Early Access Pre-release Firmware for Archer C80/A8/C6/C86/C88 Brings a Host of New Features and Optimizations
This Article Applies to:
Archer C80 V2.20/V2.26
Archer A8 V2.20/V2.26
Archer C88 V2.20
Archer C6 V4
Archer C86 V1
Overview
We hope to offer you a chance to experience the new features added to Archer C80, A8, C6, C86 and C88 router via firmware update in advance, and also give us TP-Link the opportunity to fully test the firmware in your real network environment and scenarios before the official release. This update brings a host of new features and optimizations that enhance security, improve user experience, and expand functionality. In this post, we'll walk you through the major changes and what they mean for you.
New Features and Modifications:
L2TP/IPSec VPN Server Functionality
This update adds support for L2TP/IPSec VPN servers, allowing you to set up secure remote access to your home network. Whether you need to connect to your home devices while traveling or require a secure connection for remote work, this feature provides a robust solution.
IPv6 Firewall
Enhanced security with the addition of IPv6 firewall capabilities. This ensures that your network remains protected as more devices and services migrate to IPv6.
EasyMesh, Auto Update, and TP-Link ID in AP Mode
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EasyMesh: Simplify network expansion with EasyMesh technology, allowing seamless integration of multiple units.
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Auto Update: Automatic firmware updates ensure your router is always up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
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TP-Link ID: Integrate your TP-Link cloud services for easy management and access.
Static IP and DNS Settings in AP Mode
Enhanced configuration options for static IP addresses and DNS settings, providing greater flexibility and control over your network setup.
Parental Control Improvements
The parental control feature now includes a content whitelist, giving you more precise control over the content accessible to your family members.
Access Control Enhancements
You can now manually enter MAC addresses in the access control settings, allowing for more precise network access management.
Client List Management
The client list has been optimized with new filtering rules, making it easier to manage and organize connected devices.
Other Modifications
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Support for WPA3-SAE encryption in WDS mode enhances the security of your wireless distribution system connections.
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Various improvements have been made to ensure more stable and reliable wireless connections.
Notes
This version of firmware cannot be degraded to the previous version.
Firmware Download
Before the Upgrade
(1) Please be sure you have read the Beta Test Agreement before upgrading the Pre-release firmware!
(2) For the sake of insurance, it's always recommended to save a copy of the router Backup Config file before upgrading or downgrading.
(3) You may follow the guide to upgrade the firmware of your router. How to Upgrade the Firmware on the TP-Link Wi-Fi Routers.
Direct Firmware Download Link
Archer C80_V2.20/V2.26_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer A8 V2.20/V2.26_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer C6 V4_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer C86 V1_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Archer C88 V1_1.14.0 Build 240617 (Pre-Release Version)
Additional Information
As always, we value your feedback. If somehow you encounter an issue during or after the router firmware upgrade, it's suggested to comment below with the following info. Your input helps us continue to improve and provide the best possible products and support.
- Model, hardware version, and firmware version of your router.
- Detailed issue description, and provide more information on the specific conditions that seem to trigger the problem.
Update Log
Aug 12th, 2025:
Added a download of firmware for Archer C88 V2.20.
Jul 22th, 2024:
Release of the post
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EasyMesh Is Available When Wi-Fi Routers Work in AP Mode as A Controller
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Hi @NickolaZ
Just wondering if you had any new information please and had managed to resolve the issue of the network extender not working with the beta firmware at all?
Or are you still using previous firmware and waiting for official release of beta firmware?
Thank you for any help.
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@Tristen89 The WiFi packets sent by me are given to this R&D department and they will analyze the packets. I have not got any solution yet.
According to me, you should also generate a complaint and talk to the developers directly. Give them the information they want. Then the problem will be fixed soon.
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@Tristen89 I installed the latest official version 1.13.15 Build 240812 Rel.53972n(5255), and I am still using it. It works flawlessly, and does not conflict with my range extender. Of course, I am waiting for the new beta firmware, but it is not critical for me, I do not use VPN functions. I have nothing more to report at the moment.
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@Kevin_Z any update fot C6v3.....????
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@Kevin_Z VPN Client feature for C80 V2.20 please
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@NickolaZ How do you go back to the previous firmware version? It has already been said here that you cannot go back to the previous version 🙁.
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@Koushik7788 I used method #2 from this guide to roll back the firmware: https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/1482/
!!!! Please note that rolling back the firmware will reset all your router settings to factory settings.
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Hi @Koushik7788
Just wanted to ask again please if you had any joy with TP Link support in relation to the satellite extender problem please?
I have contacted TP Link support & after sending over details of the problem plus my router specifications as requested.. I've been informed that-
The problem with the satellite extender is an issue with the beta which "may" still be undergoing testing or changes... however there are no new or updated versions of the beta currently to be released.
Although it seems unclear how they plan to make changes to this beta - if there are currently no plans to release an updated version.
I have tried to query this with TP Link support as to whether they will be releasing this beta or any beta still for those of us & have received no answer to this question.
I have now asked for additional assistance/information & my request has been escalated to the TP Link management team... They did email that they'd reply back to me within 24 hours - but that was last week... and still waiting to hear back at the moment.
I was hoping you might have been more fortunate in regards to receiving help or information from TP Link support?
I had hoped there would be more information at this stage from TP Link in regards to release or similar, as this beta apparently started on 22/07/2024... and will soon reach its one-year mark.
Although looking back, I think this beta might have originally started on 17/02/2024 but that post is now closed... so it could be even longer.
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@Tristen89 I also helped them by giving all the information they needed to solve the router problem. They understand where the problem is. But they are unable to solve the problem 😞. According to them, they don't understand where the problem is coming from.
They told me it will take time to resolve this issue. I have to wait. And if I can't wait, they said to replace the router from tplink service centre.
I also don't understand what I should do now.Even after so many months, they have shown no immediate initiative to resolve the problem😞.
I recently received this email from them.......
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I reviewed the email communication between Koushik7788 and our engineers. It seems that since a remote session isn't possible, it's challenging for them to analyze the issue based solely on descriptions and system logs.
As suggested, if you both confirm that the issue began after upgrading to the pre-release 1.14.3 firmware, you can try to downgrade to the older 1.13.15 version as suggested by NickolaZ here: https://community.tp-link.com/en/home/forum/topic/676858?replyId=1532594.
If the issue persists, please contact your reseller for assistance with a potential replacement, as recommended by the engineers.
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