Routers from the Chinese manufacturer Tenda are in great demand today in the economy segment. They cannot compete with more famous brands in terms of speed or performance indicators, but they perform their function as routers and distribute WIFI quite reliably. The average consumer doesn’t need more, which makes this technique very popular. This article shows how to configure a Tenda router. The instructions are relevant for models W316R, N3, W303R, W308R, W309R.
It is important to know that despite the fact that such equipment is firmly based in the economy segment, these routers are perfect for standard apartments. You can connect a laptop, smartphones and other devices using WIFI to them.
When setting up, Tenda routers are very user friendly. They do not require installation of drivers or additional software on the PC. All actions are carried out through the web interface. In other words, in order to connect and configure this router, you only need a working browser, and it doesn’t matter what it is.
Basic router setup
Let's start setting up your router. To do this, you need to ensure its connection to the PC. Any network cable, either supplied in the kit or crimped yourself, is suitable for this.
Go to the properties of your Network connection. If the option to automatically obtain an IP address and DNS servers is activated (it is enabled by default), do not touch anything. Otherwise, use it.
The following steps will be performed in the browser. Launch yours and go to the address 192.168.0.1 (enter directly in the address bar), this will activate access to the router’s web interface. If everything is done correctly, you will see a window like this:
The system will ask you for a login and password to access. By default, in both cases you need to enter “admin” without quotes. After this, you will be able to work with the control panel of your router. The first screen should look something like this:
After loading the page, you need to go to the “Advanced installation” option in the upper right corner. Further steps depend on which provider you have. Let's look at the most popular options using the example of well-known providers.
“Wall Killer”: review of the Tenda AC8 gigabit bat router
You can find many stories online about the advantages of block-room apartments: double walls between rooms and apartments, wide staircase openings, and a convenient layout. But for routers this often becomes a problem. This is exactly what we encountered when we moved into such housing.
There was already an old Huawei router on site, operating only in the 2.4 GHz band. Apparently that's why the previous owner left it. But the power was sorely lacking: while the signal reliably covered the corridor, kitchen and living room, it had difficulty providing a stable connection to the bedroom, located at the other end of the long corridor. There were no major tasks set for the router, so we decided to purchase something inexpensive, but powerful, and, of course, modern.
After researching prices, advantages and disadvantages, we chose Tenda AC8 - a device with controversial reviews, but the coveted 6dBi antenna gain and the “Wall Killer” label - just for our walls. The icing on the cake was gigabit ports and operation according to the AC1200 standard - this was supposed to unlock the full potential of the 100 Mbit/s channel.
The devices in use include 1 stationary PC (gigabit Ethernet), 2 laptops (support for 5 GHz Wi-Fi available), 2 smartphones and a Sony TV with Smart TV in addition. The tasks are typical for most users: WoT and other online games in the evenings, torrents, YouTube and stable operation of smartphones and TV. So, the router has been delivered, I hasten to tell you about its operation.
Package
It immediately caught my eye that the box was thinner than usual - the manufacturer packed everything very compactly. The router, power supply, patch cord, warranty and instructions take up minimal space. Otherwise, everything is standard - a photo of the device on the front side, characteristics and comparison with other devices from the manufacturer - on the back.
There are also large labels indicating the main advantages.
Inside there is a hard cardboard form, and the router itself is packed in a bag.
Full specifications can be viewed on the manufacturer’s official website: https://www.tendacn.com/ru/product/specification/AC8.html
Appearance
We immediately dubbed the Tenda AC8 a “bat router” - somehow there are many references in the design of the case to the shape of a bat wing. The combination of characteristics and appearance suggests that such a device was supposed to provide Bruce Wayne with the Internet
There are 4 massive antennas on the sides and end of the device. Also on the rear end there is a WPS/reset button, 1 WAN and 3 LAN ports (1 of which is for IPTV) and a power connector.
The bottom panel is dotted with ventilation holes. There are also holes for mounting on a vertical surface. I recommend mounting it this way - “hot” chips made using 28 nm technology, coupled with a massive radiator, require good air circulation, which is achieved in a vertical position. The router should also not be placed in a sunny place or near batteries.
Connection
For the sake of experimentation, the Tenda WiFi application was pre-installed on the smartphone. When connecting to the network, you do not need to enter a password; it is not protected. Open the application, select the connection type (DHCP is detected automatically, and this is the simplest option), set a password and voila - the router is working.
The same can be done on a laptop.
Also in the application you can get the device status, connection information and make basic settings.
Application and web interface
The Tenda WiFi main screen is divided into 3 main submenus: Devices, Storage and Tools.
In the first, you can see a list of connected devices and manage each of them: limit bandwidth individually, receive notifications on your smartphone about the connection of each device (saves you from freeloaders, verified!), rename the device and see the properties of connections.
The second point is relevant for routers with a USB port. In our case it is not.
The third point is the most intense and interesting. It contains 2 logical groups - router settings and smart applications.
