@terziyski Thanks for the response.  My firmware was updated a grand total of 2 times (currently the latest version via the routers automatic update), each time I verified there was no option for AX or AC only mode.  I have since restored my router to factory settings, and recreated the wifi settings, with no success.  Included are my wifi settings pictured, if there are any settings that prevent AX mode, let me know, however I've tried multiple security protocols as well as the transmit power/bandwidth/channels in both Router Mode and Access Point Mode.  I do believe that I am a casualty of a hardware version/firmware that is not allow me this option.  

  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  Thanks.

  @terziyski 

Thanks for the reply.  I am unfortunately not using the tether app, as its just a web browser, pointed at the tplinkwifi.net page via my mobile device wirelessly, as well as attempted hardwired via browser on a notebook.  There seems to be no option to change this feature in the settings with my V3 of the AX20 router (worst case scenario, I agree,firmware limitation). 

I believe I was incredibly unlucky receiving this newer model, as I ordered this, believing the AX or AC Only wireless mode option was available in all the articles I've read for the AX20 (which did NOT identify any model variances). 

The biggest difference that I've found between V3 and the models prior, is that V3 has dual processors, while the earlier, had quad, as well as possibly a chipset difference.  

Thanks again for everyones help, I can only hope TP-link will add this to the future, though I believe I'm likely going looking for other hardware options now