TP-Link VX420 capabilities and configuration options

[Australis]

After issues with my existing TP-Link Archer VR1600v v2.0 - as per https://community.tpg.com.au/t5/Modems-and-Devices/WiFi-and-Ethernet-clients-can-t-always-see-each-o... - I understand that TPG's replacement option is a TP-Link VX420.

What I would like to know is what advanced configuration options are available on the TPG version of the VX420 to ensure that I can maintain my current network architecture. In particular:

• Is port forwarding (e.g. the virtual servers option under NAT Forwarding) still available?
• Can both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless networks be used simultaneously and with different SSIDs? The conversations on the forum I've found suggest that the VX420 has a feature called band steering that isn't on the VR1600v and I'm not sure how this impacts the ability to independently configure the two wireless networks.
• Does it support a DHCP Relay (under Advanced > Network > LAN Settings on the VR1600v)?
• Does it support static routing (under Advanced > Network > LAN Settings on the VR1600v)?
• Which Dynamic DNS providers does it support? I currently use NO-IP.

Thanks.

[david64]

Hi @Australis . Moderators seem to have chosen to ignore your question.

If the VOIP phone service is not a requirement for you, you have the option of using a different TP-Link model, or even a different brand; one that does have a user manual and is supported by the manufacturer. 

And, you will be in control of the firmware upgrades.

Your considerations are that the router has RJ11 connector in case you have FTTB/FTTN, and that it can set VLAN ID=2 (not needed on FTTP or data-only plan). And, if router supports band steering that it can be disabled.

[Australis]

Thanks @david64. I was hoping to find out enough to make a decision between keeping our landline phone service and going with a third-party modem-router. There's certain functionality I want to retain which is more important to me than the landline phone, but if the VX420 does meet my requirements then I don't want to have to ditch the phone service unnecessarily.

[david64]

@Australis . The VX420 looks to be a step up from the VR1600. I can't imagine them removing these basic functions from a better model.

Usually, band steering can be disabled to get access to the separate SSIDs.

You should contact the moderator in your other thread for an update regarding your VR1600. And put these questions also.

[Australis]

Thanks @david64, I will do that.