TP-Link Deco With Virgin Media: How to Set It Up Properly (and Fix Double NAT)
12 November 2026 · By Ethan Fernandes
Double NAT, strict NAT or devices dropping with TP-Link Deco and Virgin Media? The right setup for this exact combination, using the Virgin Hub's Modem mode, step by step, and what to check if it's still not right.
Quick fix
Put the Virgin Media Hub into Modem mode and let the Deco do all the routing and Wi-Fi. This is the ideal setup: no double NAT, and every Deco feature keeps working.
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Get help todayYou've added a TP-Link Deco mesh system to your Virgin Media broadband, and something isn't right: the Deco app warns about double NAT, games show NAT type strict or moderate, smart devices can't be found, a work VPN keeps dropping, or phones hop between the Virgin Media Hub's Wi-Fi and the Deco. It usually works "well enough", but it isn't set up the way it should be.
The cause is that the Virgin Media Hub and the Deco are both acting as the router. Only one of them should. Here's the right setup for this exact combination.
The short version: Put the Virgin Media Hub into Modem mode and let the Deco do all the routing and Wi-Fi. This is the ideal setup: no double NAT, and every Deco feature keeps working.
The Best Setup: Virgin Hub in Modem Mode
Virgin Media's Hubs can switch into Modem mode, which turns off their routing and Wi-Fi and simply passes the internet connection to your Deco. It's the cleanest setup there is.
- Connect the main Deco unit to the Hub with a network cable. On a Hub 3, use port 1, as it's the only port that works in Modem mode.
- On a computer or phone connected to the Hub, open the Hub's settings, usually at 192.168.0.1, and sign in with the password on the Hub's sticker.
- Find Modem mode, switch it on and let the Hub restart. Its Wi-Fi turns off.
- Restart the main Deco unit so it picks up the internet connection directly, then check the Deco app shows you're online.
- If you ever need the Hub's settings again, they're at 192.168.100.1 while it's in Modem mode.
Once it's done, check your Virgin home phone still has a dial tone, and unplug any Virgin Wi-Fi pods, as they work with the Hub's Wi-Fi, which is now switched off.
If Your Hub Has No Modem Mode
If your Hub doesn't offer Modem mode, leave the Hub as the router and put the Deco into Access Point mode instead. In the Deco app, go to More > Advanced > Operation Mode and choose Access Point. The Deco restarts and stops routing. Then turn off the Hub's Wi-Fi. In Access Point mode some Deco features, such as parental controls and QoS, aren't available, because the hub is doing the routing. Set up parental controls on the hub or on children's devices instead.
Still Not Right? Quick Checks
- Two Wi-Fi networks? If the Virgin Media Hub's Wi-Fi is still on, devices may join it instead of the Deco. Turn it off, or give it a completely different name.
- Restart in order: the Virgin Media Hub first, then the main Deco unit once the hub is online, then the other units.
- Main unit next to the hub, connected by cable. Other units about halfway to the weak areas, not in them.
- Use cables between units where you can. Wired connections between mesh units give much better speed than wireless.
- Smart plugs and cameras won't connect? Many only use 2.4GHz. See smart device won't connect to Wi-Fi.
How We Handle It
Getting TP-Link Deco and Virgin Media working properly together is one of the most common jobs we do. We choose the right setup for your line and home phone, configure the hub and mesh, place the units for full coverage, use cables between them where possible, and make sure gaming consoles, VPNs, cameras and smart devices all work, tested in every room. See our Wi-Fi and home networking service.
Related Reading
Common questions
Yes, very well. Put the Virgin Media Hub into Modem mode, connect the main Deco unit to it, and let the Deco handle all routing and Wi-Fi.
Yes, most Virgin Media Hubs have Modem mode in their settings, usually at 192.168.0.1. On a Hub 3, connect your own router or mesh to port 1. In Modem mode, the Hub's settings move to 192.168.100.1.
Not with Modem mode. The Deco stays in router mode, so all its features, including parental controls and security, keep working.
Because the Virgin Hub and the Deco are both routing. Switch the Hub into Modem mode and the warning disappears.
Still stuck? We can fix it for you
Most problems like this can be fixed remotely today, anywhere in the UK, or with a home visit across West London. DBS checked, insured, 7 days a week until 9pm.
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