TP-Link TL-R470T+ Multi-WAN Router: load balancing and security features

The TP-Link TL-R470T+ is a wired router for small offices and internet cafés that connect to more than one internet line. TP-Link says it supports up to four WAN ports, so several broadband connections can be combined into one network through a single device. It has Ethernet ports only and does not provide Wi-Fi.

Multiple WAN ports and load balancing

A WAN port is the side of the router that connects to the internet. The TL-R470T+ has three changeable ports that can be set as either LAN or WAN, which allows up to four WAN connections in total. TP-Link says its load balancing automatically chooses the most efficient line by load and bandwidth. In general, load balancing spreads traffic across several lines, and the same setup can provide backup if one connection fails.

Note that the WAN ports run at 10/100 Mbps, so each line is limited to Fast Ethernet speeds.

Managing users with PPPoE

TP-Link says the router can act as a PPPoE server and allocate accounts to users on the private network. Only users with valid accounts that have passed authentication can access the internet. Combined with IP-based bandwidth control, an administrator can limit the bandwidth of particular accounts. An e-bulletin function can also show a web page notice to groups of users, such as a reminder that an account is expiring. This kind of control is typical of shared networks such as internet cafés.

Security features

TP-Link lists several protections:

• Detection and blocking of denial-of-service attacks, such as TCP/UDP/ICMP flooding and ping of death.
• IP, MAC and URL filtering.
• IP and MAC binding, which TP-Link says helps prevent ARP attacks.
• One-click ALG options for applications that don't work well with NAT, namely FTP, H.323, SIP, IPsec and PPTP.

DDNS support allows remote management using a domain name.

Lightning protection

The router includes surge protection that TP-Link says is designed to prevent lightning damage up to 4 kV, provided the connection is properly grounded. It is a useful extra for offices with outdoor cable runs, though no device is immune, so follow the manual's grounding instructions.

Size and setup

The router is compact, about 8.3 x 1.1 x 5.0 inches, and weighs about 0.2 lb. It is set up through a web-based utility.

Who it suits

It suits small businesses with two or more internet lines, shared networks that need user accounts and bandwidth control, and administrators comfortable with router configuration.

What to check before you buy

• Line speeds: the 10/100 ports cap each connection, so check your plan's speed.
• Wi-Fi: you will need separate access points for wireless coverage.
• Port count: decide how many ports you need as WAN and how many as LAN.
• Configuration: load balancing and PPPoE need some networking knowledge to set up.
• Grounding: the lightning protection depends on a well-grounded connection.

The short version

• A wired router with up to four WAN ports and load balancing.
• Three changeable WAN/LAN ports at 10/100 Mbps.
• PPPoE server, bandwidth control and DoS protection.
• Lightning protection designed for up to 4 kV with proper grounding.
• No Wi-Fi; managed through a web interface.

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