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ASUS ROG Strix GS-BE18000 vs NETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

A

Product A: ASUS

ROG Strix GS-BE18000

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B

Product B: NETGEAR

Nighthawk CAX30

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AASUS ROG Strix GS-BE18000

BNETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

General

3 of 9 differ

Series

ROG Strix2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026The page is titled ROG STRIX GS-BE18000 and sits under ROG Gaming Routers.

Nighthawk2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Titled Nighthawk AX6/6-Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router, data sheet CAX30.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

GS-BE18000, 90IG09Y0-MO9C001Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Model Name: GS-BE18000.14Retailer pagelambda-tek.com/ASUS-90IG09Y0-MO9C00-sh/B50980291Read 15 October 2026UK retailer listing of ASUS ROG Strix GS-BE18000 with the manufacturer part number 90IG09Y0-MO9C00.15Retailer pageldlc.com/en/product/PB00717231.htmlRead 15 October 2026French retailer spec sheet, Model: 90IG09Y0-MO9C00. The sheet lists weight 927.5 g like the maker and labels the sizes width 90, height 225 and depth 225 mm.16Retailer pageinet.se/produkt/x251407/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Swedish retailer page, manufacturer part number 90IG09Y0-MO9C00. It lists the product as 90 mm wide, 225 mm high and 225 mm deep and a package weight of 1.654 kg.

CAX30, CAX30S1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page title and mpn are CAX30S. The CAX30 is the same Wi-Fi 6 cable modem router with the same datasheet figures. The CAX30S bundle has a 90-day Armor trial and the CAX30 a 30-day trial.

GTIN / EAN

Not available

6064491564161Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026JSON-LD on the page: sku CAX30S-100NAS, gtin and upc 606449156416. No GTIN is stored for the CAX30 since no maker page prints one.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

Not available

Status

Available2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026The US product page is live with a Where to buy link and the router is on sale at US retailers.

Available1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page offers the CAX30S for sale with an Add To Cart button. It is not marked discontinued.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$449.998Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The review gives a list price of $450 and its price table shows $449.99. Best Buy sold it for $399.99 at review time.9Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026Hardware table: US Launch Price $449.99.12Reviewtomshardware.com/networking/routers/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-wi-fi-7-gaming-router-reviewRead 15 October 2026The spec table lists an MSRP of 449.99 USD. Best Buy sold it for 399.99 USD at review time. Review published 2026-02-01.13Press article24wireless.info/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Best Buy US listing at 449.99 USD on 2025-05-22, matching the Dong Knows Tech launch price.

Not available

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US8Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The prices are US prices at US retailers. The launch price applies to the US.

US1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page and the datasheet name US cable providers: Xfinity, Spectrum and Cox.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black8Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The review says it is available only in black.

Black7Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B08R588RCGRead 15 October 2026Product details: Color Black. The listing is titled NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router Combo (CAX30), manufacturer part CAX30-200NAS.

Form factoriMesh system is a product line sold in packs of mesh units, e.g. eero, Deco and Orbi. A standalone router that can join a mesh as an option is a router. A travel router is a pocket-size router sold for travel.

Router2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Standalone router that works as the primary AiMesh router or as an AiMesh node, so it is stored as router.

Router2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ROG is Gaming and ASUS ExpertWiFi is Business. It is not assigned from price or features.

Gaming2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Sold as a ROG gaming router with the ROG-exclusive Gaming Network, Triple-Level Game Acceleration and two dedicated gaming ports.

Home1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026The page sits under Home, WiFi, Modem Routers on netgear.com and is part of the Nighthawk home line.

Wi-Fi

13 of 14 differ

Wi-FiiThe newest Wi-Fi generation the product supports.

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Network Standard lists WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and WiFi 7 (802.11be).

Wi-Fi 62Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Wi-Fi speed classiThe maker's class name, e.g. BE19000 or AXE11000. It adds up the top link rates of all radios. No single device reaches it. A Wi-Fi 6E class starts with AXE, also when the maker writes AX, so eero's AX5400 is AXE5400. The class is not the model number, so GL.iNet's GL-AXT1800 is AX1800.

BE180001Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Product Segment: BE18000 ultimate BE performance: 688+5764+11529 Mbps. The three rates add up to 17981 Mbps.

