Jio AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router Offers Universal ISP Support, But Limited to DHCP Protocol

By Admin

23 Jun, 2025

Reliance Jio’s latest launch, the AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Universal Router, is a powerful entry into India’s growing home networking market. With robust specifications and smart home readiness, this router is being touted as a “universal” solution for Indian households. But while the marketing highlights its compatibility across fiber, DSL, and broadband connections, a deeper dive reveals a significant technical limitation: the router supports only DHCP-based IP configurations, excluding the widely used PPPoE and IPoE protocols.

Universal, But With Boundaries

The Jio AX6000 comes packed with impressive features. It offers Wi-Fi 6 speeds up to 6 Gbps, includes MU-MIMO and OFDMA support for better multi-device handling, and covers up to 2000 sq. ft. expandable through Jio’s True AI Mesh system. Clearly aimed at modern Indian homes filled with smart TVs, IoT devices, and video streaming demands, it seems tailor-made for seamless connectivity.

Marketed as a “Universal Router,” the AX6000 claims compatibility across all types of ISPs fiber, broadband, and DSL. However, the catch lies in its limited protocol support: it can only assign IP addresses using DHCP. That means if your ISP uses PPPoE or IPoE still standard for providers like BSNL and many local cable internet operators the AX6000 simply won’t work. This restriction may disappoint users expecting true plug-and-play functionality, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

Jio’s Broader Ecosystem Strategy

The AX6000 is more than just a networking product it’s part of Jio’s strategic move toward building a connected digital ecosystem. From JioFiber and OTT platforms to smart home hardware, Jio aims to own the entire in-home digital experience. Controlling the home network layer gives Jio a direct channel for delivering high-quality service, gathering data insights, and rolling out innovations like cloud gaming, home automation, and smart security.

Priced at Rs 5,999 (down from its MRP of Rs 14,999), the AX6000 isn’t just competitively priced it’s an ecosystem gateway. It supports mesh networking with Jio’s proprietary extenders, nudging users to remain within the Jio hardware ecosystem.

The Transparency Gap

Despite the router’s many strengths, the “universal” claim warrants scrutiny. Many consumers might interpret that term as all-encompassing ISP compatibility, which isn’t entirely accurate. PPPoE remains prevalent, especially with older connections and non-metro ISPs. Without clear upfront communication, Jio risks misleading consumers who may invest in the router only to find it incompatible with their ISP.

Final Verdict

The Jio AX6000 is a high-performing, feature-rich router ideal for users with ISPs that support DHCP-based connections. It’s fast, smart, mesh-ready, and priced competitively. But calling it "universal" is an overstatement. For users tied to PPPoE or IPoE, the router will not connect no matter how attractive its features look on paper.

Verdict: The Jio AX6000 is Jio-optimized, DHCP-friendly, and smart home-ready but not truly universal.