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TP-Link Archer BE230 vs TP-Link Archer BE550

A

Product A: TP-Link

Archer BE230

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B

Product B: TP-Link

Archer BE550

57 of 90 known

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All 90 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ATP-Link Archer BE230

BTP-Link Archer BE550

General

2 of 9 differ

Series

Archer1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026

Archer1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

Archer BE230, Archer BE36001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The support page lists the Archer BE3600 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router datasheet under the Archer BE230 downloads, and the maker's end-of-sale list has Archer BE230 and Archer BE3600 (Walmart) rows with the same dates. Tom's Guide and Dong Knows Tech both call the BE3600 the identical router. The datasheet of the BE230 is used.

Archer BE5501Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The page shows the V1 specs (9214 Mbps). TP-Link also sells hardware version V2 under the same name. V2 lists the 2.4 GHz radio as Wi-Fi 7 at 688 Mbps and 9328 Mbps in total. Only V1 is stored. The separate Archer BE9300 and Archer BE550 Pro are other products.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

October 20234Maker product pagecommunity.tp-link.com/us/home/forum/topic/632834Read 14 October 2026TP-Link community post titled New Arrival, dated 2023-10-16, introduces the Archer BE550 BE9300 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 router.

Status

Available1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The product page and the support downloads are live. Firmware 1.2.6 build 20260617 is dated 2026-07-30. The maker's US end-of-sale list (V9) gives an end-of-sale notice date of 2026-08-18 and an end-of-sale date of 2027-02-14 for the US versions, so it is still sold.5Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202609/20260921/US%20EOS_List_Home%20-%20V9.pdfRead 14 October 2026Archer BE230 versions 1.0, 1.6, 1.20 and 1.26 (US) and Archer BE3600 1.6 and 1.26 (USW): end-of-sale notice 2026-08-18, end of sale 2027-02-14. Stored as available until the end-of-sale date passes.

Available1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The product page, the downloads for V1 and V2 and the US router lists are live in October 2026. The UK PSTI statement of 2026-09 gives V1 a fixed support end date and V2 an open one, which may mean V1 has reached end of life while V2 is sold.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$9911Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: U.S. price at launch $99, for the Archer BE230 (Archer BE3600). The Tom's Hardware launch report of 2024-07-23 gives $99 at Walmart too. Tom's Guide later prints a list price of $120. Retailer sale prices are not used.13Press articletech.yahoo.com/general/articles/tp-walmart-tout-first-sub-181914722.htmlRead 14 October 2026The new TP-Link Archer BE3600 is available exclusively through Walmart for $99. Excluding tax, US.

$299.999Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be550-be9300-wi-fi-7-router-reviewRead 14 October 2026Hardware table: US launch price 299.99 USD. A US launch price is stated without sales tax.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026US review and US prices.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026US launch price.13Press articletech.yahoo.com/general/articles/tp-walmart-tout-first-sub-181914722.htmlRead 14 October 2026US, Walmart.

US9Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be550-be9300-wi-fi-7-router-reviewRead 14 October 2026The launch price is the US price.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Wrapped in black plastic. The review gives no colour name. The retail listings say Black.

Black1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The product photos on the page show a black unit. The page gives no colour name.

Form factoriMesh system is a product line sold in packs of mesh units, e.g. eero, Deco and Orbi. A standalone router that can join a mesh as an option is a router. A travel router is a pocket-size router sold for travel.

Router1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Standalone router, EasyMesh-compatible.

Router1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Standalone router, EasyMesh-compatible.

SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ROG is Gaming and ASUS ExpertWiFi is Business. It is not assigned from price or features.

Home1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Listed under the maker's WiFi routers for homes. The page rates coverage for 3 Bedroom Houses.

Home1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Listed under the maker's WiFi 7 home routers.

Wi-Fi

10 of 14 differ

Wi-FiiThe newest Wi-Fi generation the product supports.