AX27001Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 20262Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Wi-Fi radiosiOne row per radio in one unit. A quad-band unit with two 5 GHz radios has two 5 GHz rows.

AASUS ROG Strix GS-BE18000

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Max link rate (Mbps)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	2	40	688	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	4	160	5,764	No
6 GHz	Wi-Fi 7	4	320	11,529	No

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026WiFi Data Rate: 2.4GHz BE 2x2 20/40MHz up to 688 Mbps, 5GHz BE 4x4 20/40/80/160MHz up to 5764 Mbps and 6GHz BE 4x4 20/40/80/160/320MHz up to 11529 Mbps, all 4096 QAM. Transmit / Receive lists 2x2, 4x4 and 4x4. The rates fit the 802.11be rates for those streams and widths.12Reviewtomshardware.com/networking/routers/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-wi-fi-7-gaming-router-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review states 2.4 GHz 2x2, 5 GHz 4x4 and 6 GHz 4x4 with 688, 5,764 and 11,529 Mbps. Its own iPerf3 results (6 GHz just over 2 Gbps at 6 ft and 1,467 Mbps at 25 ft, 5 GHz 1,273 and 497 Mbps, 2.4 GHz 122 and 39 Mbps) use another method than Tom's Guide and are not stored.

BNETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Band	Wi-Fi	Streams	Max channel width (MHz)	Dedicated backhaul
2.4 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	40	No
5 GHz	Wi-Fi 6	3	80	No

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Technical specs (page 10): 2.4 GHz AX 3x3 (Tx/Rx) 1024-QAM 40 MHz, up to 0.9 Gbps, and 5 GHz AX 3x3 1024-QAM 80 MHz, up to 1.8 Gbps. The maker prints the rates only rounded to 0.1 Gbps, so no link rate is stored. The footnote says up to 2700 Mbps when connected to other 802.11ax 2700 Mbps devices.

Radio bandsiRadios that work at the same time in one unit. Tri-band is 3 and quad-band is 4, also when two radios use the same frequency band.

3=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

2=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6 GHz band

Yes=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

No=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Combined Wi-Fi link rateiSum of the top link rates of all radios in one unit. It is close to the number in the speed class. No single device reaches it.

17,981Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Not available

Wi-Fi streamsiSpatial streams of all radios in one unit, e.g. 12 for a tri-band router with 4x4 on each band.

10=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

6=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel of any radio, e.g. 320 on the 6 GHz band.

320MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

80MHz=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi radios

Wi-Fi featuresiFeatures the maker names for the product. Band steering puts all bands under one network name and moves devices between them, e.g. Smart Connect. Band steering over only some of the bands, such as 2.4 and 5 GHz on a tri-band router, counts. AFC is Automated Frequency Coordination, which allows standard power on 6 GHz. Support that needs a later firmware counts, and the firmware goes in the source note.

Multi-Link Operation (MLO), 4K-QAM, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Band steering1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Boosts Speed lists OFDMA and 4096-QAM. The Wireless section lists MU-MIMO. MLO and band steering come from other sources.2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Multi-Link Operation section: tri-band MLO with 4K-QAM and 320MHz channels. Automatic MLO is enabled by default.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026The tutorial index lists How to configure Smart Connect in ASUS Router. Smart Connect is ASUS band steering.11Reviewprofesionalreview.com/2025/10/23/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026Setup can keep all bands under one SSID so that the system assigns each client a band.

OFDMA, Beamforming, Band steering1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026Technical specs list Uplink and Downlink OFDMA and Smart Connect, which picks the fastest WiFi band under one WiFi name.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Footnote: needs compatible AX clients with DL-OFDMA and UL-OFDMA support. Smart Connect puts both bands under one WiFi name. MU-MIMO is not named, so it is not stored.

External antennasiAntennas outside the case, as the maker counts them.

01Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Antenna: internal antenna x 8. The spec page names no external antenna.

Not available

Internal antennasiAntennas inside the case, as the maker counts them.

81Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Antenna: internal antenna x 8.

Not available

Detachable antennasiThe external antennas screw off and can be replaced. Fixed antennas that only fold or turn do not count.

No2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026All eight antennas are internal, so none can be detached. Tom's Guide lists the antennas as not removable.

