Synology RT6600ax Router Review Chapters Synology RT6600AX Review, ALL Parts - HERE Synology RT6600AX Review, Part 1, Unboxing & Design - HERE Synology RT6600AX Review, Part 2, Connections & Internal Hardware - HERE |
Why is the Synology RT6600ax Router’s use of the 5.9Ghz band such a big deal?
It is a valid question. Synology has talked a big game about their new RT6600ax supporting the 5.9Ghz band and 160Mhz channel support, but what do they mean in real terms to the end user? To get to grips with this, we first need to understand what prevented 5.9Ghz use till recently. Whenever we broadcast anything, it needs a way to get from point A to point B. When delivering goods, the mode of transportation is a truck. When delivering information, the mode of transportation is the airwaves. The same can be said of wireless radio frequencies and especially those that we now use in our homes every day for wireless internet/network connectivity.
Radio frequency is broken down into spectrums from 30 Hz to 300 GHz. Spectrums are further broken down into sections called bands. Governments regulate those bands and spectrums by allocating them for specific uses. For example, the 30-300 MHz spectrum is used for radio and television broadcasts. The extremely high frequency of 30-300 GHz is for stuff like radio astronomy and directed-energy weapons. The point of regulating frequencies is to make sure no band or spectrum is congested to the point of rendering it useless.
Currently, most Wi-Fi devices communicate using the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands. The lower bands deliver farther, whereas the higher band travels faster. That’s why there will need to be more transmitters for 5G cellphones, for example. For the past two decades, the entire 5.9 GHz spectrum (5.850-5.925) was reserved for intelligent transportation systems like C-V2X. Meaning, that only devices for transportation-related purposes have been allowed access to that spectrum. Now that most of the bands in that spectrum are accessible to devices like prosumer routers and the Synology RT6600ax is one of the first to take advantage of this, that is what makes this very special router indeed right now. 160Mhz frequencies are a factor here as this is the frequency when you will get the best performance out of WiFi 6 but until the 5.9Ghz band was opened up for use, it limited the range of shared bandwidth afforded to WiFi 6 and the total volume of 160Mhz frequency that could be used is increased (as well as the potential for increased smaller channels). Let’s discuss SRM 1.3 inside the RT6600ax router.
Synology RT6600ax Router Review – Software
The Synology RT6600ax arrives with SRM 1.3 (Synology Router Manager), the latest version of the brand’s popular router management system software. I don’t think it would be a tremendous overstatement to say that more than half of the price tag of the RT6600ax goes towards this software and, fair play to Synology, SRM is by FAR the best router management software that I have ever used. The brand has already produced one of the best NAS management platforms in the market in DSM and you can clearly see that ALOT of the logic, methodology and attention to the customer UX has been applied here. SRM has been around now for a good few years and despite my high praise, it is also worth highlighting that the platform has generally received fewer significant updates and feature improvements compared with DSM 6>6.1>7>7.1 in the same time frame (though regular security and database updates have been reliably constant).
Pretty much ALL routers arrive with a software GUI that you can access via your web browser (that includes your free IS router too) and from here you can manage the connections, security settings, ports and users on the system. So, what is it that makes Synology Router Manager any different? Well mainly, it is in how easy it is to comprehend the controls and the extent to which you can configure and customize the system to your own network needs. SRM 1.2 always had this and it would take a long time to go through the full range of services and features of SRM (which is why I made a FULL review of SRM 1.3 HERE that covers everything new and old) but for this review of the RT6600ax I will just focus on the new additions, as well as the standout features that continue to impress.
One of the new features of SRM 1.3 on the RT6600ax that arguably should have been there much, MUCH sooner was the option to create vLAN (i.e virtual networks) that can exist inside the router system for sub-networks that can be separated/connected as needed to the wider system network – such as for IP cameras, VOIP systems, or collected users in a single network. This is something that is more often associated with network switches than routers, but is still an available option on many premium router systems for a few years. There is also the means for priority of the incoming internet connection to go towards VOIP or IPTV services if needed.
vLANs were sadly not available in SRM 1.2 and it’s arrival in SRM 1.3 is very useful, but still massively overdue (see below). These virtual networks can be customized in several ways in their identity and address, but also can be bonded to a specific network interface (LAN) port, which is useful if you are going to attach a switch to one of these ports for connecting a bunch of other network devices. These virtual networks can also be attached to existing wireless SSIDs or even have a new SSID created specifically for that network.
