I installed three Asus routers in an AI mesh network. All three routers (2 AC3100 and 1 Blue Cave) I've bought have been updated and I've had no problems. They come in a plain cardboard box with bubble wrap. The power pack and the antennas are of course included, but you don't get a CD or literature (you don't need them either). This router is very easy to set up and in my opinion they are better devices than many mesh systems that are currently popular. There is an Asus app that lets you manage the routers from your phone, or you can use a web browser. This particular model offers a very strong Wi-Fi signal. Initially, I only had one of these routers covering my 3,300 square feet. ft. I bought additional routers to provide redundancy and faster download speeds in remote parts of my home. I've been considering getting one of the newer Wi-Fi 6 routers, but I don't currently have any devices that can connect at higher speeds. I was very happy with the performance of the system as a whole. I will say that sometimes it doesn't make sense to plug a device into a specific router, but I can assume there is signal interference that I may not be aware of. Asus has a great admin interface and offers free Trend Micro network protection with this router. I've noticed that other brands include security software in their routers that comes with a one-year subscription and you have to pay after the introductory period is over.
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