Did the BE98 Pro ever get it's AFC firmware update?

[Tech9]

Yup

Can you clarify what exactly is "34 nodes"?

Or just buying a new one for $120 for mesh.

This new one for $120 won't support available AiMesh features in 3006 firmware.

 

[GunSmoke]

Can you clarify what exactly is "34 nodes"?

My apologies, it's a technical term. I have advanced degrees in networking and worked in a datacenter for many years, and have my CCNP (a Cisco cert). I just assumed you knew how this stuff was referred to in a professional environment, but I understand many here are consumers or "prosumers". See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Node_(networking)

This new one for $120 won't support available AiMesh features in 3006 firmware.

You don't need to worry about which model or the scenario. No one in this thread is setting up a new AI Mesh just now, but thanks for the heads up.

 

[Tech9]

I just assumed you knew how this stuff

No, I need explanation what 34 nodes have to do with your new home AIO router. What exactly are they on your network?

 

[GunSmoke]

No, I need explanation what 34 nodes have to do with your new home AIO router. What exactly are they on your network?

Don't worry about it. You don't need that explanation.

 

[Tech9]

If you are going to be sharing Asus router experience here on SNB Forums - fix your terms. In Asus world a "node" is something different and you definitely don't have 34 and counting on your network...

 

[GunSmoke]

If you are going to be sharing Asus router experience here on SNB Forums - fix your terms. In Asus world a "node" is something different and you definitely don't have 34 and counting on your network...

Sorry, I'm a retired professional and these are how we discuss this matter. If you get confused again, you can start with Wikepedia. As a CCNP I don't live in your Asus world. If you'd like to know anything else about networking, feel free to ask me and I'll educate you to the best of my ability.

 

[Tech9]

Yes, please. What are the nodes on your network? Asking twice already.

 

[GunSmoke]

Yes, please. What are the nodes on your network? Asking twice already.

I am unfortunately unable to provide details of my personal network at this time. I'm only able to answer questions for your CISCO exam prep, if applicable, or specific networking questions. You may ask a 3rd or 4th time if you wish and the answer may or may not change.

 

[Tech9]

I understand. In more modern networking wirelessly connected devices using 802.11 are usually called Stations. Here we call such devices Clients quite often, Asus GUI has a Client List showing what is connected to the router. Since you post in "Asus BE Routers and Adapters" section - Asus marketing calls "nodes" their AiMesh capable devices used in AiMesh configuration. Asus came to the "mesh" marketing a bit late and "pods" and "satellites" consumer marketing terms were already taken. The maximum number of "nodes" in AiMesh is 5 in wireless configuration and 9 in wired configuration, including the "main node" or what we commonly call "router".

 

[GunSmoke]

I understand. In more modern networking wirelessly connected devices using 802.11 are usually called Stations. Here we call such devices Clients quite often, Asus GUI has a Client List showing what is connected to the router. Since you post in "Asus BE Routers and Adapters" section - Asus marketing calls "nodes" their AiMesh capable devices used in AiMesh configuration. Asus came to the "mesh" marketing a bit late and "pods" and "satellites" consumer marketing terms were already taken. The maximum number of "nodes" in AiMesh is 5 in wireless configuration and 9 in wired configuration, including the "main node" or what we commonly call "router".

Based on your response, I regret to inform you that you do not have what it takes and would wash out as a modern networking professional and be unable to attain or retain employment. Asus terminology is not what is used as the standard in the industry. You may choose to memorize both sets of terminology so that you can understand what network professionals are referring to when they visit SnbForums, but due to your confusion it seems that you are not fit for networking in a professional environment without dedicated and further study.

 

[thiggins]

@GunSmoke Refrain from commenting on others' abilities. No reply is always an acceptable reply.

 

[jzchen]

Darn, where's my microwave popcorn when I need it...

Still hoping AFC shows up somehow before it has to go back!....

 

[jzchen]

Oh, I meant balk at going to wifi 5 vs wifi 7 standards in general. I do believe wifi 6 was a big advance, probably bigger than wifi 7. Although 7's MLO is pretty nice. It's an official and better version of Smart Connect. I wanted it. But without 6GHz having a range boost, I just can't see what I gain in practical matters from a router standpoint. What I really need is ai mesh. I found last night while this model does have better range than my old one, it still gets cut off when the weather is overcast.

It was my understanding that WiFi 5 (ac) uses WPA2 while WiFi 6 (ax) uses WPA3...

The RT-AC68U I had running for the longest time as an AiMesh node (until it was labeled EOL) reached I believe at least half way across the street in front of our house, if not all the way. I first replaced it with an RT-AX5400 and that was replaced with a BQ16 Pro. (I have to use a ladder to reach it as it sits on a window sill above the tall entry doors). The RT-AX5400 has shorter antennae and the BQ16 Pros are internal. I haven't really explored how far the BQ16 Pro reaches but my gut says not as far with each upgrade...

Are you gauging signal outdoors? I've never noticed change indoors with weather...

 

[jzchen]

Oh, I meant balk at going to wifi 5 vs wifi 7 standards in general. I do believe wifi 6 was a big advance, probably bigger than wifi 7. Although 7's MLO is pretty nice. It's an official and better version of Smart Connect. I wanted it. But without 6GHz having a range boost, I just can't see what I gain in practical matters from a router standpoint. What I really need is ai mesh. I found last night while this model does have better range than my old one, it still gets cut off when the weather is overcast.

Between WiFi 6 and WiFi 7, don't forget that jump from 160 MHz to 320 MHz plus 1K to 4K QAM. I don't remember what WiFi 5 is capped at, maybe 80 MHz?...

 

[Cryptoban]

I have two BQ16 Pros paired with my BE98 Pro in wired backhaul. The BQ16 Pros are supposed to have AFC but when they're nodes I don't know how to even check them. I have no idea if it's on or off. Anyone know how I can tell? Also, it looks like AFC isn't even mentioned on on the BQ16 Pro product page.

 

[jzchen]

AFC is only available in Router mode, and is not available on nodes if I read/understood the article correctly.