The IT Nerd

TP-Link Canada has announced the availability of Deco P7, a whole home hybrid Mesh wireless system in Canada. The Deco P7 supports powerline connection, aimed at providing stable Wi-Fi everywhere in the building.

Dual-band AC1300 Wi-Fi and AV600 powerline connections combine to create a seamless, fast whole home network. Powerline backhaul allows data to move through walls and other structures without losing transmission strength, thus eliminating weak signal areas. Users can enjoy fast, secure Wi-Fi for over 100 connected devices with Deco P7. The Deco P7 comes with TP-Link HomeCare which includes robust Parental Controls, dynamic Antivirus and traffic-optimizing Quality of Service (QoS) features, helping homeowners create a personalized and secure family network. The Deco P7 solves many wireless issues in the home.

Spotty Wi-Fi

The Deco units connect to each other to create a network system for the entire home. Having a network system eliminates weak signal areas and dead zones by placing units near hard-to-reach areas or by providing multiple access units for wireless devices to connect to. The Deco P7 operates on the IEEE 802.11r/k/v specifications for a truly seamless roaming experience.

Powerline Connection

Powerline technology uses the building’s electrical wiring to create stronger connections between Deco units. Wi-Fi integrated with powerline allows for link aggregation and gives the ability to boost bandwidth effectively. Backhaul bandwidth is improved by up to 60% more in the hybrid Wi-Fi system compared to a standard system without Powerline capability. No restrictions from thick walls or long distances, the Deco P7 can even reach as far as the mudroom or backyard.

Cyberthreat Protection

With advanced HomeCareTM in partnership with Trend Micro, the Deco P7 is one of the most secure Mesh Wi-Fi systems in the market. In addition to parental controls and QoS, HomeCare protects every connected device on the network from outside malware and hackers. Malicious site blocking takes the extra step of preventing users from accessing malicious websites. Live cyberthreat preventions are updated regularly with HomeCare.

Connects More Devices

Beneath the stylish exterior is a Qualcomm Quad-core CPU, giving Deco P7 the processing power to support over 100 devices. 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO technology and AC1300 dual-band speed provide lag-free connections, ensuring a smooth gaming and 4K streaming experience simultaneously. Multiple applications are handled with ease to deliver smooth and stable Wi-Fi for every device in the home.

Simple Onboarding

The Deco app provides clear onboarding instructions with visual aids, making setup fast and easy. Remote network management is also available through the Deco app such as limiting and monitoring internet use, pausing internet and setting up a guest network.

Key Features:

• 400 Mbps on 2.4 GHz; 867 Mbps on 5 GHz; HomePlug AV 600 Mbps.
• Effectively boost bandwidth
• No limits to data transmission distance or wall restrictions
• Each unit covers up to 2000 sq. ft.
• Add any Deco units to expand Wi-Fi coverage
• Qualcomm Quad-core CPU:
• Supports over 100 wireless devices
• Deco App simplifies network setup and management
• TP-Link HomeCareTM (parental controls, QoS and built-in antivirus software)
• IPv6: supports the latest Internet Protocol Version 6.
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa, IFTTT and other Deco models

Price & Availability The Deco P7 (3-pack) is currently available at all retail and e-tail partners for MSRP of $299.99 (CAD).

TP-Link, a leading global provider of consumer and business networking products today announced the expansion of its Mesh product lineup by adding the RE300 OneMeshTM AC1200 Range Extender. TP-Link OneMesh offers consumers more choices and options to experience whole-home Wi-Fi without replacing existing networking devices or purchasing a new Wi-Fi ecosystem.

While most whole-home Wi-Fi systems are considered expensive by the average consumer, OneMesh allows TP-Link router users to upgrade their home Wi-Fi to Mesh technology by simply updating their router’s firmware and adding a OneMesh range extender. OneMesh products will extend into Powerlines and be offered with TP-Link’s small office and home office product lines. The first OneMesh product available is the RE300 OneMesh AC1200 Range Extender which features up to 300 Mbps at 2.4GHz and 867 Mbps at 5GHz and works with Archer C7/Archer A7 models (firmware upgrades are required for the routers to use OneMesh).

OneMesh is a powerful technology that reliably eliminates dead zones and boosts signal strength with a single Wi-Fi network that extends to every corner of the home. Consumers no longer need to wander around in search of a stronger or faster signal. OneMesh intelligently connects mobile devices to the router or extender, whichever provides the best connection. Compatible OneMesh routers and extenders share a single Wi-Fi name so wireless users stay connected to the same network as they roam from room-to-room, enjoying uninterrupted streaming or downloading.

