Pre-Release Firmware for Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7 Archer Routers Adds VPN Merge, Advanced Backup, and More
Hey Everyone!
We're excited to announce early access to the newest firmware update for Archer BE260, Archer BE400, and other models. This Pre-Release update brings an array of innovative features and improvements. We encourage you to upgrade your device and share your feedback with us—your feedback is crucial to our continued product improvement!
Feel free to download and try this Pre-Release Firmware today to take advantage of the exciting enhancements for your router. We hope you'll enjoy exploring what's new!
Applies to:
Archer BE400(US/EU/CA/SG/KR/AU/JP)_V1.0/V1.6
Archer BE6100(US)_V1.6
Archer BE6500(US/JP/CA)_V1.0
Archer BE260(US/JP) _V1.0/V1.6
Archer BE5000(US/JP)_V1.0/V1.6
New Features and Enhancements:
1. VPN Merge
The previous VPN Client feature has been upgraded to the new and more advanced VPN Merge. This enhancement greatly increases your network’s flexibility. With VPN Merge, you can connect different devices to various VPN servers at the same time. For example, your work laptop might use a corporate VPN, while your smart TV connects to another VPN for streaming. To get started, simply enable VPN Merge, add your preferred servers to the Server List, and assign each one to specific devices in the Client List.
2. ECO Mode V2
The upgraded ECO Mode 2.0 feature is engineered to optimize power savings intelligently. Users may choose the default Smart ECO mode, which automatically regulates energy consumption based on real-time traffic conditions and deactivates LED indicators. This configuration reduces energy usage while maintaining uninterrupted internet connectivity. Additionally, users have the option to select from various other power-saving modes and may schedule their activation during designated time frames for greater customization.
3. Admin Password Recovery
We have introduced new methods to recover your local administrator password, ensuring you never lose access to your router's settings. You can now choose between two secure recovery options. You can enable and configure these options under System > Administration.
Security Questions
Set up answers to predefined security questions. This allows you to verify your identity and reset your password quickly.
Email Recovery
Configure a designated email address and your own SMTP server to receive password recovery instructions directly to your inbox.
4. Advanced USB Feature
We have upgraded the USB Sharing feature with two powerful new management tools. First, you can now perform a Disk Scan to verify the health of your connected drive. This can be triggered manually or scheduled to run automatically at regular intervals for proactive data protection. Second, we have integrated a Format function, allowing you to format a USB drive directly from the router's interface without the need for a computer. These features provide greater convenience and control over your network storage.
5. Backup & Restore
We've made major improvements to the router's backup feature, giving you more control and enhanced security. You now have the option to use Selective Backup, which lets you pick specific configuration modules to save, such as Network, Wireless, or Security settings. Plus, you can protect your backup file with password encryption, helping to keep your sensitive setup information safe from unauthorized access.
6. DHCP Detection
To help you troubleshoot common network issues, we have added a DHCP Server Detection tool. Having more than one DHCP server active on a network can cause IP address conflicts and prevent devices from accessing the internet. This new one-click tool allows you to scan your local network to easily identify any other active DHCP servers, helping you resolve conflicts to ensure a stable and reliable connection.
7. Tether App client list optimization
We have optimized the performance of the Tether app when accessing the client list, reducing the latency when retrieving the list. The app now also displays the signal strength of wireless clients, allowing you to easily understand the network status of your connected devices.
8. Guest Network Exception Button
A new button for Guest Network Exception has been added to the Access Control whitelist menu. When Guest Network Exception is enabled, the allow list mode will not affect the Guest Network. All devices in the Guest Network can connect to the internet.
Other Enhancements:
- Support for synchronization of DDNS during OpenVPN server configuration setup.
- Enhanced the safety of the device.
- Enhanced the wireless stability of the device.
Bug Fixes:
1. Fixed the phenomenon where WireGuard VPN Server connection failed under specific circumstances.
2. Fixed the phenomenon where the “Hide SSID” setting in Tether App configuration was not taking effect.
Firmware Download:
Before Upgrading:
(1) IMPORTANT! Once upgraded to 1.1.1, Archer BE400/BE6100/BE6500 CANNOT be downgraded to the previous 1.0.x version.
(2) It is always recommended to save a copy of the router's Backup Config file before upgrading or downgrading firmware.
(3) For instructions on how to upgrade your router's firmware, please see: How to Upgrade the Firmware on TP-Link Wi-Fi Routers?
Direct Download Links
| Model | Download Link |
| Archer BE400_V1.0/V1.6 | Archer BE400_V1.0/V1.6_1.1.1 Build20251224(Pre-release Firmware) |
| Archer BE6100(US)_V1.6 | Archer BE6100(USW)_V1.6_1.1.1 Build20251224(Pre-release Firmware) |
| Archer BE6500(US/JP/CA)_V1.0 | Archer BE6500(US/JP/CA)_V1.0_1.1.1 Build20251224(Pre-release Firmware) |
| Archer BE260(US/JP) _V1.0/V1.6 | Archer BE260(US/JP) _V1.0/V1.6_1.0.5 Build20251224(Pre-release Firmware) |
| Archer BE5000(US/JP)_V1.0/V1.6 | Archer BE5000(US/JP)_V1.0/V1.6_1.0.5 Build20251224(Pre-release Firmware) |
Note:
- Pre-release and Beta firmware should be used at your own discretion. We cannot guarantee the functionality of features or technical support for Pre-Release or Beta Firmware.
- If you are not comfortable using beta firmware, please wait for the official fix or contact our support teams for assistance
Additional Information
As always, we value your feedback. If you happen to encounter any concerns during or after the router firmware upgrade, please feel free to comment below with the following information. Your input helps us continue to improve and provide the best possible products and support.
- Provide a detailed network layout, including how the devices are connected.
- Include a detailed description of the behavior and as much information as possible regarding the specific conditions that seem to trigger it.