Yes, LTT can resolve issues more quickly than Asus customer support.
Yes, LTT can resolve issues more quickly than Asus customer support.
Yesterday I decided to finally replace my Google Nest WiFi pucks and picked up a couple of Asus RT-AXE7800 routers . Installed them, and set up one as a mesh node (AiMesh seems to be their proprietary thing for this) connected via ethernet. The purpose of the mesh node is to extend my wireless coverage in my house but also to provide wired backhaul for the devices in my office. Here's my diagram of my network and the relevant devices: So here's my issue, previously I had my NAS mapped as a network drive on both my desktop and my laptop. Everything is great from my laptop (connected wirelessly) but from my desktop it can't find the NAS. I've got the updated IP and can ping the NAS, but it will not show up under network devices except as "other devices" not under network infrastructure or any other computer devices. I can access the NAS from my desktop using the quickconnect web utility, and can even get to the UI when selecting the NAS under the "other devices" section, but when I go to map a network drive and give it the folder location as defined by the NAS (\\MyNasName) it says Windows cannot access it, and that "The network name cannot be found". Similarly, I can't RDP into Server 1 as I used to be able to. Updated my hosts file to use the new IP address, but RDP fails to connect from both my desktop AND my laptop. I tried all kinds of web searching to diagnose the problem, kept finding various tangential topics that suggested all types of potential causes. Maybe the device set up as AiMesh Node should be set up as a repeater or some other configuration they provide, the specific RJ45 ports I'm using might be wrong, the routers firewall is blocking it, etc. Since I didn't change the settings of any of my devices, I'm convinced it's something with the new router that I need to change, but I'm coming up short on my research. So, I called Asus customer service and had to really walk through the nice representative what my problem is, even explaining what a NAS is and why I have it, to end up at "we don't have troubleshooting steps for this, please fill out a feedback form describing the issue and a technician should reach out within two business days". Well, it's Friday, and I'm gonna keep trying to figure this out instead of giving up until Tuesday. Any chance any of you fine folks have some ideas for me to try? Part of the reason I switched from my google pucks is because of how locked down and not customizable it is, but it's been a long time since I've needed to get in the weeds.
Consider transferring the ASUS equipment to Ubiquiti hardware. The current setup works best with Ubiquiti solutions, though the ASUS gear can be adapted. 2) Is "Server 1" connected to the internet and does its IP match the other devices you're trying to reach?
Your living area is quite spacious, accommodating a significant amount of room.
I thought AI mesh worked for two devices linked without wires, but maybe that’s not the case. With your setup having both hardwired and wireless options, I’d just make the second one act like an access point. That should make things easier.
EDIT - I realized I was mistaken. Even if I tried it as an AP, I’d check if the problem resolves.
Are you considering getting the ASUS routers back? It depends on your needs. For me, the AXE7800 costs around $500 for two, which is a solid price for starting new networking equipment.
I'll give it a shot! It's definitely an option, though not my top pick—I'm open to hearing more. Feel free to share some recommendations if you'd like.
The manual outlines several operating modes for the router. In wireless router mode, the device connects to the Internet and shares access with nearby devices. Access Point mode allows creating a new network on top of an existing one. Repeater mode transforms the router into a signal booster. Media Bridge offers the quickest Wi-Fi for multiple devices at once, requiring two RT-AXE7800 units—one as a media station and the other as a router. AiMesh Node lets you use one RT-AXE7800 as a media bridge to expand coverage from existing routers. Trying to set it as an AP or repeater resulted in unexpected extra networks being formed.
Here’s a rephrased version of your text:
I see several possibilities. If you prefer to stick with your existing routers, you can buy a basic networking switch and connect it between them. This setup provides additional ports on the same firewall as your main router, while the second router serves as a WiFi booster. This option is likely the most affordable and straightforward if you don’t want to switch to Ubiquiti.
For a more advanced setup, I suggest the following:
- A $200 router/console: [link]
- A simple 2.5 Gbps switch for your office: [link]
- A $20 POE injector for your access point: [link]
These are my top suggestions for a second access point, depending on your needs. Both support WiFi 6E and 7. You’ll need the $20 POE injector regardless of which access point you choose.
For the $200 access point options:
- One with wide coverage but no 6 GHz: [link] (range is impressive on 5 GHz)
- Another with a built-in antenna plus an “omni” mode for extended reach: [link]
You’ll need to disable the 6 GHz band on the router if you pick this option, as client devices struggle with frequency changes. It’s mostly seamless when staying on the same network and band.
If you’re okay with a 5 GHz-only setup, the first option is ideal.
I also want to note that the second access point has a strong 2.5 Gbps speed (unlike previous models) and WiFi 7 support. It should cost about the same as your two ASUS routers unless you found a discount.