14 DAY TRIAL // AsusWrt-Merlin has made available a new firmware developed for several of ASUS’ router models, namely version 384.13 Beta 1, which implements AiMesh Router and node support, updates RT-AX88U (to GPL 384_6210) and Curl (7.65.3), and more.
Specifically speaking, the current release adds ChaCha20-Poly1305 support in Strongswan, removes hostnames from dhcp_staticlist (moved to dhcp_hostnames), and replaces Nettle with OpenSSL for dnsmasq's DNSSEC validation.
Moreover, the developer managed to remove several bugs that caused IGMP Snooper daemon to crash, external DDNS IP checker to fail (for Chinese users) or other problems as highlighted in the Release Notes below.
To be clear about the supported devices, take into account that the developer has rolled out separate update packages targeted at ASUS’ RT-AC3100, RT-AC3200, RT-AC5300, RT-AC68 (R, W, P, U, UF), RT-AC88U, RT-AX88U, RT-AC87 (U, R), and RT-AC86U routers.
With this in mind, if you own one of these wireless units and want to apply firmware 384.13 Beta 1, save and extract the appropriate package for your device model, connect the router and your computer via an Ethernet cable (upgrading over wireless might lead to disconnections), and go to Advanced Settings > Administration > Firmware Upgrade.
Now, near the “New Firmware File” section, select “Choose File” button, browse and select the newly-extracted .trx file, hit “Upload,” and wait patiently as the upgrade is performed; the firmware will be first transferred to the router and afterward installed.
Even though it seems easy, bear in mind that interrupting this process in any way can lead to serious malfunctions and can even render the device unusable. Once finished, you will be prompted with an appropriate message on your monitor.
That said, download AsusWrt-Merlin Router Firmware 384.13 Beta 1 for your specific device, apply it, and check our website as often as possible to stay “updated one minute ago.”