Brilliant. Just followed your instructions and now have 3 Deco XE75's on three different floors, all wired together and each giving speeds of 500 plus!
Hi, just got my pair tonight. About to set them up, your review videos are by far the most outstanding and comprehensive reviews on TH-cam. Keep up the great work. And thank you.
Thanks so much! Based on your videos I got this, and it was a cinch to set up once I'd watched these. Very smooth and easy, where has all the challenge gone 😀? Took five minutes, unbelievable! Two thumbs up!!
Some info for anyone looking into these: I was using a Netgear C7800 modem router combo unit, but was getting around 450 down on my pc across the house. Didnt want to run cables under or in crawl space, so decided to get these on sale (was about 190 after tax). Main unit plugged into port 1 of C7800, I turned off the C7800 wireless with the button on it. Then set up the second unit in my room with pc, the unit about 8 feet closer to the door. Now I am getting about 850 down, with only a slight increase in ping/ms! Even with wireless backhaul, it works really well! Not sure if that speaks to how good these are, or maybe how bad the C7800 range was...either way, Ill be keeping the Deco XE75 Pro for sure!
Found this video and setup my Deco XE75 just as shown and it works perfect! Thanks for showing all the options. Have a wired backhaul now and fast stable connection across all three devices. 700mbs through my whole house wired and wireless. WOW!
OMG !! YOU'VE ANSWERED ALL OF MY QUESTIONS IN 1 VIDEO. I'VE BEEN LOOKING AROUND HOW TO GET A WIRED BACKHAUL CONNECTION FOR MY MULTIPLE MESH ROUTER WIFI 6E !!! THANK YOU SOOO MUCCHHH !!!
Installed my XE75 Pro last night. It was super easy and quick. I have my 2 satellites on ethernet backhaul, and those were truly plug-and-play, no setup needed. The main node found them and they were on the network in just a minute or so. So far really pleased! Upgraded from the original Google Mesh to get the 6E capability. This is my first TP Link product and I am very impressed.
I had this same setup then one night it just stopped working. Can a ethernet cable just go bad? It just won't work anymore. It does work wirelessly, though. Frustrating!
@@Soupcan35while not overly common in my experience, I guess an Ethernet cable could go bad. Have you tried switching to a different cable yet? (Yes, I know that sounds very obvious…😊)
The top ethernet port (1) goes bad and won't put out an IP. There are 7 pages of response on the TP-Link Deco community page about this issue. That's what happened to mine and there isn't a fix.
Thanks, just purchased and installed a new Deco Xe75 pro (3) from your reviews. Excellent videos and easy installation. I now have great wifi signal across my home, detected garage (100 feet away) and across the 1 acre property.
Thank you so very much for that detailed and informative video. You put it in terms that I could understand which is hard to find on other videos sometimes. I truly think I won’t have an issue setting up my devices with the way you explained everything. I would give you two thumbs up if I could. Thank you again.
So glad I ran into your channel. I just bought the 3-pack Deco XE75 a week ago everything works great. But I just learned from this video to use 6 GHz wifi for dedicated backhaul and now all my nodes have Strong signals instead of Fair. I didn't know this feature was available. Thank you!
One thing I learn over this weekend with this WIFI system and something that no one mentions is that, If you disconnect it from the power or the power goes out in your house, you HAVE to reboot it. In what becomes a headache, having to reconnect everything from scratch basically. So with Google Wi-Fi I have never had that problem. (I can only compare it with Google system because they are the only ones I have had), saying this. I prefer Google which is much easier to use, knowing Deco XE75 is better in coverage. I speak from my own experience
Just got XE75 3 pack yesterday...now realise i need to run a few cables throuhout the house to actually use it to its full capacity. This did help a lot
Awesome. You answered all my questions. One observation though which is obviously wrong is that I connected all the routers to the modem directly and then setup the mesh. Surprisingly, it worked where one satellite modem was connected via wifi and another via wired ( I used a three pack from Costco). But, I am going to change it to all wired to bring sanity.
AFAIK and out of experience too, the deco mesh system is the only system that lets connect all units as dump ap's behind a switch, with non of them connected to the modem/router directly.. I have deployed a number of systems this way. Keep up the good work. Your fan from Kuwait, Aziz 👋
I just purchased this kit thanks to your videos and I have a question: My modem is in a room where all my house cat5 wires go to using wall plates. So if i plug my modem into that room's wall plate, and then from a different room i put the Deco and hook it up to that room's wall plate, this should act as if I am plugging it directly into the modem, correct? Thanks again, liked & subscribed.
Thanks Bro...I totally had my Deco's wired completely wrong (modem to switch/switch to deco)...the absolute best video explaining the wired setup! You're awesome thanks again!!
Love the way you explain everything in a way that it is simple for us to understand. There are a couple questions that do stick out and I don't think I've seen it asked in the comments. 1. Isn't wired backhaul essentially the same as creating an access point? 2. Is there any speed benefit to connecting to the wifi on a wireless mesh rather than directly connecting to the wifi on the main router?
Thanks ,this vid shows I should have a wire displayed on app for ethernet which I didn't originally. Had to redo some connectors using pass through type to fix it. 175' down to my pole barn. Finally got it .Had wire buried in conduit for 20 years and never got around to it till now.
Super impressed either way this video. So clear and straightforward. I have 3 homes on our property and currently running through Ethernet into a switch for security cameras and this will make my switch so much better
Great explanation and how to. This is exactly how mine is set up. I had many problems with the Google nest & google wifi dropping connections after an update and after getting very frustrated with their help I had to finally drop their wireless products and went with the deco XE75 Pro, hooked back up in same configuration and can say for the last week anyways - their are awesome. Full speed wifi with hardwire backend (my connection is only 900 at the moment) but wifi near the device is between 700 & 900, I get a 1/2 drop, between walls, but most of my walls are rockwool insulation with double drywall. Great video, great product thus far!
Dude , you just encapsulated everything I needed to know in this vid - thank you soooo much ! I have the deco system (3 x pods) but had set it up incorrectly as was getting a "weak" signal from each deco even though I hardwired my house - thanks to your vid , i realised my issue and now have a fully wired backhaul system running like silk ! Thanks HEAPS !
Regarding connecting to between a device and the satellite with a cable instead of using wireless. I did some checks comparing the speeds with a tri-band USB-3.0 adapter on my desktop with the speeds wired with a Cat6 cable. The cable was much faster -- speeds ranging from 517-641 vs 300-336. Obviously this will vary with each setup, but checking the difference wireless:cable only takes a few minutes. Other than that little thing...Nice presentation.