Navigating the browser interface of SRM 1.3 is really, really easy and if you have ever used an operating system such as MAC OS, Windows or Android (which clearly you have if you are reading this!) then you will typically find that all the configuration and options for navigating SRM on the RT6600ax are exactly where you would expect them to be. Leaning ever so slightly more towards the Mac side of design and placement (Synology has always had a lot of Mac branding influence, even if their support and compatibility of services always seems to end up with Windows users first – blame Apple I guess), the main desktop can be changed in a few lite ways, as well as desktop shortcuts and additional applications can be downloaded and installed easily from the App Center.
As touched on earlier in the review, the USB port on your router is hugely useful to the SRM 1.3 platform, with it allowing use of several Synology NAS-generation applications that you can install in SRM that including File Station, Download Station, Media Server and more. Additionally, it is recommended that in order to fully utilize the database software to catalogue remote threats and potential intrusions, you have a USB drive installed to maintain those databases.
One key element of using SRM 1,3 and the RT600ax to their fullest extent is in how the system is deployed in your network environment. You can choose to deploy the router either as your primary internet access point or operate the system as your secondary router with another router/modem (such as one provided by your ISP in between.
If you use the RT600aX and SRM as a secondary later, a number of the security and network management features will be absent, but if used as the main management point for your internet connection, the full range of services will be available to customize. This configuration can be easily changed on the fly at any time.
The coverage and network connectivity of the three bands of wireless coverage of the RT6600ax can be monitored and adjusted very easily on the RT6600ax, with the extent of their maximum bandwidth and frequency changed easily.
When testing of the Synology RT6600ax router started, we decided to test the wireless 160Mhz WiFi connection with the Killer AX m.2 802.11ax adapter AND connect to the router via its 2.5Gps connection over wired LAN. Straight away, windows reported both connections as 2.4Gobs and 2.5Gos respectively. This still left ample wireless connectivity on the 80Mhz and 160Mhz bands to share and in both cases, we were able to fully saturate the ethernet connection with ease.
Of course, one of the biggest draws of the Synology Router systems is their support of intelligent profiles and management. Alongside the ability to create user profiles for all connected users, you can connect individual devices to those users and then spread access rules to be applied to that user’s devices easily and borderline instantaneously. This extends to creating website access rules, internet access rules that are shared between devices and preset rules that allow you to impose access conduct configurations in around 3 clicks that are tailored towards friends, family or professional colleagues.
Despite the usability and ease of use that SRM 1.3 brings in the RT6600ax, it is worth highlighting that, at least at the time of writing, mesh router support of this system in conjunction with existing MR2200ac mesh router systems is not supported until they roll out an SRM 1.3 update. Until then, you can only utilize mesh router deployment with the use of other RT6600ax routers, which is arguably less than ideal. This will no doubt be addressed soon, but for those looking at replacing the RT2600ac in their mesh system set up with an RT6600ax, it might be worth sitting on the fence a while longer.
NEWS UPDATE on Mesh Support on the Synology RT6600ax, MR2200ac and SRM 1.3
Synology has addressed questions regarding the timeline on SRM 1.3 for the MR2200ac and RT2600ac (enabling mesh support between their routers, currently not possible between SRM 1.2 and SRM 1.3 systems). Below is their current message on this:
While SRM 1.3 in the current phase will remain restricted to our newest router, we can now confirm that all the software advancements available on the RT6600ax will be made available for the RT2600ac and MR2200ac early in the third quarter of this year, when we stand to release the SRM 1.3.1 update. With the upcoming update, both the RT2600ac and the MR2200ac will support up to 5 VLANs and 5 associated Wi-Fi SSIDs, essentially allowing users to create separate wired and wireless networks for management or security purposes, and set up rules to allow conditional one or two-way traffic between these.
SRM 1.3.1 will also allow using several RT2600ac units as Wi-Fi access points as part of a mesh network. Previously, only MR2200ac units could be used with the RT2600ac to provide seamless Wi-Fi connections throughout larger buildings and spaces. Combinations of RT6600ax and RT2600ac/MR2200ac are also supported.
