Ubiquiti AirGrid M5 AREDN Firmware 3.16.1.0 SysUpgrade

This release focuses primarily on improving data rates and node manageability. The following changes have been made from our previous, v3.15.1.0, production release:

Data Rate Increase

- 802.11n has been added to the RF protocol. This improves the maximum data rate capability from 54 Mbps to 130 Mbps and allows AREDN nodes to take advantage of the Ubiquiti MIMO (concurrent data channels in both the vertical and horizontal polarization domains), although proportional data rate increases can also be achieved on non-MIMO devices

New Device Support

- Added support for the Ubiquiti AirRouter and AirRouter HP. These are desktop devices with an embedded a 5-port Ethernet switch we have preconfigured for WAN, LAN (ports 1-3) and DtD (port 4)

Upgradability

- The distance parameter entry is now mandatory during initial node setup. Its value can now be entered in either Kilometers or Miles. Testing has proven that data throughput is highly responsive to correctly setting this parameter

- Increased the upload-timeout for pushing firmware upgrades to remote nodes over marginal paths

- Added the ability for packages, such as iPerf, to open firewalls ports at the time of installation

Node/Network Manageability

- Added transmit data throughput values (TxMbps) for Current Neighbors on the Mesh Status screen

- Added a user-specified time zone and NTP server on the Setup page

- Completely rewrote the graphical reporting of SNR to show real-time and 2-day trends for each neighbor

- Added map-based LAT/LON location assistance for nodes with access to the Internet (directly or via a mesh gateway).

- Also added optional LAT/LON “push” to a centralized server which allows users to self-publish their nodes to a public AREDN map

- Added a disclosure statement in the help file on what gets uploaded with the LAT/LON “push” and how it will be used in publishing the public AREDN map

- WIFI Scans are now sortable by column

- Updated the Help page

Running other programs on a node

It has become popular to run an assortment of other programs on a node. And with no need to stand-up an outboard computer, it is a tempting proposition. However, more and more we are seeing nodes run out of memory (most Ubiquiti devices have 32MB RAM, the Rocket has 64MB), particularly by a combination of tunnel services and MeshChat. When this occurs, the node will automatically kill one or more processes. Depending on what it elects to kill, the device may run erratically or reboot. When tunnel services are installed and configured, the AREDN team encourages the use of RPi or other outboard computer for MeshChat.

Before flashing a Ubiquiti device that is running or has been running AirOS version 5.6, please run the AREDN U-Boot Test program below before attempting a firmware load or upgrade.

NOTE:

 - Use this "sysupgrade" file when loading from AREDN

Download and run the homepage. If the test results in a "GOOD/GOOD" result, then you may proceed to load the appropriate AREDN firmware onto it.

If the test results are "BAD," then you should do the following:

- Backup your device partitions using the AREDN U-Boot Test program.

- Use the AirOS GUI to downgrade to AirOS v5.5.x.

- Re-run the AREDN U-Boot Test program and look for a "GOOD/GOOD" test.

- If "GOOD/GOOD", you can safely use the AirOS GUI to install the AREDN firmware.

About Router Firmware:

Before you consider downloading this firmware, go to the system information page of the router and make sure that the currently installed version isn’t either newer or matching this release.

Due to the large variety of router models and different methods for upgrading the device, it is highly recommended that you read and, above all, understand the installation steps before you apply the new firmware, even if you are a power user.

In theory, these steps shouldn’t be much of a hassle for anyone, because manufacturers try to make them as easy as possible, even if they don’t always succeed. Basically, you must upload the new firmware to the router through its administration page and allow it to upgrade.

If you install a new version, you can expect increased security levels, different vulnerability issues to be resolved, improved overall performance and transfer speeds, enhanced compatibility with other devices, added support for newly developed technologies, as well as several other changes.

If you’re looking for certain safety measures, remember that it would be best if you perform the upload using an Ethernet cable rather than a wireless connection, which can be interrupted easily. Also, make sure you don’t power off the router or use its buttons during the installation, if you wish avoid any malfunctions.

If this firmware meets your current needs, get the desired version and apply it to your router unit; if not, check with our website as often as possible so that you don’t miss the update that will improve your device.

It is highly recommended to always use the most recent driver version available

Do not forget to check with our site as often as possible in order to stay updated on the latest drivers, software and games

Try to set a system restore point before installing a device driver

This will help if you installed a wrong driver

Problems can arise when your hardware device is too old or not supported any longer