DUDE!! Thank you so much! My furthest unit was barely getting a signal, and you saved the day (and $400) by mentioning that I could wired the main unit into this one. I also figured out that the app isn't telling me the possible speed, but the amount of data being sent thru a device at any given moment. I'm still getting 300-360 Mbs on speed tests with my phone. Time to find a streaming service and come out of the stone age.
Great video with very useful information about the TP-Link Deco. I am used to older routers with a dedicated Wan port and 4 ethernet ports. Your discussion about the auto sensing ports on the Deco is good to know. I was curious about what port to connect to the modem. I am not a fan of all these cute white cylindrical apple like Mesh routers reducing the number of ports from 4 down to 3, 2, 1. I'll need to add unmanaged switches to each node for my setup. Thanks for clearly explaining how that all works with the Deco.
Thanks a lot, you answered my question which is bothering me to find "if can I direclty go from modem to switch and then connect it to all mesh routers?". your video helped a lot! Thanks again!!
Best review on the internet. As a result of this video and your other comparison video, I’ve bought the XE75 Pro (3 pack). One question, I cannot see an option to use 6Ghz for dedicated backhaul. Has the App changed?
Thanks! The place might've changed but I would think the option should still be in the advanced section of the app or maybe it's in the wireless name section?
Your video is a god-send! Thank you so much for this. I have an old router but a new cable modem for a Xfinity ISP infratructure upgrade and I think I can get a 2-pack or 3-pack of these and ditch the old router and give my (large) home much better performance throughout. I see some of these similar devices by other manufacturers support a faster data transfer (3,000 Mbps, 5,500Mbs vs 6000) but I am nowhere near that speed now (about 400Mbs) so I think i can get the less expensive units. QUESTION: So my new Comcast xFinity cable modem (Arris model G36) has a 2.5 Gbps port on the back connected to my (old) Asus router. When I go to this Deco mesh approach and ditch my old router, and plug into the 2.5Gbps port, I take it unless I am paying my ISP for that fast of a connection, I probably won't realize any speed performance increase over the setup I have now? . . .but will realize better signal strength in my home. . .? Is that reasoning right? Thank you again! Subbed.
Thanks! Yes, the 2.5Gbps port will not be utilized unless you are paying your ISP. Think of it as an up to speed. One other thing that I noticed is that when you refer to the speed rating, those speeds are a summation of all the bands, don’t expect to get those speeds since your only connected to one band at a time. I do the speed test and range tests to show the numbers you can expect, with that said this mesh system is more than capable of handling 400Mbps speeds
This video helped me address most of my Queries.... What deatiled explanation. I love the fact that you cosnidered allpossible aspects when explaining a specific setup option.. Also that which port doesnt matter.. helps. cos newbies always wondered ( i did) if its the top port or the bottom one etc.. The clarification on the switch also was useful, the brand didnt matter. Allpossible positions of the switch also helped to understand its a versatile setup... However, I have a few more queries and I drew a layout of my house for that. Can i reach you via email so I can share that with you for guidance?
Great video. Excellent examples with hardware. I do have a question or two. I have my own router that I prefer to use, but want to use the TP Link Deco XE75 X 3 in a Mesh function only mode. If I don't use the TP-Link router function & I set this up in AP mode, will it actually function as a mesh system still, or is there difference where the AP's don't coordinate best connection and handoff seamlessly or more seamlessly? Thanks
Very nice video... Can you keep your own router and connect the Mesh to that one to create a roaming network with the mesh members having the old router's wifi name???
I really appreciate your reply. Does the Deco decide automatically which configuration is best for my environment or is there a setting I can select? I could not find a way to manually enable daisy chain. Thank you @@landpet
Great video!!! One question for you. Can you: 1. Connect the modem to the router(globe port) then from that to a unmanaged switch. 2. Connect other 2 points(globe) to the two different ethernet cables from the unmanaged switch creating a wired backhaul. Or do they have to be daisy chained?
Thank you this video made me purchase the XE75 Pro and let’s just say I wish I did this 2 years ago 10/10 my network is 100% stable and I constantly get 1 GB up and 1 GB down on the wired connection and 850 up and down wireless
This was very informative and I appreciate you taking the time to post it, but given that most people buy these devices to get better Wi-Fi coverage, I really wish you would have discussed using the router as an ethernet hub instead of the switch. Even if that's something that obviously varies from router to router or is something you can't do with this product; that's information that's VERY important to know but still isn't obvious or easy to find. Else you don't even know if you even need a switch to begin with.
Thanks. The only point of getting a switch in my example was to add more ethernet ports. Using the ethernet ports of the deco will work just fine, if there are enough ethernet ports on the deco, then there's no point of getting an additional ethernet switch.
The best educational video by far! I have Fios service, I have the Quantum Gateway G1100 Wireless Wi-fi router. My question is: can I connect the Deco system into the Quantum Gateway G1100 Wireless Wi-fi router since it has Ethernet ports?
Thanks! Technically you can but I wouldn’t recommend it. It seems like that is just a router, why not remove that and connect your deco directly to your ONT (essentially your modem) and make a faster wifi network?
Thanks! I like both brands, asus typically has many more options, deco is more of a simplified interface. Deco typically costs less than Asus but I really like both.
Excellent communicator! Very clear tutorial! I have XE75 Pro coming tomorrow because my Linksys Ext (5300?) died. I have a 2100 sq ft house wired with CAT 6. I plan to use 1 Deco as Router and the other (I guess) in access point mode connected via ethernet between the 2.5 GHz ports (is that best?). I have 400 Gbps Comcast so I figured, I'll plug the Main XE75 into the Arris cable modem using the 1Gbps ports. I was also wondering if its possible to use my old Linksys Router EA9300 as an access point in my garage where there is a drop if I turn off DHCP? It may be overkill because the 2nd XE75 will be just 10 to 15 feet from the Wifi Irrigation controller and Garage Door opener. Your tip about using the same network name/password is a god-send to avoid reconnecting about 80 devices in my home!
Thanks! For the ssid and password just remember they are both case sensitive. I would connect like you said with the modem going to the gigabit port and going 2.5Gbps to the other 2.5Gbps. I think running your other router is pointless and I personally don’t recommend mixing and matching routers.
Almost exactly what I intend to do. EA9500 as my main router (already old)...an older one in my garage as bridge, a 24 ports gigabit unmanaged switch somewhere, another smaller with POE for cameras...lots of ethernet jacks...I want to upgrade. I'm about to maybe buy XE75!
