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tfosseli
Inspiring
October 11, 2023
Solved

Resolved - Unstable wifi coverage with Quest 3 on some Router Brands.

  • Update January 2024 - full post history below
Hi. Let me try to give a quick TLDR summery.
 
Since the launch of the Quest 3, numerous users have encountered difficulties with their Wi-Fi connections related to wireless PCVR. A notable bug affects certain mid-range AX and AXE routers, such as TP-Link's AXE75, leading to significant packet losses and varying negotiation rates. Consequently, connection speeds fluctuate between 480 and 1921 Mbps, occasionally reaching 2161 Mbps but rarely achieving the full 2401 Mbps speed.
 
In contrast, the Quest 2 maintains a stable 1200 Mbps on 5GHz dedicated networks. However, on release, the Quest 3 struggled to reach 720 Mbps, with speed fluctuations occurring every other second.
 
Meta was promptly notified of this issue on launch day and has been working on resolving it through build updates. Versions v.57 to v.60 have seen a dramatic reduction in negotiation rates, making wireless VR "usable" under certain conditions, particularly when in close proximity to the router and within the line of sight. Nevertheless, users still report random speed reductions to unusable levels (below 740 Mbps), even at close range.
 
TP-Link has been diligently working on resolving the issue since the initial launch. Unfortunately, their latest update indicates that they couldn't make a breakthrough on their end, and they believe the problem persists on the client side. They've conducted thorough tests with various chipsets, including MTK, BCM, and QCA routers, and it seems these routers are experiencing similar issues. Their focus shifted to Meta software updates, and their most recent test with the Quest3 V60 suggests that while the negotiation rate still varies, the occasional streaming lag seems to have disappeared.
 
A glance at this threads posts reveals that TP-Link is not the only affected brand; users with Asus and other AX and AXE routers also face similar challenges. The root cause seems to be linked to either Meta or Qualcomm. Users have noted similar issues with the Google Pixel 7, leading to speculation about problems with the XR2 Gen2/Snapdragon 8 Gen2 drivers. So in other words it's in Meta and Qualcomm's hands at the moment.
 
Please reply to this thread and post your information as per Metas instructions:
 
"December 14th Update from MetaStoreHelp 
Hey everyone! I wanted to let you all know that I heard back from our engineering team. It looks like there might've been some changes with the recent v60 update. I recommend checking your headset to make sure that it is updated to the latest version, and then checking your Wi-Fi connection with your headset. If you're still having trouble after updating your headset, please let me know the below information and I'll pass it along to our engineering team so this can be looked into further.
 1. Router make and model.
 2. Router firmware.
 3. Full Headset version. (59.0.0.##) Go to Settings > System > Software Update"
 
You can also make a video grab of your issue and send it to Meta over the "report a problem" option in the headset.
 
 
NOTE: If you have a working setup with a different router and not experiencing any issues please post the details on this separate thread: https://communityforums.atmeta.com/t5/Get-Help/What-Wifi-6e-routers-currently-works-bug-free-with-the-Quest-3/td-p/1101778
 
 
 
 
Original post October 10th 2023
 

On my Quest 3 the WIFI signal is hopping from 720 - 864 - 960 

But my Quest 2 ti stable at 1200 Mbps

I am sitting 1 m from the Ruter

Is my Quest 3 broken or is this a bug?

 

Edit FYI: This is a firmware bug with communication between some brand of routers. Please post your info here as a reply. (Se MetaQuestSupports reply)

The team has been made aware and is currently looking into the unstable connection reports.

Meta needs to know:

  1. What version is your headset running? (Full number, i.e. 57.0.0.####)
    • Quick Settings > System > Software Update
  2. Which router do you currently have?
  3. Tag MetaStoreHelp 

Also.. Remember to send a bug report via Oculus apps or headset...

Here is how: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7i9Q_h_yeQQ

 

Edit 2, to be clear: 

The issue is not dependent on AirLink or VirtualDesktop. It's a clear communication issue between the Quest 3 and certain routers in Quest build vertion 57.  That effects both 5Ghz and 6Ghz. Quest 2 is unaffected.

