The ASUS Ax86U continues to experience issues with network connections.
The ASUS Ax86U continues to experience issues with network connections.
I switched from an asus rt-n66u to an asus ax86u. Initially it functioned well for a few months, but recently I've experienced network drops. I have four networks—one standard 2.4GHz, one 5GHz, and two guest networks, each with its own speed. It seems to happen consistently when I go to sleep; upon waking, either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz signal is missing. All I need to do is log into the admin panel and adjust a single setting, usually the channel, which resolves the issue. My current configuration is very similar to my old router, which never had this problem. It's running the latest firmware and uses the original software (no Merlin). Note: sometimes I see the networks but can't connect them. I need guidance on this matter.
I think you mean that you have 4 different SSIDs . If they're all bridged to the LAN/WAN, then it's just 1 network. Run a wireless survey using WiFi Analyzer (download from the Microsoft Store) and post the graphical output of the Analyze page for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Also, please completely list your wireless settings. Hide passwords, if course. Are you using any WiFi 6 clients? If so, do they detect any loss in connection? And are you sure there is no scheduler for WiFi access running in the background?
Apologies, I just returned to this discussion. It wasn't yesterday, but it happened today. Yes, you're referring to SSIDs. Thanks for the fix. - I've included screenshots of the settings and analysis. - I don't have any Wi-Fi 6 clients—I'm not sure. I notice something called "target wake time," is that the same? Spoiler: yes.
Certainly! Here’s a revised version of your request:
The current display orientation of the graphs can be adjusted to highlight channel utilization ("kanalen"). To generate extra SSIDs for broadcasting beyond the ones shown, you can configure additional networks under a guest WiFi configuration. These new channels are typically managed separately from the main setup. Regarding the wireless settings, expanding the "Wireless Mode" for each radio provides detailed visibility into signal performance and channel assignments.
Initially, the signal strength from your 5GHz antenna is relatively weak (assuming it’s the one set to channel 36). This could explain why you’re experiencing connectivity issues. How close are you to the router during these moments? Signals weaken as distance increases and obstacles such as walls, floors, concrete, or metal interfere. Additionally, most antennas perform better in horizontal directions than vertical ones, making it harder to detect WiFi from a basement level up to the router.
Secondly, 5GHz signals struggle more with distance and blockages compared to the 2.4GHz band. The shorter wavelength causes rapid signal loss when something blocks the path between the source and the device.
Thirdly, even though you’re on channel 1 of the 2.4GHz spectrum, another network is broadcasting on channel 36 for 5GHz, which can cause interference. It’s unclear whether this is due to multiple SSIDs on your 5GHz radio or another user’s signal. If it’s the latter, consider switching to a different free channel (like 40, 44, or 48) that your router permits.
Lastly, with 5GHz you’re not restricted to the 20MHz bandwidth like on 2.4GHz. You can utilize wider channels such as 40MHz or even 80MHz to boost speeds for clients connected via 5GHz, since there’s less chance of channel overlap. You haven’t mentioned your current wireless settings—under “Wireless Mode” you’re set to “Legacy.” This setting likely forces the router into compatibility mode for older devices, which can slow down 5GHz performance. If you have older gadgets or IoT devices that only work on 2.4GHz, keep “Legacy” enabled and switch the 5GHz antenna to AC/AX mode.
This was checked in the kitchen. Because of the setup from earlier, the modem and router are in the office upstairs and can't be relocated. I now think I might have misunderstood the instructions. The SSIDs are failing to appear and disconnecting repeatedly. It's not about losing or a weak signal; the link is actually quite reliable. My bedroom is right next to the office, and my IPcam is always connected on the 2.4Ghz network. However, at night the SSID disappears and it can't reconnect. If I adjust just one parameter (such as the channel), it usually works again, establishing a connection and watching the front door. Asus offers an option to create up to six guest networks, similar to a standard SSID but with extra features like intranet access and time limits. The current configurations (20Mhz) are just the ones I've tried without success, and I've tested various combinations—Auto +20mhz, 40mhz, 20/40mhz, Legacy +40mhz, etc. For the 5Ghz network, settings look like Auto +AX only or N/AC/AX mixed, with Legacy Wirelessmode.
Antenna signals tend to weaken quickly when moving up or down, making reception difficult on lower floors. This can cause intermittent loss of connection for nearby devices. If the issue is limited to devices close to the router, it might be due to a special guest WiFi setting—like a scheduled access time—or a firmware problem that could be resolved by updating. Consider enabling auto-settings and boosting the 5GHz antenna if needed. Also, think about why multiple SSIDs are being sent from one router.
I'll attempt that and share updates soon. It's not only guest networks vanishing but all of them. I'm using the newest firmware. Separate SSIDs are necessary since we frequently host guests (though not anymore due to the pandemic) and I don't want them accessing our NAS.
On page 26 of the router manual, you can assign lockout times for guest SSIDs. The 'Time Remaining' setting is configured accordingly.