Synology WRX560 Router Review – Premium Networking?
The importance of a competent router in your home or business environment has never been more pertinent than RIGHT NOW! Finding that sweet spot for your internet access needs of high bandwidth, ease of access, yet secure and multi-layered is a terrifically difficult middle ground to achieve. Alongside this, the less technical savvy user doesn’t want to spend their days learning the intricacies of firewalls, port forwarding, encrypted authentication processes and micro-managing the privileges of their client user base. Synology’s range of routers first arrived on the scene back in 2015 and in the years since has evolved into a decent range of solutions, all of which have been designed to make the arguably complex and technical subject of router management much, much easier. Still, we ARE talking about a premium/paid router solution when most users can get a free router/basic-modem from their internet service provider (ISP) with their data plan – so in today’s review of the Synology WRX560 Router, we need to answer three main questions, 1) How does this router stack against the average free domestic ISP Router, 2) What advantages does this solution provide to the end user that cannot be found elsewhere, and 3) How does the WRX560 compare with other routers in the Synology device lineup right now? Let’s take a closer look at this new WiFi 6 and 2.5GbE-equipped router and see if it deserves your data!
Note – This review makes numerous references to other Synology Routers that are currently available. You can find my review of these in the links below:
Synology WRX560 Router Review – Quick Conclusion
The Synology WRX560 is definitely a good router and one that is dripping in the charm, design and user-friendly software presentation that Synology has been committed to since their very first router. In the brand’s efforts to create its perfect eco-system (where is the Synology switch?), the WRX560 alongside the earlier 2022 released RT6600ax makes alot of sense. It is designed to expand the coverage and services that are available to Synology users, as well as make the overly complex subject of network and wifi management into something genuinely intuitive, accessible and easy for the average consumer. There is only so-far that you can take this (make it too simple and you run the risk of an insecure or inefficient network), but SRM is arguably as close as it gets to a perfect world for this. The hardware is reasonable, though a little lacking behind recent releases at a similar price point such as the Google Nest Pro with WiFi 6E rolled out this same week, but WiFi 6E and 6Ghz utilization still remains at a low %. I started the review of the Synology WRX560 with three questions.
How does this router stack against the average free domestic ISP Router? In terms of price, it is a big ask for many low-level users and those who just want an easy internet gateway. However, in practically every other way it is vastly superior, with WiFi 6, 2.5Gbs and the incredibly SRM platform included. Domestic/ISP routers are starting to edge fractionally closer to including some of these services, but to a significantly lower level. But they are still a long, LONG way away from this level of usability and control with such ease.
What advantages does this solution provide to the end user that cannot be found elsewhere? In short, features like the support if 5.9Ghz allowing a greater number of higher performing 160Mhz connections, all the features and services of SRM, additional optional NAS Apps, entry-level NAS style storage services and just an inarguably level of control of your home network and security of client users. There is simply no software platform that brings all this other than Synology right now. The hardware seems a touch too ‘safe’ and ‘standard’, but the software, services and bandwidth management is unparalleled.
How does the WRX560 compare with other routers in the Synology device lineup right now?
THIS is something that, right now, is a little tougher to answer. The launch price of the WRX560 is at a level that puts it a tad too close to that of the significantly more hardware/bandwidth capable RT6600ax (which has benefitted from more time in the market and a price tag floating around the £260-270 market at the time of writing. Down the line, as the pricing for the WRX560 distances itself inevitably from the RRP, this should resolve itself over time. But right now at launch, you can get the RT6600ax (with the same software and better hardware) for just a small extra quid versus that of the WRX560 Router.
Overall, the Synology WRX560 Router is a solid price kit that might have benefitted from being released BEFORE the RT6600ax companion router, but still a great piece of kit that is a fraction diminished by tough hardware choices (USB/2.5G).
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Synology WRX560 Router Review – Presentation
The retail box of the Synology WRX560 Router is pretty standard stuff from Synology, arriving in a standard recycled cardboard container with a system-branded label, but also the retail box is printed with WRX560 specific details of the router’s capabilities and hardware specifications. All fairly standard stuff and slightly more detail than the average Synology product, as this item is a little more likely to make it to a physical retail shelf than the rest of their portfolio.
