ASUS RT-AXU88 Pro Install and Setup Questions

[Tech9]

download the firmware from the ASUS website onto a USB stick

No USB sticks. See Method 2: Update Manually

[Wireless Router] How to update the firmware of your router to the latest version ? (WebGUI) | Official Support | ASUS Canada

You can do it over Wi-Fi, there is no Ethernet connection requirement.

 

[Kitsap]

So are you saying to download the firmware from the ASUS website onto a USB stick and then update from that or just download it via the internet from the ASUS website?

Details here: https://www.asus.com/us/support/faq/1008000/

Recommend Method 2, update manually.

You stand a better chance of success if you use an Ethernet connection between a computer and the router. Most of the time Wi-Fi will work, but not always.

 

[Listedguru2]

No USB sticks. See Method 2: Update Manually

[Wireless Router] How to update the firmware of your router to the latest version ? (WebGUI) | Official Support | ASUS Canada

You can do it over Wi-Fi, there is no Ethernet connection requirement.

I am going to try Method 2 in the morning. In the link you posted it mentions that it's recommended to restore the router to factory default settings by pressing the reset button on the bottom of the router for 5 seconds. Is this something most around here do after an upgrade? Is this something I should do in my situation if I can get the upgrade completed?

 

[Tech9]

In your situation as new Asus router user do exactly what the guide says. It was written by Asus, they made the device.

 

[Listedguru2]

In your situation as new Asus router user do exactly what the guide says. It was written by Asus, they made the device.

I was able to get the updated firmware installed via Method 2 and I also restored the router to the factory settings afterwards. Everything seems to be working well but it's only been a few minutes. I really appreciate you and everyone else's help with everything. If I have any more questions, issues or concerns I will reach out again.

 

[Listedguru2]

Router is still running great (knock on wood) but I do have a question about built in security. It says the AX88U Pro has the following:
ASUS AiProtection leverages powerful cybersecurity solutions and cloud data centers from Trend Micro ™ to shield your smart home and all connected devices from cyber threats — with no subscription fee!

I assume this is just working automatically once the router is up and running or is there something I need to do to make it work? Also I am using WPA2 currently as that's what my old router was using and it was recommended that it's best to at least start off with the same in case there are issues with my devices logging onto WPA3. Not really sure if I should switch to WPA3 at this point (if it ain't broke saying) unless for some reason the above AiProtection doesn't work with WPA2 for some reason?

Also I see something about a Safer Browsing Experience w/ASUS Safe Browsing:
The internet can contain inappropriate content, intrusive ads or other dangers and safety risks. ASUS Safe Browsing helps block undesirable content in one tap -- no extra apps required. Its lightweight DNS-based filtering* won't affect router performance. It can even filter explicit content from search engine results to protect your kids online.

Also seeing something called Easy Security Scan:

With one-click network security scanning, you can discover your network’s security flaws, analyze your router’s security level and receive a diagnosis that can fix vulnerabilities right away. I guess this requires the ASUS app which I haven't downloaded so not sure if that's recommended either. I installed the router via ethernet on my main PC.

Does anyone have any input on any of this? Not sure if it's needed at all or recommended? Also if there's anything else I'm missing from a security or functionality standpoint I'm open to suggestions

 

[Tech9]

I'm open to suggestions

Read the User Manual, please.