In the first group, you can get information about the connection, change the name and password for each SSID, reboot the device, configure the connection type, change the account password, view the blacklist, update the system, turn off the indicator light on the router, and reset the device to factory settings.
Using smart applications, you can check the network for errors and optimize it, create a guest network with a specified duration and bandwidth, turn off the network on a schedule (in our opinion, a necessary function!), adjust the signal strength and perform a security check.
In short, all the most necessary settings are collected in a simple and intuitive interface! For this alone we give the manufacturer a big plus.
Web interface
Here, as expected, there are much more settings, but the logic and simplicity of the interface are preserved.
The main "Status" screen displays connection status, devices on the network, overall download and upload speeds, and system information.
In the “Internet settings” the operating mode is changed (Router, repeater, network “extender”). I recommend finding out the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) of the provider - this way you can configure the connection for optimal performance.
In the “wireless network settings” settings are configured for each SSID, and most importantly, the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands are combined into one SSID with automatic detection of the device and connecting it to the band with a stronger signal. Guest network settings, signal strength, Wi-Fi settings, control of the Beamforming function (to focus maximum signal strength on the connected device) and WPS control are also concentrated here.
Bandwidth Control monitors each device and allows you to configure its traffic individually. Any device can be added to the “black list”.
“Parental control” will be useful for those whose children like to surf the Internet at night. Here you can add the devices of an intractable wife)))
“Sleep mode” will please health professionals who monitor the level of ambient radiation. There are a great many signals around us, but those that are in close proximity can be turned off at night (if torrents are not downloading). Here you can also configure the indicator. It is noteworthy that by registering an account, the device can be controlled from anywhere in the world.
MAC filter, VLAN, IP to MAC binding, port forwarding and UPnP and other parameters are configured in the “Advanced” menu.
A separate item includes setting up IPv6.
Service functions are concentrated in the “Management” menu.
In progress
To measure the signal level, we used the WiFi Analyzer application on a smartphone (supports 2.4 and 5 GHz), and InSSIDer software on a laptop. The results are presented below.
Smartphone:
2.4 GHz, line of sight 2.4 GHz, 1 wall 2.4 GHz, 2 walls
5 GHz, line of sight 5 GHz, 1 wall 5 GHz, 2 walls
Laptop:
5 GHz, line of sight
5 GHz, 1 wall
5 GHz, 2 walls
As can be seen from the screenshots, the signal level drops noticeably only behind two walls, but at the same time, even in the most remote places of the apartment, the connection remains operational. The previous router could not cope with this.
I would also like to note the Beamforming technology: during measurements with one device, the system takes it into focus and “holds” it until the last, that is, the signal begins to fall only in remote corners of the room.
Now let’s check the connection speed using the same method. Traditionally, Speedtest by OOKLA will be used.
Smartphone:
5 GHz, best result - line of sight
2.4 GHz, best result - line of sight
When connecting to the 2.4 GHz band, it is worth noting its huge load in the evening, and the drop in speed as a result.
Laptop:
5 GHz, best result - line of sight
2.4 GHz, best result - line of sight
And finally, a speed test over a wired connection.
Conclusion
We were very pleased with the purchase of the Tenda AC8 router. For a relatively small amount, we received high connection speeds, dual-band operation, gigabit ports, “breakthrough” antennas, the most convenient smartphone application and a friendly web interface. At the same time, the device was able to cope with both double walls and the congestion of the 2.4 GHz band, in which it overcame the interference produced by neighboring routers. Ping and FPS did not drop in games, but this is due not only to the gigabit ports, but also to the wired connection in general.
The only downside, perhaps, is the non-working update button in the web interface. The latest firmware was downloaded and installed manually. Heating, although present, is not critical; after prolonged operation, the device was only slightly warmer than other counterparts that we have encountered.
I can confidently recommend it for purchase. If you have any questions, write in the comments!
L2TP mode
This setting is suitable for the Beeline provider
Once the page loads, you need to go to the “WAN Installation” submenu. The screen should change as shown in the picture. In the “mode” column, you must select L2TP from the list. Next you need to set the L2TP address, in this column you need to enter 80.241.35.45 (it is better to check the address with your provider). Then enter your account information (username and password). Your provider should also provide them to you. You shouldn't touch other settings.
Models
Routers from Tenda, which has been operating since 1999, are distinguished by high-quality wireless signals and wide coverage. They are reliable and powerful devices. They were released in a large series and enjoy corresponding popularity. Below are the best models.
Tenda N3
Tenda N3 is a simple router model operating at a standard frequency of 2.4 gigahertz. It has a maximum connection speed of 300 megabits per second. It has three LAN switches and port speeds of 100 megabits per second. There is a DHPC router. According to user reviews, the tenda router has quick setup and a beautiful appearance. It has a strong signal and stable Wifi speed.
