Model : Archer C5400

Hardware Version :

Firmware Version : 1.0.8 build 20170113 rel. 62479 (5553)

ISP : Starhub

Hello,
Just purchased my new TPL AC5400 router, was very excited to get it up and running.
Connected to modem and followed the configuration steps, all good.
Following the routers auto update recommendations upgraded to firmware 1.0.8 build 20170113 rel. 62479 (5553), my HW ver is 2.0
Changed default PW (as part of the initial config)
Changed routers LAN address to 192.168.10.1 (all my wired network carries static addresses starting with 192.168.10.x)
Added no-ip DDNS
Activated smart connect (all bands carry same SSID)
Defined 3 ports for forwarding (I think TPL uses virtual server as the term)
Connected all other equipment on my wired network to the 4 ports in the back
Restart the router
Wired and wireless have internet access, no problem.
Loading the mgmt console with 192.168.10.1 or tplinkwifi takes 10-15 minutes, once loads, entering my PWD and then ENTER does nothing, cannot access the config land page.
I am able to access the router Tether app with the same login information and interact with the router, no issue there.

Thought I did something wrong, hard reset, did the same steps above again, ending up with the same results even with a single wired client. (tried the hard reset 3 times, same result each time).
I think this firmware is broken, but the router will not allow me to roll back to the version posted on the web site, which is older than the one the auto update suggested.

Very frustrated, $400 router went back to the box, and I'm back with my ASUS till I can resolve this issue.
Any help will be appreciated.
Thank you
Alon.