Overview

The D-Link DHP-601AV Powerline Adapter Starter Kit is designed to bring fast Ethernet connectivity to hard-to-reach areas by using your home's existing power lines. This plug-and-play device eliminates the need for extensive rewiring, allowing you to easily set up a reliable network connection throughout your home or office. Featuring PowerLine AV2 technology, it supports speeds of up to 1000Mbps, making it ideal for activities like gaming, HD streaming, and large file transfers. With the ability to expand your network with additional adapters, this powerline kit offers a flexible and convenient solution.

Features & Benefits

This powerline adapter kit comes with two gigabit Ethernet ports, enabling fast and reliable wired connections for devices like computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles. Powered by PowerLine AV2 technology, it ensures high-speed data transfer with up to 1000Mbps. The inclusion of MIMO technology further enhances performance, especially in challenging environments. The compact form factor is designed to fit easily into your home, ensuring it doesn’t block the upper power outlet. Additionally, 128-bit AES encryption ensures a secure connection across your network, while the ability to add more adapters allows for easy network expansion.

Best For

This D-Link adapter kit is ideal for those who struggle with poor Wi-Fi coverage or unreliable wireless signals. It’s especially beneficial for gamers seeking a stable, low-latency connection for online play, as well as for anyone who needs consistent speeds for 4K streaming. It’s also a great solution for users who want to expand their wired network without the hassle of running new cables. Whether for a home office or a family entertainment center, this powerline kit helps ensure your devices stay connected with high performance.

User Feedback

Overall, users find this powerline network kit easy to install, with many praising the plug-and-play setup. It provides solid performance for HD streaming and gaming, with a good number of reviewers noting that it delivers on its promise of stable connections. However, some users have reported occasional drops in connection, though these are generally rare. The compact design is a plus, and the ability to add more adapters for network expansion is frequently highlighted. For the price, most feel it offers good value, though some would appreciate a slightly larger range.

Pros

  • The plug-and-play setup makes installation simple and quick for users without technical experience.
  • Ideal for gaming and streaming, offering speeds up to 1000Mbps for smooth performance.
  • Supports both Windows and Mac, making it versatile for various home or office setups.
  • The compact design ensures it won't block adjacent power outlets, a big plus for tight spaces.
  • MIMO technology helps improve overall performance, especially in environments with heavy network traffic.
  • AES 128-bit encryption provides secure data transmission, protecting your network from potential threats.

Cons

  • In some cases, users with older wiring reported lower speeds or intermittent connectivity.
  • Not ideal for users with large or complex electrical setups where performance may be inconsistent.
  • A few users mentioned occasional connection drops during extended use, although these were rare.
  • Doesn’t offer as much flexibility or advanced configuration options as some other networking products.
  • The powerline network may struggle in homes with thick walls or extensive electrical interference.
  • Users in very large homes may need additional adapters to ensure consistent performance throughout the space.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages worldwide, the ratings for the D-Link DHP-601AV Powerline Adapter Starter Kit reflect genuine feedback from real customers. Spam, duplicate, or incentivized reviews have been filtered out, ensuring that only high-quality insights contribute to these results. While this device stands out in areas like ease of installation and reliable performance for 4K streaming, some users mention occasional connection drops. Overall, both strengths and weaknesses are represented in the scores, with diverse input from international sources.