@@Guillaume_Boutin The DECO 6e is the bomb. So easy to use and connect devices. The two DECO’s cover my whole house, garage and property easily. It’s much more powerful! Devices are detected and connected with ease…no need to use your old router. It’s absolutely trouble free.
Thanks for this video! Needed to verify my setup and this helped! I just recently switched over to ATT FIber and got 2Gbps down/up. The fiber modem is in the garage and through the app, it's showing 2526Mbps down and 2515 Mbps up....this is great but I'm realizing it might be overkill because my existing network is slow....vanilla gigabit switches and the original google wifi mesh...I decided to upgrade the google wifi mesh to a more up to date mesh (this XE75) which has definitely improved speed and stability even though my devices are pretty much all in the 802.11n/802.11ac era so those devices will never see anything above their theoretical maximums (all under gigabit)...the house is also wired with cat 5e ethernet instead of the faster cables required for multigig over long distances. it would appear that having 2Gbps internet would need me to upgrade to the XE75PRO (which has 2.5Gbps backhaul) + a multigig switch and pray that my cat 5e isn't too long (some rooms are definitely on the longer side of things). Thinking I should just downgrade to 1Gbps for now lol
@11:45 from modem to network switch and then to Tp link deco. For your device may be "no" but currently I'm using deco x20 it is "yes". Change mode from router to access point and then you can connect any deco to switch as much as you can.
Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation. I have two questions, 1. Can i connect desktop-1 and Wifi printer to deco1 and print from desktop/laptop/mobile on deco 2 to print on wifi printer which is on deco1 2. can i connect to remote desktop-1(wired) on deco1 from a desktop-2 on deco2 (wired)
@@Matthew-vy1gs Sure, i bought a duo kit with deco x75 and it was running within 20 mins with the mobile app i had sort of a good placement after 10 more mins. I now have at least 100/100 in my house with 2 decos and better coverage than 5 nokia beacons
Thanks ! Now I see what I did wrong. I did the wired setup, modem->maindeco-> switch-> other Deco’s . But I also had a cable from the modem to the switch.
Great video. But instead of using wired backhaul, which is a serial connection, can we use a star topology, I mean, connecting each Deco to the ISP router?
Thank you for the great content. I purchased the xe75 Pro 3 pack and we have over 1 Gig service coming into the house. What is the best way to wire backhaul these units to take advantage of the 2.5 Gig ports? if I use the 2.5 Gig port from the modem on the first node, I will only have the 1 Gig nodes going out to the other nodes. Thanks for your help.
No problem, unfortunately for wired backhaul, you don’t have much choice for over gigabit without getting additional hardware. If you’re using wired backhaul, I would rather get the X55 Pro which recently came out and has 2 2.5Gbps ports so you can wire backhaul that however it doesn’t support WiFi 6E. There are other alternative but they involve buying additional hardware like the firewalla router and using that to connect to your modem and connecting your deco to that but running in access point mode which I’m not a fan of unless you have a specific purpose.
Excellent videos. Speaking for myself I appreciate u dumming it down and actually using visuals for some of us. My question is that I'm thinking of buying the XE75. I have less than a gig speed and shud I also switch from cat5 cables to cat 6 or 7 cables. My modem is from Xfinity and currently uses cat5
quick question, i have a modem+router offered by optimum, that has an USB, i am using a n/w cable to connect to deco, i have connected my USB HDD to my router, will i be able to access the HDD data using the deco wifi? Also please suggest how can configure/access an external HDD in this situation.
@05:20 - Has the option to dedicate the 6 GHz band for backhaul been removed? Do the nodes now just use whatever band they want for backhaul? Do we no longer have any control over wireless backhaul bands?
Thanks for all of the exlainations. One more question, is it possible to wire this way : 10Gb Modem->10Gb unmanaged switch-> Deco1-> 1Gb unmanaged switch-> Déco 2 and 3 ?
Awesome video! Very detailed. Thank You so much!!! Just have 1 qtn - I currently have FTTC NBN connected to a router via WAN. So does that mean, I need to remove that router and replace it with the deco, like FTTC NBN -> Deco? Or it should be FTTC NBN -> NetComm Router -> Deco?
Excellent video that explains so much. Question - I setup my system using a wired backhaul straight to satellite node but now I'm considering running that connection through the switch like you suggested. Will I have to reconfigure anything through the Deco app to make that work correctly?
Thanks No setting change is required, get an unmanaged switch and plug it in like I demonstrated here and everything will be done automatically. Make sure you connect the switch to the main router or any of the nodes, do not connect the switch directly to the modem.
Clear, thanks. But still some more questions as I have more units and two 8-port switches :) What about ethernet loops, what is that? What do you recommend (after the necessary modem to Deco of set up ofcourse). Do you recommend Deco to Deco (en then a second switch) or Deco to second switch to Deco? I think many households have really much devices wired and there is few info on this. Were no network managers for work ;)
Have been loving your videos. I just bought XE75 Pro’s on your recommendation. I use an OPNSense firewall as my existing router/firewall. Can I leave my firewall in place, and operate my new XE75’s in AP mode and still get the mesh feature? Or does mesh only work when one XE75 is a router? Thanks!!!
If you have fiber internet, you will most likely have an ONT. you would connect the deco directly to the ONT which will provide the deco with internet access
Awesome explanation of the various ways you can connect a mesh WiFi system. For an ethernet backhaul connection, instead of using an unmanaged switch would it be possible to use a second router to connect the 2nd and/or 3rd Deco nodes or would that cause some connection issues?
Excellent simplified video Q: running Ethernet across house is a pain. How about Modem ethernet to Deco1 -> deco1 Ethernet to power line adaptor -> another room powerline adaptor Ethernet to Deco2. Would this set up be better than connecting deco 1 to 2 over wireless (assuming wifi6E backhaul) Cheers
It can be depending on where you were planning on placing deco 2. You can also check out MoCA 2.5 which is like a power line adapter except it goes through the cable wires within your walls. I would argue that MoCA is better than powerline. I’ve done videos on this as well
Hi and thank your for your Job, As your said if you stick to the routeur mode, the main deco is the only one who can acces to the front modem through an ethernet cable But if you switch in AP mode each deco unit can connect directly to the modem/routeur through an ethernet cable. Note that in AP mode, the modeme/router need to have a NAT fonction to work.
Nice video, it's strange that it doesn't have a WAN port. When it's configured in router mode, how do you know where to plug the modem and where the LAN cables are?
Excellent info and way of explaining things. First time iv managed to get my head around it all, well nearly lol. Whats the max length can the wired set up be from router to 2nd one?