Not available

Coverage of one unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area that one unit covers. A square feet claim is converted exactly and rounded to a whole m². A claim for a whole pack is stored separately. An area that a trusted review quotes from the maker counts, and the source note names the review.

307m²2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Coverage of up to 3,300 sq. ft. Converted to 307 m2 (306.6).4Press releasepress.asus.com/news/press-releases/rog-strix-gs-be18000-gaming-router-wifi7Read 15 October 2026Eight internal antennas powered by independent FEMs cover up to 3,300 square feet. The release is datelined Taipei, June 5, 2025, which is after the first US retail listings, so no announce date is stored.

Not available

Connected devices per unit (claimed)iThe maker's claimed maximum number of devices one unit serves. A claim for a whole mesh pack is not stored here.

Not available

Not available

Ports and modem

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PortsiData ports on the main unit. The power input is not a port. A combo port takes an RJ45 cable or an SFP+ module and is counted once. WAN or LAN means the maker says the port can be either, including auto-sensing ports.

AASUS ROG Strix GS-BE18000

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
RJ45	1	WAN	2.5	Not available
RJ45	7	LAN	2.5	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.2 Gen 1

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026I/O Ports: 1 x 2.5Gbps for WAN, 7 x 2.5Gbps for LAN and 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1. USB 3.2 Gen 1 is stored at the standard 5 Gbps rate. The two gaming ports are LAN ports and are counted in the seven.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 1.3: 2.5G LAN 1 to 7 ports, one 2.5G WAN (Internet) port and one USB 3.2 Gen 1 port.

BNETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

Port	Count	Role	Max speed (Gbps)	Version
Coax	1	WAN	Not available	Not available
RJ45	4	LAN	1	Not available
USB-A	1	Not available	5	USB 3.0

Source2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Four Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports with dual Gigabit port aggregation, one USB 3.0 port and a cable/coaxial port (connection diagram, page 9). The coax port takes the cable internet connection, so it is the WAN. No link rate is stored for it, since DOCSIS is not an Ethernet rate.

Ethernet portsiRJ45 ports of all roles, WAN and LAN.

8=CalculatedFrom Ports

4=CalculatedFrom Ports

Multi-gig portsiWired network ports of 2.5 Gbps or faster, RJ45 or fiber.

8=CalculatedFrom Ports

0=CalculatedFrom Ports

Fastest WAN portiThe fastest port that can take the internet connection.

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

Not available

Fastest LAN portiThe fastest port for wired devices. A port that can be WAN or LAN counts here too.

2.5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

1Gbps=CalculatedFrom Ports

USB ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

SFP+ portiA slot for a 10 Gbps fiber or DAC module.

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

Built-in modemiModems inside the router. A port for an external modem does not count. A fiber slot counts only when the fiber module is in the box.

Not available

Cable2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Modem standardsiStandards of the built-in modem as published, e.g. DOCSIS 3.1, VDSL2 35b, GPON or 5G NR.

Not available

DOCSIS 3.1, DOCSIS 3.0 (32x8)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Built-in DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem compatible with 32x8 DOCSIS 3.0. Up to 10 Gbps is the DOCSIS 3.1 maximum and depends on the provider.

Mesh

2 of 7 differ

Mesh technologiesiMesh systems the unit can join, by the maker's name, e.g. AiMesh, EasyMesh or TP-Link OneMesh.

AiMesh1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026AiMesh: Primary AiMesh Router and AiMesh Node.

Not available

Units per packiUnits in the box. The base lists every pack size sold. Each pack variant holds its own. A standalone router is 1.

11Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026One router is sold.

12Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sold as one modem router. The package contents list a single router.

Coverage of the pack (claimed)iThe maker's claimed area for a whole pack. Each pack variant holds its own claim. The claims of single units are never added up.

Not available

Not available

Identical unitsiEvery unit in a pack is the same model, so any unit can be the router. Not true for systems with a separate satellite model, such as NETGEAR Orbi.

Not available

Not available

Satellite modeliModel number of the satellite when it differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Satellite portsiData ports on one satellite. Only when the satellite differs from the router unit.

Not available

Not available

Ethernet backhauliMesh units can link to each other over an Ethernet cable.

Yes2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Versatile Backhaul Options: wired and wireless 2.5G backhaul.

Not available

Software

5 of 7 differ

ManagementiWays to set up and manage the router. A web interface is a full settings page in a browser on the local network. A status page alone does not count.