BBeata @betazzMay 11, 2022
I will continue to update this article where possible and make a follow-up video on mesh support in the RT6600ax / MR2200ac /RT2600ac when they all have SRM 1.3 available. SRM 1.3 is arguably not a huge upheaval from SRM 1.2 on the RT2600ac and MR2200ac, adding only a few extra features and tweaking the GUI. That said the improvements in Synology DS Router 2.0 for Android and iOS (as well as the utilities of SRM generally) result in by far the easiest to use router management software that I have ever used. For more information on the software and services included with SRM 1.3 on the RT6600ax router, I recommend that you read the massive FULL router manager software review below:
Synology Router Manager 1.3 Review Chapters
SRM 1.3 Synology Router Software Review, ALL Parts - HERE
SRM 1.3 Synology Router Software Review, Part 1, Design & Control - HERE
SRM 1.3 Synology Router Software Review, Part 2, Safety & Security - HERE
SRM 1.3 Synology Router Software Review, Part 3, Network Management - HERE
SRM 1.3 Synology Router Software Review, Part 4, Safe Access - HERE
SRM 1.3 Synology Router Software Review, Part 5, USB Storage Services & Conclusion - HERE
|
Alternatively, you can watch the FULL review of Synology’s SRM 1.3 Router Software on YouTube via the link below:
Synology RT6600ax Router Review – Review Conclusion
The Synology RT6600ax IS a very, very good router. So many users will never graduate from their ISP router and never understand the benefits of a premium solution, gauging the Synology RT6600ax as something of an indulgence. However, as WiFi 6 continue to rise in popularity, more client hardware arrives with 802.11ax support and adapters to upgrade towards AX wifi over PCIe and USB appear, the RT6600ax is something that family/business users are going to want to consider to monitor and customize their own networks. That said, although the hardware the RT6600ax arrives with is a big jump up compared with the RT2600ac and MR2200ac, the software is a tad less ambitious and given that SRM 1.2 will likely upgrade towards 1.3 on those legacy devices, the Synology RT6600a is less appealing as an immediate upgrade over the RT2600ac right now. Ultimately, if you were a first-time adopter of the Synology 6600ax router, you cannot fault the software and hardware right now and it more than justifies the price tag for its software alone. Add to that the increased bandwidth potential of 5.9Ghz and greater 160Mhz support and you are getting a tremendously future proof product. That said, if you are already an owner of the RT2600ac or an existing MR2200ax mesh router owner, you might find that recent improvements in virtual networks and SSID creation are not enough to justify the upgrade (unless you are already well into your WiFi 6 environment upgrade). The RT6600ax is EASILY the most powerful and capable router that Synology has ever produced and with great software to boot. Even if it is slightly overshadowed by WiFi 6E, it still stands tremendously proud in the existing prosumer router solutions in the market right now, despite its higher price tag.
| PROs of the Synology RT6600ax Router | CONs of the Synology RT6600ax Router |
| SRM is still top-notch and easily still one of the best (if not THE best) router software in the market in 2022
2.5GbE port for your WAN or a LAN excellent (shame there is only the one though) Huge degree of user profile and device clustering options to create an intelligently controlled by still user-friendly network LAN/WAN failover Support (including with a SIM Dongle or Phone tethering) USB Drive Support is treated exceptionally well with several Synology NAS class applications available vLAN is now available 5.9Ghz Band utilization adds a good degree of future-proofing to the device + more 160Mhz connections at one time The inbuilt threat prevention database deserves more credit/attention than it seems to I am ashamed to admit it, it is really easy on the eye! |
Mesh Support with MR2200ac still not available (planned for H2 2022)
5.9Ghz band use is good, but client hardware uptake is still early A single USB Port limits the use of both an External storage drive AND 2nd mobile SIM failover connection at once Quite expensive given more affordable WiFi 6 routers in the market and 6E making a name for itself |
If you are interested in Buying the Synology RT6600ax Router from Amazon, use the link below to help us keep making great content.
Synology RT6600ax Router Review Chapters Synology RT6600AX Review, ALL Parts - HERE Synology RT6600AX Review, Part 1, Unboxing & Design - HERE Synology RT6600AX Review, Part 2, Connections & Internal Hardware - HERE |
Alternatively, you can watch the FULL review of the Synology RT6600ax over on YouTube below:
🔒 Join Inner Circle
Get an alert every time something gets added to this specific article!
This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below
Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?
Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you.
Need Help?
Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry.
TRY CHAT
Terms and Conditions
|
 |
Aoostar WTR Max NAS - Should You Buy?
Xyber Hydra N150 NAS Review - Is This COOL?
Minisforum N5 Pro vs Aoostar WTR Max - The BIG Showdown
Do MORE with Your M.2 Slots - GREAT M.2 Adapters!
5 Top Tips for Content Creators Buying a NAS
Terramaster F4 SSD NAS - Should You Buy? (Short Review)
Access content via Patreon or KO-FI
Awesome review! A person at the Synologt Community posted this:
New RTR6600AX 1.3.1-9316 using Anker 4-port USB extension
Working with Huawei 4G dongle E3372
and Samsung USB Stick BAR Plus 256GB
Having speed 98 MB/sec or 5500 Mb/min
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
when I follower the instruction to create a Safe Browsing key, it returns invalid key
I did it 3 times and same result
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
can you remove the antenna
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
What an amazing review! Thank you for such great detail! Well done.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Seems like Synology missed a big opportunity to link the storage on the router to a NAS with some sort of one click easy setup but providing redundant storage. Connect the USB port to a NAS, and it sets up a volume for the router so you have resilient storage for threat protection etc.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
As for the single USB port, I wonder if a USB hub would work with it? Might solve the issue.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Mbps is not equivalent to MB/s (mega bits vs mega bytes). To convert you simply have to divide by 8, and you get 600Mbps -> 75MB/s, 4800Mbps -> 600MB/s, and 1200Mbps -> 150MB/s
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Awesome work dude!!! Love this breakdown!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great insight. The 1 USB port is annoying. Otherwise it’s tempting to move from Draytek Vigor routers (which also support Openreach connections).
