You can configure these settings through either the Deco mobile app or the web management interface .
While MAC address filtering is useful, it's not a perfect security solution and has several limitations, especially on the Deco M4.
MAC address filtering is a security feature that leverages these unique identifiers to create an access control list (ACL). This list acts as a digital bouncer for your network, dictating which devices are allowed to connect and which are turned away. It operates in two primary modes:
The Deco app for iOS and Android is the most straightforward tool for managing your network. mac address filter on tplink deco m4
The (via Blacklist and Wi-Fi Access Control) is perfect for:
If you want to block a device that has never connected to your Deco M4 before (e.g., a neighbor's device you saw scanning), the process is slightly different because the device won't appear in your list.
Restrict specific devices from connecting at certain times. How to Set Up MAC Address Filtering (Block List) on Deco M4 You can configure these settings through either the
The Deco M4 will instantly terminate that device's connection. Even if the user knows your Wi-Fi password, their hardware MAC address is now blocked from routing data through your mesh nodes. How to Unblock a Device
Choose from a list of currently or previously connected devices.
: Choose from a list of currently or previously connected devices. This list acts as a digital bouncer for
In Allow List mode, you can enable "Guest Network Exception" to allow visitors to use your guest Wi-Fi without needing to add them to your master whitelist. Method 2: Using the Web-Based Interface
: Prevents specific listed devices from connecting.
Firmware updates sometimes reset advanced settings. Go to More > Advanced > Wi-Fi Access Control and verify the toggle is still ON. Also re-check your Blacklist and Allow List.
Put smart home (IoT) appliances and temporary visitors on a separate Guest Network. This isolates them from your main personal devices.