Knowledge Base Common Questions About the Hardware Version and Firmware Update
Knowledge Base Common Questions About the Hardware Version and Firmware Update
Background:
We aim to demystify the distinctions among our hardware versions and address any confusion surrounding firmware upgrades. Through this KB, our goal is to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of our hardware variations and their implications.
This Article Applies to:
All TP-Link(Omada) models
Hardware Version and Firmware Upgrade
1. Consistency and Variance in Hardware Versions
Our products may have different hardware version identifiers due to varying production locations. i.e. VX.0, VX.6, and VX.8 are manufactured in different factories.
For instance, a product with version V1.0 is functionally and performance-wise identical to versions V1.6 or V1.8. This rule also applies to more granular version numbers (e.g., V1.20 is equivalent to V1.26 or V1.28).
Note that V1.0=V1.6=V1.8 can NOT use the firmware of V1.20=V1.26=V1.28 due to the chipset or MCU(microcontroller unit) may not be the same. Please refer to the firmware download page and its release note.
In 2025, the router series' VX. 20 will be the same as VX.0 because we have built new factories. For the switches, you should refer to the hardware change announcement.
For the EAP series, it still follows the rules above, for example, V1.0=V1.6=V1.8. Do not mix the firmware on certain product lines.
This means that although hardware version numbers may slightly differ, they are consistent in terms of core performance and functionality, ensuring product uniformity across versions.
2. Backup Compatibility Issues Across Hardware Versions
It is important to highlight that backup files between different hardware versions are NOT interchangeable.
For example, a backup from a V1.0 version device cannot be used on a V2.0 version device. In some extreme cases, although a backup file might be imported and the device appears to operate normally, this action can lead to errors and instability.
Please be aware that our company is not responsible for any issues that may arise from such scenarios. To avoid these situations, we have made clear notifications on the firmware download page, which you should pay close attention to.
3. Guidance on Firmware Upgrades
If you are unable to find the appropriate firmware version for your device in your region or are looking for the latest firmware updates, we recommend visiting our official website at https://www.tp-link.com/en/search/.
There, by searching for your device model and accessing the support page, you can download the corresponding firmware, ensuring that your device is running the most optimized and secure software version.
Due to the regional website being run by the local team, there may be a delay when they update their website and content timely. If you have feedback about the update of the website, please send it to the support team.
Update Log:
Mar 27th, 2025:
Update the sentence for better understanding.
Mar 13th, 2024:
Update the sentence for better understanding.
Feb 6th, 2024:
Release of this KB.
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This topis is clear. I directly answered you in your first thread about this, and your second thread asking again was locked.
THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE. v2= v2.2, THEY JUST COME FROM A DIFFERENT FACTORY.
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The (to put it kindly) creative approach to hardware versioning is one thing – but what's far more concerning is the often extremely short support lifecycle that comes with it.
That's simply not worthy of business-grade or not even SOHO hardware.
Even the best hardware specs, compelling features, and exceptionally competitive prices can´t make up for the lack of predictability.
For all I care, you can release a new hardware version with a 75-digit revision number every single day - as long as you commit to supporting each one for a fixed, predictable period.
On a positive note, it's good to see there's now an EOL list available, and that regions like the UK and Singapore now require minimum support periods.
It's a shame that it takes regulatory pressure to bring about these changes, but hopefully other markets, such as the US and Europe, will follow this example.
No hate – just sharing my honest opinion and a bit of frustration.
Best regards, Martin
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Hi @m.fessler
m.fessler wrote
The (to put it kindly) creative approach to hardware versioning is one thing – but what's far more concerning is the often extremely short support lifecycle that comes with it.
That's simply not worthy of business-grade or not even SOHO hardware.Even the best hardware specs, compelling features, and competitive pricing can´t make up for the lack of predictability.
For all I care, you can release a new hardware version with a 75-digit revision number every single day - as long as you commit to supporting each one for a fixed, predictable period.
On a positive note, it's good to see there's now an EOL list available, and that regions like the UK and Singapore now require minimum support periods.
It's a shame that it takes regulatory pressure to bring about these changes, but hopefully other markets, such as the US and Europe, will follow this example.
No hate – just sharing my honest opinion and a bit of frustration.
Best regards, Martin
What price tag do you accept for an overall better performance?
For example, the ER605 V1 which was discontinued due to the hardware limits. ER8411 is overall better. ER605 V2 has been working out for a long time now.
OC200 V1 was discontinued due to the same reason. We are trying to utilize its hardware to the best.
Let's say, assuming a situation, the price for the ER605 and its hardware is equivalent to the ER8411, "ER605, same specs as the current ER8411, price is the same as 8411, and it is the entry-level for the Omada." No cheap 50 bucks ER605, just starting at 400 dollars, entry-level product with better hardware. Got two big fans for its heat dissipation.
Will you pay the price of an ER8411 for an entry-level product that would guarantee a long lifespan?
The Omada was first targeting small businesses. We later introduced the pro series for pro users which usually would get the customized firmware and features. Will you consider the higher price and the contract for the pro series?
Like an annual subscription for hardware optimization and software development?
The support is free, and the software is free, too. Pro series got everything paid, if that's what you are after?
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I just sent back a new TL-SG1428PE managed switch.... 30 min or so after opening the box!
The BOX says the Hardware configuration is V3.6
The UNIT Says the Hardware configuration is V3.6
BUT THE FIRMWARE says the Hardware configuration is V3.0!
So being Brand New Purchase, Just right out of the box!!! I called the support Line....
TP-Link said that serial number was V3.0 Not V3.6 and unit was made in early 2022!
He suggested I send it back! So I did! But I still need a Managed Switch! Then I called B&H Photo... and asked if their
TL-SG1428PE units a V3.6 in both lables, and Firmware..... They say it SHOULD BE.... But they couldn't say for sure!!
WHAT???
So I ask here.... Is Label on box, Unit, and FIRMWARE ALL SUPPOSED TO BE V3.6 or NOT?
PLEASE EDUCATE ME -- I NEED TO ORDER A MANAGED POE SWITCH!!!!
I have screen shots proving what I posted, if you need to see them!
PS: WHERE CAN I BUY A V3.6 TL-SG1428PE Managed switch and be assured it's a V3.6?
Thank You for your assistance
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Jan-J wrote
I just sent back a new TL-SG1428PE managed switch.... 30 min or so after opening the box!
The BOX says the Hardware configuration is V3.6
The UNIT Says the Hardware configuration is V3.6
BUT THE FIRMWARE says the Hardware configuration is V3.0!
So being Brand New Purchase, Just right out of the box!!! I called the support Line....TP-Link said that serial number was V3.0 Not V3.6 and unit was made in early 2022!
He suggested I send it back! So I did! But I still need a Managed Switch! Then I called B&H Photo... and asked if their
TL-SG1428PE units a V3.6 in both lables, and Firmware..... They say it SHOULD BE.... But they couldn't say for sure!!
WHAT???
So I ask here.... Is Label on box, Unit, and FIRMWARE ALL SUPPOSED TO BE V3.6 or NOT?PLEASE EDUCATE ME -- I NEED TO ORDER A MANAGED POE SWITCH!!!!
I have screen shots proving what I posted, if you need to see them!
PS: WHERE CAN I BUY A V3.6 TL-SG1428PE Managed switch and be assured it's a V3.6?
Thank You for your assistance
Two versions are made in different countries. That's the only difference between them.
You can rest assured that you will get a V3.0 because it is equal to V3.6.
Firmware is the same. See the explanation in this guide.
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