Nowadays, the Internet is needed almost always and everywhere. Moreover, this applies not only to city everyday life, when we can get 3G or 4G from a smartphone or tablet almost anywhere in the city. If we talk about a laptop, then we can, of course, find a Wi-Fi network or distribute the Internet from a smartphone. But you must admit, this is not possible and not so convenient everywhere. And what can we say about country trips, when getting 2G is already quite good, and free networks We can only dream of Wi-Fi. Okay, a smartphone or tablet, but what about a laptop? What if there is a desktop computer at the dacha? What if someone calls you from work? It would be possible to complete urgent tasks right outside the city, but there is no Internet, so you have to go home.
On long trips you also need the Internet: on business trips - for work, on tourist trips - to study maps, search for interesting places, publish photos on Instagram and others. social media. Do you really have to search for Wi-Fi forever or distribute the Internet from your phone?
Modems and mobile routers will come to the rescue. The principle of their operation is simple: insert a SIM card and enjoy the Internet. The signal strength depends only on the coverage area of your operator. “Great!” - you say and open the page with modems. And there are so many of them... And such different prices... How to choose? It all depends on how exactly you want to use the gadget. It is important what devices you will connect to it, as well as where you will use it.
An important point is the choice of operator. The signal level, and, consequently, the data transfer speed depends on it. Many operators offer their own “branded” modems. They have two disadvantages. The first is that they are often more expensive. Secondly, you will only be able to use the services of this operator. If in the place where you are, its networks do not work - well, alas. Therefore, we suggest considering modems and mobile routers from third-party companies.
How are modems different?
USB modem or mobile router
A USB modem is a transceiver that uses mobile operator networks to transmit and receive information. It connects to the USB connector of your computer and after a little setup allows you to use the Internet. It can also be used with a regular router. A SIM card is inserted into the USB modem, the choice of which depends only on the coverage of the operator’s network in the location you need. All USB modems are very small and lightweight, allowing you to carry them in a bag or pocket.
A mobile router is a device that operates on the principle of an ordinary modem. A SIM card is inserted into it, the device receives a signal from a mobile operator and, unlike a USB modem, provides mobile Wi-Fi. Such a gadget is usually powered by a battery, which requires regular charging. Mobile routers are not as small as USB modems. Some models can be put in your pocket, while others will only fit in a bag.
To choose between these two types of gadgets, answer the question: what do you need this device for? If you want to use it only with a laptop to have Internet anywhere, or with a desktop computer, purchase a USB modem. If you are interested in a portable Wi-FI access point for connecting a number of devices, it is better to purchase a mobile router.
3G or 4G
3G and 4G are wireless communication technologies that allow you to get high-speed Internet access from mobile devices. The letter G in their names comes from the word “generation”, that is, “generation”. Therefore, 3G is the third generation of wireless communications, and 4G is the fourth.
The main difference between these two generations is the data transfer speed. 3G networks are capable of transmitting data at different speeds, which depend on the operating frequency of the mobile operator. Leading operators have an operating frequency of 15 MHz, while some small ones have only 4.5 MHz. Therefore, the speed range of 3G networks ranges from several hundred kilobits to several tens of megabits per second.
The main advantage of 3G networks is their coverage area, which covers most of the territory of Russia. Also a plus will be the low cost of modems that only work with 3G.
4G networks are capable of transmitting data at much higher speeds – up to 1 Gbit/s. True, this depends on the type of device: for example, not all mobile devices will be able to achieve a speed of 100 Mbit/s.
The downside of 4G networks is the poor coverage in Russia: it only covers large cities. Also, due to high-speed data transfer, devices working with 4G have higher power consumption.
So, when choosing a gadget for your dacha or travel, it’s better to go with a 3G modem, since you’re unlikely to get 4G anyway, and you’ll spend less money on the device. For the city, a 4G modem is better suited.
GSM, GPRS, EDGE, HSPA, LTE
All these scary abbreviations are nothing more than communication standards and technologies of different generations.
GSM is the main second generation communication standard. GPRS packet data transmission technology has been created for it, the transmission speed of which can reach 115 kbit/s.
