The Deco M4 firmware does not currently support a strict whitelist mode to block all unknown devices automatically. Alternative Deco Features for Better Security
Tap the tab or the central globe icon to view connected devices.
Enter a name for the device (e.g., "Neighbor's Laptop") and type in its . Hit Save . Why Use MAC Filtering on Your Mesh System?
The Deco ecosystem is primarily managed through its smartphone app. However, there is a hidden, basic web interface that you can access via a browser. While it offers very limited functionality compared to the app and is mostly for viewing settings, it does provide a path to what looks like a more traditional MAC filter: mac address filter on tplink deco m4
Every time a friend visits and needs Wi-Fi, or you buy a new smart plug, you have to manually open the app, find the new device’s MAC address, and add it. It’s secure, but it’s high-maintenance.
While a standard MAC filter isn't present, the Deco app provides a user-friendly method to control access by adding devices directly to a (which works just like a "blacklist"). Here’s how to do it:
A MAC (Media Access Control) address filter is a security feature that allows you to specify which devices can connect to your network based on their unique MAC addresses. By adding a device's MAC address to the filter list, you can either allow or block that device from connecting to your network. The Deco M4 firmware does not currently support
: Open a web browser and go to 192.168.0.1 or tplinkwifi.net . Use your admin credentials to log in.
on Mode and switch it from Block List to Allow List Mode .
: On any device on your network where you plan to use MAC filtering, simply go into its Wi-Fi settings for your network and disable the Private Address feature . This forces the device to use its actual, unique hardware MAC address, making it a permanent and reliable identifier for your Deco. Hit Save
Enter a recognizable and type in the MAC Address . Tap Save to apply the filter. How to Unblock a Device
To filter a device, you need its MAC address (a format like 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E ).
: While MAC filtering adds a layer of control, security experts from Portnox suggest it should be used alongside strong WPA2/WPA3 encryption rather than as a standalone security measure. How to configure Wi-Fi Access Control on TP-Link Deco