The inside of the retail box is a fraction different than the previous Synology router range (and indeed most other routers on the market) that arrive with that ‘egg carton’ style pulped cardboard-shaped inner layer, instead favouring a much more layered panel design. Obviously, the router itself takes up the lion’s share of the space, arriving in a paper fabric Synology branded cover. Synology has (in both their NAS and routers) always been quite ‘aware’ of maintaining a brand image and design in both the internal and external of their products and the WRX560 router is no exception to this. I am not going to say that the packaging we are seeing here is massively protective (if you compared it with their larger NAS systems), but this is quite a robust router casing and I think we can let it slide on this one this time.
The included accessories are quite small in number, with the retail box arriving with the WRX560 router, setup instructions, 2-year warranty information, an external 36W PSU (with regional mains adapter changing clip – only UK was included in my version but the appropriate clip will arrive if you purchase ‘in-country’) and a 1M Cat 5e RJ45 LAN cable. This is pretty much everything you are going to need (most other routers, including ISP routers, only supply a single LAN cable and if you purchase any RJ45-equipped client hardware, it will have its own cable) and therefore the result is the WRX560 being a small but low waste retail kit that I imagine is pretty high in the recycle/sustainability stakes generally.
That’s really it for the retail kit of the WRX560. Setup is done with via a PC/Mac desktop system via the web browser (free Synology Assistant client software is an option) or using an iOS or Android device with the Synology DS Router application, so there is no inclusive driver software needed. A small but competent selection of hardware. Let’s discuss the design of the Synology WRX560 Router.
Synology WRX560 Router Review – Design
The physical design of the Synology WRX560 is…well… it is quite a bit different than the rest of the Synology Routers that we have seen over the last 5+ years. Unlike the Synology RT1900ac, RT2600ac and RT6600ac routers that were a lot more horizontal in their design and featured external antennae, the WRX560 is a great deal more vertical, like the MR2200ac. However, even then, Synology went a little bit rough on the aesthetics and shape and make something that looks like a Synology re-imagining of a traditional tall home ISP router – whilst keeping that slick Synology design. That said, I cannot shake the thought that it looks like the current generation of stormtrooper helmets. Not a bad thing, just something I am now unable to shake from my mind.
When information on the Synology WRX560 Router arrived, the very first thing that struck me was that although the general colour, casing flourishes and overall brand aesthetic was in line with the rest of the Synology Router line-up, it did look quite large. When I finally got my hands on it, that turned out to be very true! Arriving at 233 mm x 194 mm x 66 mm in size, that makes it noticeable larger than the rather modest scale MR2200ac WiFi 5 mesh router. This is almost certainly so that the 2T2R + 4T4R high-gain dipole (2.4 GHz/5 GHz) antennae inside are spaced out as much as possible, at the corners of the system. The Synology branding is unavoidable though and overall, I do like the design. That said, I am not a big fan of the name, with the bulk of Synology’s routers having the ‘RT’ prefix, there were moments in early leaks/appearances of this system when it had the name ‘RT3000ax’, which makes ALOT more sense in line with the portfolio (i.e 3000 = 2400Mb and 600Mb across the 5/2.4Ghz bands). The name WRX560 seems like an odd gear shift that, although I am sure makes sense in line with a newer naming convention, seems odd after the recent RT6600ax router being released in Summer 2022.
Ventilation across the whole system is as good as you would expect. The Synology WRX560, like most routers, has no active internal cooling (fan etc) and therefore in order to maintain a good level of system ambient temperature (i.e low temp = better running), as much passive ventilation as possible is required. You can see this on all sides of the device (alongside the 30W PSU being external). That said, the fact that you cannot wall mount the WRX560 is a bit of a shame. Although this device can DEFINITELY be used as a standalone router, I think it is most likely that it will become a valuable mesh point to existing RT6600ax Router users, allowing considerably better coverage over large areas AND WiFi 6/5.9Ghz radio space coverage in all areas.
However, the size of the WRX560 means that it is going to take up a noticeable chunk of space on a desk/shelf and therefore wall mounting would have been beneficial for less noticeably deployment AND improving coverage in areas that are structured more vertically. It really is a minor complaint in the grand scheme of things, but it is something that will bother some users who will want to phase out the MR2200acs in their home/business.
Here is how the Synology WRX560 Router stacks up in size and design next to the RT6600ax premium router and the Synology MR2200ac mesh router device:
It does stand out a bit, doesn’t it! You cannot fault the design quality and no doubt the benefits on coverage with the system spreading out the internal antenna (which are fed into separate Qualcomm controller blocks), but you might need to make a little more room on the shelf for this one. Next, let’s discuss the new and largely exclusive 5.9Ghz radio frequency support available in the WRX560 router and why this is something to care about.