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026

Wi-Fi speed classiThe maker's class name, e.g. BE19000 or AXE11000. It adds up the top link rates of all radios. No single device reaches it. A Wi-Fi 6E class starts with AXE, also when the maker writes AX, so eero's AX5400 is AXE5400. The class is not the model number, so GL.iNet's GL-AXT1800 is AX1800.

BE36001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The page names the product BE3600 and shows the total as 3570 Mbps (2882 + 688).

BE93001Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026

Wi-Fi radiosiOne row per radio in one unit. A quad-band unit with two 5 GHz radios has two 5 GHz rows.

ATP-Link Archer BE230

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	40	688
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	160	2,882

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026WiFi Speeds: BE3600, 5 GHz 2882 Mbps (802.11be) and 2.4 GHz 688 Mbps (802.11be). Capacity: 2x2 MU-MIMO, 4 streams, dual-band. Streams per band follow from the rates: 688 Mbps at 40 MHz and 2882 Mbps at 160 MHz are both 2 streams. The widest channels come from the datasheet.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Datasheet Archer BE230_V1: WiFi Speeds 2882 Mbps (5 GHz) + 688 Mbps (2.4 GHz). The reception sensitivity table lists 11be EHT40 on 2.4 GHz and 11be EHT160 on 5 GHz, so 40 MHz and 160 MHz are the widest channels.

BTP-Link Archer BE550

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	2	40	574	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	160	2,880	No
6 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	320	5,760	No

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Page lists 6 GHz 5760 Mbps (802.11be), 5 GHz 2880 Mbps (802.11be) and 2.4 GHz 574 Mbps (802.11ax) and 6 streams in total. 5760 + 2880 + 574 is the printed 9214 Mbps. The datasheet's reception sensitivity table gives the widest channel per band: 320 MHz (EHT320) on 6 GHz, 160 MHz (EHT160) on 5 GHz and 40 MHz (HE40) on 2.4 GHz. The page says 320 MHz is only on 6 GHz. Streams per band follow from the rates and the page's 2x2 MU-MIMO: 574 Mbps at 40 MHz is two streams of 287 Mbps, 2880 Mbps at 160 MHz and 5760 Mbps at 320 MHz are two streams each, and the sum of 6 matches the maker's 6 streams. The printed rates are stored (the 802.11be rates are 2882 and 5764 Mbps).2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Wi-Fi speeds: 5760 Mbps (6 GHz) + 2880 Mbps (5 GHz) + 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz). Standards: 802.11be/ax on 6 GHz, 802.11be/ax/ac/n/a on 5 GHz and 802.11ax/n/g/b on 2.4 GHz. The sensitivity table lists EHT320 on 6 GHz, EHT160 on 5 GHz and HE40 as the widest 2.4 GHz channel. The datasheet says 320 MHz is only on the 6 GHz band.

Radio bandsiRadios that work at the same time in one unit. Tri-band is 3 and quad-band is 4, also when two radios use the same frequency band.

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

3=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6 GHz band

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Yes=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Combined Wi-Fi link rateiSum of the top link rates of all radios in one unit. It is close to the number in the speed class. No single device reaches it.

3,570Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

9,214Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi streamsiSpatial streams of all radios in one unit, e.g. 12 for a tri-band router with 4x4 on each band.

4=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel of any radio, e.g. 320 on the 6 GHz band.

160MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

320MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi featuresiFeatures the maker names for the product. Band steering puts all bands under one network name and moves devices between them, e.g. Smart Connect. Band steering over only some of the bands, such as 2.4 and 5 GHz on a tri-band router, counts. AFC is Automated Frequency Coordination, which allows standard power on 6 GHz. Support that needs a later firmware counts, and the firmware goes in the source note.