So, I could use some advice. I have a Deco Mesh pair. I am using the 6e as dedicated backhaul. The node is placed near to several home theater devices (a/v receiver, roku, chromecast, smart tv) which I have connected wirelessly. Other devices connect to this node as well. If I use an ethernet switch to connect the node to the stereo equipment, am I freeing up more bandwidth for the other wireless devices? Is there any advantage to this type of setup? I guess I'm wondering is the wifi connections or the backhaul the bottleneck in this setup. By the way, your video was great. Thanks!
Great video . Answer all my question. As main network is on 1st floor while my desktop on 2nd floor. I want Wi-Fi connection for my laptop and phone but I need a wired connection to my desktop
What's the recommended category of cable to interconnect the Decos for the best performance without paying more than needed? Thanks for the video! Really helpful.
Hi! First of all thank you for all the info and your time. Amazing video that answers most of my questions. I bought three of these this week but I want to use them as access points without creating any new SSID and password. I want to use my modems (which is both modem and router) SSID and password so all the connected devises still be connected. Is this possible? All I have to do is to put the same SSID and password as my modem’s?
Outstanding setup guide with enough details. I have a combo modem & wifi router. I will be using a switch as you explained and connect the other mesh nodes to the switch for the main house. I have a rental condo unit that I would like to use a standard wifi router. Can this be connected to the switch? If not, what are my options? Thanks
Wow this is extremely helpful. If I have a wired modem in my garage and all the other wired connections meet in the garage, can I then connect the Deco to any wired connection access point and it will talk to modem? or do I need to DIRECTLY connect the deco to the modem in the garage?
If your modem is a modem/router combo then either disable the router portion of that or run the deco in access point mode. If you’re running the deco in router mode the knot does need to directly connect to your modem.
Thank you very much for answering all the different configuration scenarios, I have a question that would determine which device i buy in the next few days hehe... My scenario is that I have 3 rooms far enough from each other that are ethernet wired to the central "hub" of the house, the "hub" is a terrible place to put a router because of the walls and little space, so my main question is I'm wondering if it would make sense for me to use a NETGEAR router (with plenty of ports and I already own) and turn off the wireless antenna, and in each of the three rooms that will be wired to this netgear router, install a deco unit and set it to AP mode. I know it's possible to also get a 4 unit so that the main deco unit acts as the router, but those are expensive and I really want 3 wireless points (if that's the right word?) (one for each of the 3 wired rooms). My main concern with the configuration I proposed above (1 netgear router with wireless turned off + 3 deco units in AP mode) is that it would either not be possible or there is already something that I'm unaware of that would deteriorate the speed dramatically. I guess another way of saying this is that I'm trying to save money so that instead of buying a 4 unit deco I can reuse my netgear router [router is new enough to handle the speeds, I'm only looking at ~200Mbps speeds :) ] TYVM in advance!!
No problem. I haven't tried this in that scenario but I do believe in access point mode you still need to wire the deco's to each other. I don't know if you can wire three decos individually to the netgear. You could go from netgear to deco 1, from deco 1 you can go to both deco 2 and 3 or you can go from deco 1 to deco 2 then from deco 2 to deco 3. I know you're trying to save money and I'm all for that but I'm personally not a fan of mixing and matching different brands. Since you're running wired backhaul anyways, what's stopping you from getting a 4 pack of deco x20 or x55 instead instead of this xe75? the x20 and x55 don't support wifi 6e but over wired backhaul and for 200Mbps speeds they should be fairly good.
Hands down THEEEEEEE best channel w/ detail reviews on these modern routers. Thank you for your time and effort.
Wow, thanks!
Thank you much, very well explained, the best thing about this video is that you actually show the multiple ways of connecting the Deco devices.
You are welcome! I'm glad it's useful
Brilliant. Just followed your instructions and now have 3 Deco XE75's on three different floors, all wired together and each giving speeds of 500 plus!
Can I wire 2 and have the last one by wifi backhaul?
@@joost1183yes
@@joost1183 Yes.
Nice
just got mine a few weeks ago its amazing. turned the QOS down to 300mb total for gaming and this thing is an absolute beast for low latency gaming!
It's amazing!
So many of my questions answered in one video. Thank you so much.
Happy to help!
Hi, just got my pair tonight. About to set them up, your review videos are by far the most outstanding and comprehensive reviews on TH-cam. Keep up the great work. And thank you.
You're welcome!
I really like and appreciate how in depth you are with your videos and tutorials while also being clear and not confusing. Thank you.
No problem!
I agree. He doesn't assume you know everything at the same time he is not dumbing it down for just beginner.
@@TonyPadgett I appreciate it!
This is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO helpful! you thought of all the possible questions people may have and answered them clearly! Thanks again!!!!!
You are welcome!
You're literally answering all my questions as I'm thinking them lol great video. Clear and straight to the point. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽
Thanks!
Same here. Much appreciated!!!
Thanks so much! Based on your videos I got this, and it was a cinch to set up once I'd watched these. Very smooth and easy, where has all the challenge gone 😀? Took five minutes, unbelievable! Two thumbs up!!
Glad this video was useful! Thanks for the feedback!
Some info for anyone looking into these: I was using a Netgear C7800 modem router combo unit, but was getting around 450 down on my pc across the house. Didnt want to run cables under or in crawl space, so decided to get these on sale (was about 190 after tax).
Main unit plugged into port 1 of C7800, I turned off the C7800 wireless with the button on it. Then set up the second unit in my room with pc, the unit about 8 feet closer to the door. Now I am getting about 850 down, with only a slight increase in ping/ms! Even with wireless backhaul, it works really well!
Not sure if that speaks to how good these are, or maybe how bad the C7800 range was...either way, Ill be keeping the Deco XE75 Pro for sure!
Found this video and setup my Deco XE75 just as shown and it works perfect! Thanks for showing all the options. Have a wired backhaul now and fast stable connection across all three devices. 700mbs through my whole house wired and wireless. WOW!
Awesome
OMG !! YOU'VE ANSWERED ALL OF MY QUESTIONS IN 1 VIDEO. I'VE BEEN LOOKING AROUND HOW TO GET A WIRED BACKHAUL CONNECTION FOR MY MULTIPLE MESH ROUTER WIFI 6E !!! THANK YOU SOOO MUCCHHH !!!
Thank you! Appreciate it!
Installed my XE75 Pro last night. It was super easy and quick. I have my 2 satellites on ethernet backhaul, and those were truly plug-and-play, no setup needed. The main node found them and they were on the network in just a minute or so. So far really pleased! Upgraded from the original Google Mesh to get the 6E capability. This is my first TP Link product and I am very impressed.
