To see product details, add this item to your cart.
FREE Returns
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns. How to return the item? - Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
To see product details, add this item to your cart.
FREE Returns
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns. How to return the item? - Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Ships from: Amazon Sold by: Amazon Resale
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
ASUS ZenWiFi Whole-Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6E System (ET8 2PK), Coverage up to 5,500 sq.ft & 6+Rooms, 6600Mbps, New 6GHz Band, AiMesh,Instant Guard
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
-
Amazon Music offer with this purchase Terms
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | ASUS |
Model Name | ET8 (W-2-PK) |
Special Feature | Beamforming, Guest Mode, WPS, Internet Security, Parental Control |
Frequency Band Class | Tri-Band |
Wireless Communication Standard | 802.11ax, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11ac |
Compatible Devices | Tablet, Smartphone |
Frequency | 6 GHz |
Recommended Uses For Product | Security |
Included Components | Router |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
About this item
- Next-Gen WiFi Standard – Wi-Fi 6E tri-band mesh WiFi system boosts speeds up to 6600 Mbps, with coverage up to 5500 square feet
- Ultra-Stable Connection – New 6 GHz band ensures stable backhaul connection between nodes as no legacy device interference
- Maximum Capacity – New 6 GHz frequency band with wider channels and higher capacity delivers higher performance, lower latency, and less interference.
- More Privacy, Anywhere – Instant Guard gives you one-click secure internet access via ZenWiFi ET8 from anywhere in the world
- Commercial-Grade Network Security – Lifetime free ASUS AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro, with WPA3 and advanced Parental Controls to protect your home.Maximum Firewall keyword filter : Max 64 rules
- Product Segment - AXE6600 ultimate AXE performance:574 plus1201 plus4804Mbps
- Wireless - IPv6 Wi-Fi Encryption : WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK, WPA-Enterprise , WPA2-Enterprise , WPS support UTF-8 SSID Guest Network Maximum Guest Network rule : Max 9 rules WPS WiFi MAC address filter Maximum MAC filters : Max 64 rules Wireless scheduler Airtime fairness RADIUS Client Universal beamforming Explicit beamforming
Frequently bought together
Customers who bought this item also bought
- Wall Mount Holder for ASUS ZenWiFi AX Whole-Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System (XT8)(CT8)(XT9),Simple and Sturdy Wall Mount Holder Stand Bracket by HOLACA (2 Pack, White)Amazon's Choicein Whole Home & Mesh Wi-Fi SystemsFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28
- Koroao Wall Mount Holder for ASUS ZenWiFi AX Whole-Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System (XT8)(CT8)(XT9) AC300, Wall Bracket Hanger Stand with Holder Compatible with ASUS ZenWiFi AX WiFi 6 (2-Pack, White)FREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28
- ASUS ZenWiFi Whole-Home Tri-band Mesh WiFi 6E System (ET9 1PK), Coverage up to 2,850 sq.ft, 7800Mbps, new 6GHz band, AiMesh, Lifetime Free Internet Security, Parental Control, EasySetup, Instant GuardFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28
- ASUS ZenWiFi Pro ET12 AXE11000 Tri-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System (2 pack), Coverage up to 6000 sq ft, Subscription-free Network Security, Advanced Parental Controls, Instant Guard, VPN, Dual 2.5G PortsFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28
Important information
Legal Disclaimer
Disclaimer: Actual data throughput and WiFi coverage will vary from network conditions and environmental factors, including the volume of network traffic, building material and construction, and network overhead, result in lower actual data throughput and wireless coverage.