Mobile app, Web interface1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026User Interface: WEB ASUSWRT, APP ASUS Router APP.

Mobile app, Web interface3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Settings are changed at http://www.routerlogin.net with the admin login. Chapter 6 also covers remote access with the Nighthawk app.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Install using the modem router web interface at routerlogin.net, or with the Nighthawk app.

Online account requirediSetup and management need an online account with the maker, with no local way around it.

No3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 2.2 Quick Internet Setup runs in the web GUI and asks for the ISP details, the Wi-Fi names and keys and a router login password. No ASUS account is requested.12Reviewtomshardware.com/networking/routers/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-wi-fi-7-gaming-router-reviewRead 15 October 2026Setup in the Asus Router app or the web interface took about five minutes. Binding the router to an Asus account is offered for remote access and is optional.

No3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The router is set up and managed with a local admin login at routerlogin.net, so no maker account is needed.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The guide offers the web interface as an install route next to the Nighthawk app.

Operating modesiModes the maker lists. Media bridge connects wired devices to another router over Wi-Fi. Extender, range extender and WDS modes count as repeater.

Router, Access point, Mesh node, Repeater, Media bridge1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Operating Mode: Router (AiMesh router), AiMesh node, Access point, Repeater, Media bridge.

Router3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The manual configures the unit as a modem router. Bridge and access point modes appear only in troubleshooting tips and are not stored.

Network featuresiFeatures the maker lists that work without a paid subscription. An IoT network is a separate network for smart home devices. Dual WAN uses a second internet connection as a backup or to share the load. Only features the maker clearly says are free. Parental controls counts when a free feature pauses or schedules internet access per person or device, such as eero Profiles, even when content filters need a subscription. When the maker's pages contradict each other, leave the feature out.

Guest network, IoT network, IPTV, Dual WAN, QoS, Parental controls, Dynamic DNS1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Listed: Guest Network, IPTV, Dual WAN, DDNS, Adaptive QoS and Traditional QoS, Parental Control. IoT Network comes from the product page. VLAN and aggregation are not listed. Dong Knows Tech says link aggregation is not supported.2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026Smart Home Master SSIDs: IoT Network, Kid's Network, VPN Network and MLO Network.

Guest network, LAN aggregation, Dynamic DNS2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Dual Gigabit Ethernet port aggregation and a guest network. The Nighthawk app also lists guest networks.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 5: guest WiFi network (page 52) and Ethernet port aggregation of ports 1 and 2 (page 59). Chapter 8: Dynamic DNS with NETGEAR, No-IP and Dyn accounts (page 92). Parental controls, QoS, VLAN and IPTV are not named, so they are not stored.

VPN serveriProtocols the router can serve, to reach the home network from outside. A paid VPN service is not a VPN server.

WireGuard, OpenVPN, IPsec, PPTP1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026VPN Server IPSec, Open VPN, PPTP and WireGuard.

OpenVPN2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026VPN support for secure access to the home network away from home. The manual names OpenVPN.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 9: use OpenVPN software to remotely access the router. The router is the gateway. No VPN client mode is described.

VPN clientiProtocols the router can use to connect to an outside VPN server.

WireGuard, OpenVPN, L2TP, PPTP1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026VPN Client L2TP, Open VPN, PPTP and WireGuard.

Not available

USB applicationsiWhat the USB port can be used for. Cellular modem is a USB 4G or 5G modem used as an internet connection or backup.

File server, Media server, Time Machine, Printer server, Cellular modem1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026WAN lists a 3G / 4G LTE dongle and 4G / 5G Auto Mobile Tethering, so cellular_modem is stored. USB application lists tethering and the supported file systems. File and media serving come from the manual. A printer server and Time Machine come from the reviews.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 1.1 names an SMB server, a UPnP AV server and an FTP server for file sharing.8Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The USB port is described as able to run a print server, share a data drive and use a mobile phone as a backup internet feed.11Reviewprofesionalreview.com/2025/10/23/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026The USB port supports a file server, FTP, Samba, a network printer server, backups, a download manager and 3G/4G/5G adapters.12Reviewtomshardware.com/networking/routers/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-wi-fi-7-gaming-router-reviewRead 15 October 2026Software section: the USB port serves network storage, a network printer server, a USB cellular modem or smartphone as an internet link and a Time Machine backup server for Macs.