OneMesh ensures wireless devices are operating at top speeds with Adaptive Path Selection (APS) and Band Steering. Both technologies operate together to optimally select the fastest connection path to transfer data. TP-Link’s Mesh products have self-healing capabilities to ensure all wireless devices are always connected even if the network setup disconnects, so the Wi-Fi network is consistently stable and no dropped connections are experienced. Setup with the Tether app simplifies Wi-Fi extension onboarding and management.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Dual band (2.4GHz at 300 Mbps and 5GHz at 867 Mbps)
• Creates smart roaming Mesh network (single network name) on 802.11k/v standard
• Smart signal to find optimal location
• WPS button for easy, secure setup. Alternatively, the Tether app for network control and management on smartphone is available.
• Works with any compatible Wi-Fi router and access point. See full list of compatible products: https://www.tp-link.com/en/onemesh/compatibility

Pricing and Availability:

The RE300 AC1200 OneMesh Range Extender will be available at online retailers for an MSRP of $49.99 CAD.

Owners of TP-Link routers need to read this story from TechCrunch ASAP as there’s a remote access exploit that has been out in the wild for as much as a year:

Thousands of TP-Link routers are vulnerable to a bug that can be used to remotely take control of the device, but it took more than a year for the company to publish the patches on its website.

The vulnerability allows any low-skilled attacker to remotely gain full access to an affected router. The exploit relies on the router’s default password to work, which many don’t change.

In the worst-case scenario, an attacker could target vulnerable devices on a massive scale, using a similar mechanism to how botnets like Mirai worked — by scouring the web and hijacking routers using default passwords like “admin” and “pass.”

Well, that’s not good. However it gets worse:

Andrew Mabbitt, founder of U.K. cybersecurity firm Fidus Information Security, first discovered and disclosed the remote code execution bug to TP-Link in October 2017. TP-Link released a patch a few weeks later for the vulnerable WR940N router, but Mabbitt warned TP-Link again in January 2018 that another router, TP-Link’s WR740N, was also vulnerable to the same bug because the company reused vulnerable code between devices.

TP-Link said the vulnerability was quickly patched in both routers. But when we checked, the firmware for WR740N wasn’t available on the website.

When asked, a TP-Link spokesperson said the update was “currently available when requested from tech support,” but wouldn’t explain why. Only after TechCrunch reached out, TP-Link updated the firmware page to include the latest security update.

That’s pretty bad on the part of TP-Link as the media should have to tell anyone that they have an issue as the optics just suck when that happens and it’s made public. In any case, if you have either router that is mentioned above, it is worth your time to see if you’re running the latest firmware.

TP-Link Canada, a leading global provider of consumer and business networking products was awarded 2018 Best Home and Consumer Router Manufacturer by the Reseller Choice Awards. TP-Link is consistently ranked by analyst firm IDC as the No. 1 provider of WLAN and broadband CPE devices, supplying more than 40% of the global market. Winning the 2018 Reseller Choice award speaks volume about which networking brand is trusted globally and by Canadians alike. Entering the Canadian market since 2010, TP-Link has made significant strides in networking, smart home and mobile accessories.

Founded in 1996, TP-Link is a global provider of reliable networking devices and accessories, involved in all aspects of everyday life. The company is consistently ranked by analyst firm IDC as the No. 1 provider of WLAN and broadband CPE devices*, supplying distribution to more than 120 countries and serving hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

With a proven heritage of stability, performance and value, TP-Link has curated a portfolio of products that meet the networking needs of all individuals. Now, as the connected lifestyle continues to evolve, the company is expanding today to exceed the demands of tomorrow.

Ranked highest in customer satisfaction for wireless routers by J.D. Power in 2017 for signal strength, brand confidence and reputation, speed specifications and ease of use.

