TP-Link Deco Fixes
Troubleshooting and optimization for TP-Link Deco mesh systems.
Tech Support Quick Fixes TP-Link Deco
Overview
TP-Link Deco mesh systems are widely used but can suffer from stability and performance issues, particularly in larger homes or where many devices are connected.
Common problems include:
- Intermittent or slow Wi-Fi
- Devices connecting to the wrong node
- Internet working in some rooms but not others
- Nodes showing offline in the app
- Issues temporarily resolved by rebooting, then returning
Before assuming a hardware failure, follow the steps below in order.
Step 1: Confirm the Problem
First, identify what is actually happening:
- Is there no internet, or just weak Wi-Fi...
- Are all areas affected, or only certain rooms...
- Do wired devices work while Wi-Fi does not...
If nothing in the property has internet access, start with the ISP.
Step 2: Check with Your Internet Provider (ISP)
Confirm with your ISP that:
- The line is active and stable
- There are no known outages
- The modem / ONT is correctly provisioned
If the ISP confirms everything is fine, continue below.
Step 3: Check the ISP Modem / ONT
Locate the ISP-provided modem or fibre box.
From a basic visual check:
- Are the normal status lights on...
- Are there no red or alarm lights...
- Has the device clearly booted fully...
If the modem itself appears unstable or offline, stop here and return to the ISP.
Step 4: Power-cycle the Deco System (Order Matters)
This resolves many Deco-related issues.
4.1 Turn OFF all Deco units
Power off every Deco node in the property.
4.2 Identify the main Deco unit
- This is the Deco connected directly to the ISP modem
- It is often located in a network cabinet, but not always
If you are unsure which unit is the main node:
- Stop and contact us
- If we installed the system, we may already know
4.3 Power ON the main Deco only
Wait until it fully online and shows as connected in the Deco app.
Once confirmed:
- Power on the remaining nodes
- Allow several minutes for them to reconnect
Step 5: Understanding Node Speed Readings in the Deco App
This speed shows the current bandwidth being used, not the maximum speed of the Deco node.
When viewing individual Deco nodes in the app, you may see a speed value displayed.
Important: This speed shows the current bandwidth being used at that moment, not the maximum speed the node is capable of.
Common points of confusion:
- A low number does not mean the node is slow or faulty
- It does not represent the top link speed or Wi-Fi capability
- It will often read near zero when little or no data is being used
The speed will increase temporarily when:
- A device is actively downloading or streaming
- A speed test is running through that node
This behaviour is normal and does not indicate a performance issue on its own.
Step 6: Check Device Prioritisation (QoS)
Device Prioritisation limits overall network throughput. With high-speed UAE internet connections, this should normally be OFF.
TP-Link Deco includes a Device Prioritisation feature, which limits bandwidth to favour a selected device.
Important: If device prioritisation is enabled:
- Overall network throughput can be reduced
- Other devices may experience slower speeds
- Speed tests may appear artificially low
In most UAE homes:
- Internet connections are already very high bandwidth
- Device prioritisation is not required
- Leaving it enabled often causes more harm than benefit
Recommendation: Ensure device prioritisation is turned OFF unless there is a specific and intentional reason to use it.
Step 7: Check the Deco App Status
If a node regularly shows offline or weak connection, this usually indicates placement or platform limitations rather than an internet fault.
Using the TP-Link Deco app:
- Confirm all nodes show online
- Check signal quality between nodes
- Look for firmware updates and apply if available
If nodes show weak connections or regularly go offline, this indicates a placement or platform limitation rather than a fault.
Step 8: Watch for Factory Resets
In some cases, Deco nodes may partially or fully reset.
Signs include:
- Nodes appearing as new
- Nodes losing their assigned names
- Nodes refusing to rejoin the system
If this occurs, the affected node may need to be factory reset and re-added via the app.
Why TP-Link Deco Issues Commonly Occur
Deco systems are designed for convenience rather than advanced network control. In real-world homes, issues often arise due to:
- Limited roaming control
- Inconsistent node-to-node communication
- Poor handling of busy or complex networks
- Limited diagnostic visibility
These limitations become more noticeable as:
- Property size increases
- Device count grows
- Network usage becomes more demanding
When to Stop and Contact Us
- Nodes regularly drop offline
- Wi-Fi performance degrades over time
- Reboots only provide temporary relief
- Issues affect multiple rooms or floors
Repeated problems usually indicate that the Wi-Fi platform itself is the limiting factor rather than the internet connection.
If you are comparing platforms
Need help from Hurst First...
If you'd like us to troubleshoot, optimise, or take over support, use the options below.
Support Pricing & Warranty
We keep pricing clear and consistent so you know what to expect.
- Initial callout: AED 500 + VAT
- Labour: AED 350 per hour + VAT (charged by the hour)
- Out of hours: 200% labour rate (weekends, holidays, and 7 PM - 8 AM)
If the issue is resolved remotely, we will always do that first.
Warranty (Systems We Supply)
Where we supply the hardware, we provide a 12-month workmanship warranty (unless stated otherwise) and assist with manufacturer warranty claims.
Client-Provided Hardware
If the issue relates to hardware that we did not supply:
- Support is provided on a best-effort basis.
- We may recommend replacement rather than prolonged troubleshooting.
- We cannot warranty third-party equipment, existing cabling, or prior workmanship.
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule a consultation or site survey to discuss your requirements