Compare with similar items
This Item ASUS ZenWiFi Whole-Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6E System (ET8 2PK), Coverage up to 5,500 sq.ft & 6+Rooms, 6600Mbps, New 6GHz Band, AiMesh,Instant Guard | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | -21% $259.99$259.99 List: $329.99 | -21% $259.47$259.47 List: $329.99 | -28% $179.99$179.99 List: $249.99 | -27% $219.99$219.99 List: $299.99 | $134.77$134.77 | $1,499.99$1,499.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28 | Get it as soon as Monday, Jul 29 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Jul 28 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
WiFi signal | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
User interface | 3.4 | 3.9 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.1 |
Tech Support | 2.7 | 3.2 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 3.6 |
Mobile App | 3.9 | 4.1 | 4.1 | 4.2 | — | 3.8 |
Easy to install | 4.1 | — | 4.2 | 4.6 | — | — |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
connectivity tech | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, Ethernet | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
number of ports | 6 | 4 | 2 | 6 | — | 6 |
data transfer rate | 6600 megabits per second | 6600 megabits per second | 3000 megabits per second | 5400 megabits per second | 5400 megabits per second | 10 gigabits per second |
wireless standard | 802 11 AX, 802 11 A, 802 11 B, 802 11 G, 802 11 AC | 802 11 AX | 802 11 AX, 802 11 AC, 802 11 N, 802 11 G, 802 11 A | 802 11 AX, 802 11 AC, 802 11 N, 802 11 B, 802 11 G | 802 11 A, 802 11 AC, 802 11 AX, 802 11 B, 802 11 G | 802 11 AX |
frequency band class | tri band | tri band | dual band | tri band | dual band | quad band |
lan port bandwidth | 1000 Mbps | 2.5 Gigabit | Gigabit | 10/100/1000 Mbps | — | 10 Gigabit Ethernet |
What's in the box
Product information
Product Dimensions | 6.3 x 2.95 x 6.36 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 1.61 pounds |
ASIN | B0979Q7F69 |
Item model number | ET8 (W-2-PK) |
Customer Reviews |
4.0 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #6,985 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #57 in Whole Home & Mesh Wi-Fi Systems |
Date First Available | June 16, 2021 |
Manufacturer | ASUS |
Country of Origin | Vietnam |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
ASUS ZenWiFi Whole-Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6E System (ET8 2PK), Coverage up to 5,500 sq.ft & 6+Rooms, 6600Mbps, New 6GHz Band, AiMesh,Instant Guard
Share:
Found a lower price? Let us know. Although we can't match every price reported, we'll use your feedback to ensure that our prices remain competitive.
Where did you see a lower price?
Fields with an asterisk * are required
Looking for specific info?
Product guides and documents
Videos
Videos for this product
1:28
Click to play video
Why the Asus Zen WiFi is My Top Pick for Home Networking
Review Realm
Videos for this product
0:47
Click to play video
Netgear Orbi 6E vs ASUS ZenWifi ET8 Mesh Wifi! #thisorthat
Andru Edwards
Videos for this product
0:48
Click to play video
ASUS ZenWifi ET8 vs Deco BE95 WiFi 7 Mesh #thisorthat
Andru Edwards
Videos for this product
0:39
Click to play video
Eero 6+ vs ASUS ZenWifi ET8: Mesh WiFi! #thisorthat
Andru Edwards
Videos for this product
0:50
Click to play video
ASUS ZenWifi ET8 vs Deco BE85 WiFi 7 Mesh! #thisorthat
Andru Edwards
Videos for this product
0:42
Click to play video
Eero Pro 6E vs ASUS ZenWifi ET8: Mesh WiFi! #thisorthat
Andru Edwards
Product Description
ZenWiFi ET8 is a whole-home mesh WiFi 6E system that combines extremely fast and stable wireless networking performance with simple configuration and elegant design with coverage up to 5,500 sq. ft. Featuring the latest WiFi 6E technology, ZenWiFi ET8 takes mesh WiFi to a whole new level with dramatically improved coverage, speed and stability. Disclaimer: Actual data throughput and WiFi coverage will vary from network conditions and environmental factors, including the volume of network traffic, building material and construction, and network overhead, result in lower actual data throughput and wireless coverage.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like how easy it is to set up the router. They say it is simple, straightforward, and reassuring. They are also happy with the coverage. However, some customers disagree on performance, signal strength, quality, ease of use, stability, and value.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the ease of setup. They say the router is simple to use, with a good UI and app. They also say the system easily connects and controls inside and outside lighting, cameras, and nodes. They appreciate the smooth initial setup and the app is useful for basic configuration.
"...It was a complete fail in my book.But, setting up this router is very straightforward and easy if you follow the simple instructions...." Read more
"...Pros:- Stupid-simple setup. The entire network with both devices was up and running within ~15 minutes of opening the box...." Read more
"...2-pak setup was very easy and straight forward...." Read more
"...Initial setup works fine, but then I'd discover hours later a camera/doorbell would disconnect from WiFi and refuse to reconnect...." Read more
Customers like the coverage of the router. For example, they mention it gives good coverage and signal strength, it does an impressive job covering a large house with strong signals and throughput, and it works flawlessly. Some say the signal is strong and has a pretty good reach, extending well beyond the walls.
