MikroTik hAP ac² Review: Wireless Router for Home and Office

The MikroTik hAP ac² (model RBD52G-5HacD2HnD-TC) is a versatile and affordable wireless access point. It is designed for small apartments, homes, or office environments.

About the MikroTik hAP ac² Review

Its compact form factor and dual-band capabilities make it an excellent choice for users seeking reliable and efficient network performance.

🔑 Key Features

• Dual-Band Wi-Fi: Simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz coverage with support for 802.11b/g/n and 802.11a/n/ac standards, delivering combined speeds up to AC1200
• Gigabit Ethernet: Five 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports provide high-speed wired connections for multiple devices
• Powerful Performance: Equipped with a quad-core 716 MHz CPU and 128 MB RAM, ensuring smooth operation for various networking tasks
• USB Port: A USB Type-A port allows for external storage or 3G/4G modem connectivity
• Flexible Power Options: Supports passive PoE input (18–28 V) and DC jack input (12–30 V), offering versatility in power sources
• RouterOS Level 4 License: Provides advanced features like bandwidth management, firewall configurations, VPN support, and more

📊 Specifications

📶 Wireless Capabilities

🔌 Powering Details

The hAP ac²’s compact design allows for flexible placement, either horizontally on a desk or vertically as a toe. Its user-friendly interface and robust feature set make it suitable for users ranging from beginners to advanced network administrators.

For those seeking a reliable and cost-effective networking solution, the MikroTik hAP ac² is available for purchase on Amazon. It provides convenience and fast shipping options.

How to Use the MikroTik hAP ac²

The MikroTik hAP ac² (model RBD52G-5HacD2HnD-TC) is a powerful and compact dual-band router designed for both home and small-office environments. Equipped with five Gigabit Ethernet ports, simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless, and a quad-core CPU. Additionally, MikroTik’s robust RouterOS provides a blend of speed, versatility, and control rarely found at its price point.

Whether you’re setting up a basic WiFi network, or configuring advanced routing, the hAP ac² provides the flexibility. It suits both beginners and advanced users tackling VPNs or firewall rules. This guide offers detailed instructions. It shows you how to effectively use and configure the hAP ac². This will help you get the most out of your network.

1. Unboxing Your Access Point

• Carefully open the packaging.
• Take out the MikroTik hAP ac² device.
• Ensure all included accessories are present: power adapter, Ethernet cables, and user manual.

2. Placement of the Access Point

• Decide on a location for optimal Wi-Fi coverage.
• You can position the device either horizontally (as a desktop unit) or vertically (as a tower).

3. Connecting to Power

• Use the provided power adapter to connect the access point to a power source.
• The device supports Passive PoE; ensure the voltage is within 18 – 28V.

4. Connecting Wired Devices

• Use Ethernet cables to connect your wired devices to any of the five Gigabit Ethernet ports.

5. Setting Up Wi-Fi

• Connect your computer or smartphone to the access point using an Ethernet cable or through Wi-Fi.
• Open a web browser and enter the default IP address for MikroTik devices (usually 192.168.88.1).
• Log in with the default credentials (username: admin, password: leave blank).
• Follow the on-screen setup wizard to configure your Wi-Fi settings, including SSID and password.

6. Connecting to the Internet

• If using an external modem, connect it to one of the Ethernet ports.
• Configure the necessary settings in the web interface for internet connectivity.

7. Additional Configuration (Optional)

• Explore advanced features such as IPsec hardware acceleration for secure VPN connections.
• Connect external USB storage or a 4G/LTE modem for additional functionalities.

8. Troubleshooting

• If you experience connectivity issues, restart the device and check connections.
• Refer to the user manual for troubleshooting common problems.

9. Maintenance

• Keep the firmware updated by checking the MikroTik website regularly.
• Periodically reboot the device to ensure optimal performance.

10. Support

• For further assistance, visit the MikroTik support page or contact customer service.

The MikroTik hAP ac² is more than just a WiFi router. It’s a powerful networking tool. It adapts to a wide range of use cases. It is suitable for simple home setups. It is also ideal for complex office networks. Its dual-band capabilities and gigabit Ethernet provide reliable performance.

The feature-rich RouterOS makes it customizable for users who value performance and customization. By understanding its basic setup, you can unlock its full potential. You will enjoy a stable, secure, and high-speed network tailored to your needs by exploring its advanced features.