ZLD 5.40 Update: Important Notice on Mesh Support for WiFi 7 Access Points

Zyxel_Claudia

Zyxel Networks has updated its firmware to improve user guidance and transparency regarding mesh networking capabilities, particularly in the context of the newly introduced WiFi 7 Access Points (APs).

Current Mesh Support Overview

Zyxel firewalls traditionally use ZyMesh to enable mesh networking among managed APs through the Access Point Controller (APC). However, this capability is not supported on the new generation of WiFi 7 (802.11be) Access Points.

What’s New in v5.40?

To prevent confusion and improve the user experience, firmware version 5.40 introduces:

• In the Web GUI i-note reminders within the mesh-related configuration menus to inform users that WiFi 7 APs are not compatible with ZyMesh.
• Location of the reminder:
  CONFIGURATION > Wireless > AP Management > AP Group

These notifications are aimed at helping administrators avoid unintended configurations and plan their deployments accordingly.

Looking Ahead: Smart Mesh for WiFi 7

While WiFi 7 APs do not support ZyMesh on current ZLD firewalls, Zyxel is introducing Smart Mesh support for WiFi 7 and future AP models:

Smart Mesh is only supported on the new USG FLEX H series firewalls.

This architecture shift aligns with the performance and design enhancements of next-gen networking gear.