Why is the Synology WRX560 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 and WRX560 routers 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.
Radiofrequency 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 WRX560 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 move away from the subject of wireless connectivity and onto the physical ports and connections of the WRX560.
Synology WRX560 Router Review – Ports & Connections
The connectivity of the Synology WRX560 is near enough identical to the Synology RT6600ax premium model. That is (for the most part) very good news indeed, as there is the expected range of client connections available, as well as a greater than gigabit option and USB storage support that (thanks to Synology’s NAS pedigree) is virtually unparallel when compared to other prosumers in the market.
The WAN connection is a standard 1GbE (Gigabit RJ45 Copper) connection. The system can be used as your primary router (if your in-house internet connection feeds into a wall box with Cat RJ45 connectivity) or behind an existing router (ISP, etc). Additionally, the system has auto failover support built into SRM that can be configured in quite a few ways when used in conjunction with a mobile device with a SIM or via a 2nd Copper-connected internet connection via LAN/WAN port 1. However, there is something we do need to discuss…
Yes, that 2.5GbE Port. This is the optional WAN/LAN connection that can be used for an existing greater than a gigabit internet connection, or to a 2.5Gbps or greater device (client end-user hardware, switch, NAS, etc) to allow a potential 270MB/s (not megabit) or so bandwidth. Great stuff, right? Well, as pleased as I was when Synology embraced 2.5G on their routers, the fact it is only a single port is a little disappointing. This means that IF you use it for a greater than Gigabit internet connection, there is no additional comparable bandwidth port to get that full speed on the network. It DOES allow the larger internet connection to be more fully enjoyed across multiple 1GbE/109MB/s bandwidth devices (i.e more to go around), but many users who pay for more expensive high bandwidth internet connections like this like a primary device (gaming machine, NAS, network switch) to receive the full benefits. Only having 1x 2.5GbE results in the end user being forced to choose between high-speed internet getting shared, of a single client device to benefit – not both. This is a small % of users of course, but still something of an annoyance for some and one that was raised numerous times in the RT6600ax review video in the comments.
The side of the Synology WRX560 Router reveals a few extra interfaces. There is an auto connection WPS button (quite common, but handy), a WiFi on/off switch (10x easier than logging in via the GUI to configure on the fly) and a USB port. This port can be used for a cellular (SIM/LTE) connected internet device as a primary/failover connection (very useful – here is a demo of how that works in practice), but for anyone that has followed Synology over the years, it will be good to know that the USB storage support on this port is 10/10. Several Synology applications are supported on the system (more on those later) that genuinely bring an element of NAS-level storage access in presentation and services to the WRX560 – compared with the FTP/Samba/Breadcrumb level of storage access that 99% of other routers bring when adding storage. The port is USB 3.2 Gen 1 (so 5Gb/s or 500MB/s+ bandwidth available), but this is still perfectly fine for storage, unless you are considering external m.2 NVMe SSDs or RAID-equipped external USB storage here – whereupon I would always recommend a standalone NAS anyway).
It is something of a shame that there is only a single USB Port, not even an additional USB 2.0 port. As (much like the single 2.5Gb/s port) this means the end user is once again forced to make a choice when considering a USB storage device or USB-connected internet service for failover.
Additionally, several of the SRM applications are dependent on a storage drive target, so this might hamper some of the more business-led optional applications alongside that failover cellular internet connection. Again, a very niche scenario, but definitely something that more enterprising users are going to spot. However, let’s discuss the big one – SRM (Synology Router Manager). The software that the WRX560 arrives with is (arguably) one of the MAIN reasons that people buy Synology products.
Synology WRX560 Router Review – Software
At the time of writing, the Synology WRX560 arrives with SRM 1.3 (Synology Router Manager), the latest version of the brand’s popular router management system software. Note – the images and services below are a mixture of WRX560 and RT6600ax, but the software on each is identical and unless you plan on taking advantage of the tri-band architecture of the RT6600ax, the user experience is largely the same. I don’t think it would be a tremendous overstatement to say that more than half of the price tag of the WRX560 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 WRX560 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 WRX560 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 WRX560 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 WRX560 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 WRX560 and SRM as a secondary layer, 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 WRX560 can be monitored and adjusted very easily on the WRX560, with the extent of their maximum bandwidth and frequency changed easily.
When testing of the Synology WRX560 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 2.4Gbs and 2.5Gbs 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.
