flashing a new router?

[JT Strickland]

Do I need to go through setting up the networks in order to flash Merlin to a new AX router and Aimesh node? If so, do I need to reset to factory default after flashing, since it is already at factory default, and repeat setup?
These are no doubt simple questions, but I am having trouble getting my thoughts around the procedures for a new router. My prep and thinking has been geared toward used.
thanks for any help,
jts

 

[Smokindog]

If switching from ASUS firmware to Merlin I highly recommend you do a factory reset! I typically use the GUI unless chasing a strange behavior.

After the first reset, flash to Merlin, and then do another factory reset and proceed. I wait about 5 minutes or so between each step but that's my routine. Some say it not required but it's just a habit and I do it with most every type of device. I also remove power for a few minutes after the wait to let everything discharge but again, that's just my habit! OH, disconnect everything like LAN/WAN and USB before beginning!

 

[John Fitzgerald]

In addition to post #2: if the stock firmware is 384 based, then after flashing to Merlin 386 code base and GUI factory reset, just put in the basics and let it settle for a couple of hours before proceeding with your other personalized settings.
The code base switch maintenance is not quick. I had to let mine go overnight.

Reboot router after it has settled before advancing.

Also, reboot modem.

 

[heysoundude]

BNIB routers? Assuming they come with v386 of the Asus stock firmware, flash Merlin to them and then config. doesn't get any cleaner than that.

IIRC, you already have a functioning network, so just DL the appropriate firmware for the new ones and flash away without connecting them to the modem. Once you've done that, de-commission the existing hardware and put the new machines in their place(s), and re-config for the ISP and then Mesh plus scripts. ntp, cake, skynet, unbound is the order I'd do it in, but it probably doesn't matter all that much

 

[JT Strickland]

Thanks, folks, I should have said they are both RT-AX86U's.
I don't know why I had such a brain fart with that. I had "trained" for used.