File server, Media server3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Chapter 7: ReadySHARE storage with FTP access inside the network. ReadyDLNA media server is on by default (page 79).

Security

5 of 5 differ

Wi-Fi securityiEnhanced Open encrypts an open network without a password.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise, WPA3-Enterprise, Enhanced Open (OWE)1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026WiFi Encryption: WPA/WPA2/WPA3 Personal, WPA/WPA2/WPA3 Enterprise, Open System and OWE. The footnote says Enterprise is not available under AiMesh mode.

WPA2-Personal, WPA3-Personal, WPA2-Enterprise2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Standards-based WiFi security (802.11i, 128-bit AES with PSK) and stronger WiFi password protection with WPA3.3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Page 51: WPA2-PSK [AES] is the default and WPA/WPA2 Enterprise needs a RADIUS server. WPA3 is claimed on the data sheet, but this April 2021 manual lists only WPA, WPA2 and WPA/WPA2.

Security serviceiThe maker's built-in security service by name, e.g. AiProtection Pro, HomeShield, NETGEAR Armor or eero Plus.

AiProtection Pro1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026AiProtection row: AiProtection Pro with Router Security Assessment, Malicious Site Blocking, Two-Way IPS and Infected Device Prevention and Blocking.

NETGEAR Armor1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026NETGEAR Armor, with a trial included in the bundle.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Security service costiWhat the service costs after any free trial. Basic free means the basic features are free and the full set needs a subscription. When the free and paid tiers share one name, such as HomeShield, it is basic free. NETGEAR Armor has no free tier after its trial, so it is paid. When the paid tier is a separate add-on, such as eero Plus, it is paid.

Free2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026The page headline says subscription-free network security. AiProtection Pro runs on a Trend Micro cloud database and no fee is named.

Paid2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Footnote: NETGEAR Armor requires a paid subscription after the initial 30-day free trial. No free tier is listed. The field note names Armor as basic_free for shared names, but the maker states only a paid subscription, so paid is stored like for the RS300 and Orbi 370.

Automatic firmware updatesiThe router can install firmware updates by itself.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Administration: Auto Firmware Update.

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Security updates untiliPublished end date of security updates for this model. It is not calculated from a number of years. A published minimum date, such as "at least through" or "or later", counts as the stated date. The source note says it is a minimum and names the region.

31 December 20296Maker product pageasus.com/support/faq/1051929Read 15 October 2026The UK FAQ (Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act), updated 2026-08-19, lists GS-BE18000 in the group with a product security update period of 4 years, until 31 December 2029, and says extended support may be provided after that date. The date is a minimum and applies to the UK.

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Smart home

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Thread border router

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Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

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Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

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BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio in the router, often used for setup.

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Smart home platformsiSmart home and voice platforms the router works with, e.g. Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Amazon Alexa12Reviewtomshardware.com/networking/routers/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-wi-fi-7-gaming-router-reviewRead 15 October 2026Software section: the features include Amazon Alexa integration. The maker pages do not name Alexa.

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Hardware

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System on chipiMain chip or platform as published, e.g. Broadcom BCM4916 or Qualcomm Networking Pro 620. A chip maker name alone, such as Broadcom, is not stored.

Broadcom BCM67668Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Wi-Fi chips Broadcom BCM6766. The text says Broadcom's BCM6766 Wi-Fi chip with a 2.0GHz quad-core processor. Profesional Review names the same chip as the CPU. The maker publishes no chip.11Reviewprofesionalreview.com/2025/10/23/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026Review text: CPU Broadcom BCM6766 quad-core at 2.0 GHz, with 2 GB DDR4 RAM and 256 MB flash. It also lists BCM6766 for 2.4 and 5 GHz and BCM7263 for 6 GHz.

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CPU cores

41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Processor: 2.0GHz quad-core processor. One paragraph on the product page says tri-core, the spec table says quad-core and the reviews agree.

21Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026Technical specs: dual-core 1.5GHz processor.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

CPU clockiHighest published processor clock.

2GHz1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Processor: 2.0GHz quad-core processor.

