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Peplink has released Firmware 8.5.3 RC1 (Release Candidate 1), bringing the platform closer to its official release. As with any RC build, this version is intended for testing and validation, and while it introduces many new features and bug fixes, we recommend caution before deploying it on production routers.
Peplink 8.5.3 Supported Devices
Firmware 8.5.3 RC1 supports a wide range of devices across the Balance, MAX, UBR, B One, MediaFast, SDX, EPX, PDX, FusionHub, and SpeedFusion product lines.
That said, some older models will only receive 8.5.x maintenance releases moving forward and will not be supported in future major firmware versions. Notable examples include Balance 30 LTE HW3, BR1 ENT HW1-2, HD2 HW5-6, HD4 HW1-5, Transit HW1-3, and others.
Key Improvements
Key Improvements
Some of the most significant enhancements in RC1 include:
Remote User Access: Added DHCP reservation support based on usernames. B One Series: Now includes IPv6 support. BGP & IPsec: BGP is now supported over route-based IPsec, expanding routing options. USB Modem Support: Fujisoft FS040W USB modem support added. Docker Updates: Added support for tunneling inside containers via /dev/net/tun. Security & Networking: Support for secondary RADIUS servers for Web Admin and 802.1X authentication fallback. IPv4-only PDP enforcement for private SIMs. Enhanced DPI engine with new protocol detection (Sonos, NordVPN, Surfshark, Temu, Shein, Paramount Plus, and even Generative AI traffic). Site survey support for nearby 5G towers using InControl’s connection test. Standard SNMP linkUp/linkDown traps now supported. Improved Wi-Fi WAN roaming for static IP setups.
Resolved Issues
This release candidate also addresses many issues identified in beta builds:
Fixed dropped OpenVPN connections that left Remote User Access DHCP leases assigned. Fixed compatibility issues with certain 5GD cellular devices on Optus networks. Updated CA certificates for Web Proxy, ContentHub, and OpenVPN. Resolved various Wi-Fi WAN stability issues, DNS Proxy failures, Outbound Policy misrouting, and DHCP lease errors. Numerous fixes across FusionSIM, Synergy Mode, Captive Portal, GPS data forwarding, SNMP, and AP Controller.
Peplink 8.5.3 RC1 Known Issues
As with all RC releases, some bugs remain under review:
Changing IP Passthrough to VLAN may fail in the Web UI. LAN clients on certain ports may fail to obtain IPs under Multiple IP passthrough WAN. Docker containers cannot be run without an active DHCP server. YouTube blocking may not function when traffic uses QUIC. Changing Switch Controller PVID may not apply correctly.
Recommendations
Since this is a Release Candidate (RC1), it signals that Peplink is nearing a general release of firmware 8.5.3. However, we strongly suggest:
Testing first in non-production environments. Reviewing device compatibility—especially for legacy hardware that may not see support in future firmware versions. Reporting any issues directly through Peplink’s support portal or forums.
You can download Firmware 8.5.3 RC1 here:
👉 Peplink Open Beta Firmware Downloads
Final Thoughts
Peplink Firmware 8.5.3 RC1 introduces a robust mix of new features, security enhancements, and important fixes. It’s a promising step toward the next stable release, especially with expanded protocol recognition, improved RADIUS handling, and added IPv6 functionality for the B One series.
We’ll continue to monitor developments as this firmware moves toward official release. If you’re eager to test the new features, download Firmware 8.5.3 RC1 from Peplink’s site—but deploy carefully!
