How to set up new RT-AC86U for reliability and security?

[brec]

Background: I'm replacing a re-branded ASUS RT-AC68U. It's been perfectly reliable for years, and has pretty good coverage in my 2100 sq' 2-story house, but I do use a TP-Link range extender near my smart TV. The firmware in the re-branded router is not being updated, and I've seen recent reports of security flaws being discovered in various routers.

So I want a replacement that has firmware updates available. And I thought I'd up the coverage a step and go for an AC2600. But since the ASUS hardware has been so reliable, I started looking at ASUS. Their closest to a 2600 seems to be the RT-AC86U AC2900. Seems fine except there are quite a few complaints on Amazon about reliability. 20% of the 1,500 reviews are 1-star. Of those, many are about 2.4G radios going out. Thoughts?

EDIT: I'm hijacking my own thread to reflect my decision to buy an 86U.

 

[brec]

After much hand-wringing, I ordered an 86U.

Next: setting it up to minimize any reliability -- and security -- issues. This thread from last year, Best setup for the Asus RT-AC68U (ACTUALIZED to 2019), I'm thinking is probably applicable to the 86U as well. However, any additions or comments are welcome!

 

[Smokey613]

I am very happy with my RT-AC86U. I purchased it new off Amazon back in January and it is awesome.

 

[OzarkEdge]

After much hand-wringing, I ordered an 86U.

Next: setting it up to minimize any reliability -- and security -- issues. This thread from last year, Best setup for the Asus RT-AC68U (ACTUALIZED to 2019), I'm thinking is probably applicable to the 86U as well. However, any additions or comments are welcome!

My install notes might help.

OE

 

[brec]

My install notes might help.

Well it might! No AiMesh here, though -- just a TP-Link extender near my smart TV.

 

[OzarkEdge]

Well it might! No AiMesh here, though -- just a TP-Link extender near my smart TV.

Ignore the AiMesh bits.

OE