"...And, more importantly, it solved both of my problems. I no longer have any dead spots...." Read more
"...Its done an impressive job covering a large house with strong signals and throughput!! I would recommend it." Read more
"...I have very good coverage throughout the house, both stories, the shop and even on the rear deck outside...." Read more
"...Just a more confident experience. Full bars throughout the house...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the performance of the router. Some say that the WiFi performance is good, with low latency. They also say that it has great coverage and speed throughout the house. However, other customers report severe degraded performance, with laggy response times and horrible WiFi speeds.
"...The wifi range is excellent; the speed is excellent; and the app works very well setting the routers up...." Read more
"...I attempted to reverse the action and unhide my SSID, but kept getting error messages. I attempted to get help through ASUS user support...." Read more
"...I am using 400mbps internet and have no speed issues anywhere. The devices look great (I think they're asthetically pleasing and look like art)...." Read more
"...Overall, this is a powerful system, more powerful than the single-node netgear WiFi router I've been using for years. I'm glad I upgraded!" Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the signal strength of the router. Some mention that the signal is strong and easy to provide a strong backhaul signal via wifi to the other device. They also get fantastic reception with only two nodes everywhere, even through walls and for quite a distance. However, others say that they noticed a lot of connection drops with their devices when channel select is set to. They say the network would disconnect for 1-2 minutes randomly.
"...several connected devices in my home to have problems automatically reconnecting to the network...." Read more
"...I used the same SSID and passwords as before. Everything connected seamlessly and appears to be working. I'll keep an eye on this as well.-..." Read more
"...Update: 3-8-2020 I'm finding that some of devices will not connect to the 5 G network when the system is in ax mode. Even if I'm but 5 ft. away...." Read more
"...Out of the box it simply worked and easily provide a strong backhaul signal via wifi to the other device being used as a router...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the ease of use. Some mention that the phone app seems slick, but it's hard to navigate effectively. They say the initial setup was quick and easy. However, others say that the software app is less intuitive and more complex. They also say the interfaces are marginally lacking and the web GUI is terrible.
"...And, this router is fantastic. So, don’t let the horrible technical support stop you from buying this router. I highly recommend this product." Read more
"...- Less intuitive software app than Orbi, and more complex setup...." Read more
"...I like that you can admin it via a web-browser, which is one reason I did not go with other brands which require a phone app...." Read more
"...It was horrible. Troubleshooting was horrible. They replaced the system once. It may no difference...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the stability of the router. Some mention that it's 100% rock solid and reliable, while others say that the WiFi became extremely unstable and frequently drops connections.
"...2.4Ghz varied but was consistently fast and reliable. Full signal on various devices throughout the house and outside on both bands.-..." Read more
"...The firmware needs to be fixed. After power interrupt the signal level goes from “Great” to “Weak”. While the actual signal reads a strong -44dBm...." Read more
"...Final negative point: The base station/router is rock solid, but the node/satellite would get partially disconnected every 1-2 weeks...." Read more
"...able to force anything to connect to the master and devices being dropped from the wifi)." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the networking router. Some mention it's well-priced, and a cost-effective means of upgrading and expanding your home or office. However, others say it'd be better off buying a different router.
"...I’m so glad I did. While this unit is far from inexpensive, when compared to other WiFi 6 capable units, it is a couple hundred dollars cheaper, but..." Read more
"Summary: Well-priced, WiFi-6 mesh system with tri-band WiFi..." Read more
"...Too pricey," I told myself. And I was right about that...." Read more
"...Not only are the individual units less expensive than the Orbi, but you need less of them - many homes would be completely covered by two..." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the quality of the router. Some say that it's a really good mesh system, while others say that the hardware quality control is lacking. Some customers also mention that the updates make their mesh network unusable.
