FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: August 17, 2026

DSTIKE builds open-source ESP development hardware and wireless assessment tools for makers, researchers, and authorized security testing. Please use all wireless testing functions only on networks and devices that you own or have explicit permission to assess.

Products and Compatibility

Are DSTIKE devices legal to own and use?

DSTIKE devices are designed for education, development, and authorized security assessment. Laws vary by country and region, and legality depends on how a device is used. Use wireless testing functions only on networks and devices that you own or have explicit permission to test. Deliberately disrupting or accessing another person’s network without authorization may be illegal.

Is a deauther the same as a radio-frequency jammer?

No. A deauther does not generate broadband radio noise like an RF jammer. It performs controlled tests using Wi-Fi management frames supported by compatible hardware and firmware. However, these tests can still interrupt network connections, so unauthorized use may be illegal and harmful.

What is the difference between 2.4 GHz and dual-band products?

ESP8266 and ESP32-S3 models generally support 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only. DSTIKE products built around the ESP32-C5 support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi.

Choose a dual-band model if you need to assess compatible 5 GHz networks. Always check the individual product page because supported bands and functions vary by model and firmware.

Which DSTIKE products support 5 GHz Wi-Fi?

DSTIKE’s ESP32-C5 products support 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi. Current examples include:

  • Deauther32 Watch MINI

  • Deauther32 Watch MAX

  • Deauther32 Ultra

  • Deauther32 MINI

  • Deauther32 LCD Kit

  • Deauther32 Power Bank 5G

  • HackHeld32C5

See the ESP32-C5 Dual-Band Tools collection for currently available models.

Do dual-band products support every 5 GHz channel?

Not necessarily. Available channels and functions may vary according to the product, firmware version, antenna design, destination-country regulations, and local network configuration.

Some DFS channels may be restricted or behave differently. A product’s 5 GHz support should not be interpreted as guaranteed support for every 5 GHz channel in every country.

How does 802.11w Protected Management Frames affect testing?

802.11w, also called Protected Management Frames or PMF, protects management traffic such as deauthentication and disassociation frames.

When PMF is required and correctly implemented by the access point and client, protected devices should reject forged or unprotected management frames. As a result, deauthentication testing may have little or no effect.

This is an expected network-security limitation and does not indicate that the DSTIKE device is defective.

Can DSTIKE tools test WPA3 networks?

They may be able to scan or monitor compatible WPA3 networks, depending on the product and firmware.

However, WPA3 networks normally use PMF, so deauthentication or disassociation testing may be blocked. Results also depend on the access point, connected client, channel, signal conditions, and firmware version.

Which DSTIKE watch should I choose?

  • Choose Watch X, Watch X II, or Watch Y for a lower-cost 2.4 GHz ESP8266 wearable. Watch Y includes an external antenna connection.

  • Choose Watch Z II if you need 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi assessment functions together with ATmega32U4-based USB HID experimentation.

  • Choose Deauther32 Watch SE if you prefer an ESP32-S3, a larger color display, external GPIO access, and 2.4 GHz operation.

  • Choose Deauther32 Watch MINI for a compact ESP32-C5 wearable with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz support.

  • Choose Deauther32 Watch MAX for dual-band support plus an external antenna connection, external GPIO access, dual USB, a larger display, and a larger battery than the MINI.

  • Choose a handheld model if you prefer a larger display, physical controls, and more expansion options.

For a side-by-side specification table, see the Deauther Watch Comparison.

Can I control a DSTIKE device from my phone?

Selected ESP8266-based Watch X, Watch Y, and Watch Z models support browser-based control through the device’s local Wi-Fi interface.

The current Deauther32 Watch series is operated directly from the watch and does not support the same mobile web interface. Check the product page before ordering because software features may differ between models and firmware versions.

Do products arrive assembled and pre-flashed?

Most ready-to-use DSTIKE devices arrive assembled, tested, and pre-flashed.

Products labeled as a kit, development board, unassembled version, or no-battery version may require assembly, battery installation, or additional setup. The product page and selected variant determine exactly what is included.

Do I need programming experience?

Pre-flashed, ready-to-use models can normally be used without writing code.

Programming experience is helpful if you want to update firmware, modify open-source code, connect external hardware, or develop your own application. Kits and development boards may require soldering and basic embedded-development knowledge.

Does 5 GHz mean 5G cellular?

No. “5 GHz” refers to the Wi-Fi frequency band, not 5G cellular networks.

DSTIKE dual-band devices support compatible 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks. They do not connect to or interact with 4G/5G cellular networks and do not require a SIM card.

Will it work with WPA2/WPA3 networks?

Yes. Most DSTIKE Wi-Fi tools can detect and monitor WPA2 and WPA3 networks because these functions operate independently of the network password or encryption type.

However, WPA2/WPA3 encryption itself is not bypassed or cracked. Some features may also be limited on networks using Protected Management Frames (PMF/802.11w), which is commonly enabled or required on WPA3 networks.

For authorized testing, development, and educational use only.

Orders and Payment

Which payment methods do you accept?

Available payment methods are displayed securely at checkout and may vary by country, currency, device, and payment provider.

Please select one of the options shown on the checkout page. DSTIKE will never ask you to send full card details by email or chat.

Why was my payment declined?

A payment may be declined by your bank or payment provider because of:

  • Billing-address differences

  • International-payment restrictions

  • Insufficient funds

  • Fraud-prevention checks

  • Card authentication requirements

Verify your billing information, complete any bank verification request, and contact your card issuer if necessary. An order is confirmed only after checkout is completed and you receive an order-confirmation email.

Can I change or cancel an order?

Contact us as soon as possible at dstike@dstike.com.