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great insight. The 1 USB port is annoying. Otherwise it’s tempting to move from Draytek Vigor routers (which also support Openreach connections).
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does it have outbound firewall? To block malware from connecting back home?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I was wondering if VLAN will work for example when using Synology and Unifi AP. I presume at that point VLAN’s are setup on AP/Unifi?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Is there a chance you can make a step by step guide how to set up proper,secure,separate network for IoT devices please? Or direct to such guide if already exists? Thanks.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I can’t figure out why it doesn’t redirect to the custom block page or allow the access request when I try to visit sites in the block list. Any tips?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I’d be interested to see a video about the long term stability of SRM 1.3
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
hi, i hvae the 2600ac, don’t need wifi 6, but i really do need NAS, does 2600ac do NAS functions same as 6600 ? and also if i need NAS could i do so, if this 2600 is 2nd router, i guess an AP, after my cable router, connected LAN to LAN, thanks
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
does the 2600 support same NAS, as this 6600? or is 2600 only a Media Player? i need to save files to automatically to an external HD as a disaster recovery
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
FYI, As of Aug 24, 2022 (SRM Version: 1.3.1-9346) the RT6600AX now supports compatibility of mesh Wi-Fi system between RT6600ax, WRX560, RT2600ac, and MR2200ac.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I realize it would probably reduce performance on both fronts, but would any sort of USB hub / splitter be compatible, allowing you to use both a USB drive and mobile tethering or two USB drives?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I wish it had Directory server.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
to my surprise 1.3 SRM is still not an option when trying to upgrade the RT2600AC and MR2200AC using the automatic upgrade. However, if you go to the Synology download centre enter your current model number, and DSM version you can install the relevant PAT files manually. Long winded, but I now have 1.3 running on both devices.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Bought this off your recommendation and am a bit disappointed.. not being able to granularly set times for websites makes this unsatisfactory. This device is clearly capable of so much more…
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Hello… I have a concern about making ipv6 work on this router… I mention that the ISP assigned me a native address (the connection is made via PPPoE)…. I tried all the options to make it work and I didn’t succeed, but I still succeeded with 6to4, which doesn’t delight me. Is there any option to go in Native mode or is it a system problem? Thank you in advance.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
So … I just got one for our small business.
Long story: Our existing WiFi access point went out three years ago and it was situation critical to replace it. So I picked up the only cheap consumer AP they had at BestBuy and set it up. It worked. We used it the past 3 years. But lately I had difficulty adding clients as the AP was tapped out. So … I decided to give the RT6600ax a try based on my satisfaction with other Synology products.
Short story: We love it. It was easy to set up and provides a lot of both security and control.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
At one part in the video (https://youtu.be/rFwxKftbiuk?t=1166) you are talking about the USB port, cant you just plug in a usb hub and use multiple
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Do you have an opinion on the Linksys Hydra Pro 6E Tri Band mesh in comparison to the Synology rt 6600. Trying to decide between the two.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Trying to decide between this synolovy vs the ax86u/gt – ax6000…. Any comments? I can get the 86 for a 100 euros cheaper. I am rooting for the synolgogy given I have two syno NAS home with whome I been quite happy. I can get the 6000 for the same price as the synology.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
For this price you can build yourself a way better router with PFSense that has far more features and security.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Once again, an excellent review. Hats off and thank you.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
What would your best recommendation be as of end 2022?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Hey. Can you create a firewall rules set video for Synology RT6600AX , please, for main network connection. Great videos! Thnx in advance!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
There is no more Cloud Station (= Synology Drive) which was very useful from SRM1.2
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
There is no more Cloud Station (= Synology Drive) with rt6600ax which was very useful from previous model rt2200ac. No reviewers mentioned about it.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Very helpful! Do I understand you correctly that I can create multiple wireless networks (say 1 private and 1 for guests) and then assign Schedule and Content filtering to only one of those wireless networks? I assume devices connected to one network cannot see the devices connected to the other? I’m trying to find basically that exact feature to have a guest network for foster children in the home. Could I even assign a separate DNS server to those networks to implement parental controls with something like OpenDNS?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Dude this is all old and familiar features and ways to use their router. Most already know this. I thought this was going to be a video to point out the differences of the 6600 over the 2600. This video is mainly restating of stuff we already know
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
nice video! any recommendations on best type of external drive to use for NAS functionality? any way this would work with plex without lag etc?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Anyone have any idea on what you upgrade first? Have existing Mesh with 2600 and 2200 running SRM 1.2.