I had this same setup then one night it just stopped working. Can a ethernet cable just go bad? It just won't work anymore. It does work wirelessly, though. Frustrating!
@@Soupcan35while not overly common in my experience, I guess an Ethernet cable could go bad. Have you tried switching to a different cable yet? (Yes, I know that sounds very obvious…😊)
The top ethernet port (1) goes bad and won't put out an IP. There are 7 pages of response on the TP-Link Deco community page about this issue. That's what happened to mine and there isn't a fix.
You have found your calling. You are made for this. It's as if you read my mind. Keep up the good work.
Appreciate the feedback!
Thanks, just purchased and installed a new Deco Xe75 pro (3) from your reviews. Excellent videos and easy installation. I now have great wifi signal across my home, detected garage (100 feet away) and across the 1 acre property.
That's awesome to hear!
Thank you so very much for that detailed and informative video. You put it in terms that I could understand which is hard to find on other videos sometimes. I truly think I won’t have an issue setting up my devices with the way you explained everything. I would give you two thumbs up if I could. Thank you again.
You are very welcome! I'm glad it was useful!
So glad I ran into your channel. I just bought the 3-pack Deco XE75 a week ago everything works great. But I just learned from this video to use 6 GHz wifi for dedicated backhaul and now all my nodes have Strong signals instead of Fair. I didn't know this feature was available. Thank you!
No problem! It definitely helps!
One thing I learn over this weekend with this WIFI system and something that no one mentions is that, If you disconnect it from the power or the power goes out in your house, you HAVE to reboot it. In what becomes a headache, having to reconnect everything from scratch basically. So with Google Wi-Fi I have never had that problem. (I can only compare it with Google system because they are the only ones I have had), saying this. I prefer Google which is much easier to use, knowing Deco XE75 is better in coverage.
I speak from my own experience
Some of them require rebooting
What do you mean by rebooting? Powering on and off?
Just got XE75 3 pack yesterday...now realise i need to run a few cables throuhout the house to actually use it to its full capacity. This did help a lot
Cables will help with that
Awesome. You answered all my questions. One observation though which is obviously wrong is that I connected all the routers to the modem directly and then setup the mesh. Surprisingly, it worked where one satellite modem was connected via wifi and another via wired ( I used a three pack from Costco). But, I am going to change it to all wired to bring sanity.
I don't believe I've ever heard a better instructor. Excellent.
I appreciate the feedback!
AFAIK and out of experience too, the deco mesh system is the only system that lets connect all units as dump ap's behind a switch, with non of them connected to the modem/router directly.. I have deployed a number of systems this way.
Keep up the good work. Your fan from Kuwait, Aziz 👋
Thanks for sharing!
I just purchased this kit thanks to your videos and I have a question:
My modem is in a room where all my house cat5 wires go to using wall plates. So if i plug my modem into that room's wall plate, and then from a different room i put the Deco and hook it up to that room's wall plate, this should act as if I am plugging it directly into the modem, correct?
Thanks again, liked & subscribed.
Thanks Bro...I totally had my Deco's wired completely wrong (modem to switch/switch to deco)...the absolute best video explaining the wired setup! You're awesome thanks again!!
You're welcome!
Love the way you explain everything in a way that it is simple for us to understand. There are a couple questions that do stick out and I don't think I've seen it asked in the comments.
1. Isn't wired backhaul essentially the same as creating an access point?
2. Is there any speed benefit to connecting to the wifi on a wireless mesh rather than directly connecting to the wifi on the main router?
I just got a 2 pair set, and this video really broke it down and made it easy to understand. Thank you!
Thanks ,this vid shows I should have a wire displayed on app for ethernet which I didn't originally. Had to redo some connectors using pass through type to fix it. 175' down to my pole barn. Finally got it .Had wire buried in conduit for 20 years and never got around to it till now.
Super impressed either way this video. So clear and straightforward. I have 3 homes on our property and currently running through Ethernet into a switch for security cameras and this will make my switch so much better
Glad it was helpful!
This has to be the most elaborate and useful content related to Deco Mesh setup with various options. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Great channel! You've answered all my questions for using Deco mesh systems. Well done!
Thanks for the kind words!
Great video. As others have said, you answer my questions when I think of them…
Glad to hear it!
Great explanation and how to. This is exactly how mine is set up. I had many problems with the Google nest & google wifi dropping connections after an update and after getting very frustrated with their help I had to finally drop their wireless products and went with the deco XE75 Pro, hooked back up in same configuration and can say for the last week anyways - their are awesome. Full speed wifi with hardwire backend (my connection is only 900 at the moment) but wifi near the device is between 700 & 900, I get a 1/2 drop, between walls, but most of my walls are rockwool insulation with double drywall. Great video, great product thus far!
Thanks and the deco is great, thanks for your insight
Great Video! I dont knnow why this isn't explained on the user manual. It makes reception so much better
Thanks!
Dude , you just encapsulated everything I needed to know in this vid - thank you soooo much ! I have the deco system (3 x pods) but had set it up incorrectly as was getting a "weak" signal from each deco even though I hardwired my house - thanks to your vid , i realised my issue and now have a fully wired backhaul system running like silk ! Thanks HEAPS !
Glad I could help!
Excellent video. You have answered all the possible questions any enthusiast would think of asking. Thank you.
My pleasure!
Regarding connecting to between a device and the satellite with a cable instead of using wireless.
I did some checks comparing the speeds with a tri-band USB-3.0 adapter on my desktop with the speeds wired with a Cat6 cable. The cable was much faster -- speeds ranging from 517-641 vs 300-336. Obviously this will vary with each setup, but checking the difference wireless:cable only takes a few minutes.
Other than that little thing...Nice presentation.
This was soooo helpful. You saved me the usual 3 mistakes I make while getting a new WiFi system setup. Thank you !
I’m glad it was useful!
Good video! Planning on getting the XE75 soon. Looks like my best bet would be a wired backhaul to get the better download speeds downstairs.
Yes that would be veery good
Thank you for easily explaining all the ways that you can connect this setup.
No problem
DUDE!! Thank you so much! My furthest unit was barely getting a signal, and you saved the day (and $400) by mentioning that I could wired the main unit into this one. I also figured out that the app isn't telling me the possible speed, but the amount of data being sent thru a device at any given moment. I'm still getting 300-360 Mbs on speed tests with my phone. Time to find a streaming service and come out of the stone age.
Glad this was useful!