1.5GHz1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 20262Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

RAMiRouter RAM in GB. When any trusted source prints a GB figure, use it, e.g. 1 GB rather than 1024 MB converted. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB only when MB is the only figure, e.g. 512 MB is 0.512, and keep the original figure in the source note. Same rule as streaming devices.

2GB1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Memory: 256 MB Flash and DDR4 2 GB RAM.

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Flash storageiBuilt-in flash memory for the firmware in GB. Convert MB with 1000 MB per GB, as for RAM. A memory card or USB drive does not count.

256MB1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Memory: 256 MB Flash. Stored as 0.256 GB.

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Cooling faniA fan inside the unit. Passive cooling does not count.

No8Reviewtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The review says it is passively cooled with nanocarbon-coated aluminum heat sink fins.9Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review says there is no internal fan.

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Power

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Power supplyiHow the main unit gets power. USB is a USB-C power adapter. PoE is power over an Ethernet cable.

External DC adapter1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Power Supply: AC input 110V to 240V and a bundled power adapter.

External DC adapter3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Table 6: power adapter, 120V 60 Hz input and 12V/3.5A DC output.

Rated power inputiDevice input rating as published, in volts and amps.

12 V, 3 A / 12 V, 5 A1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Power Supply: DC output 12 V with max. 5 A current / 12 V with max. 3 A current. The manual lists the same two ratings. The page does not say which adapter is in which box.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 1.3 notes: DC power adapter output +12V with 3A current and +12V with 5A current.

12 V, 3.5 A3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026The manual's rear panel figure labels the DC inlet 12V 3.5A.

Included adapter outputiRated output of the power adapter in the box. This is not power use.

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42W3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 202612 V times 3.5 A is 42 W.

Power use (typical, claimed)iThe maker's typical or average power use of one unit. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out.

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Power use (max, claimed)iThe maker's maximum power use of one unit. Power given out over PoE is not included. A published range, such as 14 to 16 W, is left out. A figure measured with the power adapter counts.

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Measured

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Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iTom's Guide throughput, one row per test position. Tool, client, direction and walls are in the source note. Other reviewers' results go in source notes only.

AASUS ROG Strix GS-BE18000

Distance (m)	Connected to	Throughput (Mbps)
4.572	Main unit	2,354
15.24	Main unit	1,354
22.86	Main unit	900.8
27.432	Main unit	40.9

Source7Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026Tom's Guide, published 2026-08-17. Keysight IxChariot set to simulate 10 data-hungry users, client an HP Envy x360 notebook. Firmware and band are not stated. Rows are 15 ft (4.572 m) 2.354 Gbps, 50 ft (15.24 m) 1.354 Gbps, 75 ft (22.86 m) 900.8 Mbps and 90 ft (27.432 m) 40.9 Mbps. The review also reports 2.238 Gbps with the router next to the notebook, which is not stored.

BNETGEAR Nighthawk CAX30

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Fastest Wi-Fi throughput (measured)iHighest measured row with the client connected to the main unit. Compare only results from the same reviewer.

2,354Mbps=CalculatedFrom Wi-Fi throughput (measured)

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Wi-Fi throughput through a wall (measured)iTom's Guide throughput at 25 ft through one wall, with the client on the main unit.

1,309Mbps7Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The review says the router moved upwards of 1.309 Gbps to a room 25 feet away. Same IxChariot setup.

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Range (measured)iDistance at which the reviewer's client lost its connection to the main unit.

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Power use under load (measured)iWall power of the main unit during the reviewer's throughput or saturation test.

17.7W7Measurementtomsguide.com/computing/routers/i-tested-the-asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-and-this-stealth-gaming-router-punches-way-above-its-weightRead 15 October 2026The review says the router consumed 17.7 watts while in use and derives a yearly cost of $27.13 from it. It does not describe the load.

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Energy use per day (measured)iEnergy the router used over 24 hours of the reviewer's test use. This is not the power at one moment.

340Wh10Measurementdongknows.com/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026Hardware table: power consumption per 24 hours about 340 Wh. Firmware 3.0.0.6.102_38782 and 3.0.0.6.102_38818. The review does not describe the load.

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Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiOne unit in its normal position, with antennas folded flat or removed. Height is bottom to top. For a round unit, width and depth are both the diameter. A size the maker prints with antennas up goes in Dimensions with antennas.

