Deco is set up only through its phone app. TP-Link's Deco setup page lists thirteen steps, from preparing the phone to adding more units. This page keeps the ones that matter on a High Desert connection and leaves out the smart-home extras.
Steps
- Prepare your phone
TP-Link says to turn off power-saving mode on the phone. On iOS 14 or later, allow the Local Network permission or setup cannot finish.
- Install the Deco app and sign in
Use a TP-Link ID. The app lets you create one.
- Power on the first Deco
Wait for the light to pulse blue. That means it is ready to configure. Tap Let's begin.
- Connect the injector cable to the Deco
TP-Link says to connect one Deco's Ethernet port to the modem. You have no modem. Use the cable that runs from the High Desert power injector. The High Desert line reaches your house as an Ethernet cable from the indoor power injector, and that cable belongs in the router's internet (WAN) port.
- Name the room
Choose a room name. It becomes the unit's name in the app.
- Choose the connection type
TP-Link says Dynamic IP fits when the Deco is wired to a main router or modem. High Desert does not publish a PPPoE login or static address, so choose Dynamic IP and call if it fails.
- Set the Wi-Fi name and password
The password must have at least eight characters. Then reconnect your phone to the new network when the app asks.
- Add the other units
Power the extra units in the same room first. TP-Link says newer units usually join in about two minutes. Then move them to their places.
Router mode or access point mode?
TP-Link's page mentions an Access Point Mode in a related FAQ and does not explain it. If a Deco is your only router, leave it in the default router mode. Access point mode is for a Deco behind another router.
How many units can one network have?
TP-Link's Deco overview recommends up to six units on most models. Check the page for your model.
What does a yellow light mean?
TP-Link's page says yellow appears after you press the Reset button for one second, and that the light should return to pulsing blue in about two minutes. Other colors are on TP-Link's light guide. Related: factory reset a router.
Do I need to go outside or touch the antenna for this?
Everything here happens indoors. If you suspect the outdoor radio, do not climb or touch it or its cable. Call us instead.
Sources
- tp-link.com/us/support/faq/1592/ (TP-Link, Deco Setup Guide, read 2026-10-15)
- tp-link.com/us/support/faq/1593/ (TP-Link, Deco App Overview, seen in a search summary 2026-10-15)