D-Link Exo AC2600 (DIR-882) Enthusiast Router Review

A Look at the Package, Accessories, and Device

The Packaging

D-Link packed the DIR-882 EXO AC2600 router in a simple yet colourful box. The front has the device itself pictured along with all the important feature highlights.

The rear side goes into more detail on the various selling points such as the dual-core processor, 4×4 simultaneous streams, and 160MHz support.

The side of the package is where you find closer details regarding the routers physical aspects. What ports and buttons it has and what’s included inside the box.

Included Accessories

You get all the basics with D-Link’s DIR-882 EXO AC2600 router. There’s naturally a power supply which will fit the region you purchased it in as well as an RJ45 cable, a quick installation guide, and a Wi-Fi configuration card for your convenience. The credit-card sized configuration card allows you to write down your router’s configuration and put it in a safe location.

A Closer Look at the Hardware

D-Link’s DIR-882 has a simple look which will suit those who want a device that’s working, but not really visible. The top is a mix of air vents and solid plastic.There also are activity and connection LEDs located on the top. The LEDs are for Power and activity, Internet, 2.4GHz, 5GHz, USB 3.0, and USB 2.0

While a lot of routers come with replaceable antennas, there are few who actually chose to replace them. The DIR-882 has fixed antennas, so replacing them isn’t even an option here. On the other hand, the fixed method is cheaper, allowing D-Link to lower the manufacturing costs and deliver a cheaper product.

The USB 3.0 port is located on the front for easy access. This is most likely the one you’ll want to connect your fast thumb drives and external SSDs to, making a front-facing location optimal.

The USB 2.0 port is located on the rear side along with the four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports and the Gigabit WAN port. Next to the WAN port, is a pin-hole reset followed by the WPS and Wi-Fi buttons. At the end is the power connector and a power button to turn the entire router off. I always welcome it when routers have a physical power button, so that’s another plus for me. While it isn’t used often, it’s convenient when needed.

Almost the entire bottom area of the router is used for air vents, so the DIR-882 shouldn’t have any overheating issues due to lack of fresh air. There is the option to wall mount it, but it naturally also has four small rubber feet for desktop placement.