Do I Upgrade the 2600 first or the 2200 please? Surely upgrading the 2600 to 1.3 would render the 2200 unable to connect and incompatible?
Any help appreciated.. 🙂
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
They also removed features like wireless repeater mode and didn’t say nothing. That mode was one of the reasons I purchased the router and now you can’t go back to 1.2. Never again will I buy from Synology.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
21:50 You have this section labelled as “Safe Search”, I think it should be “Safe Access”.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
for what is the advanced option under wifi settings called key rotation?
it looks like some devices deconnect in the same interval as the time that is set in key rotation.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I think the MR2200’s connection issues are a 1.3 issue. Mine have been dropping off about once a week and I’m still on the 2600ac, not only that, but their light patterns have been behaving very strangely. Like they’re connected, but every now and then, the WiFi symbol will scroll the lights from bottom to top for 20min, and then go back to normal.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Be cool if it had a couple of m.2 nvme slots. Hopefully the next version does — this way USB can be used for non-storage applications.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Is it possible to add USB as network drive in windows using network.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
why steal FCC pics and pass them off as your own in your review? lmao
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
is there any apps like adblock that i can add to this router? that would make it an easy win!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Its “Rauuuteeer” written “router”…… “roooter” is what my friend does when he has one night stand
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
???? i pacchetti di ???? installazione, installazione ???? i pacchetti di installazione ???? sei proprio un co one ????
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Hi Rob. Ive been a subscriber for many years, your videos have helped me
to decide to buy many Synology nas units, my first being the ds212plus
my latest the ds1821plus. Like you I`m from the uk so I`m hoping you
can help me with a question I cant get my head around.
My internet currently comes from Plusnet with an adsl connection/router
that as you know comes down the standard phone line connector (via that splitter/filter).
This router has a single Cat5e cable connected to my Q-Nap QSW-M408C, then around the house
to all the pc`s nas etc with Cat5e or Cat6.
Plusnet have just offered me FTTP so I`m hoping to upgrade in September. And after watching
your video on the Synology RT6600ax with its Vlan feature I would love to buy this and setup
two Vlans, one for all my devices and the second separate Vlan for my Kids stuff.
(I do not want my Kids having access to my shared folders etc)
What I do understand is that once FTTP is installed this new connection is just a standard
Cat5 or Cat6 Cable that connects to the Wan socket on a router.
But what i`m not clear on is this:
Does the RT6600ax completely replace the Plusnet router?? and if your answer is yes, do I
need to setup into the Synology RT6600ax settings some sort of the old Plusnet/Connection
/account/username stuff like I had to with my Adsl router??
I assume Plusnet will send me a pre configured FTTP router and my Best guess would be I do not use
this Isp router at all. The Synology router will just connect to the internet in its place
without the older Plusnet/Connection/account/username etc settings. And then just leave me to setup
its DHCP, Lan, Vlan stuff myself?
The above might sound like a silly question but after spending a lifetime buying my own Dialup modems
(first modem was 9600, 14,4 then 28.8k) and then plenty of Netgear adsl routers over the years the one constant
headache was trying to get the correct login settings to work, since most normal people just used the
pre configured hardware.
I will appreciate any ideas yourself any anybody else has. Many Thanks F S
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great review thank you. Picking one up now 🙂
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Been using Asus routers for about a decade. Ordered this Synology rooter tonight to upgrade from my Asus Ac2900 and after watching this video I think I made a good choice.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Thanks for the comprehensive review. All the infomation I needed. I’d buy one in a heartbeat but until they support my exisitng Synolgy mesh I’ll have to wait.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great video … as usual. Based on your previous review of Synology’s RT6600ax, I recently bought one (yeah… tough to locate one in Spain) and have been THOUROUGHLY impressed. So my comments are really directed at both reviews. As I work my way through all the rich features of SRM 1.3, this deep dive has been wonderful and helped me close down a few missed security holes.
While the RT6600ax didn’t provide as good of a range boost over my ISP’s LiveBox 6+ as I hoped nor did it fix the intermittent service problems I have (which Orange tech support keeps claiming is how and where I have the router it installed), the control and security of SRM has more than made up for it. It is the proverbial light years ahead of what Orange offers in their residential router.
