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Forum Discussion
WAX204 End of Life
I purchased a WAX204 to use as a Wi-Fi router in March of 2022. The device has been working fine for that purpose. However, last week I discovered that the WAX204 entered EOL in June of 2022 and the latest firmware update was issued in November of 2021. This may be a dumb question, but is it save to continue using this device as a Wi-Fi router?
4 Replies
yes it is safe to continue using. Many of netgears products go EOL after a set period or when they aren't getting supplies to build them anymore. I've even seen them push firmware updates for critical security updates occasionally on EOL products.
EOL in Netger terms means a product is no longer manufatured, and can no longer be ordered from the factory. Typical reason is if some key components are no longer orderble from eg. the chip set manufacturers.
Along with the EOL decision comes there won't be any development for enhncements, newer drivers or kernel, ...
It's in no apsect in what far to many loyal Netgear Customers understand - an End of Product Service Life.
Netgear will continue supplying operational required security updates long beyond the EOL date.
This is the reply I got from Netgear online support concerning this device.
It is safe to use this Router (WAX204). EOL (End of Life) for Netgear products refers to a specific device or model that is no longer supported by the manufacturer, meaning that Netgear will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or customer support for that product. Unfortunatly, Netgear will no longer provide firmware updates, bug fixes, or security patch files for EOL devices.
Hello Tallman
And welcome to the NETGEAR Community! 🙂
I see no reason why you shouldn't continue using your WAX204 if it meets your needs. In my perspective, as long as a device or product continues to serve its purpose effectively, there is no issue in using it long-term even if it is an older model. However, if your requirements change and the WAX204 can no longer deliver, that would be the right time to explore other options.
Have a lovely day,
Erwin
Netgear Team
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