point data transmission to one device, other devices on the same network were left hanging and waiting.
However, the Archer AC2600 comes equipped with multi-user input and output capabilities that allow the unit to establish point-to-point connection with two or three devices simultaneously. This advanced technology improves speeds by as much as three times while reducing wait times. This capability enables the unit to successfully service more devices.
Though the MU-MIMO EFX technology has four connections, one of the these is used exclusively for monitoring and optimizing the function of the other three while reducing the amount of interference. In this way, data transmission is faster and has increased reliability. The technology also performs “dynamic grouping” of multiple devices based on individual usage and network requirements, which ensures that the connection to each device is delivered as fast as needed. The router also minimizes bandwidth congestion by assigning the appropriate frequency to each device.
Beamforming Capability
The TP Link Archer AC2600 contains beamforming technology. Beamforming allows the router to direct signals toward each device. Older, conventional routers emitted signals in a general broad configuration over a large area in a spray-like pattern. This type of broadcasting made routers more susceptible to weakened signals. On the other hand, the Archer provides concentrated transmissions in higher quality in both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. Not all AC routers features this capability. The Archer AC2600 router comes equipped with a powerful 1.4 GHz dual-core processor that allows everyone in your home to surf the Internet, stream media content or play games online at the same time. The processor combined with Qualcomm technology prevents network slowing and aggravating screen lag.
Overall Design
The unit measures 10.4×7.8×1.5 inches (263.8×197.8×37.3millimeters), is minimalistic in appearance and was created to set-up a network within minutes. The WPS button provides one-touch wireless security encryption. There are also power, Wi-Fi and LED on/off buttons that conserve power usage. Two USB 3.0 ports provide up to 10x the sharing speed compared to USB 2.0 ports. The built-in print server supports wireless capabilities from multiple computers. The media server enables flawless streaming of music and videos.
Additional Features
• Four detachable antennas
• Guest network access ensures secure broadcast access for guests if desired
• Parental controls allow users to restrict access for all connected devices
• VPN support enables secure access from remote devices
• WPA-PSK/WPA2- PSK encryption capability provides a barrier against network security threats
TP Link Tether
The Archer AC2600 is compatible with the TP Link Tether app that enables users to access or manage the unit using iOS or android devices. The app features a basic, intuitive interface to monitor router status, see who is online or check privileges. Users can also:
• Establish SSID, passwords and Internet settings for linked devices
• Block unauthorized users
• Manage permissions
• Parental control function
• Determine range extender location
• Schedule turn-off times
• Manage all TP Link devices
The TP Link AC2600 Gigabit Router is well-designed inside and out. However, the plentiful features and remote management capabilities do not come without a considerable cost. While the price may be off-putting, the router is ideal and worth the cost for anyone looking for a powerful router that delivers reliable connections for multiple devices.
