TP-Link has made networking devices for many years and remains among the top brands.

Their mesh Wi-Fi systems aim to fix weak signals, with different Deco models providing options.

Unlike single routers, mesh Wi-Fi improves coverage by placing multiple access points in a home or office to extend the signal.

The Deco X55 mesh system comes in two or three sets, and users can connect up to 10 units for larger spaces.

It supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes three Gigabit LAN ports in each unit. The X55 claims to offer smooth coverage and eliminate dead zones.

But how does it perform compared to my regular setup?

TP-Link Deco X55 Mesh System

$250 on Amazon

Summary

The Deco X55 fixed my weak Wi-Fi problem in a house with thick walls. It delivers fast speeds and works as a mesh system.

Setting it up with the Deco app was simple. I won’t use Ethernet cables again.

Pros

• Fast Wi-Fi 6 performance

• Easy setup using the Deco app

• Multiple LAN ports

Cons

• It is pricey but performs well

• Only includes one Ethernet cable

• Short power cords

Deco X55: Cost and Where to Buy

Major retailers like Amazon offer the TP-Link Deco X55 AX3000 mesh Wi-Fi system. Both black and white models are available.

Buyers can choose between a two-pack or three-pack. Stock levels remain strong.

Deco X55: Meaning of Mesh Wi-Fi

Mesh Wi-Fi has existed for a long time. It uses multiple access points to extend the Wi-Fi signal beyond a single router.

I have used ISP-provided devices with built-in modems and routers for years. 

I believed Wi-Fi could never match the speed and reliability of wired Ethernet.

Third-party routers allowed me to manage some network settings, but none provided better wireless coverage in my old home.

My house is more than 100 years old. It has thick brick walls and old power cables. My office is the farthest room from where the fiber-optic connection enters.

Getting the internet in our office and hobby room has been difficult. Finding a solution was frustrating until I tested the TP-Link Deco X55 set.

I once stretched a 50-foot Ethernet cable through the hallways and down the stairs.

It gave me a stable internet connection and increased my chances of tripping, which was unsafe.

Installing a weather-resistant Ethernet cable in the attic was an option, but potential damage could disrupt the connection and lead to expensive repairs.

After that, I decided to try top powerline network adapters. They send data through the house’s electrical wiring, which is brilliant.

However, I couldn’t get the highest internet speeds even with a good set. Fortunately, the Deco X55 introduced me to mesh Wi-Fi and wireless networking, proving slightly effective.

Deco X55: The Good

Setting up the Deco X55 was easy. I used the TP-Link Deco app on my phone to connect the units.

I only had to power them on and name each one. Since I use my ISP’s router, I changed it to modem-only mode.

That let the Deco system handle routing and manage my network. Each Deco X55 has three LAN ports, so I plugged my wired devices into the living room.

Adding the other Deco units was even more straightforward. I just powered them on, and they connected automatically.

The LED blinked momentarily; the tach unit found the closest one to extend coverage. 

I used “network optimization” in the app to pick the most congested Wi-Fi channel. Once the system was online, the app suggested a firmware update.

I ran speed tests to compare with my usual setup. The results with the TP-Link Deco were surprisingly better.

I did five-speed tests for each connection and found the average. There were no significant outliers.

The speed boost compared to my usual powerline adapter was significant but expected. The real surprise was the Office Deco unit. 

It was the farthest from my router but had almost the same speed as the 50-foot Ethernet cable linked to the main router.

Wireless reaching LAN speeds? I might not need these long cables anymore.

I set up the system with the central Deco next to my ISP’s router, which runs in modem-only mode.

I used the provided Ethernet cable to connect them. The other two units are upstairs. 

One is in the hallway, directly above the living room. The other is in my back office, linked to my PC through Ethernet.

It uses the hallway unit as a relay. This setup delivers full internet speed across my home without delays.

It works like a Wi-Fi extender but offers Wi-Fi 6 speeds and extra LAN ports. The Deco X55 performs as TP-Link claims and significantly improved my home network.

Those struggling with weak Wi-Fi should try it instead of running long Ethernet cables through rooms. It is simple to use.

Deco X55: The Downsides

Using the Deco X55 was mostly smooth, so there were few negatives to note. TP-Link provides one Ethernet cable, but with nine LAN ports available, adding a couple more would be helpful.

Also, the power adapters come with shorter cords than expected. 

The issue is minor, but it prevented me from placing the central Deco far from the modem, which remained near the wall.

Longer cables would make it easier to position the units for a better signal, but extension cords can also work.

Switching the Deco X55 to access-point mode turns off parental controls and QoS tools for managing internet traffic.

If a separate modem is in use, this won’t matter. However, those who need to monitor internet activity should remember this. 

Using the Deco as a router is the best option to access all app features on iOS and Android, including connection alerts for troubleshooting.

My most significant change was going from five Ethernet ports on my old router to three on the central Deco.

However, we only need three Ethernet connections. If your central Deco will be in a place with many wired devices, think about how to handle that.

Each unit includes three LAN ports, so you could move wired devices closer to another Deco to avoid problems. 

Since there are no USB ports, those using USB external hard drives for NAS or USB printers must find other solutions, like Ethernet-powered NAS.

Besides that, the only major drawback of the Deco X55 is its cost. It is reasonable but may feel high for those trying to fix weak Wi-Fi. 

Some may choose cheaper Wi-Fi extenders or repurpose old hardware as access points, but this mesh system is not as easy to use.

Weigh your choices carefully, and if it fits your budget, consider trying the Deco X55. TP-Link has done an excellent job with it.

Deco X55: Is It Worth Buying?

Setting up a network has never been this simple. It’s surprising how a device that looks like a smart speaker can improve internet speed much better than long Ethernet cables spread around the house.

The Deco X55 is one of TP-Link’s many mesh systems, but it stands out for its strong performance and easy setup.

Among the top Wi-Fi 6 mesh routers, the Deco X55 has been the best fix for my Wi-Fi issues. I can’t imagine switching back from mesh Wi-Fi.

Buy It If:

• Your home has weak Wi-Fi signals

• You need better internet in faraway rooms

Skip It If:

• You use many wired devices

• You depend on USB-powered network devices

If your home has Wi-Fi dead zones, the Deco X55 is worth trying. The Deco app makes setup simple and adjusts to boost speeds.

It’s an excellent choice for keeping all devices connected without losing speed based on distance.

With fast speeds on an innovative Wi-Fi 6 mesh system, TP-Link’s Deco X55 fixes weak signals and dead spots. It may cost a bit more, but it delivers.

Consider getting a few extension cords to place the units in the best spots and enjoy full-home coverage.

TP-Link Deco X55 Mesh System

$250 on Amazon

Summary: 

The Deco X55 removes Wi-Fi dead zones. Its innovative mesh system adjusts automatically to maintain a strong connection.

The setup is simple, so anyone can do it.