Learn a great deal more about Synology Router Manager in my five-part dedicated series 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
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Alternatively, you can watch the FULL review of Synology’s SRM 1.3 Router Software on YouTube via the link below:
Synology WRX560 Router Review – Review Conclusion
The Synology WRX560 is definitely a good router and one that is dripping in the charm, design and user-friendly software presentation that Synology has been committed to since their very first router. In the brand’s efforts to create its perfect eco-system (where is the Synology switch?), the WRX560 alongside the earlier 2022 released RT6600ax makes alot of sense. It is designed to expand the coverage and services that are available to Synology users, as well as make the overly complex subject of network and wifi management into something genuinely intuitive, accessible and easy for the average consumer. There is only so-far that you can take this (make it too simple and you run the risk of an insecure or inefficient network), but SRM is arguably as close as it gets to a perfect world for this. The hardware is reasonable, though a little lacking behind recent releases at a similar price point such as the Google Nest Pro with WiFi 6E rolled out this same week, but WiFi 6E and 6Ghz utilization still remains at a low %. I started the review of the Synology WRX560 with three questions.
How does this router stack against the average free domestic ISP Router? In terms of price, it is a big ask for many low-level users and those who just want an easy internet gateway. However, in practically every other way it is vastly superior, with WiFi 6, 2.5Gbs and the incredibly SRM platform included. Domestic/ISP routers are starting to edge fractionally closer to including some of these services, but to a significantly lower level. But they are still a long, LONG way away from this level of usability and control with such ease.
What advantages does this solution provide to the end user that cannot be found elsewhere? In short, features like the support if 5.9Ghz allowing a greater number of higher performing 160Mhz connections, all the features and services of SRM, additional optional NAS Apps, entry-level NAS style storage services and just an inarguably level of control of your home network and security of client users. There is simply no software platform that brings all this other than Synology right now. The hardware seems a touch too ‘safe’ and ‘standard’, but the software, services and bandwidth management is unparalleled.
How does the WRX560 compare with other routers in the Synology device lineup right now?
THIS is something that, right now, is a little tougher to answer. The launch price of the WRX560 is at a level that puts it a tad too close to that of the significantly more hardware/bandwidth capable RT6600ax (which has benefitted from more time in the market and a price tag floating around the £260-270 market at the time of writing. Down the line, as the pricing for the WRX560 distances itself inevitably from the RRP, this should resolve itself over time. But right now at launch, you can get the RT6600ax (with the same software and better hardware) for just a small extra quid versus that of the WRX560 Router.
Overall, the Synology WRX560 Router is a solid price kit that might have benefitted from being released BEFORE the RT6600ax companion router, but still a great piece of kit that is a fraction diminished by tough hardware choices (USB/2.5G).
| PROs of the Synology WRX560 Router | CONs of the Synology WRX560 Router |
| SRM is still top-notch and easily still one of the best (if not THE best) router software in the market in 2022
The Support of 5.9Ghz Radio Frequency sets this ahead of ALOT of routers right now in terms of maximum bandwidth possible 2.5GbE port for your WAN or a LAN excellent A huge degree of user profile and device clustering options to create an intelligently controlled but 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 The inbuilt threat prevention database deserves more credit/attention than it seems to Synology Safe Access – Solid 10/10 Service! |
A single USB Port limits the use of both an External storage drive AND 2nd mobile SIM failover connection at once
A single 2.5GbE port is a shame Quite large compared with many other Synology Routers Quite expensive given more affordable WiFi 6 routers in the market and 6E making a name for itself, as well as the price point being alot closer to that of the RT6600ax right now |
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What an amazing review! Thank you for such great detail! Well done.
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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.
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I really love Synology’s UI. Similar to my NAS. I wonder if the MR2200ac mesh system will be compatible with Wifi-7 or if you need a Wifi-7 version to be able to use Wifi-7 features. I suspect the latter. I guess I’ll wait for Wifi-7 release to get one.
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I’m considering getting this to upgrade my current Asus AC68U. However, does this have lifetime protection like on the latter? Something similar to Asus AiProtection by Trend Micro?
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There is a company named ” Mr. Rooter Plumbing,” and it’s all about plumbing. A ” Rooter ” is A device for boring a pathway through a blocked drain or sewer. A Router (raw-uter) is a network device that routes traffic. Mate, you can do it! I know you can do it! Say it right. It won’t hurt. If you say it right it will rain 60 days and 60 nights in the UK I promise you.
