TP-Link is one of the most widely used networking equipment brands in Indonesia. Its products can be found in homes, offices, schools, hotels, shops, restaurants, and various other businesses.

Some people may be more familiar with TP-Link for its Wi-Fi routers. However, TP-Link also offers a variety of networking devices for business needs, such as access points, switches, routers, controllers, surveillance cameras, and office support devices.

One of TP-Link’s important developments is the presence of Omada , a series of business networking products that can be managed centrally.

A Brief History of TP-Link

TP-Link was founded in 1996 and began to grow as a network equipment provider company.

In the early stages of its development, TP-Link was known for various products such as:

• Router
• Modem
• Network adapter
• Switch
• Wi-Fi range extender
• Powerline adapter

These products are widely used because they are relatively easy to install, easy to configure, and available in a variety of price options.

As internet needs increase, TP-Link has begun developing products for broader needs.

For home users, TP-Link offers the Archer series routers and the Deco Mesh Wi-Fi system . Meanwhile, for office and business needs, TP-Link develops networking products through the Omada line.

TP-Link’s Development to Present Omada

Initially, TP-Link products were used more for home and small business networks.

However, network needs continue to evolve. Offices, schools, hotels, and other businesses are beginning to require more access points, switches, routers, and more practical network management systems.

To answer these needs, TP-Link developed Omada as a business networking solution.

Omada allows multiple TP-Link network devices to be managed through a single system. This eliminates the need for users to configure each device separately.

In its development, Omada not only consists of access points, but also includes:

• Switch
• Router or gateway
• Controller
• Network support devices
• Cloud-based management system

This makes Omada suitable for use in small office networks to companies with multiple locations.

What is TP-Link Omada?

TP-Link Omada is a line of networking products designed for the needs of businesses and organizations.

Omada can be used in various places, such as:

• Office
• School
• Hotel
• Restaurant
• Cafe
• Shop
• Villa
• Hospital
• Warehouse
• Tourist attraction

One of Omada’s advantages is the ease of managing network devices through a single dashboard.

Through the Omada system, users can monitor access points, switches, and routers without having to open the settings for each device one by one.

TP-Link’s Featured Products for Offices

TP-Link has a variety of products that can be used to support networks and activities in the office.

1. Omada Access Point

An access point is a device used to provide a Wi-Fi connection.

In an office environment, access points are typically used to allow Wi-Fi connections to reach more rooms and serve more users.

TP-Link has several types of access points.

Ceiling Mount Access Point

This type of access point is mounted on the ceiling. Its design is usually simple so it doesn’t overly disrupt the room’s appearance.

This product is suitable for use in:

• Workspace
• Meeting room
• Lobby
• School
• Hotel
• Restaurant

Some examples of Omada Access Points include:

• EAP225
• EAP613
• EAP653
• EAP670
• EAP660 HD

Newer models generally support Wi-Fi 6 so they can better serve more devices.

Wall-Plate Access Point

Wall-plate access points are mounted on walls and are suitable for use in certain rooms.

This type is often used in:

• Hotel room
• Office space
• Apartment
• Meeting room
• Villa

Some models also provide additional LAN ports for computers or other devices.

Outdoor Access Point

Outdoor access points are used to provide Wi-Fi outdoors.

This device is suitable for:

• Office yard
• Parking area
• Park
• Warehouse
• Project area
• School environment
• Pool area

Outdoor access points usually have additional protection against dust and water.

2. TP-Link Switch

Switches are used to connect various devices via network cables.

Devices that can be connected to the switch include:

• Computer
• Printer
• Server
• Access point
• CCTV Camera
• IP Telephony
• NVR

TP-Link has several types of switches.

Unmanaged Switch

Unmanaged switches can be used directly without configuration.

This type is suitable for small offices that only need additional network ports.

Some TP-Link unmanaged switches are available in 5 port, 8 port, 16 port, and 24 port options.

Easy Smart Switch

Easy Smart Switch has more complete setup features than unmanaged switches.

This type is suitable for small or medium offices that require simple network management.

