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Switch selection and setup

A 2.5G switch with a Gigabit uplink: what gets faster and what stays shared

Local device-to-device transfers and traffic leaving the switch do not necessarily follow the same capacity limit.

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Cabling and fiber

Map and label wall network ports so the next fault is easier to find

Give every link a stable identifier and connect that identifier to its room, panel port and test record.

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Cabling and fiber

RJ45 SFP+ modules can run hot: plan cooling before filling every cage

Copper transceiver modules have model-specific power, spacing and reach requirements.

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Cabling and fiber

SFP and SFP+ modules: check the switch, fiber and far end together

A module fitting the cage does not establish supported speed, optical compatibility or cable reach.

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Cabling and fiber

Planning fiber to a detached office: include optics, power and installation

A building-to-building fiber link is a complete installation project, not just a longer network cable.

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Cabling and fiber

Slim Ethernet patch cords: save cabinet space without ignoring their limits

Small-diameter cords can ease cable management, but length and PoE guidance still apply to the complete channel.

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Cabling and fiber

Solid vs stranded Ethernet cable: match the connector and installation role

Flexible patch leads and fixed cabling use different constructions; compatible termination hardware matters.

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Cabling and fiber

Permanent link vs channel: include the patch cords in your Ethernet plan

The wall cable and the complete equipment-to-equipment path are different test objects.

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Cabling and fiber

Copper-clad aluminum Ethernet cable: why conductor material matters for PoE

Inspect the cable specification instead of assuming a category label proves suitable conductors and power performance.

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Cabling and fiber

An Ethernet continuity test is not cable certification

Choose a test that answers whether conductors connect, an application works, or an installed link meets a cabling standard.

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300 FAQs across our guide libraries

Quick answers

100 practical questions from Amped Wireless Guides.

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What compatibility difference matters between PG2400P and TL-PA9020P?

The PG2400P and TL-PA9020P are both intended to extend wired networking through suitable mains wiring, but they belong to different powerline families. TP-Link identifies the former as G.hn and the latter as HomePlug AV2. That difference should lead the purchase decision. List the adapters already serving other rooms. A matching supported family may simplify expansion. Replacing just one endpoint with a different standard will not create a faster mixed pair; it can leave that endpoint unable to communicate at all.

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Why should a powerline adapter use a suitable wall outlet?

A powerline kit can perform poorly when connected through a power strip even though its power light appears normal. Supplying electricity and carrying the adapter's data signal are different requirements. TP-Link recommends direct wall-outlet placement when investigating this problem. Use the same two adapters, Ethernet cables and client devices. Move the affected adapter from the strip to a suitable nearby wall outlet, following its manual. Compare a local transfer and the intended application, rather than changing wireless settings at the same time.

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Should garden Wi-Fi use an indoor node or outdoor equipment?

An indoor mesh node near a window may cover a small garden, but that result depends on the building, glazing and where people use their devices. If the signal remains unreliable, a purpose-built outdoor unit is a different installation choice from putting an indoor extender under a cover. Use a safe indoor position with a viable upstream connection. Test the phone or laptop at the actual seating area and near the garden's far edge. Repeat with the window and door in their normal closed positions.

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Where should a switch connect when Deco runs in Router mode?

When Deco runs in Router mode, the main unit separates its upstream internet connection from the network it manages. A switch used for satellite backhaul belongs on the main unit's LAN side. Treating every available Ethernet socket as equivalent can create an incorrect topology. Write the order as internet gateway, main Deco, LAN switch and satellite Decos. TP-Link's wiring guidance places wired satellites behind the main Deco in Router mode. Avoid connecting them to a switch that bypasses the main unit on its upstream side.

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