Today at CES, TP-Link has launched OneMesh home networking and its first Wi-Fi 6 products:

• Deco X10 Whole Home Mesh Wifi
• Archer AX110000 gaming router – CES 2019 Innovation Awards Honoree
• Archer AX6000 router
• Archer AX1800 for price conscious consumers
• AX1800 Range Extender

Kasa Smart has also introduced its new artificial intelligence, cloud-based platform for cross-product interaction. Smart Action adds features such as face recognition and an AI filtered video summary that work across the Kasa Smart portfolio:

• Kasa Smart Video Doorbell
• Kasa Smart Wire-Free Outdoor Security Camera System
• Kasa Smart Spot Indoor Security Camera
• Kasa Smart WiFi Light Switch with Voice Assistant – CES 2019 Innovation Awards Honoree
• Kasa Smart WiFi Power Outlet
• Kasa Smart WiFi Outdoor Plug
• Kasa Smart WiFi LED Light Strip

TP-Link’s products will be on display during CES at the Sands, Halls A-D, Booth 42765, and at Pepcom at the Mirage Hotel.

More information can be found in the following press releases:

• TP-Link Bolsters Its Whole Home Mesh Offerings
• TP-Link Introduces Most Complete Product Line for New 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) Wireless Standard with Five New Offerings
• Kasa Smart Introduces Powerful AI and Cloud-Based Platform for Cross-Product Interaction, Creating a True Smart Home Experience 
• Kasa Smart Storms CES, Unveiling 7 New Smart Home Products 

TP-Link has launched the Omada OC200 cloud controller. This cloud-managed wireless network gives decentralized IT operations the flexibility to control multiple access points in different locations and instantly troubleshoot from anywhere in the world without having to move from site to site. The ability to set up a robust wireless connection at multiple sites while managing and controlling the network in a centralized location greatly reduces business costs and improves productivity.

The Omada wireless solution includes a hardware cloud controller, EAP cloud-enabled controller software, ceiling-mount access points, and outdoor access points. Adding to the comprehensive Omada solution is the just released EAP225-Wall AC1200 MU-MIMO PoE Wall-Plate Access Point which gives users fast, private and stable dedicated in-room Internet connections regardless of room size. These wall-plated access points are widely used in hotels, dormitories and other locations.

Omada hardware products are powered by Broadcom and Qualcomm enterprise-grade chipsets and provide abundant processing power and superior wireless experience. The elegant and modern encasing blends in with any interior design and appeals to hospitality, campuses, parks, stadiums, restaurants, retailers, offices and government IT departments moving towards a cloud-managed solution.
Instantly Configure a Network

Centralized management with the Omada controller software and cloud access gives IT administrators remote access from a single location. Simple plug-and-play configuration allows for new access points to be set up within minutes.

Quicken IT Response Time

Network downtime can be costly for any businesses. IT administrators no longer need to travel to the physical location to troubleshoot wireless connectivity with a cloud-managed solution. Omada hardware also connect to form one seamless mesh network. If an access point fails within the network, other access points on the same network adapt to the change automatically and connect to the wireless equipment to maintain seamless coverage.
Increase Network Visibility

The complimentary EAP cloud-enabled access point controller software allows the ability to control, adjust and visualize the entire network from any connected PC or device remotely. Speeds can be throttled, network usage reports can be generated and IT administrators can detect network issues before they happen with improved network visibility application.
Omada Cloud-Managed Solution, Pricing and Availability Overview:

Cloud Controller

Cloud Access Controller for Centralized Management – Manage wireless network over the cloud with PoE (802.3af/802.3at) support, Omada App and secure login via SMS and Facebook: Model#: OC200 – MSRP $99.99 (CAD)

AC1200 Wireless MU-MIMO Wall-Place Access Point – Upgrade Ethernet wall jacks to a high-performance wireless access point. No additional wiring required with PoE (802.3af/802.3at) support and acts as switch by providing three Ethernet ports: Model#: EAP225-Wall – MSRP $89.99 (CAD)

Ceiling Mount Access Point

AC1350 Wireless MU-MIMO Gigabit Access Point – Model#: EAP225 V3 – MSRP $99.99 (CAD)

AC1750 Wireless Dual-Band Gigabit Access Point – Model#: EAP245 V3 – MSRP – $129.99

AC1200 Broadcom Wireless Dual-Band Gigabit Access Point – Model#: EAP320 – MSRP – $199.99

Outdoor Access Point 300Mbps-  Durable and Weatherproof Wireless N Outdoor Access Point Model#: EAP110-Outdoor – MSRP $69.99 (CAD) T

he Omada Cloud Managed Solution is available for TP-Link resellers at any TP-Link authorized distributor. Customers can also purchase TP-Link business products at any national retailer and e-tailer. Learn more about the Omada Wireless Solution.