Omada Managed Switch

Omada Managed Switch can be managed through the Omada system.

This type of switch is suitable for offices that have many devices and require more centralized management.

TP-Link also provides switches with Power over Ethernet or PoE features .

PoE switches can transmit data and power over a single network cable. This feature is often used for access points, IP cameras, and IP phones.

Some examples of Omada switches include:

• SG2210MP
• SG2218P
• TL-SG2428P
• TL-SG3428XMP
• SG3452XP
  

3. Omada Router and Gateway

A router or gateway functions to connect an office network to the internet.

This device can also be used to manage network traffic, internet connections, and remote access.

One of Omada’s well-known products is the ER605 .

The ER605 is suitable for small and medium-sized offices. This device can also be used to manage more than one internet connection.

For larger needs, TP-Link provides gateways with higher capacities.

4. Omada Controller

Omada Controller is used to manage Omada devices through one system.

TP-Link provides several controller options.

Omada Software Controller

The Controller Software can be installed on a computer or server.

This option is suitable for offices that already have a computer or server that can be used as a network management center.

Omada Hardware Controller

Hardware Controller is a special device to run the Omada system.

Some examples are:

• OC200
• OC300

The Hardware Controller is suitable for users who do not want to provide a dedicated computer to run Omada.

Omada Cloud-Based Controller

Cloud-Based Controller allows network devices to be managed through cloud services.

This option is suitable for companies that have many branches or locations.

5. Office Support Equipment

In addition to the main devices, TP-Link also has a variety of network support products.

PoE Injector

PoE injector is used to provide electrical power to access points or cameras via network cables.

This device is useful if the switch used does not support PoE.

Network Adapter

TP-Link provides network adapters for computers and laptops.

This product is available in the form of:

• USB Wi-Fi adapter
• PCIe Wi-Fi adapter
• USB Ethernet adapter

Network adapters can be used to add or improve network connections on a device.

Media Converter

Media converters are used to connect Ethernet cable-based networks with fiber optic networks.

This device is often used in inter-floor or inter-building networks.

SFP Module

SFP modules are used in certain switches to create connections using fiber optic cables.

This device is usually used in office networks that require longer distance connections.

Desktop Switch

Desktop switches with 5 or 8 ports are suitable for use on work desks, meeting rooms, reception desks, or printer rooms.

4G and 5G Routers

A 4G or 5G router can be used as a primary internet connection or a backup connection.

This device is suitable for locations that do not have wired internet or need a backup connection when the main internet is having problems.

TP-Link VIGI Security Products

In addition to networking devices, TP-Link also has a security product line called VIGI .

VIGI products include:

• IP Camera
• Network Video Recorder
• Monitoring system
• CCTV supporting devices

VIGI can be used to improve security in offices, shops, warehouses, schools, hotels and other business premises.

Although VIGI is a different line from Omada, the two products can be used together in a single network environment.

TP-Link Omada Advantages

Some of Omada’s advantages for office needs include:

• Easier device management
• Can be used for small or large offices
• The product selection is quite complete
• Supports access points, switches, and routers
• Can be managed locally or via the cloud
• Suitable for multiple locations
• Easy to expand according to needs
• Devices available in various price classes
• Makes it easier to monitor network conditions
  

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before purchasing a TP-Link Omada device, please note the following points:

• Number of users
• Number of devices
• Building area
• Number of rooms
• Internet speed
• Number of access points
• Number of switch ports
• PoE requirements
• Backup connection requirement
• Available budget
• Network development plan

Please note that not all TP-Link devices can be managed via Omada.

Therefore, always check the device model and compatibility before purchasing.

Conclusion

TP-Link has grown from a simple networking device manufacturer to a provider of a wide range of solutions for homes, offices and businesses.

Through Omada, TP-Link presents access points, switches, routers, and controllers that can be managed more easily.

Besides Omada, TP-Link also has supporting products such as network adapters, PoE injectors, media converters, cellular routers, and VIGI security systems.

With a fairly comprehensive product selection, TP-Link can be an option for building an office network that is practical, easy to develop, and suitable for various needs.