TP-LINK locks firmware upgrades on routers manufactured after Feb 2016

[anon]

The reason why this post is being written is due to the fact that TP-Link routers bought after Feb. 01 2016 can't have libreCMC (or other firmware) flashed from stock firmware[1]. The only method for installing libreCMC on these new routers will be via u-boot using tftp, but that may not work in the future [2].

https://librecmc.org/librecmc/wiki?n...wn+Your+Router

Official confirmation: [Battlemesh] Chilling effect - Lockdown (FCC/EU)

I'm guessing there will always be some "hidden" means to upgrade the firmware (having to desolder, flash and resolder the ICs would suck for official tech support too), but this is bad news and let's hope it doesn't turn into a trend.

[anon]

A vulnerability allowing you to unlock the firmware upgrade option on post-February routers has been found. Check page 1 of the following link for routers with a USB port, and page 2 for those without one.

https://forum.openwrt.org/viewtopic.php?id=63123