Width90Height225Depth225mm(3.5 × 8.9 × 8.9 in)1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Product Dimensions 225 x 90 x 225 mm, printed without labels. The maker's front and rear photos show a narrow upright slab, so the 90 mm side is the width. LDLC and inet.se label the sizes width 90, height 225 and depth 225 mm. Tom's Guide gives 8.9 x 8.9 x 3.4 inches without labels.

Width110Height254Depth211mm(4.3 × 10 × 8.3 in)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Printed 10.0 x 8.3 x 4.3 in / 254 x 211 x 110 mm without axis names. The manual says the status LEDs and buttons are on the front, and in the product photo they sit on the narrow edge. Amazon prints 8.3 in L x 4.3 in W x 10 in H. So 254 mm is the height, 211 mm the depth and 110 mm the width. The April 2021 manual (Table 6) prints 264 x 215 x 110 mm. The newer data sheet and the netgear.com page agree, so the data sheet is used.

Dimensions with antennasiOne unit with its external antennas up, as the maker prints it.

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WeightiOne unit without power adapter and cables.

927.5g(2 lb)1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Product Weight (g): 927.5 g. The page does not say whether the adapter is included.

950g(2.1 lb)2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Printed 2.10 lb / 0.95 kg, the same as the netgear.com page and Amazon (2.1 lb). The April 2021 manual (Table 6) prints 2.55 lb (1.16 kg), so the maker's documents disagree and the data sheet is used.

Wall mountableiThe maker says the unit can be mounted on a wall.

No9Reviewdongknows.com/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review says it is designed to stand vertically and is not mount-ready. The maker names no wall mount.11Reviewprofesionalreview.com/2025/10/23/asus-rog-strix-gs-be18000-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review says the router has no wall anchors. It stands upright, with rubber feet on the bottom.

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Certifications

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Wi-Fi Alliance certification IDiCertificate ID in the Wi-Fi Alliance product finder.

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FCC IDiFCC ID of the main unit.

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PY3193004616Spec databasewikidevi.wi-cat.ru/Netgear_PCB_IDRead 15 October 2026FCC Info entry: Netgear CAX30, Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFi Cable Modem Router, PY319300461 (2020-07-06). The FCC database could not be read, so the ID is not checked against the grant.

Other certifications

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FCC Part 15 Class B3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Table 6, electromagnetic emissions: FCC Part 15 Class B.

In the box

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In the boxiItems as the maker lists them for the exact pack.

GS-BE18000 tri-band gaming router, RJ-45 cable, Power adapter, Quick Start Guide, Warranty card1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026Package Content: GS-BE18000 tri-band gaming router, RJ-45 cable, Power adapter, Quick Start Guide, Warranty card.3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026Section 1.2: GS-BE18000 Gaming Router, network cable (RJ-45), power adapter, Quick Start Guide. The warranty card comes from the spec page.

Nighthawk AX6/6 Stream WiFi 6 Cable Modem Router (CAX30), Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide, Power adapter2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: router (CAX30), Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide and power adapter.4Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_QSG_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: cable modem router, Ethernet cable and power adapter.

Links

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Product page

rog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be180002Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000Read 15 October 2026

www.netgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30s1Maker product pagenetgear.com/home/wifi/modem-routers/cax30sRead 15 October 2026

Spec sheet

rog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/spec1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/us/networking/rog-strix-gs-be18000/specRead 15 October 2026

www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdf2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Manual

dlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdf3Owner's manualdlcdnets.asus.com/pub/ASUS/wireless/GS-BE18000/E26963_GS-BE18000_UM_EAA_WEB.pdfRead 15 October 2026English user manual E26963, released 2025-09-16.

www.downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdf3Owner's manualdownloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_UM_EN.pdfRead 15 October 2026

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

3years5Maker product pageasus.com/support/api/product.asmx/GetPDWarrantyRead 15 October 2026ASUS US support warranty text, Wireless Warranty Policy updated June 2026: the general warranty is 3 years, but it may vary depending on the place of purchase. US site. Tom's Guide also reports a three-year warranty.

1year2Maker spec sheet (PDF)downloads.netgear.com/files/GDC/CAX30/CAX30_DS.pdfRead 15 October 2026NETGEAR 1-year limited warranty. It is valid only if the product is bought from a NETGEAR authorized reseller.

Both are also in the API. Back to all routers.