D-Link COVR-X1862 - User Manual

10/28/21, 1:50 PM
D-Link Technical Support
https://support.dlink.ca/ProductInfo.aspx?m=COVR-X1862
1/13
Q:
A: NOTE: This example shows the setup of the COVR-X1862 using Android OS. Apple/iOS setup should be the
same/similar
NOTE: Remote COVR nodes are pre-synced out of the box.
NOTE: If you will be using a switch in between for Wired/Ethernet Backhaul for the COVR points you will need to
make sure your switch support IEEE 1905.1 protocol. Also when connecting the remote COVR nodes to the switch
you will need to use the Ethernet port on the back of the nodes.
How do I setup and install my COVR-X1862/X1863 router?

Summary

COVR-X1862;X1863 Router Setup Overview

System Requirements and Notes

Details OS compatibility, pre-synced nodes, and setup notes for the COVR router.

D-Link Wi-Fi App Installation and Launch

Download and Install the D-Link Wi-Fi App

Download and install the D-Link Wi-Fi app on your Android or iOS device.

Initiate New Device Setup in App

Launch the D-Link Wi-Fi app and tap 'Install New Device' to begin.

Network Setup Process Initiation

Scan Router QR Code for Setup

Scan the setup QR code found on the router or quick install card.

Select Set up New Network Option

Choose the 'Set up New Network' option within the app to start.

Modem Preparation for Connection

Power Off and Disconnect Modem

Unplug the power to your modem/gateway, and remove its battery backup if present.

Connecting COVR to Modem

Connect Modem to COVR via Ethernet

Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the COVR's Internet port and the other into your modem.

Power On Modem and Wait for Startup

Power on your modem/gateway and wait for it to fully start up.

COVR Device Power and LED Status

Power On the COVR Device

Plug the COVR device into a power socket and tap NEXT in the app.

Wait for Blinking Orange LED Indicator

Wait for the COVR device's LED to blink orange, then tap NEXT.

Configuring COVR Network Details

Set Wireless Network Name (SSID) and Password

Enter your desired Wi-Fi network name and password.

Create Device Administrator Password

Set a password for accessing the COVR device's admin interface.

COVR Device Update Preferences

Select Automatic Update Option

Choose to keep your device updated automatically or manage updates manually.

Saving COVR Settings and Cloud Integration

Save and Reboot COVR Device Settings

Tap SAVE to apply settings; do not unplug the device until it has rebooted.

Optional Cloud Service Registration

Register for cloud services like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa if desired.

Adding and Placing Additional COVR Points

Position Additional COVR Points

Place the remaining COVR points within range of the main unit.

Configuring Additional COVR Points

Power On and Sync Additional Points

Power on other COVR points and wait for their LEDs to blink orange.

Confirm Wi-Fi System Status

Verify that the LEDs on all COVR points turn solid white.

COVR Wi-Fi System Setup Completion

Finalize and Finish Setup

Confirm the device is successfully added and tap FINISH to complete the setup.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The D-Link COVR-X1862/X1863 is a mesh Wi-Fi system designed to provide seamless and extended wireless coverage throughout your home or office. This system functions by utilizing multiple "COVR Nodes" that work together to create a single, unified Wi-Fi network, eliminating dead zones and ensuring a strong, consistent signal. The primary COVR Node acts as the main router, connecting directly to your Internet Service Provider (ISP) gateway or modem, while additional COVR Nodes extend the network wirelessly or via an Ethernet backhaul. The system is pre-synced out of the box, simplifying the initial setup process for users.

Function Description

The core function of the COVR-X1862/X1863 system is to establish a robust and expansive Wi-Fi network. It operates in a router mode, meaning the main COVR Node handles network address translation (NAT), DHCP services, and other routing functionalities, similar to a traditional wireless router. The system supports both wireless backhaul, where COVR Nodes communicate with each other over Wi-Fi, and wired/Ethernet backhaul, which allows for a more stable and potentially faster connection between nodes using Ethernet cables. For wired backhaul, it's crucial that any intervening switch supports the IEEE 1905.1 protocol to ensure proper communication and network management across the mesh. When using wired backhaul for remote COVR nodes, you must connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the back of the nodes, not the Internet port.

The system is designed for ease of use, with setup and management primarily handled through the D-Link Wi-Fi app, available for both Android OS and Apple iOS devices. This app guides users through the installation process, from connecting the hardware to configuring network settings. The mesh architecture ensures that devices automatically connect to the COVR Node with the strongest signal as you move around your space, providing an uninterrupted Wi-Fi experience.