Multi-Link Operation (MLO), Multi-RU, 4K-QAM, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Band steering1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Advanced Features: MLO, 4K-QAM, Multi-RUs, EasyMesh-compatible. Capacity lists 2x2 MU-MIMO, OFDMA and Airtime Fairness. Range lists Beamforming.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026WiFi 7 Features: MLO, 4K-QAM and Multi-RUs. Smart Connect assigns each device to the best Wi-Fi band, stored as band_steering.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Smart Connect combines the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands and assigns devices between them to balance network demands. Wireless Settings offers OFDMA + MU-MIMO.

Multi-Link Operation (MLO), Multi-RU, 4K-QAM, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, Target Wake Time, Band steering1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Page lists MLO, 320 MHz channel, 4K-QAM, Multi-RUs, 2x2 MU-MIMO, OFDMA, Beamforming and Airtime Fairness. Smart Connect in the datasheet assigns each device to the best Wi-Fi band and is stored as band_steering. The maker names no preamble puncturing.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Wi-Fi 7 features: Multi-Link Operation, 320 MHz bandwidth, 4K-QAM and Multi-RUs. Smart Connect intelligently assigns each device to the best Wi-Fi band.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Wireless settings: enable or disable TWT (Target Wake Time), OFDMA and MU-MIMO, Smart Connect that combines 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and an MLO network.

External antennasiAntennas outside the case, as the maker counts them.

41Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 20264x External Antennas.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Four non-detachable antennas that swivel 180 degrees and tilt up to 90 degrees.

01Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026All six antennas are internal, so there are no external antennas.

Internal antennasiAntennas inside the case, as the maker counts them.

Not available

61Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 20266x Internal Antennas.

Detachable antennasiThe external antennas screw off and can be replaced. Fixed antennas that only fold or turn do not count.

No10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: number of antennas/removable: 4/No. The text says the antennas swivel but can't easily be replaced.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Four non-detachable antennas.

No1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Internal antennas only, so none can be removed.

Coverage of one unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area that one unit covers. A square feet claim is converted exactly and rounded to a whole m². A claim for a whole pack is stored separately. An area that a trusted review quotes from the maker counts, and the source note names the review.

Not available

Not available

Connected devices per unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed maximum number of devices one unit serves. A claim for a whole mesh pack is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Ports and modem

2 of 9 differ

PortsiData ports on the main unit. The power input is not a port. A combo port takes an RJ45 cable or an SFP+ module and is counted once. WAN or LAN means the maker says the port can be either, including auto-sensing ports.

ATP-Link Archer BE230

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
RJ45	1	WAN	2.5	Not available
RJ45	1	LAN	2.5	Not available
RJ45	3	LAN	1	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Ethernet Ports: 1x 2.5 Gbps WAN, 1x 2.5 Gbps LAN and 3x 1 Gbps LAN. USB Support: 1x USB 3.0. USB 3.0 is the 5 Gbps USB data rate.

BTP-Link Archer BE550

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
RJ45	1	WAN	2.5	Not available
RJ45	4	LAN	2.5	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 20261x 2.5 Gbps WAN, 4x 2.5 Gbps LAN (5 Gbps aggregation speed) and 1x USB 3.0. The page names no port that can switch between WAN and LAN.

Ethernet portsiRJ45 ports of all roles, WAN and LAN.

5=CalculatedFrom Ports

5=CalculatedFrom Ports

Multi-gig portsiWired network ports of 2.5 Gbps or faster, RJ45 or fiber.

2=CalculatedFrom Ports

5=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest WAN portiThe fastest port that can take the internet connection.

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest LAN portiThe fastest port for wired devices. A port that can be WAN or LAN counts here too.

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

USB ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

SFP+ portiA slot for a 10 Gbps fiber or DAC module.

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

Built-in modemiModems inside the router. A port for an external modem does not count. A fiber slot counts only when the fiber module is in the box.

Not available

Not available

Modem standardsiStandards of the built-in modem as published, e.g. DOCSIS 3.1, VDSL2 35b, GPON or 5G NR.

