Deco m5 firmware update forcing subscription based $$$ parental controls
Very disappointed as I just updated my firmware and find they are now trying to charge a subscription fee for a service that was previously included for free.
In the firmware update notes there was no mention of a change to parental controls. Now the system I paid over $300 for, specficially for the parental controls feature, is trying to charge me via payment plans.
Please advise on how to downgrade to previous firmware. I have tried to do it via the online upgrade and it comes up with the error message:
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Hi, which free feature do you find that needs to be paid for now?
It has been confirmed with the senior engineer that the new firmware retains all legacy features from the HomeCare Protection service at no cost:
Firmware Enhancement with Advanced Parental Control Service on HomeCare Models
Thank you very much.
Best regards.
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I understand that you recently updated your Deco Mesh firmware and are now being asked to pay for parental control features that were previously free. You'd like to know how to downgrade to a previous firmware version, especially since your attempt to do so online resulted in an error.
Here’s what you need to know and try:
1. Firmware Downgrade Availability:
• Deco Mesh systems generally do not officially support firmware downgrades, but in some cases, it is possible to manually revert to an earlier version using the web interface.
2. Manual Firmware Downgrade Steps:
• Download the previous firmware version for your Deco Mesh model from https://www.tp-link.com/support/download/.
• Access the Deco web management page at http://tplinkdeco.net.
• Try uploading the downloaded firmware file to downgrade.
3. Troubleshooting Downgrade Errors:
• Ensure the firmware file exactly matches your Deco Mesh hardware version. Using the wrong version will cause upgrade or downgrade failures.
• Reboot all Deco units before attempting the downgrade again.
• If you continue to see error messages or the process gets stuck, it may mean that the firmware you are trying to install is not compatible or that downgrading is restricted for your specific model or firmware version.
Important Notes:
• Not all firmware versions can be downgraded, and TP-Link generally does not recommend downgrading unless absolutely necessary.
• You cannot update or downgrade firmware when the Deco Mesh is in factory default state; it must be set up first.
• If you are unable to downgrade and need further assistance, please contact TP-Link support directly for additional help.
If you have any other questions or need step-by-step guidance, please let us know.
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Hi, which free feature do you find that needs to be paid for now?
It has been confirmed with the senior engineer that the new firmware retains all legacy features from the HomeCare Protection service at no cost:
Firmware Enhancement with Advanced Parental Control Service on HomeCare Models
Thank you very much.
Best regards.
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I am in Australia and my M5 has now updated and I have lost access to controlling bedtimes. I can now only allow adjust how long they can access the internet not set times. This is a feature now only available on paid subscription which is extremely disappointing as I have used this feature for many years. Please advise how to revert to old firmware so I can use this feature again for free.
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While you wait for David could you please submit your Deco App logs by using the following instructions :How to submit Deco APP log
Thank You
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