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As for the single USB port, I wonder if a USB hub would work with it? Might solve the issue.
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Thanks for you work, but can you tell for the regular user if it will be relevant for me to spend much money for the expensive modem or it will be enough to use MR2200ac Mesh? 🙂
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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
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To clarify, in the UK the word “rout” and “route” have different meanings and pronunciations. “Rout” meaning to remove or defeat overwhelmingly, “route” meaning to direct or directions. I use the woodworking machine “router” and the network equipment, so I end up using both but in specific contexts. They are after all, different words.
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Awesome work dude!!! Love this breakdown!
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Great insight. The 1 USB port is annoying. Otherwise it’s tempting to move from Draytek Vigor routers (which also support Openreach connections).
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Would the failover work with 2 internet connections (ethernet 1 and ethernet 2)? Does the router support Openreach connections (without needing WAN port).
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Haha “rowter” “rooter” “mowse” “moase” I love it!
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Does it have outbound firewall? To block malware from connecting back home?
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You can create outbound and inbound rules.
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?
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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.
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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?
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When setting up mesh nodes, what’s the preferred setting: AP or Router?
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I’d be interested to see a video about the long term stability of SRM 1.3
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Isn’t a wifi network using standard AP’s (wired, same sidd) the same thing as a wifi mesh (wired, same sidd) network? In 2009 i tested a “mesh” network concept using linksys AP’s that were wired to the network and the sidd name was the same. This setup was spread out over 52 square miles. I would drive around and watch my laptop connect to each AP as i approach it. The explanation of wifi mesh i have found states that it can have wireless backhauls or wired backhauls, same sidd name on each node (AP) and sometimes automatically config all the nodes. The only thing here that seems different is the automatic config of the nodes…
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does it support link aggregation?
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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
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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
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I’m watching this guy first time, and im disappointed accept his point to “rooter” I didn’t find useful information, in his review no tech side of router I was unable to understand for what purpose useful this “rooter” for a game? Where’s speed tests? Office? When where’s Port forwarding, mesh speed tests or so. I’m sorry there’s nothing to watch accept this guy telling 20 minutes about parental control.
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Ok ok you I get it because of Mr. Bean!
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USB HUB not supported?
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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.
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While using the USB tethering how to make sure the phone won’t run out of battery?
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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?
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Can i use it like VPS?
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I wish it had Directory server.
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A pig is a rooter, a sports fan is a rooter… that networking equipment is neither. ????
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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.
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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…
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Rooter, rooter ROOTER! Primarily because it’s funny. I just visualize two of these devices having sex, and it can only be a rooter.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Synology website states “Synology will provide software updates until Dec 2027”. This worries me, 4 years is not long. I usually after upgrading to new hardware hand down old hardware to my relatives. Currently I’m torn between WRX560 and Unifi Dream Router. Sure Unifi product will be suporred for more than 4 years and more networ expansion options, though WRX560 has more friendly UI and better performance as single unit. Both at similar price point.
What are your thoughta? Answer would be really apreciated. ????
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For the 2.5gb wan/lan port. Can it be used as primary wan port? I returned a rt6600ax already because the 2.5gb wan port can only be set up as a secondary failover port in the networking software. Wondering if this is the same?
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MR2200ac are the absolute WORST experience I’ve ever had with routers. I wouldn’t touch this shit again for anything.
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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.
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Hey, @NASCompares – thanks for the great review, as always. Your videos got me hooked on Synology products – first I bought DS220+ after watching your review some time back, and now just ordered this router after watching your review again. 🙂 A quick question – can you please confirm whether it can be used with USB hub or not? I’m seeing contradicting information in Synology forums and on Reddit, some folks says that hub works for them, and some claim that it doesn’t. I want to use both the 4G USB dongle as a failover WAN, but I don’t want to lose a possibilty to plug in the USB flashdrive for logs and additional apps.
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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.
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For this price you can build yourself a way better router with PFSense that has far more features and security.
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Once again, an excellent review. Hats off and thank you.
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What would your best recommendation be as of end 2022?
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ROOTER!
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Hey. Can you create a firewall rules set video for Synology RT6600AX , please, for main network connection. Great videos! Thnx in advance!
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ah the R0000ter fan boy. WHY don’t you compare it to other wifi 6 roooooters ? how much are they paying you ?
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Rooter as in Root Canal ????
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what a dumb design. topple prone.
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So I currently have an Orbi mesh wifi. Can I make the 6600 the brains of the mesh system. With my Orbi?