"...It was a good concept, easy to setup, and easy to add the pods as range extenders. Well, it was not actually good...." Read more
"Update: 3-28-2020. Still having issues with the primary router always connecting with the 5 g network, particularly when it is in the ax mode...." Read more
"...In my opinion it is premium quality equipment.If you are buying a product like this there are some things, you should know...." Read more
"...complete exchange of data using protocols like UDP and mDNS, is a complete mess, even when using only one unit for router/Wi-Fi and no wired or..." Read more
Reviews with images
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Before purchasing this ASUS Ax6600 - XT8, I was using a Ubiquiti Amplifi mesh system. It was a big step up from my Apple AirPort Extreme, but I was still having trouble with dead spots and huge speed issues. I was resetting my router multiple times each day and even had my ISP out to my home.
After banging my head against the wall for months, I broke down and spent the money for this 2-unit kit, on my son’s recommendation. I’m so glad I did. While this unit is far from inexpensive, when compared to other WiFi 6 capable units, it is a couple hundred dollars cheaper, but it also rivals those competing units in performance, based upon laboratory tests. And, more importantly, it solved both of my problems. I no longer have any dead spots. I’m now able to get coverage in all areas of my home, including the perimeter of my home, where I have several connected security cameras. I also have no speed issues. I’m getting in excess of 300Mbps in all areas of my home.
The only negative experience I have had with this unit was a self-inflicted problem. I was advised to hide my SSID to make my network more secure. That is accomplished through the ASUS WiFi app. However, doing so caused several connected devices in my home to have problems automatically reconnecting to the network. I attempted to reverse the action and unhide my SSID, but kept getting error messages. I attempted to get help through ASUS user support. The call took about 30 minutes, including hold time - do not bad there, by comparison to other companies’ customer support services. They requested a lot of technical information, which took me about 30 minutes to gather and send. Then after two days passed, I received an email from a different technical support tech, which was completely unrelated to my issue.
I responded, again explaining my very simple issue. The next day, I received yet another email, from yet another support tech, again completely unrelated to my issue. I ultimately got help from a family member, who has more advanced networking experience than I have. To say that ASUS’ technical support service is terrible, would be a huge understatement. It was a complete fail in my book.
But, setting up this router is very straightforward and easy if you follow the simple instructions. And, this router is fantastic. So, don’t let the horrible technical support stop you from buying this router. I highly recommend this product.
Pros:
- Stupid-simple setup. The entire network with both devices was up and running within ~15 minutes of opening the box. I'm probably more technically inclined than others, but a child could figure this out. As simple as connecting the router to your modem, turning it on, and then walking through the in-app setup. The mesh node was about as plug-and-play as it gets, at least when using ethernet backhaul. It was recognized and configured almost immediately as a secondary node in the network.
- Mobile app. Used for initial setup and management. Could probably be done through the web-ui but I don't really see a reason to do that on initial setup. Save time and just download/use the app.
- Web UI. The router management web UI is more robust and a bit easier to navigate than the mobile app. Will likely use this going forward for more detailed configuration and monitoring.
- Performance. Both speed and coverage are incredible. I pay for 1000/20 and consistently got ~930/~25 with the speed test in the Asus app. 5Ghz WiFi speed tests (fast dot com) on newer devices averaged ~750/~25. 2.4Ghz varied but was consistently fast and reliable. Full signal on various devices throughout the house and outside on both bands.
- Wired backhaul. Worth mentioning specifically because I saw some reviews that complained about this not working very well or at all when a switch was in between the two units. It worked immediately and works well for me. There's also multiple physical connections between the node, the wall and the switch itself and there still aren't any problems. if you run into problems, its probably worth double-checking your cabling (CAT 5E+), hardware (switch compatibility/1G+ ports), and Asus config
Cons:
- Asus UI/UX. Very minor issues just getting used to and understanding how to navigate the UI both on the mobile app and on the web. It seems simple enough now though after poking around. Not worth docking the rating.
- 2.4 Ghz. Noticed in some instances where the speeds were sporadically low on 2.4 Ghz, but I generally don't use that and it isn't consistent enough to dock a star. Most of the connected devices on the network default to or have to use the 2.4 band, so it could just be some basic congestion. As of this writing, I'm getting 150/22 on my laptop while situated near the secondary node, which is more than acceptable. I'll look deeper into the settings and report back if there are problems.