Here is the issue we are facing demonstrated to TP-link:

https://youtu.be/JFrl9rTJH8E?si=2vBOI6E2PjGvPL_7

 

If you're r not experiencing any issues please post the details on this seperate thread: https://communityforums.atmeta.com/t5/Get-Help/What-Wifi-6e-routers-currently-works-bug-free-with-the-Quest-3/td-p/1101778

 

Edit 3 - Update:

Version 59 showed no improvement. TP-Link has received a unit and are experiencing the same negotiation rate problems. They are investigating the problem. 

 

MetaStoreHelp has stated that they are working on the issue and it will be fixed in a future firmware update. https://communityforums.atmeta.com/t5/Get-Help/Unstable-wifi-covarage-with-Quest-3-on-some-Router-Brands-Known/m-p/1099915#M241197

 

Edit 4 - Update...
TP-Watched  @VirtualOmnipresence 's video  and confirmed: 

Our Wireless RD found that it might be the case Quest3 are kind Quest3's wireless connection rate strategy is more aggressive in terms of speed reduction. Once it encounters wireless packet loss or interference, it will reduce the negotiation rate on a large scale, thus affecting the actual wireless performance.

In other words, it is actually unnecessarily overly sensitive... especially when interference is basically impossible at 6GHz.

We've tested the Quest3 v57(haven't got v59 yet) so far with almost all our routers from wifi6e to wifi7 with QCA/BCM chipest...

Also thanks a lot for your updates about that article, we will also notice to get the previous quest2 sample to check how it works with our router in old firmware, then upgrade it to newer one for checking.

We will also focus on this issue later quickly if there's new firmware released.

 

Edit 5 - November 20th 2023

Still no more contact with meta and the silence is deafening. 

Though with the new update to v.59 it is actually a lot better on AXE75 for both 5g and 6g. It's fluxing, but not below 1200 in 6g and not below 720 in 5g. Making it... "usable"... if you are relatively close to your router.

Here is my video in my test with v. 59.

We still want to take advantage of the 2401 Mbps so that we are not reliant on no interference and being 2 to 3 meters from the access point. 

Any working 6Ghz device connected to a 6 Ghz router, dedicated at close range should output a connection at 2401Mbps. If it doesn't it's simply not working correctly. 

So I'm not giving you a pass just yet Meta. πŸ˜‰

 

Edit 6 December 8th

A lot of new posts here and in my community on still experiencing this issue making their wireless experience unbearable. The uptick has been noticeable since the release of SteamLink bringing more people over to PC wireless. 

I also go a new confirmation from MetaSupport over email:

Meta Store Support following up on your issue.

To clarify, the issue you are experiencing is most likely to be patched up with a new software update. I know how inconvenient this may be for you. We really appreciate your extended patience and utmost understanding regarding this matter. As much as I would like to give you an exact timeline, since this is still a known issue, I'm afraid we are still unable to provide an exact date for it.

This is also for our customers, as we don't want to set you an expectation that is vague. We value transparency here at Meta, and we can assure you that we will quickly contact you as soon as possible once the issue is resolved or workarounds are provided.

We're eager to have this one sorted out for you, so we'll keep an eye on this issue. Looking forward to solve this issue at your earliest convenience so you can proceed enjoying your VR experience.

----

later:

I can confirm that your issue regarding Wi-Fi connection has been coordinated with our engineering team; however, they didn't provide an exact time; maybe they are still figuring out the root cause of the issue. By the way, thank you for the clear explanation of your issue; that helps us a lot.

 

Edit December 14th Update from MetaStoreHelp 

Hey everyone! I wanted to let you all know that I heard back from our engineering team. It looks like there might've been some changes with the recent v60 update. I recommend checking your headset to make sure that it is updated to the latest version, and then checking your Wi-Fi connection with your headset. If you're still having trouble after updating your headset, please let me know the below information and I'll pass it along to our engineering team so this can be looked into further.

