AVM is launching a major update for its current Fritz boxes, repeaters and powerline devices. FritzOS 7.50 brings many improvements and a number of new features, including an extremely easy-to-use VPN.
Anyone who owns a Fritzbox 7590 can now install the new FritzOS 7.50, for other current AVM routers the Berlin manufacturer AVM will gradually roll out the update in the coming weeks. In addition, Fritz WLAN repeaters or powerline devices that extend the WLAN via sockets receive the update. The new firmware brings a total of around 150 improvements, here are the six most interesting and useful innovations:
Fritzbox and WLAN repeater can form a so-called mesh network with a common SSID (WLAN name). This means that smartphones and other devices are always automatically handed over to the strongest access point. FritzOS 7.50 optimizes the connections between routers and mesh repeaters, making them more stable and increasing data throughput.
Many users may be familiar with a virtual private network (VPN) from their home office. Because companies use VPN to establish secure, encrypted connections between their employees' computers and the company network. What many users do not know: something like this is also possible with a Fritzbox. However, the setup has been quite complicated so far and therefore not suitable for the masses. But that changes with the new firmware, because it comes with the option of setting up VPN with the WireGuard process.
With Wireguard, it is sufficient to install the appropriate application on a device and then establish a VPN connection with just a few clicks in the Fritzbox user interface. To do this, you generate a QR code under Internet → Approvals → VPN (Wireguard) → Simplified setup for iOS or Android devices, which is simply scanned with the Wireguard app. Nothing more is needed. For Windows or Mac computers, it works in a similarly uncomplicated way with configuration files that you import.
With FritzOS 7.50, the networked home can be better organized. Various actions can now be carried out simultaneously using scenarios, which can be found in the Smart Home menu under Automation. For example, with the "Coming home" scenario, you can set all radiator controls to the comfort temperature at the touch of a button and at the same time switch on all LED lamps and sockets, the WLAN and the answering machine.
New routines enable devices, scenarios and templates to be started automatically using an if-then link. For example, if an AVM sensor detects that the air humidity has reached a critical value, a previously set up "ventilation" scenario with an AVM socket and a connected humidifier is applied.
If you use a FritzFon on the Fritzbox, you can have the phone make announcements, for example about missed calls or upcoming appointments, which you can now enter in a calendar.
The new option of using the phone book as a positive list is very practical - especially if the landline number is only dialed by a few friends and relatives. Because you can specify that all other callers who do not belong to the registered contacts are blocked or forwarded to the answering machine.
When it comes to Internet bandwidth, it is important to distribute it optimally when several users are streaming, surfing, gaming or participating in video conferences at the same time. With FritzOS 7.50, a Fritzbox on DSL connections can assign data packets better and more fairly to all devices in the home and guest network. However, you can still set priorities individually, for example for the home office computer.
Some find the user interface of the Fritzbox extremely successful, others a bit confusing. The update brings a restructured overview page that should offer users better orientation. A new online help with keyword search gives users tips and instructions for operating AVM devices.
The use of USB storage devices is also becoming less complicated. After the update, the Fritzbox accepts media formatted with the exFAT file system. In addition, the update improves security in many areas, including an additional safeguard against potential failures of DNS servers.
To get the update, click in the user interface in the menu under System on Update and select Find new FritzOS. In general, it is best to have automatic updates made. To do this, select the Auto-Update tab and select option 3.