Orders are normally dispatched every day except Saturday (China Standard Time). We will try to process a change or cancellation before dispatch, but we cannot guarantee it once the order has entered preparation or has been transferred to the carrier.

Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes?

Possibly. International orders may be subject to customs duties, import taxes, VAT, handling charges, or other fees imposed by the destination country.

Unless checkout specifically states otherwise, these charges are not included in the product price or shipping fee and are the recipient’s responsibility.

Shipping and Batteries

Where does DSTIKE ship?

DSTIKE ships worldwide using YunExpress and local delivery partners.

Service may be unavailable for certain destinations because of carrier limitations, customs rules, import restrictions, or lithium-battery restrictions. If we cannot ship your order to the address provided, we will contact you and refund the affected order.

When will my order be dispatched?

Orders are normally dispatched every day except Saturday (China Standard Time).

Orders placed after a scheduled dispatch may ship on the next available dispatch day. Public holidays, major sales, or unusually high order volume may cause delays.

How long does delivery take?

Estimated delivery is normally 7–14 days after dispatch.

This is an estimate, not a guarantee. Customs clearance, remote locations, weather, local postal services, public holidays, and carrier disruptions may add extra time.

How can I track my order?

You will receive a shipping-confirmation email with a tracking number after dispatch.

Most orders can be tracked at YunTrack. Tracking may take several days to update, and final delivery may be completed by a local postal service or courier.

Are batteries included?

Battery inclusion depends on the product and the variant selected.

Some products are available assembled with a battery, while some kits or no-battery versions are supplied without one. Power-bank products may require the customer to provide compatible 18650 cells.

Always check the product title, selected variant, specifications, and “What’s Included” section before ordering.

Can products containing lithium batteries be shipped internationally?

Battery-shipping availability depends on the destination and the carrier’s rules.

When a battery option is available for your address, the product will be sent using an eligible shipping service. Some destinations may accept only a no-battery version.

If a battery cannot be shipped to your destination after the order is placed, we will contact you to arrange an available alternative or a refund for the affected item.

What battery or charger should I use?

Use only the battery type, polarity, voltage, and charging method stated on the product page or in the product documentation.

Do not use damaged, swollen, incorrectly installed, or incompatible cells. Never assume that different 18650 cells, USB power supplies, or chargers are interchangeable.

Incorrect batteries, reversed polarity, or unsuitable power supplies can permanently damage the product and create a safety risk.

What should I do if my order has not arrived?

Check the tracking information first.

If the order has not arrived within 30 days after dispatch, email dstike@dstike.com with your order number and tracking number. We will investigate with the carrier.

If the parcel is confirmed lost or cannot be delivered within a reasonable period, we will offer a replacement or refund, subject to the circumstances and applicable law.

Firmware and Open Source

Where can I download firmware and source code?

Firmware and source-code links are collected on the Firmware & Source Code page.

ESP8266 Deauther resources are available from SpacehuhnTech, and DSTIKE maker-project files are available from DSTIKE on GitHub. Availability varies by model.

Should I update the firmware when I receive the product?

An update is not required if the pre-installed firmware meets your needs.

Before flashing, identify the exact product model and hardware revision and use only a compatible firmware build. Installing firmware for a different board may cause the display, buttons, radio, battery reading, or other hardware to stop working.

Can I install third-party or modified firmware?

Yes, where the hardware and source project allow it, but you do so at your own risk.

Save any necessary configuration first and confirm the correct board, flash layout, pins, and firmware version. Damage or malfunction caused by incompatible firmware, incorrect wiring, reversed polarity, or unauthorized hardware modification is not considered a manufacturing defect.

Are schematics and source code available for every product?

DSTIKE provides schematics and source code whenever possible, but availability differs by model.

Some products use third-party open-source projects, while others have DSTIKE-specific files. Check the product page and Firmware & Source Code page for the materials available for your device.

Support, Returns, and Product Problems

Does DSTIKE provide a warranty?

Unless a product page states otherwise, DSTIKE does not provide a separate fixed-term commercial warranty.

If a product arrives damaged, incorrect, incomplete, or has a verified manufacturing defect, contact us as soon as possible. Depending on the issue, available solutions may include:

  • Troubleshooting assistance

  • Replacement components

  • Repair

  • Product replacement

  • Partial refund

  • Full refund

Any mandatory consumer rights that apply to your purchase remain unaffected.

What should I do if my product arrives damaged, defective, or incorrect?

Email dstike@dstike.com and include:

  • Your order number

  • Product name

  • A description of the problem

  • Clear photographs or a short video

For technical problems, also tell us which power supply, battery, firmware, connections, and test procedure you used. Keep the product and packaging until the issue has been resolved.

Can I return a product because I changed my mind or ordered the wrong model?

Except where mandatory consumer law provides otherwise, DSTIKE does not offer voluntary returns or exchanges solely because you:

  • Changed your mind

  • Ordered the wrong product

  • Expected a function not listed on the product page

  • Selected an incompatible model

Please review the frequency support, battery requirements, included accessories, compatibility, and technical requirements before ordering. See the Refund Policy for full details.

Does modifying or reflashing a product remove all support?

No. A modification does not automatically remove every legal right.

However, free repair, replacement, or refund may not be available when the reported problem was caused by incompatible firmware, incorrect wiring, reversed polarity, short circuits, an unsuitable battery or power supply, physical damage, or operation outside the documented specifications.

How can I contact DSTIKE?

Email us at dstike@dstike.com and include your order number when asking about an existing order.

Our normal response time is within 24 hours. Replies may take slightly longer during weekends, public holidays, or periods of high support volume.

For more information, please review our Shipping Policy, Refund Policy, and Contact Information.