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There is no more Cloud Station (= Synology Drive) with rt6600ax which was very useful from previous model rt2200ac. No reviewers mentioned about it.
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There is no more Cloud Station (= Synology Drive) which was very useful from SRM1.2
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There is no more Cloud Station (= Synology Drive) with rt6600ax which was very useful from previous model rt2200ac. No reviewers mentioned about it.
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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?
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As an avid tea drinker, I can confirm it’s “rooter” not “row-ter”.
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Hehee…..”Rooter vs Rauter”…. 😀
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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
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I’ve used the RT6600AX and I’m happy with it and in about 4-5 years time when I’m looking again it will need a 2.5 wan and 2x 2.5 lans 1 as a wan fallback
And i hope by then they stop USB A and we get 2x USB C ports. I already have an high bitrate 8K video that will not play over 1Gbit lan and I thnk the is a 4K video
out there that will not play very good over 1Gbit lan.
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I really don’t understand why they would put ONE 2.5G port on this thing. This means your router can get fast internet but not pass it on to the connected devices. Result: 1g speed for everything. You can also use it for speedy connections with your internal devices, but not with the internet which makes fast fiber useless. I love synology software but this drives me to ASUS Zenwifi.
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Synology has to focus on the smartphone app, if the app does not have same features as the web, I will not buy them again.
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Great video (as always)! Synology – Swing and a miss on this none. Inwill probably still buy it…..
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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?
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Great videos. Though, one thing I’ve noticed in a few of your videos is your conversion from bits to Bytes. It’s not power of 10 (you said 2400 bits to 240 byes and 600 bits to 60 bytes). The conversion is actually 8 bits to 1 byte, so 2400 bits would actually be 300 bytes and 600 bits would actually be 75 bytes. Just figured I’d let you know 🙂
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Nope, thank you, because it has no rabbit ears…
I guess this WRX560 is probably MR2200 replacement, the only thing I like is 4 LAN ports instead of 1. That’s about it….
If mesh, nothing beats 2 X ac6600ax or ac6600ax + ac2600ac…. cheers!
Only external antenna “rooter” allowed in my house, even it’s Synology.
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It’s a nice bit of kit but I still feel Synology needs a small Wi-Fi 6 mesh unit to couple well with their big router.
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It is as much rooter as it isn’t raut 66. You’re ???? right!
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Hi There. If we have 2x RT6600ax work as a mesh. Can we use USB port on 1st router for Thread prevention and USB port on 2nd router for backup mobile connection ?
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The sound is not synced to the video, your lips are moving after hearing you, it’s disturbing
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It would have cost them absolutely nothing to put 2 holes in the back of the case to wall mount like they did on the RT6600AX.. Really a wasted opportunity, they did not learn from their mistake
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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.. 🙂
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Your 45 seconds rant drove me up the wall !!! But it didn’t stop me from watching your great review.
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That was a lot to digest. Appreciate all the information. If I want to buy 3 of these, could I configure them for wired backhaul (use my house’s existing network ports) for faster connections between each router, in addition to the wireless mesh setup?
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That was a lot to digest. Appreciate all the information. If I want to buy 3 of these, could I configure them for wired backhaul (use my house’s existing network ports) for faster connections between each router, in addition to the wireless mesh setup?
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I have to say, your videos are too long…..from the marketing aspect, this has been a problem with your channel….
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I’m happy with My Mesh Wifi 6 TP-Link X55 for $203 I had 3 base point Mesh Wifi 6 ????????
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Wait until you find out what a “roo-tah” is in Australia
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would it be possible to plug an RJ11 Telephone based ADSL line into this then..i.e. use it as a Gateway router?
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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.
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Mr. Bean, LOL!
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Hi. I’ve bought 6600 and created download station for it. Superb option to use. Is there any solution for USB speed downgrade because of WIFI 2.4 interference? Is it safe to switch downgrade option off?
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ROOT, ROUTE, ROOTER, ROUTER.
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The 2200ac is tri-band, the rt6600ac is tri-band why make the wrx560 dual band again like the 2600ac?
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Funny you mention the way to say “Router” and how some USA viewers may think it’s incorrect, but ask them to pronounce “Route 66”, or listen to “John Mayer – Route 66” ????
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Rowwwwter
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Wait does Rooting mean the same thing America as it does in Australia?? I thought it was only us Aussie’s who sniggered through these videos?