Usage Features

The COVR-X1862/X1863 offers several features aimed at enhancing user experience and network performance:

• Simplified Setup via Mobile App: The D-Link Wi-Fi app streamlines the installation process. Users begin by launching the app and tapping "Install New Device." The app then prompts to scan a QR code, typically found on the bottom of the router or on a quick install card, to identify the device.
• Guided Hardware Connection: The app provides clear, step-by-step instructions for connecting the hardware. This includes powering off your modem or gateway, connecting an Ethernet cable from the modem/gateway to the Internet port on the main COVR Node, and then powering the modem/gateway back on. A crucial step involves ensuring all lights on the modem are off before proceeding, and if the modem has a battery backup, removing it temporarily.
• Power-On Sequence: The app guides the user to power on the main COVR Node. Initially, the LED on the device will be red, then it will start flashing orange when it's ready for configuration. This visual cue helps users understand the device's status during setup.
• Network Configuration: Users can easily set up their Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password through the app. This allows for personalization of the network.
• Device Admin Password: The app also facilitates the creation of a device administration password, which is essential for logging into the device through the D-Link Wi-Fi app or its web-based interface for managing advanced features.
• Automatic Updates: The system offers an option to install updates automatically, ensuring that the device always runs on the latest firmware with the newest features and security improvements. Users can choose to enable automatic updates or manage them manually.
• Integration with Smart Assistants: The COVR-X1862/X1863 can be optionally linked to Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, allowing for voice control over certain network functions. This feature enhances convenience for users who have smart home ecosystems.
• Optimal Node Placement Guidance: For extending the network with additional COVR Nodes, the app provides guidance on optimal placement. It suggests placing remaining devices where Wi-Fi is most needed, ideally no further than two rooms away from the main unit, and minimizing obstacles or walls between devices to ensure the best signal strength and coverage.
• Visual Status Indicators: The LED on the COVR Nodes serves as a visual indicator of the system's status. During setup, it progresses from red to blinking orange, and finally to solid white when the Wi-Fi system is successfully configured and ready for use. This helps users quickly ascertain the operational state of their network.

Maintenance Features

While the manual primarily focuses on initial setup, several aspects contribute to the long-term maintenance and reliability of the COVR-X1862/X1863 system:

• Firmware Updates: The option for automatic updates is a key maintenance feature. By keeping the firmware up-to-date, the system benefits from the latest security patches, bug fixes, and performance enhancements, ensuring optimal operation and protection against vulnerabilities. Users who opt for manual updates will need to periodically check for and install new firmware versions through the D-Link Wi-Fi app or the device's web interface.
• Network Monitoring via App: Although not explicitly detailed as a "maintenance" step, the D-Link Wi-Fi app serves as a central hub for monitoring the network. Users can likely view connected devices, network status, and potentially troubleshoot minor issues directly from their mobile device.
• Reset Functionality: While not covered in the provided excerpts, most networking devices, including mesh systems, typically include a reset function (often a small button that needs to be pressed with a paperclip). This allows users to revert the device to factory settings, which can be a useful troubleshooting step for persistent network issues or when reconfiguring the system from scratch.
• Troubleshooting Guidance: The manual includes notes like "If the status LED does not change to blinking orange after 2 minutes, tap here for more information" or "If the status LED does not change to solid white, tap here for more information." These embedded links within the app or manual indicate that D-Link provides specific troubleshooting steps for common issues, guiding users to resolve problems efficiently.
• IEEE 1905.1 Protocol Support: For wired backhaul, the requirement for switches to support IEEE 1905.1 protocol is a critical maintenance consideration. Ensuring compatibility prevents network conflicts and ensures the mesh system can effectively manage traffic and communication between nodes over Ethernet, contributing to network stability and performance.
• Physical Connection Integrity: The setup instructions emphasize proper physical connections, such as ensuring all modem lights are off before connecting the COVR Node and re-inserting modem batteries. Maintaining these correct physical connections is fundamental to the system's reliable operation and minimizes potential points of failure.

In summary, the D-Link COVR-X1862/X1863 mesh Wi-Fi system is designed for comprehensive home or office network coverage, featuring an intuitive app-guided setup, flexible backhaul options, and integrated maintenance features like automatic updates to ensure a smooth and secure user experience.

D-Link COVR-X1862 Specifications