I found it a bit confusing when I looked for information about the advanced features available in routers like the ER8411, and I was surprised that DPI, IDS, IPS, and Geo-IP Filtering features are only available with licensing.

 

I looked for information on GPT Chat, believing the restrictions would only apply to Omada Pro controllers and hardware.

 

The ER8411 is just like an Omada Standard product. Could you explain this in detail? I fear and believe that the information currently available is insufficient.

 

Keep in mind that this is primarily a home lab. However, I really need to understand the differences, features, and limitations.

This will help me better understand when to stay with the current model or upgrade to a different one.

 

 

✅ 1. Difference between Omada (Standard) and Omada Pro (licensed)

 

🧠 Omada "Standard"

 

Part of Omada Cloud Essentials (free) or Cloud Standard, or local hardware/software controllers (OC200/300/400 or software-based).

 

Security features like IDS, IPS, DPI, and Geo-IP Filtering are NOT available in this version.

 

Designed for small and medium networks with basic VLAN, QoS, captive portal, etc.

 

 

🔐 Omada Pro

 

Separate line with different hardware and firmware (e.g., 25 G SFP switches, routers like ER8411).

 

Requires a Pro controller — you cannot manage Pro devices using a Standard controller. Mixing is not supported by TP-Link.

 

Includes advanced security features such as IDS, IPS, DPI, and Geo‑IP Filtering, usually with a licensing requirement.

 

Targeted at enterprise networks requiring high performance and advanced security.

 

 

Regarding Licensing

 

Non-Pro devices, even if capable in hardware, do not gain these features when managed via a Standard controller.

 

To use IDS/IPS/DPI/Geo-IP Filtering, you must have:

 

A Pro series device,

 

A Pro controller,

 

Active license.

 

 

✅ Final Summary

 

To use IDS, IPS, DPI, and Geo-IP Filtering, you must have:

 

A Pro series device

 

A Pro controller

 

An active license

 

 

Standard devices do not gain these features, even with firmware updates.

 

Omada Pro and Omada Standard cannot be mixed in the same controller environment.