Merlin firmware for AXE7800?

[dragbug]

As the title asks, is there going to be a Merlin firmware for the AXE7800? I see ones for the AXE16000 and AXE11000. Thank you.

 

[Tech9]

Unlikely. This is not a high-end model, not very popular, none of the similar hardware models have support. This router is fancier looking version of RT-AX58U V2 hardware with one extra 2-stream 6E radio. Not sure why it even exists in this configuration. The Wi-Fi 6E radio with better chances for 160MHz wide channel doesn't support 160MHz and the Wi-Fi 6 radio with lesser chances for 160MHz wide channel does. Marketing, no much practical use.

 

[dragbug]

Thank you. I was going to get the AX11000 or AXE11000 but went with this cheaper model based on some reviews. Guess I should have stuck with my original plan.

 

[Tech9]

For about the same money better look at more popular around GT-AX6000 or RT-AX88U Pro. For home use you don't really need 3-band router and Wi-Fi 6E client support is very limited. There is no futureproofing with AIO home routers. Get what you need now, replace when you need something better.

 

[bennor]

As the title asks, is there going to be a Merlin firmware for the AXE7800? I see ones for the AXE16000 and AXE11000. Thank you.

From the 3rd post in the Asus-Merlin subforum's [FAQ] READ ME FIRST before posting a question sticky/tacked post:

Q: Will you add support for model XYZ?
A: The decision whether or not to support a new model depend on a long list of factors, which may evolve over time. Right now:

- It needs to be Broadcom-based
- It needs to be widely available (not just in two or three countries)
- It needs to have high-end hardware so I don't have to fight with lack of flash or RAM
- It needs to receive frequent enough GPLs so I won't have to regularly skip it due to the GPL being outdated
- I need to have one
- I need to have the time to try supporting it
- I need to have the motivation to try supporting it

Each new model requires its own dedicated support. That means every time I work on a new firmware release, I have to work on each separate model, and I need GPL releases from Asus for each individual model, and I need to merge each of them separately. So that means if I support 10 different routers, then I need to merge in the content of 10 different GPL releases, and these need to be close enough to one another to still be compatible. The more models I support, the harder this is to accomplish, therefore I am VERY conservative regarding adding any new model.

So don't ask if/when a new model will be supported. I cannot speculate about future model support, and until I have working support for a model, I cannot answer that question.

From the Asus-Merlin Wiki FAQ...

Q: Will you support router "RT-xXX" from Asus?
A: Most likely not. Without having an actual router to test with, building a firmware that people would flash without me having at least confirmed it can be flashed at all would be far too risky.

 

[livejamie]

I bought this router because it was recommended by Wirecutter, It's frustrating that it's not considered popular enough to warrant Merlin support.

The Best Wi-Fi Mesh-Networking Systems

If a normal router can’t provide reliable wireless access to every corner of your home, mesh systems should help you work from home and stream games and movies without a hitch.

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[Tech9]

It's frustrating that it's not considered popular enough

Not popular for many reasons:

- Wi-Fi 6E was never popular in first place, limited client support
- It's an entry-level hardware similar to RT-AX58U V2 + one extra radio
- It has weaker 2-stream 2.4GHz and 6GHz radios, built in BCM6756 SoC
- It's way overpriced for what it is, similar Archer AXE75 is about $100 less
- Firmware limited to Asuswrt 4.0, won't be getting Asuswrt 5.0 upgrade
- Interested in Asuswrt-Merlin firmware folks know it has no support

Buy routers recommended on SNB Forums instead.