EDGE is a packet data transmission technology used by the second generation CDMA communication standard. The speed with it reaches 384 kb/s. By the way, this is the same E,
which is displayed on the screen of a smartphone or tablet when it does not receive 4G, 3G, or H.
HSPA is a third generation communication standard that allows you to achieve a packet data transfer speed of 42.2 Mb/s. And this is the same H.
LTE is the fourth generation data transmission technology, the speed of which reaches 1 Gb/s.
All these standards and technologies are actively used Russian operators communications. In the absence of the latest and fastest networks, devices typically fall back to the previous generation of networks. Therefore, it is better that all of them are supported by the modem, although this is almost always the case.
Nutrition
As we have already mentioned, USB modems do not require separate power. Thanks to this, they can be used at any time; you just need to insert them into the USB connector of your computer.
Mobile routers run on batteries. The larger their volume, the longer the gadget will work. However, do not forget about such important battery consumption factors as working in 4G networks and the presence of additional sensors and functions.
Ethernet port
This is a connector that allows you to connect the modem to a computer using an Ethernet cable. This connection will ensure stability and maximum high speed between the device and the modem. This function is only available on mobile routers, since USB modems are already connected to the computer.
Interface for external antenna
An external antenna is needed in order to better catch the network. After all, the signal can be unstable, especially outside the city; it depends on the time of day, weather and many other factors. The main disadvantage of the antenna is its low mobility. Therefore, this option is suitable only for those who have decided to set up a stationary Internet point, for example, in the country.
Additional functions
Mobile modems have additional functions. But they may not be useful to everyone. In addition, many of them are quite energy-intensive. So decide right away which of the following you need.
A slot for a MicroSD card is useful for owners of laptops with a small number of USB connectors. By inserting a flash card into the modem, you can use it as a drive and, for example, store programs related to the Internet and connecting to it (to free up space on your computer and be able to immediately run everything necessary programs on another device by simply inserting the modem).
Support for the SMS service allows you to receive and send SMS messages using a special program installed on your computer. This function is only available on USB modems.
Sensors and a display will help determine the charge level, the presence of networks, the number of connected users, etc. But you need to remember that with them the battery runs out faster.
An application for smartphones and tablets helps to monitor the charge level, connected users, and transfer data to the modem’s flash drive. This function is only available on mobile routers.
Dimensions
If we talk about USB modems, they are all no more than 100 mm in length and 40 g in weight. With mobile routers, everything is different. Their weight can reach 700 g, and dimensions – 250 x 100 mm. But there are also compact models that can be easily carried in your pocket.
Settings
For many users this will be important parameter. After all, you want to launch the gadget and use it right away. Moreover, for many it will be a real problem to set up a modem - not everyone is fluent in technology. Therefore, based on this parameter, it is better to give preference to USB modems, and the simplest ones at that.
Criterias of choice
We looked at the main parameters of mobile modems and found out that the selection of characteristics depends on the needs of the user. You need to determine where and with what devices the modem will be used, as well as what additional functions will be needed. Based on user needs, we classified mobile modems.
For use in the city with a desktop computer It's worth purchasing a 4G USB modem.
With a laptop It will be convenient to use a 3G or 4G USB modem with a MicroSD card.
For modem operation with several devices in the country or in the apartment It is better to purchase a 4G mobile router with an Ethernet cable.
If you want to carry a Wi-Fi point with you, pay attention to small-sized 4G mobile routers.
Hello! I once wrote an article in which I talked about... I wrote about possible options. In this article I want to dwell in more detail on choosing a router that will work with a USB 3G modem. Let's consider some nuances so that later, after purchasing the equipment, no problems arise.
I have experience setting up two different routers that worked successfully (and one is still working) with a USB modem from Intertelecom. Based on this experience and also on information from comments on this site, this article will be written.
Now everyone is actively installing the Internet in villages, where, as a rule, it is not possible to connect regular cable Internet. And it’s not always possible to install ADSL either, even if there is phone line. Why, in villages, even outside the city, similar problems with the Internet can arise.But, in these cases, wireless 3G (4G) Internet usually helps out. Now the prices are no longer very high. This is probably the only way out when there is no possibility of wired Internet. But not everything is so good here either :) Only one computer or laptop can work from one USB modem. And phones, tablets, TVs and other wonders modern technology, do not know how to work with a wireless modem. Give them Wi-Fi, or at least a connection via network cable.
