ASUS rolled out an update to its firmware (3.0.0.6.102_34791) that now requires users to be over the age of 16 and to send a slew of metrics and data back to ASUS. If you do not agree or do not check the box to verify you are 16y or older, you cannot use the router. At this time, I’m not sure if ASUS has meant to disable the router for anyone under 16 or if it’s a bug.

You can opt out at any time but lose access to a slew of features:

Please note that users are required to agree to share their information before using DDNS, Remote Connection (ASUS Router APP, Lyra APP. AiCloud, AiDisk), AiProtection, Traffic analyzer, Apps analyzer, Adaptive QoS, Game Boost and Web history. At any time, users can search the contents of the terms at this page or stop sharing their information with other parties by choosing Withdraw.

Moreover, ASUS disables automatic firmware updates and worse, all security upgrades unless you opt into the data sharing. Security upgrades perform the following:

Security upgrade incorporates security measures that continuously update its security file and scans to protect against malware, malicious scripts, and emerging threats in order to secure the router and ensure system stability. Some upgrades addressing important security issues or meeting legal/regulatory requirements will still be downloaded and installed automatically, even if “Security Upgrade” is turned off.

Edit: I have personally contacted their CEO’s office, but if others would like to voice their disapproval as well, here is a link: https://www.asus.com/us/support/article/787/

  • Possibly linuxEnglish
    1·
    6 months ago

    Good point but most people don’t have a good networking background. That’s why some companies ship openWRT with custom skins

    • PM_Your_Nudes_Please@lemmy.world
      5·
      6 months ago

      Good point but most people do have a good networking background.

      Relevant xkcd

      I know the target demographic for a privacy community will likely have a good networking background. But “most” is likely an overstatement. I think most people don’t even know what a router does, much less how to configure one.

    • BorgDrone@lemmy.one
      2·
      6 months ago

      But with those ‘user friendly’ UI’s no one knows what they’re doing. The user doesn’t know regardless and now the expert they ask for help has no clue either.

      • Possibly linuxEnglish
        1·
        6 months ago

        I disagree. It automatically sets up location and a password which is a big step. You keep clicking next until you are done