Not available

Not available

Mesh

1 of 7 differ

Mesh technologiesiMesh systems the unit can join, by the maker's name, e.g. AiMesh, EasyMesh or TP-Link OneMesh.

EasyMesh1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026EasyMesh: Compatible with EasyMesh.

EasyMesh1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Compatible with EasyMesh routers and range extenders.

Units per packiUnits in the box. The base lists every pack size sold. Each pack variant holds its own. A standalone router is 1.

11Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026One router is sold.

11Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026

Coverage of the pack (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area for a whole pack. Each pack variant holds its own claim. The claims of single units are never added up.

Not available

Not available

Identical unitsiEvery unit in a pack is the same model, so any unit can be the router. Not true for systems with a separate satellite model, such as NETGEAR Orbi.

Not available

Not available

Satellite modeliModel number of the satellite when it differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Satellite portsiData ports on one satellite. Only when the satellite differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Ethernet backhauliMesh units can link to each other over an Ethernet cable.

Not available

Yes10Reviewblacktubi.com/review/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The review of hardware version 1 says the Archer BE550 comes with Ethernet backhaul support for the mesh. TP-Link's pages do not say so. The same review gives a Qualcomm Network Pro 620 SoC at 2.2 GHz with 1 GB RAM for V1, while BroadbandNow lists 512 MB RAM, so the chip, clock and RAM are not stored.

Software

1 of 7 differ

ManagementiWays to set up and manage the router. A web interface is a full settings page in a browser on the local network. A status page alone does not count.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Management Features: Tether App and Webpage.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Management features: Tether App and Webpage.

Online account requirediSetup and management need an online account with the maker, with no local way around it.

No3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Quick setup in the web interface says that to use more of TP-Link's cloud service you can log in with a TP-Link ID or click Skip to proceed.

No3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Chapter 4 says that a user who does not want to register a TP-Link ID now may click Skip. Logging in to the web page works with the password set for the router.

Operating modesiModes the maker lists. Media bridge connects wired devices to another router over Wi-Fi. Extender, range extender and WDS modes count as repeater.

Router, Access point1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Wireless Mode: Router Mode and Access Point Mode.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Section 4.4 Set Up the Router as an Access Point.

Router, Access point1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Working modes: Router Mode and Access Point Mode.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Chapter 4.4 sets up the router as an access point.

Network featuresiFeatures the maker lists that work without a paid subscription. An IoT network is a separate network for smart home devices. Dual WAN uses a second internet connection as a backup or to share the load. Only features the maker clearly says are free. Parental controls counts when a free feature pauses or schedules internet access per person or device, such as eero Profiles, even when content filters need a subscription. When the maker's pages contradict each other, leave the feature out.

Guest network, IoT network, IPTV, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Guest Network: 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz. Advanced Features lists an IoT Network. IPTV lists IGMP Proxy, IGMP Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN, so VLAN is not stored. QoS by Device and DDNS (TP-Link, NO-IP, DynDNS) are listed. HomeShield Parental Controls are listed and the basic tier is free (see the HomeShield page).3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Chapters on Guest Network, IoT Network, IPTV (section 16.4) and Dynamic DNS (section 16.6).8Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/homeshieldRead 14 October 2026Basic parental controls (create profile, preset age template, pause the internet) and QoS are listed as free.

Guest network, IoT network, IPTV, LAN aggregation, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Page lists IoT Network, guest networks on 6, 5 and 2.4 GHz, IPTV (IGMP Proxy, IGMP Snooping, Bridge, Tag VLAN), QoS by Device, HomeShield Parental Controls, DDNS (TP-Link, NO-IP, DynDNS) and 4x 2.5 Gbps LAN ports with 5 Gbps aggregation speed. Tag VLAN is part of the IPTV settings, so VLAN is not stored. The manual's link aggregation section confirms lan_aggregation.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Chapter 9 IoT Network, chapter 8 guest network, chapter 16.3 link aggregation (static LAG or LACP), 16.5 IPTV, 16.7 dynamic DNS and chapter 11 HomeShield with QoS and parental controls. Link aggregation and IPTV or VLAN cannot be enabled at the same time.7Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/homeshieldRead 14 October 2026Parental controls and QoS are in the free HomeShield tier.