Performance for Gaming
88%
Many users highlight the low latency and reliable speed this device offers for online gaming. Its stable performance ensures smooth gameplay, even during demanding sessions, making it a great option for gamers looking for uninterrupted experiences. The 1000Mbps speed helps maintain performance in large, complex games.
A few users have reported occasional lag during peak usage times, especially when the powerline network is heavily loaded. While this is not common, it may affect those with very high-bandwidth needs, such as competitive gamers or households with multiple active devices.
Ease of Setup
92%
One of the most praised features of this powerline adapter kit is its plug-and-play setup. Users appreciate how quick and straightforward it is to get the network up and running without any technical hassle. The easy installation process makes it accessible even for those with minimal networking knowledge.
A small number of users mentioned difficulty with the initial connection between the adapters, despite the advertised plug-and-play convenience. Some also noted that they had to reset the devices a few times before achieving a stable connection.
Speed and Reliability
85%
Users consistently note the fast and reliable speeds this device provides, especially for streaming and large file transfers. The 1000Mbps speed is sufficient for most uses, and the connection is stable over long periods, providing a consistent experience without frequent disruptions.
There are occasional reports of speed fluctuations, particularly in homes with more complex wiring or older electrical systems. Some users have experienced slower speeds than expected, which may vary depending on the quality of the electrical infrastructure.
Value for Money
90%
Many buyers find this powerline adapter kit to offer excellent value, especially considering its high-speed performance and ease of use. For the price, it offers a solid and reliable solution for home networking, making it a great choice for those on a budget but still needing reliable Ethernet speeds.
Some users felt that the price was slightly high compared to other powerline adapters with similar features. While the product generally performs well, a few buyers believe that similar alternatives may offer comparable performance for a lower cost.
Compatibility with Devices
87%
The device is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it versatile for various setups. Users have had success connecting it to different types of devices, such as PCs, gaming consoles, and smart TVs, without any major issues.
A small number of users have reported compatibility issues with certain routers or older devices, experiencing difficulties establishing connections. These issues are generally resolved with firmware updates or configuration adjustments, but it may require some troubleshooting for those with non-standard setups.
Build Quality
80%
20%
Users generally appreciate the compact design of the adapters, which doesn’t block the upper power outlet. The overall build quality is sturdy for the most part, offering reliable performance over time without showing signs of wear or breakage in most cases.
A few users expressed concerns about the plastic construction, which some felt was not as durable as expected. There were occasional reports of the adapters feeling flimsy or less solid than other networking devices in this price range.
Secure Connection
88%
The 128-bit AES encryption ensures that users can enjoy secure data transmission over their home network. This feature provides peace of mind, particularly for those handling sensitive information or using the network for online banking or streaming.
While most users are satisfied with the encryption, some have mentioned that security features were not emphasized enough in the instructions. In rare cases, users have reported difficulties with encryption settings during setup.
Range and Coverage
76%
24%
For most users, the range of this device is adequate for small to medium-sized homes. It’s ideal for connecting devices in rooms that are far from the router, ensuring more consistent internet access in places where Wi-Fi signal may be weak.
Several users experienced connectivity issues when attempting to use the device in larger homes or buildings with thick walls. The powerline network’s effectiveness can be limited by electrical wiring and distance, which reduces its overall range in certain settings.
Expansion Support
83%
The ability to expand the network with additional PowerLine adapters is a strong selling point. Users appreciate the flexibility to add more adapters as needed to extend their wired network throughout the home, especially in larger setups or multi-level homes.
Some users reported challenges when adding extra adapters to their network, citing occasional connectivity issues or reduced performance with multiple units connected. While the feature works well for many, it may require troubleshooting for optimal results with multiple adapters.
Customer Support
70%
30%
While customer support experiences vary, some users have reported positive interactions when seeking help with installation or troubleshooting issues. The support team is responsive and generally provides helpful guidance for setup and device configurations.
A few users expressed frustration with the responsiveness of customer support, mentioning long wait times for assistance or difficulty getting issues resolved. Some felt that support could be more thorough, especially for complex technical issues.
Compact Design
91%
The compact form factor of the adapters makes them unobtrusive and easy to place in tight spaces without blocking other outlets. Users appreciate the simple, minimalist design that blends easily into any home or office setup.
A small number of users have mentioned that the compact design limits the number of devices they can connect at once, especially in cases where they need to plug other devices into nearby outlets. However, this issue is rare and doesn’t affect most setups.
Stability for Streaming
84%
The stability of the connection is often praised, particularly for streaming high-definition or 4K content. Users find the adapter kit’s performance reliable for uninterrupted streaming, even during peak usage times or with multiple devices connected.
Some users noted that while streaming is generally stable, there can occasionally be brief disruptions when multiple high-bandwidth devices are in use. In such cases, users might experience buffering or a drop in quality.

Suitable for:

The D-Link DHP-601AV Powerline Adapter Starter Kit is ideal for users who need to extend their wired network in areas where Wi-Fi coverage is insufficient. This includes gamers seeking low-latency connections for online play, as well as households that stream high-definition or 4K content. Its plug-and-play setup and support for speeds up to 1000Mbps make it a solid choice for those needing reliable internet for gaming, streaming, and large file transfers. Additionally, its compact design ensures that it won't block adjacent power outlets, which is especially useful for users in tight spaces or multi-device setups.