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I root for your chanell, but I suspect you might get routed for your take on this.
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I love LOVE your channel! Thank you for all of the honest in-depth reviews, as well as the out-of-the-box experimentation you’ve done. I recently switched to the RT6600AX following my change to Synology for my NAS setup. Love Synology! I know this may be a bit of a niche audience to reach, but wondering if you can create a video on fine-tuning/optimizing router and NAS setups for home use. Be it setups specific for router to NAS settings or simple router port-forwarding, firewall, security settings. I’m of course partial to SRM and DSM, but not limiting to those OS may reach a larger audience if you need more incentive for me to nudge you into doing a video on the topic! ???? Thank you again SOOOO much for the content!
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can you tell me why the VPN have such poor speeds i have 1gbe broadband but when i install the vpn on the router the speed drops to 8 mb
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Did you get a “Root Canal” before this video?
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What switch would you recommend if I wanted 2.5 gb for multiple wires devices and still want to use the synology router
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This router is probably for the people whose wives don’t want a hideous router in the living room but still want a good router. A lot of my clients got the RT2600AC vetoed by the wife.
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What if you use a USB hub, especially a powered hub? Would that allow you to use 4G and storage?
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You’re wrong about the rowter
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finally, someone who says it right 🙂 I see it has the 2.5Gbe port 🙂 , shame about the DS423 is still 1Gbe 🙁
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Nah, just go with the UDR from Unifi. For home use is the best offer right now on the market.
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Is America’s mother road Rowt 66 or Root 66 ? Yes, I know it’s spelled Route 66.
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Rotorouter. John Oliver sucks
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I was having problems with my RT2600AC and two MR2200AC Mesh. So I watched your reviews and got an RT6600AX… It alone gave reasonable signal over my entire house… I added the RT2600AC back in and get excellent coverage everywhere. I would go for an RT2600AC over the WRX560 in a mesh if you have a RT6600AX.
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Did Mr. Bean tell you to say Ryzon? ????
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The disclaimer at the beginning ????
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Lmao! You had me at “We gave you Mr Bean…” Rootah, it shall be! ????????
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I’m with you mate. It says it right there on the box… “rootah”
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I love Synology products however I bought an ASUS recently because the SFP+ and 10gbe ports
I missed already the stunning SRM, but I really needed the SFP+ port to pass fiber through electrical infrastructure because my rental house doesn’t have network infrastructure, and Synology is always behind in hardware.
For me is a little frustrating if they doesn’t have the amazing software to keep me buying other product from I wouldn’t be a client of them.
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The Latin scholars think we are pronouncing all their words wrong
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I root for “rooter”
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OK. You did give us John Oliver. ROO-TAH it is. ????
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Can you tell us which dongles are compatible with failover tethering? Synology only lists mobile phones which seems mad to me.
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21:50 You have this section labelled as “Safe Search”, I think it should be “Safe Access”.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Is it possible to add USB as network drive in windows using network.
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why steal FCC pics and pass them off as your own in your review? lmao
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is there any apps like adblock that i can add to this router? that would make it an easy win!
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Its “Rauuuteeer” written “router”…… “roooter” is what my friend does when he has one night stand
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???? i pacchetti di ???? installazione, installazione ???? i pacchetti di installazione ???? sei proprio un co one ????
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what is the problem with the sale of the rt6600ax? I can’t find it in any seller. and on the other hand, what happens with the stable version 1.3 for the rt2600ac? what is in RC?
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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
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I would like to know the RT6600ax will it compatible with Linksys velop? RT6600ax act as router and link with velop act as the mesh… I got the velop mesh already but sinology have great SRM 1.3…Thanks
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Hi
You test for failover was rather simple. I’ve got my router connected to carrier modem (setup as a bridge) and when internet is down physical connection is still present.
Can you check how long it takes synology to notice that WAN is down in this situation and switch to back up?
My current router sometimes don’t see that WAN is down and won’t switch to backup and sometimes switch but after long period of time. Thanks.
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Great review thank you. Picking one up now 🙂
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Thank you testing out the SRM 1.3 mesh capabilities. With the general availability of SRM 1.3, I plan on updating my RT2600ac and MR2200ac mesh network. I would love to see a YouTube about the best way to set up VLANs for the guest network, IoT network (smart house type connections that rely on PSK) and an internal VLAN with wifi EAP using DSM Radius server and hard wired Ethernet connections. This would entail using the firewall rules and bridge to connect between the VLANs (especially for anything on the internal network that needs to manage the IoT devices, etc), port forwarding, etc. Just an idea. Thanks!