VPN serveriProtocols the router can serve, to reach the home network from outside. A paid VPN service is not a VPN server.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026VPN Server: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP and WireGuard. The user guide names the L2TP server L2TP/IPSec.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026VPN Server: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP. The datasheet and the manual add WireGuard.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026VPN Server: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP VPN Server, WireGuard VPN.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Chapter 15 covers OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP/IPSec and WireGuard servers. L2TP is stored without IPSec to match the datasheet.

VPN clientiProtocols the router can use to connect to an outside VPN server.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026VPN Client: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP and WireGuard.

OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP, WireGuard1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026VPN Client: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP. The datasheet and the manual add WireGuard.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026VPN Client: OpenVPN, PPTP, L2TP VPN Client, WireGuard VPN.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Section 15.5 VPN Client to access a remote VPN server, with WireGuard configuration import.

USB applicationsiWhat the USB port can be used for. Cellular modem is a USB 4G or 5G modem used as an internet connection or backup.

File server, Media server, Time Machine1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Supported functions: FTP Server, Media Server, Samba Server.3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Chapter 10 covers USB storage access (Samba, FTP), media sharing and Time Machine in its chapter overview. The body of the chapter has no Time Machine section. Tom's Guide describes a Time Machine backup setting in the web interface.10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026The web interface has a place to set the USB drive up for Time Machine backups.

File server, Media server, Time Machine1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 20261x USB 3.0. Supported functions: FTP Server, Media Server, Samba Server. The manual adds Time Machine.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Chapter 10: access the USB storage device locally and remotely, media sharing and Time Machine.

Security

1 of 5 differ

Wi-Fi securityiEnhanced Open encrypts an open network without a password.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026WiFi Encryption: WPA, WPA2, WPA3 and WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise, Enhanced Open (OWE)1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Lists WPA, WPA2, WPA3 and WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Wi-Fi encryption: WPA, WPA2, WPA3, WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1x).8Certification listprf.cert.wi-fi.org/products/downloadRead 14 October 2026The listing marks WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Personal and Wi-Fi Enhanced Open as supported. Enhanced Open is stored as enhanced_open. The maker names it nowhere else.

Security serviceiThe maker's built-in security service by name, e.g. AiProtection Pro, HomeShield, NETGEAR Armor or eero Plus.

HomeShield1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Service Kit: HomeShield.

HomeShield1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026HomeShield. The page footnote says HomeShield includes the Free Basic Plan and fees apply for the Pro Plan.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026HomeShield security service. The footnote says it includes the Free Basic Plan and fees apply for the Pro Plan.

Security service costiWhat the service costs after any free trial. Basic free means the basic features are free and the full set needs a subscription. When the free and paid tiers share one name, such as HomeShield, it is basic free. NETGEAR Armor has no free tier after its trial, so it is paid. When the paid tier is a separate add-on, such as eero Plus, it is paid.

Basic free, full paid8Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/homeshieldRead 14 October 2026Basic network security (router and wireless security scan, IoT device identification) is free. IoT protection, web protection and intrusion prevention need Security+, with a 30-day free trial. The datasheet says HomeShield includes basic and advanced features and advanced features need a paid subscription.

Basic free, full paid1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The page footnote says HomeShield includes the Free Basic Plan and fees apply for the Pro Plan. Free and paid tiers share one name.7Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/homeshieldRead 14 October 2026HomeShield is free with eligible Archer routers for network security, parental controls, QoS and reports. Advanced parental controls and the Security+ and Total Security plans are paid add-ons.

Automatic firmware updatesiThe router can install firmware updates by itself.