Tenda W308R
Tenda W308R is an improved model that uses the 802.11n wireless standard. Has MIMO support. Protects information at the WPA, WPA2 level. Has a four LAN switch. Equipped with a firewall. It features NAT, a DHCP server, DNS support, and a demilitarized zone. In the field of monitoring and configuration, it has a web interface and SNMP support. According to user reviews, Tenda's Wi-Fi router is distinguished by regular updates of English firmware, stable operation of the AC adapter, quality of the case, connection stability and packaging. Has a good price-quality ratio.
Tenda F300
Tenda F300 Wi-Fi is a powerful multifunctional device, thanks to which it is possible not only to log into the official network, log into a social network, password protect your email, connect various parameters, but also send files, play and watch videos without waiting.
It is capable of transmitting up to 300 megabits of data per second via Wifi, and up to 100 megabits via LAN. Thanks to this, you can use the Internet comfortably. Network access is controlled using the MAC address.
Note! Reduced speed and freezing are eliminated due to the fact that there is a network amplifier integrated into the router. Access standards for the user are formed through the option with parental controls. If desired, they can be changed.
Tenda N30
Tenda N30 is a high-quality model operating at a frequency of 2.4 gigahertz. It has a maximum communication speed of 300 megabits per second, transmitter power of 17 dBM, port speeds of up to 100 megabits per second, WDS support. It features bridge and repeater modes.
Equipped with a firewall, NAT, DHCP server, DNS support, demilitarized zone and static routing. It has a web interface that is understandable even to a teapot. According to users, it has a good stable type of signal, thanks to which you can carry out any actions on the Internet. The advantage is the price and size of the equipment. Ability to install anywhere.
Tenda W316R
Tenda Wi-Fi W316R is a standard budget model that operates at a frequency of 2.4 gigahertz and supports MIMO. Protects information at the WEP, WPA, WPA2 level. It has a four LAN switch. Has repeater mode, firewall, NAT, DHCP server, DNS support, demilitarized zone and static routing. Equipped with a non-removable type of external antenna.
Security Settings
To make your Internet surfing not only comfortable, but also safe, pay attention to the “Security Settings” tab. If you uncheck the “Enable” column in the “WEB Remote Control” sub-item, no one except you will be able to access the router settings.
In addition, it is recommended to change the standard password in the corresponding subsection. The classic “admin” is universal for almost all routers, therefore it is known to everyone. Change it to your own option and protect your router.
Firmware update
To get new functionality or a Russified configuration interface for the Tenda router, you can update its firmware. New models are able to independently detect the presence of an update and offer the user to download and install the latest version.
In some cases, you will have to do this procedure yourself. Depending on the appearance of the customizer, the update option may be in different places.
F3 v1.0
System settings (Administration) → Firmware Upgrade → Browse
AC9 v3.0
Software version → Update.
or
System Settings → Software Update → Online Update → Update
Wi-Fi setup
In order to configure your router to distribute wireless Internet, refer to the “Wireless network installation” menu item. There you will find the sub-item “Basic wireless network settings”, which is what interests you.
For the router to work correctly, check the “Enable wireless function” option; in the Primary SSID field you can set a unique name for your WIFI network.
To ward off unwanted “guests”, set a password in the appropriate column. If you activate the SSID Broadcasting function, only those who know both the password and the ID will be able to connect.
To increase the level of security, it is recommended to set the WPA2-PSK mode in the corresponding menu item. Then you need to save the settings. Now you can use your router without fear of “intrusion” from the outside via the WIFI network.
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Possible problems
There may be problems with your Internet connection. Let's look at the most common problems with Tenda routers.
Low speed.
The problem of internet speed dropping when connected to Wi-Fi is common. To speed up your wireless network, use mixed network mode.
On AC6v2:
- Open Wi-Fi settings, “Channel and Bandwidth” section.
- Set the mixed network mode or the value to “Auto”, if it is in the drop-down list.
Set the network mode on Tenda N300 in the same way. Also, to speed up the Internet, try changing the wireless broadcast channel.
Errors 691, 678.
At 691, reboot the router. To do this, click the “Reset” button on the case or open the admin panel, select “System settings”, select “Reboot and reset”. After that, connect to the Wi-Fi network again.
Reboot and reset are different concepts. We recommend that you first reboot, and then, if this does not solve the problem, reset the settings to factory settings.
If you receive error 678, go to Internet settings in the admin panel. Make sure the subnet mask is 255.255.255.0.
Specifications
Review and configuration of the D-Link Dir-320 modem
The Tenda router does not have any special parameters, but people are satisfied with the classic router functions: Internet connection speeds of up to three hundred megabits per second, two connectors for three or four channels or one WAN, standard frequency.
The equipment is distinguished by supporting the free NO-IP service. Has a work schedule function. It also includes an option that allows parents to monitor the content their children are viewing. There are two non-retractable antennas. They can be installed in any position.
There is a WPS/Reset button on part of the router. When you press it and do not hold it down, system authorization occurs. When pressed and held, the factory settings are reset.