I know this is a review and comparison channel and less a “how to”. However, I’d love to see a more in-depth connection/setup/security video as I did have a little trouble trying to connect and set up the RT6600ax. Not Synology’s fault but the limitations introduced by my ISP and their router limitations. Initially, I was hoping I could connect it directly to the ONT but it seems I don’t have the technical wherewithal to figure that out. I hoped the LiveBox could be set up as a bridge, but that option is not immediately available. I then tried connecting to the LiveBox router and setting up as an Access Point. That sort of worked but was pissed that I couldn’t use all the features of SRM. I then tried connecting to the ISP’s router using the Wireless Router operating mode but, as to be expected, ran into double NAT issues. I finally had to set up a DMZ on my LiveBox and pointed it to the RT6600ax. This seems to work as I have not had problems so far. However, I am not yet sure if opening a DMZ is an inherent risk (I would love feedback on this option). However, one would assume using a router with firewall rules enabled in a DMZ is probably one of the safer options.
So my next comment is with regards to the Threat Prevention feature of SRM. To see the attacks and where your vulnerabilities lie is both a blessing and a curse. Of course, with my ISP’s router, there is nothing of this reporting. I guess the average person just assumes and accepts that they are safe behind the router provided the ISP… and maybe they are. However, when you can actually see the types of “Malicious Events” available in the Threat Prevention app (e.g. Network Trojans, Attempted Information Leaks), where they are coming from, and the intensity/frequency, I am left a little shell shocked and worried. It is like watching the news… the more bad things you see happening around you, the more anxiety and fear you feel. If I just play naive and ignore that there are bad elements out there, as happens with your ISPs router, I can just live happily in my little bubble and not worry about bad things until there is a problem. So, a more deep dive on how to handle the threat reporting in SRM and steps you can take to harden your system would be much appreciated.
So again, great video and if anyone has references, advice and help for points raised above, I would love to hear about it.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Has the WiFi MESH probelem/restriction been resolved? That is connectivity between the RT6600ax and the RT2600ac. If not, it’s a no way purchase for now.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
What about adding a USB 3 hub to overcome the limit of 1 port ? ????????????
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
My new rt6600ax refuses to go above 100Mbps download, and suggests (via popup in SRM) it may be the cable. My older router (which this one is supposed to replace) is getting nearly 500Mbps download on my 16″ macbook pro m1 ultra, and my synology NAS is showing around 940Mbps on ethernet (again, on the older router). But on the new 6600, my NAS via ethernet is maxing at around 94Mbps 🙁 Any ideas? Very frustrating.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
@NASCompares does it support USB hubs?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
That network/port overview that is missing, would be great as a widget. That way when you go to the router address it is imediatly visible
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Hi there,
Thanks a lot. So after your review i bought the RT6600ax. So now i need to upgrade my home network to manage and separate my iot network (home assistant, cam, aquara, shelly, etc.) from my home / work network. Can you help on guiding me to choose a switch (i guess it will be managed) and give so hints on configuration (both the router & the switch). Maybe i should add that today y network is build on the RT2600 plus 2 MR2200 because of concrete.
Philippe
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does the dns package support local network dns entries? I currently use ddwrt and have local dns records configured for a few server IPs…that way my desktop and mobile clients can connect to files and emails using those fqdn names locally
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does the dns package support local network dns entries? I currently use ddwrt and have local dns records configured for a few server IPs…that way my desktop and mobile clients can connect to files and emails using those fqdn names locally
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Generally, how do you like the Synology router / NAS vs the Asus router / NAS? (Assuming similar level NAS of course.)
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
“ROW-tah”
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
The biggest flaw in synology product line – its not complete. No switches. No PoE. this router show again cheap plastic 4 port ethernet on the back. There is no way to build even small size home network with just router. They should add two 12/24 port switches, with/without PoE and SFP support running the same software. together with NAS they can have a good solution
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Can you restore a RT2600 configuration onto the RT6600?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great review – thank you. What wireless adapter did you use on your laptop for testing this?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does it allow link aggregation of 2 x GE ports to Synology series like DS720+ or DS920+?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Please share the wallpaper haha
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Please share the wallpaper haha
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Finally, finally, finally! I love your reviews.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Ill agree to a Great rewiew, and you have mentioned a lot of things which are really helpfull (not for me) but for other sure.
What i want to comment on, is your surprise that the RT6600ax comes with the SRM 1.3 and the older devices are still SRM 1.2, well this is what synology was presenting from the “Day One” when the RT6600 was presented by end of 2021 so no surprise for me here, the SRM 1.3 for the RT2600 and MR2200 will be or according to synology should be in June so we need to wait for this one as well.