  1. Router make and model.
  2. Router firmware.
  3. Full Headset version. (59.0.0.##)
    1. Settings > System > Software Update

---

Here is my video on testing version 60

tfosseli
tfosseliAnswer
Inspiring
February 8, 2024

EDIT May 21th 2024: The bug returned with build v.65. Lets hope its a hiccup.  

...

 

Hey everyone! Build v62 has officially arrived, and I'm pleased to announce that my initial issues have been resolved. The speeds remain rock solid at 2401Mbps, even when I'm in a different room from the router. There was only one brief 5-second disconnect, which was swiftly resolved and did not reoccur during my session.

The issues concerning fluctuating speeds, packet losses, and random negotiation rates have all but disappeared.

However, I'm aware that some of you are still encountering difficulties connecting to the 6G network in general and are experiencing random disconnects. I'm unsure if these issues are related, especially as the problem doesn't seem to be consistent with router brands.

I recommend creating a separate forum thread on the matter so that those affected can voice their concerns and avoid being mixed up with the excitement in this thread.

Thank you to everyone who has engaged in civil discussions and shared their experiences and constructive feedback. And thank you to MetaStoreHelp and TheAntiSocializer for making sure our issues were heard by the Meta engineers. 

 

Edit: if your experiencing micro studders in AirLink follow this thread: https://communityforums.atmeta.com/t5/Get-Help/Quest-3-Airlink-micro-lags-and-stutter-esp-when-moving-head/m-p/1150175/ 

 

When a "problems finding 6G Wi-Fi" thread is created, share it here, and I'll add a link to it. 

(I can't stay as the OP of a post concerning problems connecting to a 6G network as I am not experiencing that particular problem and can't replicate it.)

 

1188 replies

New Participant
December 14, 2023

Although VD game no stuttering,But it still to be stuttering on Quest FPS game,Only works well on Quest 2

Participant
December 14, 2023
I have the same issues with both my Speedport Smart 3 router (Wifi 5) and the D-Link VR Airbridge Stick (Wifi 6). In both cases, I am less than 3 meters away from the router/stick and the bit rate fluctuates greatly. Strangely, it's worse with the Wifi 6 stick. Don't want to buy any expensive new router right now without being 100% sure that it will fix the issue.
 
So i bought a much shorter LAN cable (1.5 meters) to connect my PC to the router, and it feels like it's a tiny bit better now. I can play slow games like adventure games with virtual desktop (The 7 Guest VR) at 80 fps, but the latency still feels much higher than with my old cable connected Rift S and Valve Index.
 
For my main purpose (simracing in vr) the Quest 3 is pretty much unusable as the latency is just too high for fast reactions. And ultra-fast games like Beat Saber on higher difficulty levels are absolutely unplayable.
  
Interesting detail: When I turn my head, I have much less issues than when I lean left and right, which results in very annoying stutter. At the moment I can't show vr to anyone because it would be bad publicity for both vr technology in general and the Quest 3 in particular.
 
Hope this will get fixed soon. Of all the VR headsets (started with the Rift DK1 about 10 years ago) I've owned, the Quest 3 is the most cumbersome to use at the moment. It kind of works in slow games, but it doesn't feel very good to play with it.
 
Some info about my system: AMD Ryzen 7 5800x3d, 32 GB G.Skill 3600 Trident Z Neo CL16, RTX 4070 Ti, Gigabyte x570 Aorus Elite, Samsung 860 M.2 Evo 1 TB, Samsung 870 4 TB, Windows 11 64 Bit
 
Honored Contributor
December 14, 2023

Hey everyone! I wanted to let you all know that I heard back from our engineering team. It looks like there might've been some changes with the recent v60 update. I recommend checking your headset to make sure that it is updated to the latest version, and then checking your Wi-Fi connection with your headset. If you're still having trouble after updating your headset, please let me know the below information and I'll pass it along to our engineering team so this can be looked into further.

 
Peace is a lie, there is only passion. Through passion, I gain strength. I gain power. Through power, I gain victory. Through victory, my chains are broken. The force shall free me.
Up and Coming
December 14, 2023

V60 did not fix the wifi for me.

