Configurations for Asus RT-AC68U using Powerline Ethernet
Configurations for Asus RT-AC68U using Powerline Ethernet
I've experienced some difficulties with establishing a stable internet connection since installing the Asus RT-AC68U. Before this device, my configuration looked like this: A Technicolor TG587n router/modem was positioned at the front of the house, linked to a Netcomm NP201AV powerline modem. From there, the signal traveled through the house’s powerlines and reached my room via a TP-LINK SG1008D switch. My PC, along with other devices like the PS4, PS3, and TV, were all connected through this switch. This arrangement had functioned well for about three years prior to acquiring the new router.
About a month ago, I purchased the Asus RT-AC68U and have since relied solely on the Technicolor as a modem. The rest of my network setup remains unchanged. My powerline connection and several other PCs at the router’s end continue to work just as before. Initially, everything seemed normal. However, recently I’ve observed intermittent drops in internet access—sometimes disappearing for a couple of days, then reappearing unpredictably. When troubleshooting on Windows, the system reports an invalid IP configuration for Ethernet. The issue recurs intermittently, lasting several hours before resuming.
Additionally, my PS4 and TV experience similar disruptions at the same time as my PC. All other devices connected directly to the router’s Ethernet ports or via Wi-Fi maintain full connectivity. This suggests a potential problem with the switch itself, but plugging devices straight into the powerline plug seems to trigger the same behavior.
I’ve attempted numerous fixes on my PC—such as reinstalling drivers, resetting settings, assigning static IPs, testing different cables, and checking the powerline ports—but nothing has resolved the problem. I’ve also consulted forums for solutions, but none have provided a clear answer.
Could you help? Are there any hidden settings in the Asus RT-AC68U that might affect Ethernet over power? Is it possible the Netcomm NP201AV is malfunctioning, coinciding with the new router’s arrival? I’m open to suggestions and would appreciate any guidance before investing in a new powerline setup. Thanks.
The situation seems unusual. Your setup differs slightly from others yet remains largely consistent regarding one aspect. You're using an ASUS RT-AC68U with Powerline connectivity via TPLink adapters. Despite occasional drops in connection without any apparent reason, your PC connects to WiFi but not to the internet through the router. When you switch to mobile devices, internet access works fine. This suggests the problem isn't with your router or your PC's internet link, but possibly tied to the router itself. Removing and reinserting the Powerline adapter seems to resolve the issue, indicating a possible hardware-specific fault. Your Linksys WRT54G model functions perfectly under these conditions.
This situation suggests a possible issue with the router or its compatibility with powerline connections. Removing one powerline end didn’t resolve the problem, but switching both simultaneously and then reconnecting worked temporarily. The challenge here is the difficult location of the powerline connection behind heavy furniture, making it hard to access for maintenance. A permanent solution seems necessary.
Your device now has the latest software version. See if it resolves your problem or improves performance.
I just installed the newest firmware. It seems to be functioning well at the moment, though results may change over time. I have to admit, I enjoy those occasional hiccups.
Powerline presents challenges due to unstable connections between adapters. Appliances on the same circuit affecting performance. Rebooting each adapter helps briefly, but the issue persists. I believe Powerline should have been discontinued long ago. It causes frequent sync problems and is best suited for low-bandwidth or short-term use cases. Unless you connect the modem directly to a router via Ethernet, you're limited to your current setup.