[AiMesh] What is Ethernet Backhaul Mode/Backhaul Connection Priority in AiMesh System and how to set up in different scenarios?
To provide you more detailed instruction, you can also click ASUS Youtube video link below to know more about how to set up Ethernet Backhaul Mode/Backhaul Connection Priority in AiMesh System
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPeyu_iWUvc
[Note] The features mentioned in this FAQ will be supported in firmware version later than 386.xxxx.
If you prefer using wired connection for your AiMesh system, you can enable “Ethernet Backhaul Mode” in ASUSWRT to connect your main router and the node(s). Under Ethernet Backhaul Mode, you are able to release more wireless bandwidth for end devices to connect.
- Where to find this feature?
ASUSWRT GUI(Web) -> AiMesh -> System Settings -> Ethernet Backhaul Mode
To be more flexible, we offer another option for your AiMesh backhaul connection by setting up “Backhaul Connection Priority” for each node based on your real-world condition. Both wireless and wired backhaul connection can be dynamically used at the same time within your system. You can select your preferred connection based on your replacement. Check on more details below.
- Where to find this feature?
ASUSWRT GUI(Web) -> AiMesh -> Topology -> Select the AiMesh RE (1)-> Management (2) -> Backhaul Connection Priority (3)
Basic Setup: General Ethernet backhaul setup, please refer to the following FAQ:
https://www.asus.com/support/FAQ/1035140/
Advanced Setup
Case 1: I preferred using all wired connection in my AiMesh system
In this case, if your environment is suitable for all wired connection, you can enable Ethernet Backhaul Mode to release more wireless bandwidth for clients.
NOTE: Please make sure you have used an Ethernet cable to connect your node(s) to your router or another node to create a wired backhaul connection before enabling Ethernet Backhaul Mode.
Please follow below steps:
1. Go to Web GUI-> AiMesh -> System Settings
2. Turn on Ethernet Backhaul Mode
To make sure a good connection for your AiMesh system, please make sure you have connected all the node(s) to the uplink AP with Ethernet cable(s). Otherwise, your node(s) might lose its uplink connection.
3. Go to "Wireless" page to change your Wi-Fi network settings if needed.
Note: If your AiMesh main router is a tri-band model, you will see the 5G-2 band, used to be a dedicated backhaul by default, has been opened to end devices.
- [Smart Connect Enabled]
- [Smart Connect disabled]
Case 2: I prefer using both of wired and wireless backhaul connections in my AiMesh system
In this case, you can set up a preferable backhaul connection by each node. For those node(s) with Ethernet connection, you can select “1G/2.5G/10G base-T/10G SFP+/Powerline WAN First” as its Backhaul Connection Priority. For those node(s) with wireless connection, you can still select “1G/2.5G/10G base-T/10G SFP+/Powerline WAN First", just in case you want to use both dynamically. When it’s wired connected, Ethernet backhaul will be prioritized.
Setting up Backhaul Connection Priority for each node, please follow the steps below:
1. Go to AiMesh page and choose the node you’d like to configure
ASUSWRT GUI(Web) -> AiMesh -> Topology -> Select the AiMesh RE (1)-> Management (2) -> Backhaul Connection Priority (3)
2. Switch to "Management" page and change Backhaul Connection Priority from "Auto"to "1G/2.5G/10G base-T/10G SFP+/Powerline WAN First".
Ethernet first: The system will prioritize Ethernet connection. It will switch to wireless backhaul when Ethernet connection is no longer available.
Auto: The system will adapt the connection type between wired or wireless based on the current connection quality status.
How to get the (Utility / Firmware)?
You can download the latest drivers, software, firmware and user manuals in the ASUS Download Center.(LINK)
If you need more information about the ASUS Download Center, please refer to this link.
