Asuswrt-Merlin on RT-AC3100---which firmware to use

[aaronac8]

I see that there are TWO firmware version of Asuswrt-Merlin for the RT-AC3100 router. Either RT-AC3100_380.69_0.zip or RT-AC3100_382.1_2.zip. Which one are people using and why? I tried to load the 380.69 version but find that I only have HALF a wifi signal (2.4 ghz channel is set to channel 0 and I can NOT change the channel...it stays on AUTO) AND my SSID is NOT being broadcast. Anyone else having these issues?

 

[yk101]

Either one should work. It is always better to use latest stable release. As for your issue with channel 0 - do a factory reset and try reconfiguring again. If that doesn’t help, the copy of firmware you have may be damaged. Download a fresh copy, put the router into recovery mode and reflash. This should take care of it!

 

[aaronac8]

Either one should work. It is always better to use latest stable release. As for your issue with channel 0 - do a factory reset and try reconfiguring again. If that doesn’t help, the copy of firmware you have may be damaged. Download a fresh copy, put the router into recovery mode and reflash. This should take care of it!

Thank you for your reply. How do I put the router into recovery mode?

 

[yk101]

To put the router into Recovery mode:
Turn off router.
Turn the router back on while holding the factory reset button.
When the power light on the far left is blinking you are in recovery mode.

 

[aaronac8]

To put the router into Recovery mode:
Turn off router.
Turn the router back on while holding the factory reset button.
When the power light on the far left is blinking you are in recovery mode.

So, I would follow the following procedure, but use the Asuswrt-Merlin firmware instead:
https://www.asus.com/support/FAQ/1000814/

 

[yk101]

Correct! Use ASUS recovery utility to flash Merlin's firmware.

 

[aaronac8]

Correct! Use ASUS recovery utility to flash Merlin's firmware.

Thank you!!!

 

[aaronac8]

One other question, why cant you do a firmware flash through the admin update tab instead of using the ASUS recovery utility? That is how I did my original flash...maybe that is why I am having my problems?

 

[yk101]

One other question, why can't you do a firmware flash through the admin update tab instead of using the ASUS recovery utility? That is how I did my original flash...maybe that is why I am having my problems?

You can, but if you are switching between stock and merlin, you should also clear all settings. Upgrading to a newer version of the same branch usually can be done through UI.

 

[aaronac8]

You can, but if you are switching between stock and merlin, you should also clear all settings. Upgrading to a newer version of the same branch usually can be done through UI.

I am getting a new unit shortly since my other one had a faulty wifi signal output. When I get my new unit should I use the Firmware Restoration utility to upgrade my stock firmware to Asuswrt-merlin? By using this method I will clear ALL my settings.....correct?