I can not maintain 866 speed on a 5ghz wifi. It falls back to 500/600 at best.

Participant
December 15, 2023

tfosseli perhaps you could do an update video once you get v60? Meta are claiming it should be fixed but that isn’t users experience. It would be interesting and helpful to see how things change( if they do ) with your consistent approach. V59 seemed to improve things…

New Participant
December 15, 2023

MrRobotG wrote:

Meta are claiming it should be fixed 


Did they come out and say that? Where was that posted? Sauce please. 

Up and Coming
December 15, 2023

5 messages above yours.

Up and Coming
December 15, 2023

v60 did not fix my unstable wifi issues with Quest 3. 

Router: TP-Link Archer AX50

Router Firmware - 1.0.13 Build 20230906 rel.40682(4555)

Headset Version - 60.0.0.175.366.544898056

New Participant
December 15, 2023

Same for me. V60 didn't fix it for me. It's my first VR experience and unfortunately it's really bad because of the WLAN problem. β˜ΉοΈ

Router: AVM FRITZ!Box 7590 AX

Router Firmware: 7.57

Meta Quest 3:
Software Update: Systemversion 49777350049800510

Version: 60.0.0.175.366.544898056

Runtime-Version: 60.0.0.175.366.544897891

Version Of OS: SQ3A.220605.009.A1

Participant
December 15, 2023

Just wanted to pitch in and say I'm experiencing the same issues. rock solid 1200Mbps on my quest2, switch to the Quest3 and it's unusable, no matter if I use virtual desktop, the new steam wireless option or airlink. Honestly it seems like there is a lot of data here so I'm not gonna bother looking up everything but I'm using

β€ŽUbiquiti  UAP-AC-LITE access point on the most current firmware and my quest 3 is on version 60, 59 had the same issues. 

Participant
December 15, 2023

I have important hint for all of you. 

Ever wondered, why you never see more than 1200Mbps link Speed with your advertised 5000+ ax Routers?  This is, why they NEVER apply 160Mhz in AutoChannel,  @least here in Germany.  You MUST manually set the Control Channel to 36 for lower and 100 for upper Channels. Also enable 160Mhz mode.  This leads to Link Speeds of up to 2401Mbps and delivers way more performance Headroom. May be, this also helps with not so stable Routers.  Also, IMPORTANT, here in Europe ONLY the upper 100+ Channels are allowed to use high 1000mW transmission Power.  Lower Channels are crippled to 200mW.

Hope this help some of you. 

Merry Cristmas

Participant
December 15, 2023

Have you bothered to read what people are saying? The 1200 speed has nothing to do with it, it's the fact it is fluctuating. I can have my quest2 running at 1200 all day and it never changes. You're also assuming the router goes beyond 1200. The quest3 bounces all over, and you say not so stable routers, I guarantee my ubiquiti access point is better than 99% of users with their off the shelf consumer grade bestbuy garbage. 

December 15, 2023

v60 also doesnt work for me. Still unplayable.

Router: Speedport Smart 4 with WiFi 6.
And AVM Fritz!Box 7590 with WiFi 5.

New Participant
December 15, 2023

v60 did not fix anything

AVM Fritzbox 6690 here, Quest 3 is totally unusable. I don't even know if my connection speed ist fluctuating, because the connection iteself drops constantly.
It connects, shows 1200, 2400 (I guess because of the set channel), then it disconnects again. It does it all the time.


Installing the v60 update from the initial setup took ages because of the constant disconnects.

Things i checked so far:
- Reboot of router
- disabling 2.4ghz network
- seperating 2.4ghz and 5ghz network ssid so the quest 3 only connects to 5ghz
- reseting quest 3
- use fixed channels

 

Participant
December 15, 2023

Did anyone use WPA3? 

I still use WPA2, because i am not so paranoid and to be honest live not in an place with neighbors direct behind the next wall.   Could be an factorπŸ€”

Participant
December 16, 2023

So v.60 drops and and and nah still rubbish, how many people need to have this problem before Meta do something about it , if I wanted to have a cable on my VR Headset I would have stuck with the Reverb G2.