Yes1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Cloud Service: Auto Firmware Upgrade.

Yes1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Page: OTA updates with an auto schedule. Cloud service lists Auto Firmware Upgrade.3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026Section 17.1.1 Auto Update.

Security updates untiliPublished end date of security updates for this model. It is not calculated from a number of years. A published minimum date, such as "at least through" or "or later", counts as the stated date. The source note says it is a minimum and names the region.

3 August 20296Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202609/20260907/Statements%20of%20PSTI%20Compliance_TP-Link.pdfRead 14 October 2026UK PSTI statement, Home Networking, Routers: Archer BE230 V1 has a defined support period of 3/8/2029 (3 August 2029). The statement says the period ends 3 years after the end-of-life date and may be refreshed to extend it, so the date is a minimum. The same list gives Archer BE3600 V1 as 14/2/2030. The statement is for the UK, and the US end-of-sale date is later than the EU one, so the US date may be later.

3 August 20295Regulatory filingstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2026/202609/20260907/Statements%20of%20PSTI%20Compliance_TP-Link.pdfRead 14 October 2026UK PSTI statement of TP-Link Systems, version of September 2026, Home Networking, Wi-Fi 7 Router: Archer BE550 V1 has a defined support period of 3/8/2029 (3 August 2029). The statement says the period ends 3 years after the end-of-life date and may be refreshed to extend it, so the date is a minimum. It lists Archer BE550 V2 as 31/12/2029 or later. UK statement.

Smart home

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Thread border router

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Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

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Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

Not available

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BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio in the router, often used for setup.

Not available

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Smart home platformsiSmart home and voice platforms the router works with, e.g. Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Advanced Features: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Hardware

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System on chipiMain chip or platform as published, e.g. Broadcom BCM4916 or Qualcomm Networking Pro 620. A chip maker name alone, such as Broadcom, is not stored.

Broadcom BCM676410Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: Wi-Fi chip Broadcom BCM6764. The text says the router is powered by Broadcom's BCM6764 Wi-Fi chip with a quad-core 2.0 GHz processor. The maker publishes no chip and Dong Knows Tech lists the processor as undisclosed.

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CPU cores

410Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: processor/memory/storage quad-core 2.0 / 512MB / 128MB.

41Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The datasheet highlights a Quad-Core CPU. The page names only a high-performance CPU. The chip is not stored because reviewers disagree on it.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Highlights: Quad-Core CPU.

CPU clockiHighest published processor clock.

2GHz10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: quad-core 2.0.

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RAMiRouter RAM in GB. When any trusted source prints a GB figure, use it, e.g. 1 GB rather than 1024 MB converted. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB only when MB is the only figure, e.g. 512 MB is 0.512, and keep the original figure in the source note. Same rule as streaming devices.

512MB10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026512MB, the only figure printed. Stored as 0.512 GB.

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Flash storageiBuilt-in flash memory for the firmware in GB. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB, as for RAM. A memory card or USB drive does not count.

128MB10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026128MB. Stored as 0.128 GB.

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Cooling faniA fan inside the unit. Passive cooling does not count.

No10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Passive cooling through square holes in the top.11Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026The router has no fan and ran silently.

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Power

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Power supplyiHow the main unit gets power. USB is a USB-C power adapter. PoE is power over an Ethernet cable.

External DC adapter1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026The datasheet lists a power adapter in the box, and the user guide describes a power port for the provided adapter.

External DC adapter1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026The manual says the router connects to a power socket via the provided power adapter.

Rated power inputiDevice input rating as published, in volts and amps.

12 V, 2 A1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Power: 12 V, 2 A (US) and 12 V, 1.5 A (EU). The US figure is stored.

12 V, 3.3 A1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Power: 12 V, 3.3 A. The FCC statement in the V2 user guide names the power supply model NBS30D120250VU, which looks like a 12 V 2.5 A adapter. The adapter output is not stored since the V1 documents do not name it.