What im glad and really glad that the support for the MR2200 and the mesh is there, and also with another RT6600, which you cannot do with a RT2600 so a huge step forward i like, AAAANND well if you do a MESH then you will have TWO USB ???? Ports, the question is if the can be used but i think this is an alternative for those who will be having a MESH network.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
50 minutes of bobbing and weaving.. What’s the difference between 1.2 and 1.3 …. None of that was even touched on.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Amazing review. Thanks a lot for your effort. It’s almost like we’re dealing with a Nas Station here. In terms of user experience anyway. I think if they added Plex, a lot of basic users wouldn’t have bought a Nas Station anymore, so I think is is a selling strategy here. Anyway, great review, I am considering buying an unit after watching your video. Well done mate! Keep up the good work!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Looks fantastic. As mentioned previously, I am using a net gear R9000 which to be fair has been working brilliantly. I flashed it with DDWRT recently using my iPad Pro, it took an absolute age to login but finally it worked. I am registered as a blind person but enjoy fiddling around with technology. I am waiting for your video next week for The router shootout vid but, am quite taken with the RTÉ 6600.
Thank you for all of your videos they are very helpful
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Synology does produce nice devices but it’s all fine when you have warranty. When it’s over and your device will stop working, synology won’t repair it even if you could just pair for the repair. They just dont give a f**k. Think twice before you buy an synology router.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
This looks like an unboxing, not an actual review. You’re holding a device that is capable of sophisticated beam-forming, but we don’t have any speed tests / comparisons / ping results for a typical wood-frame house for example. I like the new features, but I was really into that I’d just set up a pfSense box, or a UDM pro. Why would I buy this thing instead of a cheaper WiFi6 AP/router? Why would I buy it instead of a UDM pro + AP? I had an ac2200 before and I returned it, because SRM is a far cry from DSM, and here they are cramming features into a device with just 1GB of RAM. If you’re saying that it strikes the perfect balance, I’d like to see come figures proving that. Otherwise the video should be titled either “unboxing” or “first impressions”.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Would be nice if a usb hub worked with it.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does this router support VIP?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I just want to know if I connect a 2.5GB NAS to that 2.5GB LAN port of the Synology, I get speeds between the NAS and the client above 1GB over WIFI6E, thanks.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
too long and boring
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
When the videos get this long ( which I do very much appreciate ), I head straight to the conclusion. If you conclusion is positive, I generally go back to the beginning. That’s what I’m doing here. Your opinion at the end is exactly what some of us need. I currently have an RT2600ac but now I will buy a new 6600 model and use the 2600 as an access point in the upstairs of my home. Many thanks for all of the time that you put into these reviews.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Didn’t need the chapters. Watched straight thru. Great video.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Is RT6600ax prepaired for the new homeautomation standard Matter? Is that nessasary?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Is it possible to create “Web Filter” on a schedule? For example from 4PM to 8PM can be a “homework” time slot where only allowed whitelisted websites are available?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
That’s for a great review. Worth watching it all. Look forward to future videos on this router.
Three questions; Do you think Synology will release a WiFi 6 upgrade to the MR2200ac? Maybe an MR6600ax?
Also, can devices be assigned a frequency? Orbi takes control of that an many times connects 5GHz devices (like FireTV) to 2.4GHz when only in the next room. ????????♂️
Lastly, I’m sure the answer is yes, but I didn’t see it covered, can you assign static IP’s or reserve IP’s for devices?
Thanks again! I really love the ability to create a VLAN that merges with an SSID to isolate my IoT.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
The usual lan limitation of all router you have only one 2.5gbe port. Now a router should have at least one 2.5 gbe (Better 5gbe as in Italy a phone company started to sell a FTTH 5gbe fiber connection at a good price in selected city) wan AND one 2.5 lan port (better 5gbe) and let a multi-g switch to manage the signal. Also it should manage analog phone otherwise we must pay for the router that provider offer
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Very interesting review so thank you. You say you will be reviewing the Asus RT AX series….will you be doing this one?
ASUS RT-AX89X 12-Stream AX6000 Dual Band Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax Router
Cheers
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I think I will wait for Asus Gt axe 16000
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Felicidades, es un buen ejemplo.
250 sentadillas son unos 4.FO/L-J27g1 muchas y un buen ejercicio.
5:25 Se deja ver que hay muy buenos resultados ????????
Saludos desde la Cd.. de world ????????????
los mortales abian apreciado tan hermosa mujer.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Can you restrict wifi at the same way as with lan regarding to IOT? A vlan video would be nice if you did here to.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Usb hub?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Hey
Thanks so much for this very informative Video! 2 Questions though:
1. Can you connect the router to a VPN, so your whole home internet traffic is secure? If so, what VPNs can be used?
2. As some might know, wireguard is a very simple, fast and secure VPN solution. Is it possible to run wireguard as a server or as a client on this router? If there’s a option to install packages, really one should be able to potentially develop or manually install the option for wireguard as a client and perhaps even as a wireguard VPN server…..
