This article continues an overview of the standard functionality provided by the ASUS supplied firmware. The previous article can be found at: The Asus RT-N16 Router Firmware – Part 5; Advanced IPv6, VPN Server and Firewall Settings.
The previous article dealt with the Advanced IPv6, VPN Server and Firewall Settings, whereas this article will detail the advanced Administration and System Log configuration options available.
The goal is to understand the router firmware provided by Asus and compare this with OpenSource firmware options provided by both DD-WRT and Tomato Firmware groups – two popular router OpenSource firmware groups.
Administration
Administration – Operation Mode
Wireless Router Mode
This is the best option for most users. In the Wireless Router mode, the RT-N16 connects to the Internet. It provides you with a wireless radio signal. The NAT, firewall, and DHCP Server for LAN clients are all enabled by default.
The typical use of the device in Wireless Router Mode is best understood using the diagram image below for illustration.
Access Point (AP) Mode
Access Point mode allows your home wireless network to be extended. In AP mode you connect the RT-N16 to your network via the Ethernet cable in any port. The NAT, firewall, and DHCP Server are disabled. This allows you to place a wireless access point in a different part of your home.
Again, the typical use of the device in Access Point Mode is best understood using the diagram image below for illustration.
Administration – System
A few basic router settings can be configured on this screen including the password for the router and your local time zone.
Administration – Firmware Upgrade
New firmware versions can be downloaded from the Asus support site. Once downloaded to your computer you can then use this screen to upload the new firmware file to your router and initiate the upgrade process.
Administration – Restore/Save/Upload Setting
Best practice for any home network is to keep backups of all your network devices in case the configuration becomes corrupted or the device fails and needs to be replaced. This screen allows you to save your current configurations or upload a previously saved configuration.
Additionally, a restore option allows you to return to the factory default settings. If you’ve made too many settings which are now causing problems and don’t remember your changes, nor do you have a backup of the settings prior to your changes, then restoring factory default values may be your only option.
System Log
No network device would be complete without a log of the activities occurring on the device. The RT-N16 router firmware offers some basic logging features.
System Log – General Log
First, the general log is a simple listing of the system activities.
System Log – DHCP Leases
The DHCP Leases log shows you the IP addresses which have been assigned by the router’s DHCP server to the various network devices on your home network.
System Log – Wireless Log
The wireless log shows you wireless activities for your router. In my case, I’m not using the Wireless network features so the radio is disabled.
System Log – Port Forwarding
Port Forwarding activities are listed on this screen. If you’re having problems with your home network and suspect someone is breaking in then checking this log could be very helpful. If you find suspicious activity then disable the port forwarding rule to see if the activity stops.
It’s always good practice to keep your port forwarding rules current. If the open port is no longer needed, then remove the port forwarding configuration rule.
System Log – Routing Table
This screen shows the current detailed routing status.
Next Step
Return to the Firmware Overview: Asus RT-N16 Router Firmware Overview
