TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking to enhance your home network with a budget-friendly option? The TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is a device that has gained popularity for its affordability and ease of use. In this detailed guide, we will explore the various aspects of the TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured, including its features, performance, and potential drawbacks.
Design and Build Quality
The TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is a compact and sleek device, designed to fit seamlessly into any home environment. Measuring approximately 4.5 inches in length and 2.5 inches in width, it is small enough to be placed on a desk or mounted on a wall. The device is made of plastic, which is common for budget-friendly routers, and it comes in a single color, typically black or white.
Features
While the TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is a basic router, it offers some essential features that make it a suitable choice for those who need a reliable and affordable network solution. Here are some of its key features:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: The router supports dual-band Wi-Fi, with a 2.4GHz and a 5GHz band, providing a stable and fast connection for your devices.
- WAN/LAN Ports: The router comes with four LAN ports and one WAN port, allowing you to connect multiple devices to the network and share an internet connection.
- USB Port: The TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured features a USB 2.0 port, which can be used to connect a USB storage device or a printer to the network.
- Parental Controls: The router offers basic parental controls, allowing you to restrict internet access for certain devices or during specific hours.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is a solid choice for basic home use. Here are some performance aspects to consider:
- Speed: The router offers a maximum speed of 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5GHz band, which is sufficient for most home users. However, it may not be ideal for high-demand applications, such as 4K streaming or online gaming.
- Range: The router provides decent coverage for a small to medium-sized home, but its range may be limited compared to more advanced routers.
- Latency: The TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured offers low latency, making it suitable for online gaming and other real-time applications.
Setup and Configuration
Setting up the TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Connect the router to your modem using an Ethernet cable.
- Connect your computer to the router using a wireless connection or an Ethernet cable.
- Access the router’s web interface by opening a web browser and entering the default IP address (192.168.0.1) in the address bar.
- Log in using the default username and password (admin/admin by default).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your network settings, such as SSID, password, and security settings.
Security and Privacy
One of the drawbacks of the TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is its lack of advanced security features. Here are some security aspects to consider:
- WPA2 Encryption: The router supports WPA2 encryption, which is the current standard for securing Wi-Fi networks.
- Firewall: The router comes with a basic firewall, which can help protect your network from unauthorized access.
- VPN Support: The TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured does not support VPN, which means you won’t be able to use a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic.
Price and Availability
The TP-Link HS200 Non-Secured is an affordable router, with a price tag that typically ranges between $20 and $30. It is widely available online and at various retail stores, making it easy to find and purchase.