Not suitable for:

This powerline adapter may not be the best choice for users in larger homes or with complicated electrical setups. Some users have reported reduced performance in environments with thick walls or older wiring, limiting the range and speed of the network. Additionally, while it works well for most setups, users with multiple adapters may experience occasional instability, and those with non-standard devices or routers could encounter compatibility issues. For highly tech-savvy individuals or those requiring advanced customization, this device might not offer the level of flexibility or control needed.

Specifications

  • Max Speed: Supports network speeds up to 1000Mbps for fast data transfer.
  • Technology: Uses PowerLine AV2 technology for high-speed Ethernet over power lines.
  • Encryption: Provides 128-bit AES encryption for secure data transmission.
  • Ethernet Ports: Equipped with 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections.
  • MIMO: Supports MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology with 2x2 streams for improved performance.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
  • Power Input: Supports input power from 100-240V AC for worldwide use.
  • Form Factor: Compact design ensures the adapter does not block the upper power outlet.
  • Expansion: Supports up to 16 additional PowerLine adapters for network expansion.
  • Plug Type: Wall plug-in type for easy installation without the need for external power adapters.
  • Setup: Features a plug-and-play setup, requiring no software installation.
  • Ideal Use: Ideal for gaming, HD, and 4K video streaming, as well as large file transfers.
  • Operating Temperature: Operates within a temperature range of 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
  • Dimensions: Compact size for easy placement in tight spaces.
  • Weight: Each unit weighs approximately 200g, making it lightweight for portable use.
  • Noise Filtering: Includes built-in noise filtering to ensure a stable connection in electrical environments.
  • Warranty: Comes with a standard 1-year warranty for customer peace of mind.
  • Setup Method: Uses a simple pairing button to quickly connect devices across the network.
  • Power Saving: Includes power-saving features to reduce energy consumption when idle.

FAQ

Setting up this powerline adapter kit is easy and straightforward. Simply plug one adapter into a wall socket near your router and connect it with an Ethernet cable. Then plug the second adapter into a wall socket near the device you want to connect, and use another Ethernet cable to link them. The plug-and-play design means you don't need any special software or technical knowledge for setup.

The D-Link DHP-601AV Powerline Adapter supports speeds up to 1000Mbps, which is more than sufficient for tasks like gaming, streaming 4K content, and transferring large files. This high-speed connection ensures stable and reliable performance across your powerline network.

Yes, this device works with most standard home electrical wiring. However, the speed and performance can be affected by the age and quality of your wiring. In older homes with outdated or poorly maintained electrical systems, you might experience slower speeds or reduced reliability.

Yes, this powerline adapter kit is ideal for high-bandwidth activities like online gaming and 4K video streaming. Its support for up to 1000Mbps speeds and use of PowerLine AV2 technology ensures minimal latency and stable connections, which are crucial for these types of activities.

The D-Link DHP-601AV kit supports expansion with up to 16 additional PowerLine adapters. This allows you to extend your wired network to multiple rooms or floors, making it suitable for larger homes or offices.

Yes, the D-Link DHP-601AV uses 128-bit AES encryption to secure your network. This ensures that the data transmitted over your powerline connection is protected from unauthorized access, offering an added layer of security compared to traditional Wi-Fi connections.

Yes, the D-Link DHP-601AV is a good solution for multi-story homes. As long as the electrical wiring is compatible, you can use additional adapters to extend the network to different floors. However, thicker walls or poor electrical wiring might impact performance.

Yes, the D-Link DHP-601AV kit is designed for easy, plug-and-play installation. Most users can set it up without any technical experience by simply plugging the adapters into wall sockets and connecting the Ethernet cables. There's no need for software or complicated configurations.

If you're experiencing connection drops, first try resetting the powerline adapters by unplugging them for a few seconds and plugging them back in. Ensure that both adapters are connected to a wall socket and not a power strip. If the problem persists, check for electrical interference or consider adding another adapter to strengthen the signal.

Yes, this powerline adapter kit is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers. It works with a variety of operating systems, so you can use it in mixed-OS environments without any issues.