- SSID management. Fairly negligible but worth mentioning like others have. The default configuration uses a single SSID for both 5 and 2.4 Ghz bands which I immediately turned off. I assume most folks would want the delineation of the two like me. The other knock here is that it will broadcast the alternate 5 Ghz channel used for wireless backhaul. I don't intend to ever use the wireless backhaul, but, unless I'm missing something, Asus seems to force it to be left on as a fallback in case the wired connection ever drops. I'm fine leaving it on as a fallback but I'll at least see if I can hide the SSID without causing problems with the network, since it should never be used by regular clients.
TBD:
- Long-term performance. Very satisfied at the moment but I'm sure most would agree that a huge percentage of the value is how these things hold up over time. I'll report back as needed.
- Advanced features. I haven't spent enough time with the router management software to really understand the pros and cons here quite yet.
- IOT connection stability. Saw some reviews that dinged connection drops for connected devices. No issues to report yet. I used the same SSID and passwords as before. Everything connected seamlessly and appears to be working. I'll keep an eye on this as well.
- Wireless backhaul. I have not tested wireless backhaul and I don't really intend to. In fact, I don't really see the utility of using wireless backhaul if you can avoid it. For the XT8, it relies on an alternate channel on the 5Ghz band. This is obviously going to be slower than ethernet from the jump but the 5Ghz band is much more "fragile" and can quickly become very limited by physical distance and obstructions between the two nodes, even if the actual channel is dedicated strictly for backhaul instead of regular traffic.
Misc. Notes:
Physical setup:
- Cable connection from the street comes into the basement, which is where the modem and the main router are situated.
- The house is fully wired via ethernet. A 10-port gigabit switch also sits in the basement with the modem and router, which feeds the wall ports in various rooms throughout the home.
- Only a handful of the wall ports are actually used consistently. One for the entertainment center, one for a PC and one for an AP on the second floor of the home.
- Various connected and personal devices throughout the house. Smart speakers, smart TVs, Nest thermostats, a camera, dog collar, wireless printer. Personal devices include cellphones, laptops, and tablets.
Previous hardware:
- Netgear Nighthawk 6700 running DD-WRT, located in basement. Older model but the reputation precedes itself. Worked fairly well on stock firmware for a little while. Decided to switch to DD-WRT after cord-cutting and increased bandwidth needs for remote work and more IOT devices. DD-WRT improved things for a little while. I toyed with various setups but ultimately wanted the router to feed all connectivity in the house, so it remained in the basement.
- Ubiquiti AP on 2nd floor for better coverage. The house is a recent reno but is originally ~200 years old. Whether the older construction materials of the innards of the house or just physical distance of having the router in the basement, it was difficult to get solid coverage throughout even with relatively modest square footage. The single AP worked well for a little while but UI/UX for Ubiquiti products is clunky at best and annoyingly difficult to configure. Performance degraded slowly over time and required lots of hand-holding just to remain stable. It also seemed impossible to get a true "mesh"-like network without having to purchase a second AP and completely turning off wifi on the main router. This didn't seem appealing given the dissatisfaction with the Ubiquiti ecosystem as a whole.
Current hardware:
- Main AX6600 router in basement, replacing the Netgear 6700. Modem feeds the WAN port, single LAN port feeds the main switch for ethernet wall ports.
- Secondary AX6600 on 2nd floor as secondary AP Mesh Node, replacing Ubiquiti AP. Strictly uses ethernet backhaul via wall port
Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2023
Pros:
- Stupid-simple setup. The entire network with both devices was up and running within ~15 minutes of opening the box. I'm probably more technically inclined than others, but a child could figure this out. As simple as connecting the router to your modem, turning it on, and then walking through the in-app setup. The mesh node was about as plug-and-play as it gets, at least when using ethernet backhaul. It was recognized and configured almost immediately as a secondary node in the network.
- Mobile app. Used for initial setup and management. Could probably be done through the web-ui but I don't really see a reason to do that on initial setup. Save time and just download/use the app.
- Web UI. The router management web UI is more robust and a bit easier to navigate than the mobile app. Will likely use this going forward for more detailed configuration and monitoring.
- Performance. Both speed and coverage are incredible. I pay for 1000/20 and consistently got ~930/~25 with the speed test in the Asus app. 5Ghz WiFi speed tests (fast dot com) on newer devices averaged ~750/~25. 2.4Ghz varied but was consistently fast and reliable. Full signal on various devices throughout the house and outside on both bands.