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please istall Version: 1.3.1-9346 mesh system works betes and more stabile then Version: 1.3.1-9316 – first realase of srm 1.3.1 works as crap – I know this becouse I have RT2600ac + MR 2200ac as mesh network. Version: 1.3.1-9316have to more bugs – probably becouse Qalcom wi-fi modukle fimware is bugy on that version of srm
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Robbie great demo, is it able to shoot off an email if the primary wan drops and fails to the alternate connection ?
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I’m happy that I have returned 2600ac.. advertised as small office router device wasn’t able to set static routes for connected vpn clients… which was confirmed by support…
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I hoped you would show updating the MR2200ac. I’ve tried several times and just as it says it’s “Transferring data to the server. Please wait”, the screen momentarily goes white and returns to the SRM desktop. It never updated. Any tips?
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Would like to see synology introduce a client mode on the MR2200AC firmware for ethernet only devices for situations where the RT6600AX delivers the needed wireless coverage by it self.
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I still feel that they abandoned their first system. I expected more from synology. I just removed 1 main router and 4 mesh routers for a dream machine pro, should have gone that route in the first place.
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Satellite router feature (using legacy synology router) is not available yet I think?
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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What about adding a USB 3 hub to overcome the limit of 1 port ? ????????????
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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.
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@NASCompares does it support USB hubs?
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Generally, how do you like the Synology router / NAS vs the Asus router / NAS? (Assuming similar level NAS of course.)
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“ROW-tah”
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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
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Can you restore a RT2600 configuration onto the RT6600?
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Great review – thank you. What wireless adapter did you use on your laptop for testing this?
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Does it allow link aggregation of 2 x GE ports to Synology series like DS720+ or DS920+?
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Please share the wallpaper haha
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Finally, finally, finally! I love your reviews.
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Next time film in different orientation
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as usual, super useful for everyone
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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.
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50 minutes of bobbing and weaving.. What’s the difference between 1.2 and 1.3 …. None of that was even touched on.
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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!
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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
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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.
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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”.
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Would be nice if a usb hub worked with it.
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Does this router support VIP?
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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.
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too long and boring
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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.
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Didn’t need the chapters. Watched straight thru. Great video.
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Is RT6600ax prepaired for the new homeautomation standard Matter? Is that nessasary?
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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?
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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.
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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
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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
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I think I will wait for Asus Gt axe 16000
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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.
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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.
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Usb hub?
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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!
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Does this support a wired backhaul for a mesh with two of these systems?
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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.
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Nice review, but with no mesh, WiFi 6e, or 10Gbe, it’s a solid pass at this price.
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Great review! I hate seagulls… Look at my stupid face… and last but not least, the dogs Dangleys… You crack me up!! Nice Router!
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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 😉
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@NASCompares Did they drop the SD card slot as well as the 1 USB that you talk about?
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Another Synology hardware fail… wake me up when they get their sh1t together.
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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.
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There is amateur radio within the 5.9ghz band.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/5-centimeter_band
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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 ????
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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.?
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Ecellent review! Really appreciate the time you put into this!
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shit router+with standarts at stonetime….no 10 gb is a …….for this bugs i buy 3 asus with the same outdatet shit…lol…
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.. a long video
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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?
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Awesome review!!
Btw, Rooter is a great drinking game. Cheers!!
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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.
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I still have a Dislike button on an iPad Pro 12.9. What’s missing is the counter on the dislike button.
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Will there be a chance that Synology will finally support HomeKit Secure Router in the near future?
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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.
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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.
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It would be wiser to divide a video this long into many videos, it would make you more revenue and get you more views.
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I swear you’re worst than the seagulls ????????
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oh been waiting for a week for this, just got ds920+ from 415+ now thinking time to upgrade the wifi mesh
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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.
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300USD! The Unifi DreamRouter at 200USD just killed it before it even was launched.
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32:41 when you said “I just had to kill..” I thought the seagulls? 😀
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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?
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It looks like it is supposed to be a hat for one of Sauron’s underlings.
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Indeed. About bloody time. Been waiting for this review for a dog’s age.
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Please do a Asus rt-ax86u vs Synology rt6600ax review please please
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Can one not connect an expansion USB device…IE: multi port dongle?
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Does it come with anti-seagull radiation features?
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That seagull was probably after your chips…????
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What do you think of the Orbi’s?
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