Great video with very useful information about the TP-Link Deco. I am used to older routers with a dedicated Wan port and 4 ethernet ports. Your discussion about the auto sensing ports on the Deco is good to know. I was curious about what port to connect to the modem. I am not a fan of all these cute white cylindrical apple like Mesh routers reducing the number of ports from 4 down to 3, 2, 1. I'll need to add unmanaged switches to each node for my setup. Thanks for clearly explaining how that all works with the Deco.
Awesome detail and superb explanations. You thoroughly covered it all. Way better than any others. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks a lot, you answered my question which is bothering me to find "if can I direclty go from modem to switch and then connect it to all mesh routers?". your video helped a lot! Thanks again!!
No problem!
You answered my question, and even the extra questions on the back of my mind. Superb.
Thanks for the feedback!
Excellent - the wired/wireless backhaul discussion really cleared things up for me - thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent instructor, clear instructions and easy to understand
Thanks!
yes, absolutely the best explanation about the Deco among the so many on you tube. Subscribed.
I bought deco xe75 3 pack in black friday with good deal 319 usd from amazon
very great system strong wifi for backhaul connection 3 units
Great deal!
Best review on the internet. As a result of this video and your other comparison video, I’ve bought the XE75 Pro (3 pack). One question, I cannot see an option to use 6Ghz for dedicated backhaul. Has the App changed?
Thanks!
The place might've changed but I would think the option should still be in the advanced section of the app or maybe it's in the wireless name section?
Your video is a god-send! Thank you so much for this. I have an old router but a new cable modem for a Xfinity ISP infratructure upgrade and I think I can get a 2-pack or 3-pack of these and ditch the old router and give my (large) home much better performance throughout.
I see some of these similar devices by other manufacturers support a faster data transfer (3,000 Mbps, 5,500Mbs vs 6000) but I am nowhere near that speed now (about 400Mbs) so I think i can get the less expensive units.
QUESTION: So my new Comcast xFinity cable modem (Arris model G36) has a 2.5 Gbps port on the back connected to my (old) Asus router. When I go to this Deco mesh approach and ditch my old router, and plug into the 2.5Gbps port, I take it unless I am paying my ISP for that fast of a connection, I probably won't realize any speed performance increase over the setup I have now? . . .but will realize better signal strength in my home. . .? Is that reasoning right?
Thank you again!
Subbed.
Thanks!
Yes, the 2.5Gbps port will not be utilized unless you are paying your ISP. Think of it as an up to speed.
One other thing that I noticed is that when you refer to the speed rating, those speeds are a summation of all the bands, don’t expect to get those speeds since your only connected to one band at a time. I do the speed test and range tests to show the numbers you can expect, with that said this mesh system is more than capable of handling 400Mbps speeds
This video helped me address most of my Queries.... What deatiled explanation. I love the fact that you cosnidered allpossible aspects when explaining a specific setup option.. Also that which port doesnt matter.. helps. cos newbies always wondered ( i did) if its the top port or the bottom one etc..
The clarification on the switch also was useful, the brand didnt matter. Allpossible positions of the switch also helped to understand its a versatile setup...
However, I have a few more queries and I drew a layout of my house for that. Can i reach you via email so I can share that with you for guidance?
Great video. Excellent examples with hardware.
I do have a question or two.
I have my own router that I prefer to use, but want to use the TP Link Deco XE75 X 3 in a Mesh function only mode.
If I don't use the TP-Link router function & I set this up in AP mode, will it actually function as a mesh system still, or is there difference where the AP's don't coordinate best connection and handoff seamlessly or more seamlessly?
Thanks
Very nice video...
Can you keep your own router and connect the Mesh to that one to create a roaming network with the mesh members having the old router's wifi name???
Can Deco XE5300 be setup for daisy chaining rather than star network layout? Love your videos! Thank you.
Yes you can daisy chain or star just about any mesh network including the Deco XE5300.
Thanks for the feedback!
I really appreciate your reply. Does the Deco decide automatically which configuration is best for my environment or is there a setting I can select? I could not find a way to manually enable daisy chain. Thank you @@landpet
I absolutely love your videos. I have an Orbi RBK50 with two satellites. Do you think this is an upgrade on that system….I’ve had it a few years now
Thanks! Yes this is an upgrade from that
Great video!!! One question for you. Can you: 1. Connect the modem to the router(globe port) then from that to a unmanaged switch. 2. Connect other 2 points(globe) to the two different ethernet cables from the unmanaged switch creating a wired backhaul. Or do they have to be daisy chained?
Thanks, either way is fine.
Imoortant part is going from modem to router, after that you can just about connect it anyway you want.
Thank you this video made me purchase the XE75 Pro and let’s just say I wish I did this 2 years ago 10/10 my network is 100% stable and I constantly get 1 GB up and 1 GB down on the wired connection and 850 up and down wireless
Great to hear! That’s awesome!
This was very informative and I appreciate you taking the time to post it, but given that most people buy these devices to get better Wi-Fi coverage, I really wish you would have discussed using the router as an ethernet hub instead of the switch.
Even if that's something that obviously varies from router to router or is something you can't do with this product; that's information that's VERY important to know but still isn't obvious or easy to find. Else you don't even know if you even need a switch to begin with.
Thanks. The only point of getting a switch in my example was to add more ethernet ports. Using the ethernet ports of the deco will work just fine, if there are enough ethernet ports on the deco, then there's no point of getting an additional ethernet switch.
The best educational video by far! I have Fios service, I have the Quantum Gateway G1100 Wireless Wi-fi router. My question is: can I connect the Deco system into the Quantum Gateway G1100 Wireless Wi-fi router since it has Ethernet ports?
Thanks! Technically you can but I wouldn’t recommend it. It seems like that is just a router, why not remove that and connect your deco directly to your ONT (essentially your modem) and make a faster wifi network?
covers so many different scenarios that people might have questions about! thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you very much. It really answered all my questions. Thanks for the time and effort!🤭
You're welcome!
Absolutely amazing videos and detail you go into in this channel. Thank you so much. Currently trying to decide between Asus and TP link.
Thanks!
I like both brands, asus typically has many more options, deco is more of a simplified interface. Deco typically costs less than Asus but I really like both.
