Peplink engineers are always looking for ways to improve their firmware while meeting the unique needs of their customers. Beta firmware is typically released prior to the final firmware. This allows customers and partner engineers to test it out for themselves and provide feedback. Peplink truly makes it a communal experience. In the latest beta release of 8.4.0, Peplink brings some exciting updates. We’re going to outline some of the highlights. Though if you’d like to review the full release notes, you may download them at Peplink’s community forum.
SpeedFusion Features Now Available Without PrimeCare
Normally, SpeedFusion features on SKUs ending in -PRM are unavailable without an active PrimeCare subscription. With firmware 8.4.0, features like Bandwidth Bonding and WAN Smoothing will remain active, regardless of a PrimeCare subscription. Devices affected include:
- MAX BR1 Mini (HW3)
- MAX Transit Duo
- MAX BR1 Pro 5G
- Balance 20X
- Balance 310 5G
- UBR Plus
FaceTime and Google Meet Support Added
Peplink’s supported list of Cloud Applications in SFC Protect (SpeedFusion Connect Protect) has been somewhat limited, but they have been working on adding more. If you regularly use FaceTime or Google Meet, Firmware 8.4.0 adds these applications to its list.
Outbound Policy Update
Peplink Firmware 8.4.0 introduces compatibility for the “Least Used” algorithm within the Outbound Policy feature. This algorithm enables the system to intelligently choose the WAN connection that possesses the highest amount of untapped uplink bandwidth. This becomes particularly valuable in scenarios where bandwidth is scarce, such as in DSL and satellite setups, where upload speeds often become the bottleneck. By strategically directing traffic towards the “Least Used” connection based on its uplink bandwidth, individuals can potentially alleviate numerous challenges and prevent unnecessary complications.
New Ways to View GPS Data
In Peplink Firmware 8.4.0, the presence of GPS-capable devices within the network now offers enhanced visibility of their GPS data within InControl 2. A compelling use case for this feature involves vehicles equipped with built-in GPS systems. The GPS data originating from these systems can now be accessed through InControl 2 by means of a Peplink device, opening up exciting possibilities.
Factory Reset Via SMS Command
Have you ever needed to remotely factory reset your Peplink, but you’re without InControl 2 access? Peplink has added a SMS command for restoring the device to factory default configuration. For more on SMS commands and how to use them, check out our video.
Bring Your Own eSIM
Along with InControl 2 version 2.13, firmware 8.4.0 adds support for installing Bring-Your-Own eSIM on the Cellular WAN. Note that you must also have a valid Care Plan subscription. While this new version of InControl 2 is not yet available, once it is, this feature will be fully activated.
New Beta Available for AP One
If you’re also running Pepwave AP One devices, you may also be interested in checking out Beta 2 for firmware version 3.9.3. Among many improvements and some resolved issues, InTouch is now available with a valid Care subscription. See details at the Peplink forum.