Included adapter outputiRated output of the power adapter in the box. This is not power use.

24W1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 202612 V times 2 A is 24 W (US adapter). The EU adapter is 12 V, 1.5 A.

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Power use (typical, claimed)iThe maker's typical or average power use of one unit. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out.

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Power use (max, claimed)iThe maker's maximum power use of one unit. Power given out over PoE is not included. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out. A figure measured with the power adapter counts.

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Measured

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Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iTom's Guide throughput, one row per test position. Tool, client, direction and walls are in the source note. Other reviewers' results go in source notes only.

ATP-Link Archer BE230

Distance (m)	Connected to	Throughput (Mbps)
4.572	Main unit	1,138
15.24	Main unit	702.3
22.86	Main unit	205.2
27.432	Main unit	15.5

Source9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Review of the identical Archer BE3600 (sold as Archer BE230 on Amazon). Keysight IxChariot simulating 10 users, Acer Swift Edge 16 Wi-Fi 7 notebook, 3,500 sq ft home. Rows are 15 ft (4.572 m) 1.138 Gbps, 50 ft (15.24 m) 702.3 Mbps, 75 ft (22.86 m) 205.2 Mbps and 90 ft (27.432 m) 15.5 Mbps. The band is not named and the firmware is not stated. The review also gives 1.234 Gbps with the router and the notebook side by side and 1.103 Gbps over a 15 ft wired link, which are not stored.

BTP-Link Archer BE550

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Fastest Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iHighest measured row with the client connected to the main unit. Compare only results from the same reviewer.

1,138Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi throughput (measured)

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Wi-Fi throughput through a wall (measured)iTom's Guide throughput at 25 ft through one wall, with the client on the main unit.

1,114Mbps9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Notebook in an adjacent room 25 ft from the router. The text prints 1.114 Mbps next to a 990.1 Mbps result for the MSI Roamii BE Lite, so the unit is a typo for Gbps. Stored as 1114 Mbps. Band not named.

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Range (measured)iDistance at which the reviewer's client lost its connection to the main unit.

28.956m9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table and text: maximum range 95 feet (28.956 m).

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Power use under load (measured)iWall power of the main unit during the reviewer's throughput or saturation test.

7.7W9Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026During the saturation test with data flowing, the router in Normal power mode used 7.7 watts. The review lists Power-Saving and Ultra Power Saving modes too.

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Energy use per day (measured)iEnergy the router used over 24 hours of the reviewer's test use. This is not the power at one moment.

195Wh12Measurementdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be230-reviewRead 14 October 2026Spec table: power consumption per 24 hours about 195 Wh as tested. Firmware 1.0.3 Build 20240612 rel.13057(5553).

310Wh9Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be550-be9300-wi-fi-7-router-reviewRead 14 October 2026About 310 Wh per 24 hours as tested. The review does not describe the load and the firmware is not stated.

Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiOne unit in its normal position, with antennas folded flat or removed. Height is bottom to top. For a round unit, width and depth are both the diameter. A size the maker prints with antennas up goes in Dimensions with antennas.

Width272.7Height41.7Depth147mm(10.7 × 1.6 × 5.8 in)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Published as 10.7 x 5.8 x 1.6 in (272.7 x 147 x 41.7 mm). Stored as width, depth and height. Tom's Guide gives the same inches with the antennas folded flat and adds 5.0 in for the antennas. Dong Knows Tech prints 13.52 x 9.25 x 3.90 in, which does not fit the datasheet and is not used.

