TP-Link Router — Overheating Warning

What Does This Error Mean?

All routers generate heat during normal operation, and TP-Link routers are no exception. When the router gets too hot, it automatically slows down, drops connections, or shuts off to protect its components. Common signs include random disconnections, slow speeds, and the router being very hot or uncomfortable to touch. Fixing the location and airflow around the router usually resolves this quickly.

Affected Models

TP-Link Archer AX Series
TP-Link Archer C Series
TP-Link Deco Series
TP-Link TL-WR Series
All TP-Link home routers

Common Causes

The router is placed inside an enclosed cabinet, shelf unit, or cupboard
Objects are stacked on top of the router, blocking the ventilation slots
Dust buildup inside the router is preventing heat from escaping
The room temperature is very high, particularly in summer
The router has been running continuously for months without a restart

How to Fix It

Move the router to an open, uncovered location. A shelf in the open is ideal. Make sure there is at least six inches of open air on all sides.

Enclosed spaces trap heat. Even a partially closed shelf can cause significant temperature increases.
Remove anything placed on top of or directly against the router. Books, remotes, papers, and other objects block the ventilation slots.

The vents on TP-Link routers are critical for heat to escape. Blocking even one side causes temperature to rise.
Use a can of compressed air to blow dust out of the router's vents. Hold the can upright and spray in short bursts.

Do this outside or near an open window to avoid blowing dust into your home. A yearly cleaning significantly reduces operating temperature.
Restart the router. Unplug it, let it cool for five minutes, then plug it back in.

Giving the router time to fully cool before restarting prevents heat stress on the components during boot.
If the router is in a warm room, position a small USB fan nearby to improve airflow around the device.

A small desk fan near the router is a very effective and inexpensive solution for chronically warm environments.

When to Call a Professional

If the router still runs extremely hot after relocating it and cleaning it, the internal cooling may have failed. A router that is too hot to hold briefly should be replaced, especially if it is more than four years old. Check your warranty status at tp-link.com/support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hot should a TP-Link router feel normally?

A healthy TP-Link router feels slightly warm to the touch — like a device that has been running for a while. If holding your hand on it is uncomfortable after a few seconds, it is running too hot. A burning smell or discolouration on the casing is a serious warning sign that the router may be failing.

My TP-Link Deco units are very warm. Is that normal?

Deco units do run warmer than traditional routers because they contain more antennas in a compact case. A Deco unit that is warm but not uncomfortable to hold is normal. If a Deco unit is very hot, check that it is not inside a cabinet and that the fabric or surface it is sitting on is not blocking its base vents.

Can I put my router in a different room to keep it cooler?

Yes, as long as it is still within reasonable distance of your modem. The modem and router need to be connected by a cable, so distance is limited. Placing the router in a cooler, open room can help with heat. If the cable will not reach, consider a longer ethernet cable or a modem-router combo unit.