The RT-AX1800S is an entry-level Wi-Fi 6 networking node utilizing a MediaTek-based dual-core 1.2GHz CPU. Technical specifications indicate a dual-band radio configuration providing 574 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 1201 Mbps on the 5GHz band. Material analysis of the PCB confirms internal heat-sinking designed for thermal stability during 24/7 operation. The system lacks support for 160MHz channels, restricting the 5GHz band to a maximum width of 80MHz.
Integrated functional features include:
- Ecosystem Support: Compatibility with ASUS AiMesh for network expansion.
- VPN Capability: Native WireGuard and OpenVPN client and server support.
- Security Services: AiProtection powered by Trend Micro for packet inspection.
Standardized testing protocols show that the dual-core processor may reach utilization limits when managing 1Gbps PPPoE connections alongside intensive Quality of Service (QoS) rules. Aggregated specification data lists four 1GbE LAN ports and one 1GbE WAN port, with no multi-gigabit physical interfaces. The firmware provides manual controls for beamforming to maintain signal fidelity with legacy hardware.
If your environment requires multi-gigabit ports for 2.5G fiber connections, the RT-BE82U serves as a more robust alternative within the same ecosystem. This unit is part of the vpn-routers classification for residential smart home use.