Width76Height203Depth231.7mm(3 × 8 × 9.1 in)1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Dimensions (W x D x H): 3.0 x 9.1 x 8.0 in (76 x 231.7 x 203 mm). The unit stands on its narrow side and Expert Reviews says it stands 203 mm tall with a 76 x 231 mm footprint.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Dimensions: 3.0 x 9.1 x 8.0 in (76 x 231.7 x 203 mm), in the same order as the product page.9Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be550-be9300-wi-fi-7-router-reviewRead 14 October 2026Hardware table: 9.12 x 7.99 x 2.99 in (231.6 x 202.9 x 75.9 mm), the same box as the maker's figures.11Reviewexpertreviews.co.uk/technology/wifi-home-networking/tp-link-archer-be550-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review says the unit stands 203 mm tall with a footprint of 76 x 231 mm, which fixes the order of the maker's three figures.

Dimensions with antennasiOne unit with its external antennas up, as the maker prints it.

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WeightiOne unit without power adapter and cables.

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1,110g(2.4 lb)9Reviewdongknows.com/tp-link-archer-be550-be9300-wi-fi-7-router-reviewRead 14 October 2026Hardware table: 2.45 lbs (1.11 kg). The review does not say whether the adapter is included. The maker publishes no weight. The 1.11 kg figure is stored.

Wall mountableiThe maker says the unit can be mounted on a wall.

Yes3Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Section 2.1 shows the router mounted on the wall with two screws 157 mm apart. No bracket is named.10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026Cutouts let the router be wall-mounted without a bracket.

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Certifications

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Wi-Fi Alliance certification IDiCertificate ID in the Wi-Fi Alliance product finder.

Not available

WFA1308608Certification listprf.cert.wi-fi.org/products/downloadRead 14 October 2026Wi-Fi Alliance CSV: certificate WFA130860, TP-Link Systems Inc., BE9300 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Router, model number Archer BE550, Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 7 on 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz, last certified 2024-07-12. The listing names no hardware version.

FCC IDiFCC ID of the main unit.

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Other certifications

FCC, CE, RoHS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026Certifications: CE, FCC. The datasheet adds RoHS.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Certifications: FCC, CE, RoHS.

FCC, CE, RoHS1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Certifications: CE, FCC. The datasheet adds RoHS.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Certifications: FCC, CE, RoHS.

In the box

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In the boxiItems as the maker lists them for the exact pack.

Wi-Fi 7 Router Archer BE230, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026Package Contents: Wi-Fi 7 Router Archer BE230, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide.

Wi-Fi Router Archer BE550, Power Adapter, RJ45 Ethernet Cable, Quick Installation Guide1Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026Package content: Wi-Fi 7 Router Archer BE550, power adapter, RJ45 Ethernet cable, quick installation guide.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Package contents as listed.

Links

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Product page

www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be2301Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be230Read 14 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be5501Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/home-networking/wifi-router/archer-be550Read 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

www.tp-link.com/us/document/172862Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/17286Read 14 October 2026

www.tp-link.com/us/document/156302Maker spec sheet (PDF)tp-link.com/us/document/15630Read 14 October 2026Archer BE550 V1 datasheet, copyright 2023. V2 has its own datasheet at https://www.tp-link.com/us/document/14509/.

Manual

www.tp-link.com/us/document/467743Owner's manualtp-link.com/us/document/46774Read 14 October 2026Archer BE230(US)_V1_User Guide.

static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdf3Owner's manualstatic.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2023/202307/20230721/1910013423_Archer%20BE550_UG_REV1.0.0.pdfRead 14 October 2026User Guide for the Archer BE550 V1 (REV1.0.0, 2023). The V2 guide is a separate file.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

2years7Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/support/replacement-warrantyRead 14 October 2026US warranty page: Wi-Fi routers bought on or after 2023-09-01 have a 2 year warranty. Tom's Guide and Staples give 2 years for the Archer BE3600 too.10Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/tp-link-archer-be3600-reviewRead 14 October 2026The two-year warranty includes lifetime support. US market. Staples lists a 2 year warranty for the Archer BE3600 too.

2years6Maker product pagetp-link.com/us/support/replacement-warrantyRead 14 October 2026US warranty page: warranty periods for products purchased on or after 9/1/2023 list 2 years for Wi-Fi routers.

Both are also in the API. Back to all routers.