Excellent communicator! Very clear tutorial! I have XE75 Pro coming tomorrow because my Linksys Ext (5300?) died. I have a 2100 sq ft house wired with CAT 6. I plan to use 1 Deco as Router and the other (I guess) in access point mode connected via ethernet between the 2.5 GHz ports (is that best?). I have 400 Gbps Comcast so I figured, I'll plug the Main XE75 into the Arris cable modem using the 1Gbps ports. I was also wondering if its possible to use my old Linksys Router EA9300 as an access point in my garage where there is a drop if I turn off DHCP? It may be overkill because the 2nd XE75 will be just 10 to 15 feet from the Wifi Irrigation controller and Garage Door opener. Your tip about using the same network name/password is a god-send to avoid reconnecting about 80 devices in my home!
Thanks! For the ssid and password just remember they are both case sensitive. I would connect like you said with the modem going to the gigabit port and going 2.5Gbps to the other 2.5Gbps. I think running your other router is pointless and I personally don’t recommend mixing and matching routers.
Almost exactly what I intend to do. EA9500 as my main router (already old)...an older one in my garage as bridge, a 24 ports gigabit unmanaged switch somewhere, another smaller with POE for cameras...lots of ethernet jacks...I want to upgrade. I'm about to maybe buy XE75!
@@Guillaume_Boutin The DECO 6e is the bomb. So easy to use and connect devices. The two DECO’s cover my whole house, garage and property easily. It’s much more powerful! Devices are detected and connected with ease…no need to use your old router. It’s absolutely trouble free.
Thanks for this video! Needed to verify my setup and this helped! I just recently switched over to ATT FIber and got 2Gbps down/up. The fiber modem is in the garage and through the app, it's showing 2526Mbps down and 2515 Mbps up....this is great but I'm realizing it might be overkill because my existing network is slow....vanilla gigabit switches and the original google wifi mesh...I decided to upgrade the google wifi mesh to a more up to date mesh (this XE75) which has definitely improved speed and stability even though my devices are pretty much all in the 802.11n/802.11ac era so those devices will never see anything above their theoretical maximums (all under gigabit)...the house is also wired with cat 5e ethernet instead of the faster cables required for multigig over long distances. it would appear that having 2Gbps internet would need me to upgrade to the XE75PRO (which has 2.5Gbps backhaul) + a multigig switch and pray that my cat 5e isn't too long (some rooms are definitely on the longer side of things). Thinking I should just downgrade to 1Gbps for now lol
@11:45 from modem to network switch and then to Tp link deco. For your device may be "no" but currently I'm using deco x20 it is "yes". Change mode from router to access point and then you can connect any deco to switch as much as you can.
Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation.
I have two questions,
1. Can i connect desktop-1 and Wifi printer to deco1 and print from desktop/laptop/mobile on deco 2 to print on wifi printer which is on deco1
2. can i connect to remote desktop-1(wired) on deco1 from a desktop-2 on deco2 (wired)
You awsnered all my questions, absolute legend ive ordered a 2 pack to replace my 4 nokia 1 beacons - So hyped!
Thanks!
Can I ask how you got on? I'm replacing my old 2 x Nokia Beacon 3's with 3 x XE75's shortly
@@Matthew-vy1gs Sure, i bought a duo kit with deco x75 and it was running within 20 mins with the mobile app i had sort of a good placement after 10 more mins. I now have at least 100/100 in my house with 2 decos and better coverage than 5 nokia beacons
Thanks ! Now I see what I did wrong.
I did the wired setup, modem->maindeco-> switch-> other Deco’s .
But I also had a cable from the modem to the switch.
Glad it was useful
Just ordered a BE95. The ports… there’s not a dedicated WAN port? Do you use the app to configure LAN vs WAN ports?
Love your work, clear and concise. You have my subscription
Thanks!
Great video. But instead of using wired backhaul, which is a serial connection, can we use a star topology, I mean, connecting each Deco to the ISP router?
You can use the start topology but connect the remaining to the main deco.
modem > deco > all other decos
Thank you for the great content. I purchased the xe75 Pro 3 pack and we have over 1 Gig service coming into the house. What is the best way to wire backhaul these units to take advantage of the 2.5 Gig ports? if I use the 2.5 Gig port from the modem on the first node, I will only have the 1 Gig nodes going out to the other nodes. Thanks for your help.
No problem, unfortunately for wired backhaul, you don’t have much choice for over gigabit without getting additional hardware. If you’re using wired backhaul, I would rather get the X55 Pro which recently came out and has 2 2.5Gbps ports so you can wire backhaul that however it doesn’t support WiFi 6E. There are other alternative but they involve buying additional hardware like the firewalla router and using that to connect to your modem and connecting your deco to that but running in access point mode which I’m not a fan of unless you have a specific purpose.
Excellent videos. Speaking for myself I appreciate u dumming it down and actually using visuals for some of us. My question is that I'm thinking of buying the XE75. I have less than a gig speed and shud I also switch from cat5 cables to cat 6 or 7 cables. My modem is from Xfinity and currently uses cat5
Thanks, yeah sounds about right, xe75 will be good for your scenario based on your description.
quick question, i have a modem+router offered by optimum, that has an USB, i am using a n/w cable to connect to deco, i have connected my USB HDD to my router, will i be able to access the HDD data using the deco wifi? Also please suggest how can configure/access an external HDD in this situation.
@05:20 - Has the option to dedicate the 6 GHz band for backhaul been removed? Do the nodes now just use whatever band they want for backhaul? Do we no longer have any control over wireless backhaul bands?
Thanks for all of the exlainations. One more question, is it possible to wire this way : 10Gb Modem->10Gb unmanaged switch-> Deco1-> 1Gb unmanaged switch-> Déco 2 and 3 ?
No problem, You can do it that way if it’s a managed switch (setup required), not with an unmanaged.
Awesome video! Very detailed. Thank You so much!!!
Just have 1 qtn - I currently have FTTC NBN connected to a router via WAN. So does that mean, I need to remove that router and replace it with the deco, like FTTC NBN -> Deco?
Or it should be FTTC NBN -> NetComm Router -> Deco?
This replaces your router.
Excellent video that explains so much. Question - I setup my system using a wired backhaul straight to satellite node but now I'm considering running that connection through the switch like you suggested. Will I have to reconfigure anything through the Deco app to make that work correctly?
Thanks
No setting change is required, get an unmanaged switch and plug it in like I demonstrated here and everything will be done automatically. Make sure you connect the switch to the main router or any of the nodes, do not connect the switch directly to the modem.
Clear, thanks. But still some more questions as I have more units and two 8-port switches :) What about ethernet loops, what is that? What do you recommend (after the necessary modem to Deco of set up ofcourse). Do you recommend Deco to Deco (en then a second switch) or Deco to second switch to Deco? I think many households have really much devices wired and there is few info on this. Were no network managers for work ;)
A very informative video about mesh devices and switches. Thanks a lot.
