Hello,
I recently set up a used RT-AC86U router - My RT-AC66U B1 router died. I bought (it - a while ago) - what I hope is a better router because it was a good deal and I read good things about this router - and the 'vpn speed' is supposedly really good. But, I was lazy and didn't set it up until a couple of days ago.
However, I read that there is going to be no further firmware updates (unless it's regarding security?) - so, I am wondering what firmware I should use - or if it'll even matter. I was using Merlin for the other router. The vpn speed for the other router was very disappointing - 21-23 download and it often varied and wasn't consistent. When I tested this 'newer' router - it was excellent - almost as fast as without - 29 vs 30 (30/5 profile). That was a nice bonus discovery.
But, my concern or question is about the firmware - is there any recommendation or does it not matter? I read that the Asus firmware is 'better' these days - whatever faults it had, I believe Asus straightened it out and it was sure easy(easier) to configure. I guess I can always try the stock firmware - I left it stock - it's at the most up-to-date firmware already - so I was going to leave it for now and maybe try Merlin later. But, is there any (recent) reasons to pick one over the other - that is what I am mostly wondering. Atm, I don't have the extra cash for an AX (wifi 6) router but when I do or if I was to eye one of those - I suspect it would be something like the RT-AX86U or RT-AX58U (it's actually on a limited time sale - but, I can't get it atm). Those 2 are good, right?
Is there any concern about not being able to update the firmware - that these are EOL routers now? I am inclined to guess no - some ppl don't even upgrade or update their firmware - and unless you are doing a lot of tweaks with it - it should be fine for a while? I just have to decide which firmware to use.
TIA for any advice and insight on this.
I recently set up a used RT-AC86U router - My RT-AC66U B1 router died. I bought (it - a while ago) - what I hope is a better router because it was a good deal and I read good things about this router - and the 'vpn speed' is supposedly really good. But, I was lazy and didn't set it up until a couple of days ago.
However, I read that there is going to be no further firmware updates (unless it's regarding security?) - so, I am wondering what firmware I should use - or if it'll even matter. I was using Merlin for the other router. The vpn speed for the other router was very disappointing - 21-23 download and it often varied and wasn't consistent. When I tested this 'newer' router - it was excellent - almost as fast as without - 29 vs 30 (30/5 profile). That was a nice bonus discovery.
But, my concern or question is about the firmware - is there any recommendation or does it not matter? I read that the Asus firmware is 'better' these days - whatever faults it had, I believe Asus straightened it out and it was sure easy(easier) to configure. I guess I can always try the stock firmware - I left it stock - it's at the most up-to-date firmware already - so I was going to leave it for now and maybe try Merlin later. But, is there any (recent) reasons to pick one over the other - that is what I am mostly wondering. Atm, I don't have the extra cash for an AX (wifi 6) router but when I do or if I was to eye one of those - I suspect it would be something like the RT-AX86U or RT-AX58U (it's actually on a limited time sale - but, I can't get it atm). Those 2 are good, right?
Is there any concern about not being able to update the firmware - that these are EOL routers now? I am inclined to guess no - some ppl don't even upgrade or update their firmware - and unless you are doing a lot of tweaks with it - it should be fine for a while? I just have to decide which firmware to use.
TIA for any advice and insight on this.
