[BUG] No Wifi fallback when Ethernet is not connected

[thalesmaoa]

Problem Description

I just flashed a fresh ESP32 build with Ethernet (W5500 via SPI). I noticed that when the Ethernet cable is not connected, the device keeps crashing and restarting due to a Watchdog Timer (WDT) reset.

Expected Behavior

In previous versions, when the ETH cable was disconnected, ESPEasy would automatically fall back to WiFi. Additionally, I do remember, in the past that, after a certain number of failed boot attempts/reboots, the device is expected to enter "Safe Mode" (AP Mode) to allow configuration.

Actual Behavior

Instead of falling back to WiFi or entering AP Mode, the device enters a continuous boot loop caused by WDT resets.

Steps to Reproduce

1. Flash an ESP32 with the build commit mentioned below.
2. Ensure Ethernet configuration is active (W5500 SPI).
3. Disconnect the Ethernet cable.
4. Power on the device.
5. Observe the WDT reset loop on the serial monitor.

System Details

• Hardware: ESP32 with W5500 (SPI)
• Commit: 15830d38268eb28c3fe234413a81f6cf015aeda9

[TD-er]

Which build is this, because I did try to save this and for sure did test exactly this disconnect at least in the currently merged code of the 'mega' branch.

The fallback to WiFi may not yet work perfectly intuitive as that's still on my todo list to define a fallback list like boot sequence order in the BIOS of a PC.

[thalesmaoa]

ESP_Easy_mega_20260112_normal_ESP32_4M316k

If you can, point me the commit and I will try with it.

Thanks

[TD-er]

Well you could try this build of today
https://github.com/letscontrolit/ESPEasy/actions/runs/21059661264

What configuration are you using?
Which pins?
How is it wired? (photo if it is a self built board)

I was just about to go to bed and tomorrow I'll not be at my PC a lot, so could be till Sunday (or Saturday late) before I can reply.

[TD-er]

Got a few minutes to type a quick reply...

Just some ideas to double check:

Does the Ethernet cable have a shield? If so, please try with a 'cheaper' cable. Shielded cable may 'ground' your device to the same potential level as the switch.

Is WiFi configured? Do you want WiFi to be used as fallback?
If you don't want WiFi to be enabled, then disable the 1st network interface on the Network tab.

[thalesmaoa]

I'm definitely doing something wrong. I see no Network tab.

Wiring is as follows

My board.

I also tested with a OLIMEX, the result is the same. Disconnect the cable and no fallback.

I'm using yesterday commit.

[TD-er]

Your screenshot shows today's date in the lower right corner, thus it is not the build I linked.

[TD-er]

I uploaded that build to here: https://td-er.nl/ESPEasy/latest/
So we can be sure you're testing with the same version.