You're welcome
Wow, you really went through a bunch of possible configs. Subscribed. 👍
Thanks!
Have been loving your videos. I just bought XE75 Pro’s on your recommendation. I use an OPNSense firewall as my existing router/firewall. Can I leave my firewall in place, and operate my new XE75’s in AP mode and still get the mesh feature? Or does mesh only work when one XE75 is a router? Thanks!!!
Thanks! You can run it either way, so just go to the advanced section and run it in access point mode
Love the video! One question: I purchased the TP Link Deco XE75 Pro and have fiber internet. Do I still need a modem to connect to the internet?
If you have fiber internet, you will most likely have an ONT. you would connect the deco directly to the ONT which will provide the deco with internet access
@@landpet Thank you!
Awesome explanation of the various ways you can connect a mesh WiFi system. For an ethernet backhaul connection, instead of using an unmanaged switch would it be possible to use a second router to connect the 2nd and/or 3rd Deco nodes or would that cause some connection issues?
Technically you can if the router functionality is switched off but I’m not a fan of that method. I would rather use a switch
Excellent simplified video
Q: running Ethernet across house is a pain.
How about
Modem ethernet to Deco1 -> deco1 Ethernet to power line adaptor -> another room powerline adaptor Ethernet to Deco2.
Would this set up be better than connecting deco 1 to 2 over wireless (assuming wifi6E backhaul)
Cheers
It can be depending on where you were planning on placing deco 2. You can also check out MoCA 2.5 which is like a power line adapter except it goes through the cable wires within your walls. I would argue that MoCA is better than powerline. I’ve done videos on this as well
Hi and thank your for your Job, As your said if you stick to the routeur mode, the main deco is the only one who can acces to the front modem through an ethernet cable
But if you switch in AP mode each deco unit can connect directly to the modem/routeur through an ethernet cable.
Note that in AP mode, the modeme/router need to have a NAT fonction to work.
Correct, there needs to be a NAT.
Wow, great and comprehensive review. You sold me on this TP link.
Nice video, it's strange that it doesn't have a WAN port. When it's configured in router mode, how do you know where to plug the modem and where the LAN cables are?
Excellent info and way of explaining things. First time iv managed to get my head around it all, well nearly lol. Whats the max length can the wired set up be from router to 2nd one?
In theory Ethernet is limited to 100meters
So, I could use some advice. I have a Deco Mesh pair. I am using the 6e as dedicated backhaul. The node is placed near to several home theater devices (a/v receiver, roku, chromecast, smart tv) which I have connected wirelessly. Other devices connect to this node as well. If I use an ethernet switch to connect the node to the stereo equipment, am I freeing up more bandwidth for the other wireless devices? Is there any advantage to this type of setup? I guess I'm wondering is the wifi connections or the backhaul the bottleneck in this setup.
By the way, your video was great. Thanks!
Great video . Answer all my question. As main network is on 1st floor while my desktop on 2nd floor. I want Wi-Fi connection for my laptop and phone but I need a wired connection to my desktop
Glad to hear it!
What's the recommended category of cable to interconnect the Decos for the best performance without paying more than needed?
Thanks for the video! Really helpful.
Cat5e or cat6 should be fine
Cat5e (not cat5) there is a difference is the cheapest that will deliver gigabit speeds. Cat6 is good too.
great video! very easy to follow. Question, can you power the tp link deco that you are going to use as the "access point" via POE? thanks.
Thanks, no this deco doesnt support PoE, they do have a different veriant though that supports it. Deco X50 PoE
Really a helpful video bro. Almost 100% of my questions answered. Thanks a lot man…
Glad it helped
Hi! First of all thank you for all the info and your time. Amazing video that answers most of my questions.
I bought three of these this week but I want to use them as access points without creating any new SSID and password. I want to use my modems (which is both modem and router) SSID and password so all the connected devises still be connected. Is this possible? All I have to do is to put the same SSID and password as my modem’s?
Outstanding setup guide with enough details. I have a combo modem & wifi router. I will be using a switch as you explained and connect the other mesh nodes to the switch for the main house. I have a rental condo unit that I would like to use a standard wifi router. Can this be connected to the switch? If not, what are my options? Thanks
Hey great video! Does it matter what type of modem I use with the deco router to get WiFi 6E or not? If so, which modem do you recommend?
Doesn't matter as long as it has ethernet and works with your ISP
@@landpet thanks!
Wow this is extremely helpful. If I have a wired modem in my garage and all the other wired connections meet in the garage, can I then connect the Deco to any wired connection access point and it will talk to modem? or do I need to DIRECTLY connect the deco to the modem in the garage?
If your modem is a modem/router combo then either disable the router portion of that or run the deco in access point mode.
If you’re running the deco in router mode the knot does need to directly connect to your modem.
Thank you very much for answering all the different configuration scenarios, I have a question that would determine which device i buy in the next few days hehe...
My scenario is that I have 3 rooms far enough from each other that are ethernet wired to the central "hub" of the house, the "hub" is a terrible place to put a router because of the walls and little space, so my main question is I'm wondering if it would make sense for me to use a NETGEAR router (with plenty of ports and I already own) and turn off the wireless antenna, and in each of the three rooms that will be wired to this netgear router, install a deco unit and set it to AP mode.
I know it's possible to also get a 4 unit so that the main deco unit acts as the router, but those are expensive and I really want 3 wireless points (if that's the right word?) (one for each of the 3 wired rooms). My main concern with the configuration I proposed above (1 netgear router with wireless turned off + 3 deco units in AP mode) is that it would either not be possible or there is already something that I'm unaware of that would deteriorate the speed dramatically. I guess another way of saying this is that I'm trying to save money so that instead of buying a 4 unit deco I can reuse my netgear router [router is new enough to handle the speeds, I'm only looking at ~200Mbps speeds :) ]
TYVM in advance!!
No problem.
I haven't tried this in that scenario but I do believe in access point mode you still need to wire the deco's to each other. I don't know if you can wire three decos individually to the netgear. You could go from netgear to deco 1, from deco 1 you can go to both deco 2 and 3 or you can go from deco 1 to deco 2 then from deco 2 to deco 3.
I know you're trying to save money and I'm all for that but I'm personally not a fan of mixing and matching different brands. Since you're running wired backhaul anyways, what's stopping you from getting a 4 pack of deco x20 or x55 instead instead of this xe75? the x20 and x55 don't support wifi 6e but over wired backhaul and for 200Mbps speeds they should be fairly good.