Upgrading TP-Link Archer C7 v2 IL from ar71xx to ath79

Installing and Using OpenWrt
1

Hi,
I've installed OpenWRT on Archer C7 yesterday, it took time to understand I need the factory file for the IL version and not the EU version, although on the sticker it is mentioned C7(EU) v2.0.
Now I have installed version 19.7.10 but having issues with 5Ghz wireless - it is always disconnected after couple of minutes and the interface / SSID is disabled.

I thought upgrading it to 24.10.0 but I'm not sure if I can use the ath79 sysupgrade.
Is it possible to run ath79 versions on C7 IL v2.0?
Is the hardware same in IL and EU and only the stock firmware is different?

Will be glad for some guidance.

Thanks in advance!

2

You can use tftp to upgrade directly in one step.

Otherwise you can use the sysupgrade process but it is multi-step:

  • you need to upgrade to 19.07 ath79
  • then to 23.05
  • and finally to 24.10.

Regardless of the method you use, you cannot keep your configuration. Do not keep settings (only relevant for the sysupgrade method), and do not attempt to restore from a backup.

You will configure from scratch, but you can always use a backup as a human readable reference.

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3

AFAIK only the hardware ID differs - and what the OEM firmware does with it. So in terms of documentation, everything written for the normal c7-v2 applies, apart from the dedicated images.

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4

Thanks.
How do I upgrade to 19.07 ath79?
Using the factory file or sysupgrade?
through the web interface? CLI?
Should I force the upgrade?

5

Use the sysupgrade file. Web interface and cli are equivalent. It will present a scary warning message, but you can continue.

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