It's quite common to need to determine the exact model number of your TP-Link router. This may be necessary to find the latest firmware, set up a guest network, or simply to distinguish your device from those of your neighbors in an apartment building. The manufacturer's label on the router's case often wears off, gets lost, or becomes illegible, leaving users stumped. However, there are many software and hardware options for obtaining this information without physically inspecting the device.
Understanding how to identify device Networking is a basic skill for any home network administrator. The model name typically consists of an alphanumeric code, such as Archer C6 or TL-WR840N, and is often accompanied by a hardware version number (Ver 1.0, Ver 2.0). Identification The exact version is critically important, as firmware from one revision can damage another, even if the model names are the same. In this article, we'll cover all available methods, from simple visual ones to advanced network-based ones.
Don't panic if your external data is erased. Modern protocols and operating systems allow you to access deep information about network equipmentWe'll cover both standard browser-based methods and options for those who prefer the command line or mobile apps. The method you choose depends on whether you currently have access to a web interface or if your network is completely down.
Search for information on the case and factory documentation
The most obvious and quick way to identify the model is a physical inspection. routerTP-Link manufacturers place information stickers on the bottom or back of the device. This sticker typically contains the model, serial number (SN), MAC address, and default settings login information. If the sticker is still there, you'll immediately see the name you're looking for, for example, Archer AX20.
However, if the sticker is damaged or missing, check the packaging box. Technical information, including the exact model name and hardware version, is often duplicated on the sides of the box. It's also worth checking the warranty card or receipt, if you still have them, although the model number may be abbreviated there. In some cases, the model name may be embossed on the plastic case itself, directly under the sticker or near the ports.
⚠️ Warning: If you buy a used router without a box and with a worn-out sticker, you run a high risk of purchasing a device for which it's impossible to find the correct firmware. Always check the legibility of the markings before purchasing.
For accurate identification, it's important to distinguish between the trade name and the technical model. A trade name, such as "Archer," indicates the series but doesn't provide complete information. A technical model, such as TL-WR940N, contains information about the device class and its functionality. The technical model is needed to search for drivers and instructions.
Defining a model via the web management interface
If your router is turned on and distributing Wi-Fi or connected via cable, the most reliable way is to access its settings. To do this, open any browser and enter the gateway IP address in the address bar. This is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1, or a domain name tplinkwifi.netAfter entering your login and password (often admin/admin by default), you will be taken to the main page of the control panel.
The main Status page or the "Status" section always displays information about your device. Look for the "Device Model" or "Product Model" line. The exact name will be listed there, for example, Archer C80, and the hardware version. This is the most reliable source, as it is read directly from the router firmware.
In the new TP-Link Tether interfaces (blue), model information is often located in the upper right corner or under "Advanced" -> "System Tools" -> "System Parameters." In the older green interfaces, it is located directly on the "Status" screen in the "Product Info" block. Regardless of the firmware version, this information is system-specific and cannot be hidden by the user.
☑️ Checking interface access
Using the TP-Link Tether utility
For mobile users, TP-Link has developed an application Tether, which allows you to control your router from your smartphone. This is a great way to find out the model if you don't have a computer nearby. After installing the app and connecting to the router's Wi-Fi network, launch Tether. The app will automatically detect the device and prompt you to access its settings.
After successful authorization, the app's main screen displays a network map with your router's icon in the center. Tapping it or looking at the top of the screen reveals the model name. The app also displays the connection status and the number of connected clients. This is a convenient way to quickly check your network without having to remember IP addresses.
The Tether app works with both new and many older router models. It automatically detects the device type and adapts the interface. If the app fails to identify the model or displays a generic name, this may indicate compatibility issues between the firmware version and the app version.
Finding out the model via the Windows command line
For advanced users who prefer to work with the console, there is a way to obtain gateway information and its identifiers via the command line. Open the command prompt (cmd) or PowerShell. Enter the command ipconfig and find the line "Default Gateway". Remember this IP address.
You can then use the ping command to check availability, but it won't reveal the device model. However, if the network uses SNMP or UPnP, you can use specialized snails or scripts to query the device. It's difficult to obtain the exact hardware model using standard Windows tools, but you can obtain the MAC address, which will aid in identification.
arp -aTeam arp -a will display a table of IP and MAC address mappings. Find the MAC address of your gateway. The first three bytes of the MAC address (OUI) indicate the manufacturer. For TP-Link, these are often ranges starting with TP-LINK_ or certain hex codes (e.g., 00-1D-0F, 00-22-B0). Knowing the MAC address, you can try scanning the network with a utility like Advanced IP Scanner, which sometimes retrieves the device model via UPnP.
| Method | Complexity | Required access | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sticker on the body | Low | Physical | 100% |
| Web interface | Low | Network | 100% |
| Tether app | Low | Wi-Fi | 100% |
| Command line | High | Network | Partial |
MAC address and network packet analysis
If none of the previous methods work, you can try identifying the device by its MAC address. The MAC address is unique to each network interface. The first six digits (OUI - Organizationally Unique Identifier) are assigned to the manufacturer. You can find the MAC address in the connection properties in Windows or in the list of connected clients on another device.
Use online OUI databases by entering the first six characters of the MAC address. If the device is indeed a TP-Link, the database will display the company name. While this won't give you the exact model (for example, Archer C6), it will confirm the manufacturer. Combined with the appearance of the antennas and ports, this can narrow down your search.
⚠️ Please note: The MAC address can be changed (cloned) in the router settings. If the previous owner changed the MAC address to that of another device, the OUI identification method will not work correctly.
For a more in-depth analysis, you can use a packet sniffer, such as Wireshark. By capturing traffic, you can find broadcast packets, which sometimes contain lines with the hostname or device model in the DHCP or SSDP headers. Look for packets with the UPnP protocol; the "Location" or "Server" fields may contain a line with the model.
What to do if the MAC address is not detected?
If the MAC address is unreadable or shows an unknown manufacturer, your network card may be set to random MAC addresses for privacy reasons. Disable this feature in your Wi-Fi adapter settings.
Common problems and their solutions
Users often encounter a situation where the browser won't open the settings page, displaying a connection error. This may be due to an incorrect gateway IP address. Make sure your computer is receiving an IP address automatically (DHCP). If a static IP is manually assigned, it may conflict with the router's subnet.
Another common issue is a forgotten administrator password. In this case, you won't be able to find the model number through the web interface until you perform a factory reset. A factory reset is performed by holding down the button. Reset for 10-15 seconds. After this, the router will return to factory settings, and you will be able to log in using the credentials from the sticker (if it's intact) or the default admin/admin.
Sometimes antivirus software or firewall software can block access to the local management page. Try temporarily disabling protection or adding an exception for local addresses. You should also try a different browser or incognito mode to eliminate the possibility of cache and extensions interfering.
Is it possible to find out the router model if it doesn't turn on?
If the router shows no signs of life (no indicators), software solutions won't help. Your only options are searching for the box, documentation, or visually comparing its appearance with photos online. In extreme cases, you'll need to disassemble the case and read the markings on the main board, but this will void the warranty.
Does the firmware version affect model identification?
No, the firmware version (Software Version) does not change the device model (Hardware Version). However, different firmware versions may display information differently in the interface. In older firmware versions, the model may be listed as abbreviated.
What should I do if the sticker and the interface show different models?
This is rare, but possible when replacing the case (case modding) or flashing custom firmware versions (OpenWrt, DD-WRT), which may not correctly detect the hardware. In this case, you should rely on the data displayed in the web interface of the original TP-Link firmware or the markings on the board.