Add an Option to Disable Proxy ARP
Dear TP-Link Team and Community,
I am using the TL-WA850RE (V7) range extender in a network where a Cisco router serves as the DHCP server. However, due to the enabled Proxy ARP on the TL-WA850RE, the Cisco DHCP server receives requests from a single MAC address instead of individual client MACs. This causes serious IP conflicts, as the router assigns an IP that later appears occupied when a new client attempts to use it. As a result, new clients constantly request new IPs, leading to network instability.
Since the TL-WA850RE does not support DHCP relay or similar functionality, there is currently no way to properly handle DHCP requests in such setups. The ability to disable Proxy ARP via the web interface would significantly improve the device's compatibility with enterprise-grade networks and prevent these issues.
I also believe that this issue may affect other TP-Link routers as well, not just range extenders. On home routers, this kind of problem can be much harder to diagnose since users may not have enterprise-grade network monitoring tools. This means many users could be experiencing unstable networks, IP conflicts, and unexplained connectivity issues without realizing Proxy ARP is the root cause.
I kindly request TP-Link to consider adding an option to disable Proxy ARP in the next firmware update. If you also face similar issues or support this request, please upvote and comment so that the TP-Link R&D team prioritizes it.
Thank you!