Answer By Grok

Prerequisites for Setting Up AiMesh

• You need two ASUS RT-AX58U routers that support AiMesh (confirmed for this model).
• Designate your currently in-use router as the AiMesh router (primary) and the new one as the AiMesh node (secondary).
• For best performance, use the router with higher specifications as the primary (both are the same model, so either works, but keep the existing one as primary).
• Position the AiMesh router and node within 1-3 meters of each other during setup.
• Aim for a mesh system of up to 5 routers for optimal experience (1 primary + 4 nodes).

Preparation Steps

1. Upgrade the firmware on both routers:

   • Power on your existing AiMesh router and connect your computer to it via wired (Ethernet) or WiFi connection.
   • Open a web browser and enter the router's LAN IP (usually 192.168.1.1) or http://www.asusrouter.com to access the web GUI.
   • Navigate to Administration > Firmware Upgrade and update to the latest version. Repeat this for the new router if needed (connect to it separately first).
   • Note: Ensure both routers have AiMesh-supported firmware.

2. Reset the new AiMesh node to factory defaults:

   • Power on the new router.
   • Press and hold the reset button on the back for at least 5 seconds until the power LED flashes slowly.
   • Release the button and let it complete the reset process. Leave it powered on and in standby.

Step-by-Step Setup Instructions

1. Connect your modem and set up the AiMesh router (your existing one):

   • Ensure your modem is connected to the WAN port of your existing router with a network cable.
   • Power on the router and verify LED lights indicate a ready connection.
   • Connect your computer to the AiMesh router via Ethernet (LAN port) or WiFi (search for its SSID and connect).

2. Access the web GUI and add the node:

   • In your browser, go to http://www.asusrouter.com or the router's LAN IP.
   • On the Network Map page, click the AiMesh icon.
   • Click Search to scan for the AiMesh node (keep devices close to avoid interference).
   • When the new router appears, select it and click to add it to the AiMesh system.
   • Wait for synchronization to complete (a success message will appear).

3. Position the routers for optimal coverage:

   • Move the AiMesh node to your desired location (e.g., between the primary router and any WiFi dead zones).
   • Place both routers high up in open spaces.
   • Use the ASUS Router App or web GUI to monitor connected devices, signal strength, and reception quality.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the primary router can't find the node or synchronization fails:

• Ensure the node is powered on and has AiMesh-supported firmware.
• Confirm the node was reset to defaults.
• Move the node closer (within 1-3 meters) to the primary router.
• Try a wired Ethernet connection between the routers if wireless fails.
• Verify WPS is enabled on the primary router.
• If using Ethernet Backhaul Mode, ensure all connections are wired (this mode disables wireless backhaul).

Once added, your AiMesh network should provide seamless WiFi coverage. For any firmware-specific issues, check the ASUS support site.