Hi everyone,

I've got very confusing problem with two TP-Link's. I will describe the problem focusing on the VR400, please note that on the second one, the VR2100, I got identical issue.

I was using Archer VR400 for very long time (no problems at all) and last time I started installing IP Cameras. To keep it in proper order, it was necessary to clean up the LAN and setup some IP reservation for all the devices - everything that I have is connected via WiFi. 

Everything is working properly until the Router is reset automatically or by hand. After the reset, the DHCP Server is DEAD, completely. Non device, that is acquiring address from the router can connect - doesn't matter if the device is put or not on the reservation list.

Over the WiFi, the only possibility to get inside the router menu, was setting up fixed IP address of my PC's WiFi adapter (the PC is also on the IP reservation list, manually set IP address is the same like in router).

The DHCP Server setup is proper. I got reservations outside the address pool (reservations made on x.x.x.100-150, free address x.x.x.151-199).

And now the magic begins - observations:

1. When the Router is in "zombie DHCP state" I can see on the client list, that devices are attempting to connect and beeing disconnected immediately.

2. When I press "SAVE" on the DHCP setup in Network > LAN menu- VOILA! - every device is beeing connected and gets the proper IP address.

Same behavior when opening for edit any of the entries on the IP address reservation, it's not even necessary to "save" the entry, it just magically starts to work when opened.

3. When the address reservation list is smaller than 8 (7 entries maximum), no problems. The router can reset and works properly when it's up again.

4. I've checked all the official firmware that was available on TP-Link website - nothing helps.

5. It doesn't matter what kind of devices were on the reservation list (was looking for device that could cause the problem?) - the story is the same. 

I have send my first VR400 on warranty, got it exchanged for brand new - same problems so I returned it and got refund. I bought instead VR2100 and it behaves the same...

Well, there are 2 options - I'm too stupid to setup ip reservation and the DHCP Server, or the 2 TP-L Router models are good to throw into the garbage and I should get Fritz!, Cisco or Asus instead...

Personally, I think that if this is TP-Link fault that the firmware is bugged for so long time (VR400 is over 2yrs on the market) is unacceptable situation. You get management options that are not working.