Router's Samba server all of a sudden works in 20.04; what happened?

[ping-wu]

In 20.04 (and subsequent releases including daily updates), I was never able to connect to the USB3 HD storage attached to my router (LP-Link) via samba (had to resort to using ftp). But after a recent upgrade, I was able to connect to the samba server in the router/NAS. Not that I am complaining but does anyone know what happened?

Same observation after a recent Bullseye update.

[CelticWarrior]

After an Ubuntu update or a router's firmware update?

[SeijiSensei]

SMB/CIFS can use a variety of protocols. Perhaps the router is now using one compatible with the Samba client.

[ping-wu]

After an Ubuntu update or a router's firmware update?

Only did Ubuntu update. Did nothing with the router.

Again, not that I am complaining, but just wanted to know what happened in the recent Ubuntu/Debian updates.

[rsteinmetz70112]

Most likely a recent update to samba resolved some issue. Samba negotiates the protocol to use with the server or client.

[ping-wu]

I think what happened is that I accidentally did a cold reboot of my router (powered it off for more than 30 sec). Running diff shows that there does not appear to be any change in the smb config files before and after Ubuntu updates. I think cold rebooting the router did the job.

[rsteinmetz70112]

I haven't changed my smb.conf file in years but I routinely get updates to samba.

[TheFu]

Please be very careful trusting the storage features on any router. There is much history around failed security with storage connected to routers. Some features are bad ideas. WAN routers need to be dedicated WAN routers, not 20 other convenience things too.
imho.

[ping-wu]

Please be very careful trusting the storage features on any router.

Very good advice! I am using a USB3 stick plugged into the router port. Never store important files there. Also I unplug it when not in active use. Very convenient but untrustworthy.