Early Access Pre-release Firmware for Archer C80/A8/C6/C86 Brings a Host of New Features and Optimizations
This Article Applies to:
Archer C80 V2.20/V2.26
Archer A8 V2.20/V2.26
Archer C6 V4
Archer C86 V1
Overview
We hope to offer you a chance to experience the new features added to Archer C80, A8, C6, and C86 router via firmware update in advance, and also give us TP-Link the opportunity to fully test the firmware in your real network environment and scenarios before the official release. This update brings a host of new features and optimizations that enhance security, improve user experience, and expand functionality. In this post, we'll walk you through the major changes and what they mean for you.
New Features and Modifications:
L2TP/IPSec VPN Server Functionality
This update adds support for L2TP/IPSec VPN servers, allowing you to set up secure remote access to your home network. Whether you need to connect to your home devices while traveling or require a secure connection for remote work, this feature provides a robust solution.
IPv6 Firewall
Enhanced security with the addition of IPv6 firewall capabilities. This ensures that your network remains protected as more devices and services migrate to IPv6.
EasyMesh, Auto Update, and TP-Link ID in AP Mode
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EasyMesh: Simplify network expansion with EasyMesh technology, allowing seamless integration of multiple units.
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Auto Update: Automatic firmware updates ensure your router is always up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
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TP-Link ID: Integrate your TP-Link cloud services for easy management and access.
Static IP and DNS Settings in AP Mode
Enhanced configuration options for static IP addresses and DNS settings, providing greater flexibility and control over your network setup.
Parental Control Improvements
The parental control feature now includes a content whitelist, giving you more precise control over the content accessible to your family members.
Access Control Enhancements
You can now manually enter MAC addresses in the access control settings, allowing for more precise network access management.
Client List Management
The client list has been optimized with new filtering rules, making it easier to manage and organize connected devices.
Other Modifications
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Support for WPA3-SAE encryption in WDS mode enhances the security of your wireless distribution system connections.
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Various improvements have been made to ensure more stable and reliable wireless connections.
Notes
This version of firmware cannot be degraded to the previous version.
Firmware Download
Before the Upgrade
(1) Please be sure you have read the Beta Test Agreement before upgrading the Pre-release firmware!
(2) For the sake of insurance, it's always recommended to save a copy of the router Backup Config file before upgrading or downgrading.
(3) You may follow the guide to upgrade the firmware of your router. How to Upgrade the Firmware on the TP-Link Wi-Fi Routers.
Direct Firmware Download Link
Archer C80_V2.20/V2.26_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer A8 V2.20/V2.26_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer C6 V4_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer C86 V1_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Additional Information
As always, we value your feedback. If somehow you encounter an issue during or after the router firmware upgrade, it's suggested to comment below with the following info. Your input helps us continue to improve and provide the best possible products and support.
- Model, hardware version, and firmware version of your router.
- Detailed issue description, and provide more information on the specific conditions that seem to trigger the problem.
Update Log
Jul 22th, 2024:
Release of the post
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@Kevin_Z
well...looks not different from the previously beta 1.13
would be great if you guys:
- implement more/better VPN option.
- where is the DoT connection?
- why not DoH/DoT with a custom dns of OUR CHOICE?
- system time still broken. i set to manual or use the current device but is reversed to internet after sometime or after router restart.
NOW THE MOST IMPORTANT........WHY THE TPLINK STILL SETTING THE ROUTER TO KEEP CONTACTING THE A.ROOTSERVER AT EACH ~60SEC?
"don't worry! is not important or something against your privacy." IF IS NOT....SO WHY TPLINK INSIST ON IT? AND WHY DON'T LET US TO DISABLE?
@itachimetal Thank you very much for your feedback.
You could be correct. These features may not be improved or optimized on the 1.14 version. But we will keep optimizing all these features, especially the customized DNS servers for DoH.
I remember others reported similar issues before in the community, but I'm not sure if this has been confirmed to be an issue or if it's the firmware design to behave like that. I will report to the engineering team again.
itachimetal wrote
NOW THE MOST IMPORTANT........WHY THE TPLINK STILL SETTING THE ROUTER TO KEEP CONTACTING THE A.ROOTSERVER AT EACH ~60SEC?
"don't worry! is not important or something against your privacy." IF IS NOT....SO WHY TPLINK INSIST ON IT? AND WHY DON'T LET US TO DISABLE?
endless_despair has told you the truth. But I'm not sure neither if other manufacturers allow users to disable the "Internet Checker" function. I will report this to the development for consideration.
