What Is Router Mode And What Is Access Point(AP) Mode?

When the Deco units are set up, they will initially work in Router mode by default. When the Deco works in Router mode, it performs as a gateway device, so it has more gateway features like Antivirus, Parental Controls, QoS, IPv4 and DHCP server etc.

 

You do have the option to select Access Point mode according to your environment needs. One important thing to note is that when the Deco works in Access Point mode, it does not have NAT functionality, so the gateway features will not be available on the Deco app.

 

If you want to configure the Deco to Access Point mode, please refer to this link.

 

Note: Different models may differ in the feature.

 

Here we use the Deco M5 for example.

 

While the Deco M5 is in Router mode, open the Deco App and you will notice you have access to HomeCare features like the Antivirus and Parental Controls. You will also have the HomeCare menu items available if you select the “More” button.

 

Selecting “Advanced” will show you features typical to a router.

 

 

When the Deco M5 works in Access Point mode, you will see less features on the “Overview”, “More” and “Advanced” page.

 

 

Compared with Deco M5, the Deco M9 Plus has a “Shortcut” and “Automation” feature and more options under the Notification option.

 

 

When the Deco M9 Plus works in Access Point mode, the “Shortcut” and “Automation” functions still work, but on the “Notifications” page, options that are related to the NAT function are not available.

 

 

Please note when the Deco works in Router mode, only the main Deco can connect to the front-end modem/router with an Ethernet cable. As for the slave Deco units, they can only connect to the main Deco’s network via Ethernet cable/Wi-Fi. However, when the Deco works in Access Point mode, each Deco unit can connect to the front-end modem/router directly via Ethernet cable.

 

Note: When the Deco works in Access Point mode, the front-end modem/router must have NAT function.

 

For example: