5 Problems with the Asus RT-AC87U You Should Know About

The Asus RT-AC87U is a popular router known for its impressive features and high-speed performance. However, like any tech device, it is not without its flaws. In this article, we’ll explore five common problems users face with the Asus RT-AC87U and how they can affect your experience.

1. Inconsistent Firmware Updates

One of the most significant issues with the Asus RT-AC87U is its inconsistent firmware updates. While Asus does release updates to improve performance and security, they are often delayed or fail to address critical bugs. This can leave users vulnerable to security threats and stuck with unresolved performance issues.

Firmware updates are crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of any router.

To mitigate this, users often resort to third-party firmware like DD-WRT or Tomato, but this can void warranties and requires technical expertise.

2. Overheating Problems

Another common complaint is the router’s tendency to overheat during prolonged use. The Asus RT-AC87U’s powerful hardware generates a lot of heat, and its cooling system isn’t always sufficient to keep temperatures in check. Overheating can lead to performance throttling, random reboots, or even hardware failure over time.

To address this, some users place the router in well-ventilated areas or use external cooling solutions, but these are not ideal fixes for a premium device.

3. Unreliable 5GHz Band Performance

While the Asus RT-AC87U boasts dual-band functionality, many users report issues with the 5GHz band. Problems include frequent disconnections, weak signal strength, and slower-than-expected speeds. This can be frustrating for users who rely on the 5GHz band for high-speed internet activities like gaming or streaming.

Some users have found temporary fixes by tweaking the router’s settings, but these solutions are not always effective or user-friendly.

4. Complex Setup and Interface

The Asus RT-AC87U comes with a feature-rich interface, but its complexity can be overwhelming for non-technical users. Setting up advanced features like QoS (Quality of Service) or VPNs often requires a steep learning curve, which can deter users from fully utilizing the router’s capabilities.

While Asus provides a user manual and online resources, they are not always sufficient to simplify the process for beginners.

5. Short Lifespan

Finally, many users have reported that the Asus RT-AC87U has a relatively short lifespan compared to other routers in its price range. Hardware failures, such as malfunctioning ports or a dead power supply, are not uncommon after a couple of years of use.

This raises questions about the router’s long-term reliability and value for money, especially for users who expect their devices to last several years.

Conclusion

While the Asus RT-AC87U offers impressive features and performance, these five issues highlight areas where it falls short. Whether it’s inconsistent firmware updates, overheating, unreliable 5GHz performance, a complex interface, or a short lifespan, these problems can significantly impact your experience.

If you’re considering the Asus RT-AC87U, it’s essential to weigh these drawbacks against its benefits. For those already using the router, exploring workarounds or alternative solutions may help mitigate these issues.