ASUS RT-BE86U BE6800 WiFi 7 Router: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS RT-BE86U is a dual-band WiFi 7 router rated at BE6800. ASUS presents it as the successor to the RT-AX86U, and it adds a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port, a quad-core processor and a set of network security and VPN features. It is aimed at homes with fast internet connections and plenty of connected devices.

What BE6800 and WiFi 7 mean

WiFi 7 is the common name for 802.11be. The "6800" in BE6800 is the combined maximum rate ASUS quotes across the two bands, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. It is a theoretical ceiling, and real speeds depend on distance, walls, interference and the devices connected. ASUS lists two WiFi 7 features:

• 4096-QAM: a denser way of encoding data, which in principle sends more bits per transmission when the signal is strong.
• Multi-Link Operation (MLO): lets a compatible device use the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands together, which can raise throughput and make the connection more stable. Your phone or laptop must support WiFi 7 to benefit.

Older WiFi 6 and WiFi 5 devices still connect, but without these features.

Wired ports

Ports can matter as much as wireless on a router like this. ASUS lists one 10G WAN/LAN port and up to four 2.5G LAN ports, with a combined network capacity of up to 20G. The 10G port can serve as the internet connection or as a LAN port for a fast NAS or computer. ASUS also lists AI WAN detection on the 2.5G or 10G WAN/LAN ports, which is meant to spot where the internet cable is plugged in and configure it automatically.

Keeping the connection up

ASUS lists versatile WAN options, including 4G LTE and 5G mobile tethering via USB, so a phone or modem can act as a backup. A quad-core 2.6 GHz 64-bit CPU handles the load of WiFi 7 and 10 gigabit traffic.

Guest Network Pro, VPN and parental controls

Guest Network Pro offers up to five SSIDs, which is useful for separating guests or smart-home devices from your main network. ASUS also mentions instant VPN connections, comprehensive VPN features and parental controls, and subscription-free network security. The firmware is ASUSWRT 5.0, and AiMesh lets you combine the router with other compatible ASUS devices for wider coverage.

Size

The router measures about 12.4 x 9.3 x 3.5 inches (31 x 24 x 9 cm) and weighs 1.9 lb (about 0.86 kg).

Who it suits

It suits households with a multi-gigabit internet connection, people with WiFi 7 phones and laptops, and users who want separate networks for guests and smart devices. Anyone with a wired setup that includes a NAS can use the 2.5G and 10G ports.

What to check before you buy

• Your internet plan: confirm that your provider's connection and modem work with the WAN ports.
• Device support: WiFi 7 benefits need compatible clients.
• Dual band only: this router has 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radios, with no 6 GHz band.
• Cables: 2.5G and 10G speeds need suitable Ethernet cabling.
• Coverage: one router may not cover a large or multi-storey home; AiMesh is an option.
• Software features: check which security and VPN functions suit your needs in the manual.

The short version

• A dual-band WiFi 7 (802.11be) router, rated BE6800.
• 4096-QAM and Multi-Link Operation across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
• One 10G WAN/LAN port and up to four 2.5G LAN ports.
• Guest Network Pro with up to five SSIDs, VPN features and parental controls.
• AiMesh support and 4G/5G USB tethering.

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