- Wired backhaul. Worth mentioning specifically because I saw some reviews that complained about this not working very well or at all when a switch was in between the two units. It worked immediately and works well for me. There's also multiple physical connections between the node, the wall and the switch itself and there still aren't any problems. if you run into problems, its probably worth double-checking your cabling (CAT 5E+), hardware (switch compatibility/1G+ ports), and Asus config
Cons:
- Asus UI/UX. Very minor issues just getting used to and understanding how to navigate the UI both on the mobile app and on the web. It seems simple enough now though after poking around. Not worth docking the rating.
- 2.4 Ghz. Noticed in some instances where the speeds were sporadically low on 2.4 Ghz, but I generally don't use that and it isn't consistent enough to dock a star. Most of the connected devices on the network default to or have to use the 2.4 band, so it could just be some basic congestion. As of this writing, I'm getting 150/22 on my laptop while situated near the secondary node, which is more than acceptable. I'll look deeper into the settings and report back if there are problems.
- SSID management. Fairly negligible but worth mentioning like others have. The default configuration uses a single SSID for both 5 and 2.4 Ghz bands which I immediately turned off. I assume most folks would want the delineation of the two like me. The other knock here is that it will broadcast the alternate 5 Ghz channel used for wireless backhaul. I don't intend to ever use the wireless backhaul, but, unless I'm missing something, Asus seems to force it to be left on as a fallback in case the wired connection ever drops. I'm fine leaving it on as a fallback but I'll at least see if I can hide the SSID without causing problems with the network, since it should never be used by regular clients.
TBD:
- Long-term performance. Very satisfied at the moment but I'm sure most would agree that a huge percentage of the value is how these things hold up over time. I'll report back as needed.
- Advanced features. I haven't spent enough time with the router management software to really understand the pros and cons here quite yet.
- IOT connection stability. Saw some reviews that dinged connection drops for connected devices. No issues to report yet. I used the same SSID and passwords as before. Everything connected seamlessly and appears to be working. I'll keep an eye on this as well.
- Wireless backhaul. I have not tested wireless backhaul and I don't really intend to. In fact, I don't really see the utility of using wireless backhaul if you can avoid it. For the XT8, it relies on an alternate channel on the 5Ghz band. This is obviously going to be slower than ethernet from the jump but the 5Ghz band is much more "fragile" and can quickly become very limited by physical distance and obstructions between the two nodes, even if the actual channel is dedicated strictly for backhaul instead of regular traffic.
Misc. Notes:
Physical setup:
- Cable connection from the street comes into the basement, which is where the modem and the main router are situated.
- The house is fully wired via ethernet. A 10-port gigabit switch also sits in the basement with the modem and router, which feeds the wall ports in various rooms throughout the home.
- Only a handful of the wall ports are actually used consistently. One for the entertainment center, one for a PC and one for an AP on the second floor of the home.
- Various connected and personal devices throughout the house. Smart speakers, smart TVs, Nest thermostats, a camera, dog collar, wireless printer. Personal devices include cellphones, laptops, and tablets.
Previous hardware:
- Netgear Nighthawk 6700 running DD-WRT, located in basement. Older model but the reputation precedes itself. Worked fairly well on stock firmware for a little while. Decided to switch to DD-WRT after cord-cutting and increased bandwidth needs for remote work and more IOT devices. DD-WRT improved things for a little while. I toyed with various setups but ultimately wanted the router to feed all connectivity in the house, so it remained in the basement.
- Ubiquiti AP on 2nd floor for better coverage. The house is a recent reno but is originally ~200 years old. Whether the older construction materials of the innards of the house or just physical distance of having the router in the basement, it was difficult to get solid coverage throughout even with relatively modest square footage. The single AP worked well for a little while but UI/UX for Ubiquiti products is clunky at best and annoyingly difficult to configure. Performance degraded slowly over time and required lots of hand-holding just to remain stable. It also seemed impossible to get a true "mesh"-like network without having to purchase a second AP and completely turning off wifi on the main router. This didn't seem appealing given the dissatisfaction with the Ubiquiti ecosystem as a whole.
Current hardware:
- Main AX6600 router in basement, replacing the Netgear 6700. Modem feeds the WAN port, single LAN port feeds the main switch for ethernet wall ports.
- Secondary AX6600 on 2nd floor as secondary AP Mesh Node, replacing Ubiquiti AP. Strictly uses ethernet backhaul via wall port