Many thanks!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does this support a wired backhaul for a mesh with two of these systems?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great review – thank you. Is there any way to limit the internet bandwidth available to a specific user / device or IP range? I usually allocate only 80% of the available internet bandwidth to make sure that no single user or device hogs all the bandwidth and that my downloads always have bandwidth available without impacting anyone else.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Nice review, but with no mesh, WiFi 6e, or 10Gbe, it’s a solid pass at this price.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great review! I hate seagulls… Look at my stupid face… and last but not least, the dogs Dangleys… You crack me up!! Nice Router!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Loved my 2600ac and as a Parent it allowed me to easily be a truly evil bastard cutting off internet to all my sons devices when he was in trouble and at bedtime with a schedule 😉
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
@NASCompares Did they drop the SD card slot as well as the 1 USB that you talk about?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Another Synology hardware fail… wake me up when they get their sh1t together.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Thank you for this review. I didn’t know that buying this one to replace RT2600 would render my 2200 MESH obsolete until SRM1.3 support. Just saved me a lot of money.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
There is amateur radio within the 5.9ghz band.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/5-centimeter_band
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does Synology sponsor you? It seems you are very keen on Synology products. It made me think twice and wonder if you were sponsored nice shirt ????
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
About the USB port thing: while an extra cost, sure, is it possible to purchase a little USB hub, plug that in, and then plug multiple HDDs, a 4G dongle, etc.?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Ecellent review! Really appreciate the time you put into this!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
shit router+with standarts at stonetime….no 10 gb is a …….for this bugs i buy 3 asus with the same outdatet shit…lol…
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
.. a long video
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Why would you want to mesh a WiFi 5 Router with the new RT6600ax?? Surely the idea wuld be to wait for their (Probably in development mesh) device?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Awesome review!!
Btw, Rooter is a great drinking game. Cheers!!
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I have a Net Gear r9000 x10, do you think this rt6600 would be a good upgrade? R9000 has started dropping Wi-Fi and kicking me out of plex, on paper they seem to have similar specs, although net gear have tried to kill the router with firmware numerous times.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I still have a Dislike button on an iPad Pro 12.9. What’s missing is the counter on the dislike button.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Will there be a chance that Synology will finally support HomeKit Secure Router in the near future?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Great video. Btw, note that 3G/4G dogles are at EOL support by SRM (as per the Synology Compatibility List) so I am not sure how viable alternative one has for a backup WAN connection.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Just wondering. The new software disabled support for 4G dongle. But I noticed in your video around minute 31.45 that there is a mobile network section in the settings.
I hope I can use my SIM with dongle. Been wanting to switch to Synology router for the longest time but couldn’t due to the poor support for SIM card.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
It would be wiser to divide a video this long into many videos, it would make you more revenue and get you more views.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
I swear you’re worst than the seagulls ????????
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
oh been waiting for a week for this, just got ds920+ from 415+ now thinking time to upgrade the wifi mesh
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Thanks for the thorough review but this is too little too late from Synology as an existing customer… I welcome SRM 1.3 VLAN and multiple SSID but these were promised and should have been out several years ago however they stalled SRM development to focus on DSM7. It has left a really sour taste in my mouth as I invested heavily with RT2600ac and 2x MR2200ac (along with multiple NAS) but have had to relegate the RT2600ac to just doing WiFi as an access point because of all bugs and the lack of development. I’m now using a PFsense router which is far more stable and has had better features, scalability and resilience for years. I’ll look at SRM 1.3 when it lands for my existing devices but when it is time to upgrade my mesh WiFi hardware I have no loyalty to Synology or confidence in their support for their network devices so i’ll be looking at other offerings.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
300USD! The Unifi DreamRouter at 200USD just killed it before it even was launched.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
32:41 when you said “I just had to kill..” I thought the seagulls? 😀
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Robbie, you mentioned that it does not pair with the current RT2200 routers for meshing? Only in RSM 1.3? When will that be released?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
It looks like it is supposed to be a hat for one of Sauron’s underlings.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Indeed. About bloody time. Been waiting for this review for a dog’s age.
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Please do a Asus rt-ax86u vs Synology rt6600ax review please please
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Can one not connect an expansion USB device…IE: multi port dongle?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
Does it come with anti-seagull radiation features?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
That seagull was probably after your chips…????
REPLY ON YOUTUBE
What do you think of the Orbi’s?
REPLY ON YOUTUBE