So, you have more than two devices that need to be connected to the Internet, and the Internet itself is one USB modem? It’s okay, just buy and configure a router that can work with these USB 3G (4G) modems. You simply connect the modem to the router, configure it, and the router already distributes the Internet to all devices, via Wi-Fi, or via a network cable if, for example, your computer does not have Wi-Fi. But, if you don’t want to lay a cable from the router to the computer, you can buy a USB Wi-Fi receiver, more details in the article.
Almost all well-known manufacturers, such as: Asus, Tp-Link, D-Link, Zyxel, Tenda, have released several models of routers that work perfectly with most popular 3G (4G) modems.
Well, this is the whole point, with most modems, and not with all.
What do you need to know when choosing a router for a 3G (4G) modem?
As I wrote above, all routers that support USB modems do not support all modem models. Simply put, it may turn out that you already have a modem, you bought a router, for example the same RT-N56U (not a cheap device) and it simply does not know how to work with your modem. The result: several days of painful setup, hundreds of attempts to flash the router and a flight into the wall :)
To avoid all this, before purchasing you need to find out whether the router you choose will work with the modem that you already have or that you are going to buy. It is very important!
Choosing a router that supports USB 3G
Choosing a router is not difficult now. Go to some popular online store and look at all the devices that support USB 3G. Typically, the description says this: WAN port: USB 3G. This means that the router is friendly with USB modems. Or go to any regular computer store and ask a consultant.
You probably want me to advise you something? Well look, it worked for me for a while TP-LINK TL-MR3220, which I wrote about setting up in the article ““. But after about a month and a half, it broke down and stopped detecting the modem. And the one he worked with was Novatel U720, and I also tried connecting a modem from Kyivstar (model like ZTE MF180s, I don’t remember exactly). But the TP-LINK TL-MR3220 worked well, plus it's not expensive and works with a variety of modems.
I replaced it with Asus RT-N13U (Rev.B1), which I wrote about setting up in this article - . Great router for the price! With Novatel U720 modem (Intertelecom provider, Ukraine) made friends very quickly. There were no problems at all. By the way, this winter, it worked at a temperature of about -10 degrees (this is in the place where the router and modem are located). And it seems like nothing, alive :)
TP Link
But these two models (which I wrote about above) are already a little outdated, although TP Link TL Mr3220 and its older brother TP Link TL Mr3420 are still very popular. There is also the TP-LINK TD-W8968, which is also worth considering, and the small TP-Link TL-MR3040. And their prices are very good. In terms of price/quality ratio, TP Link is probably the leader.
Asus
If you want something more serious, I recommend taking Asus (but it will also be more expensive). For example RT-N65U, RT-AC56U, RT-N56U, RT-AC66U. These are expensive routers, to be honest, I don’t know if it makes sense to buy such a “machine” to work with a USB modem. I would buy something simpler, even from Asus, for example the small Asus WL-330N3G (but for a large number of different devices, I would advise taking a full-fledged router).
Zyxel
This manufacturer also has interesting and popular models: Keenetic Giga II, Zyxel Keenetic II, Zyxel Keenetic Omni, Zyxel Keenetic 4G II.
See also Tenda, D-Link, Edimax. As I already wrote, there is plenty to choose from. There shouldn't be any problems here.
Checking the compatibility of the router and modem
It is very important! If you are only going to buy a router and you already have a modem, then you need to understand whether they are compatible. As a rule, each manufacturer (for each router model) There is a page that lists supported modems and providers.
You need to know the model of your modem. Exactly the model, but “4G modem from MTS”, or “Beeline Modem” (as they usually write to me in the comments), this is not a model.
After you have already chosen a router and know which modem you will buy (or already have), you can check them for compatibility.
Here are some pages where you can view lists of supported modems:
For Asus, Tenda and others, I never found lists of supported modems (perhaps you know?). Therefore, there are two options here: either we take the phone and call the support service (router manufacturer) and ask about the compatibility of certain models. Or we type in Google something like this: “Keenetic Giga II and Novatel U720” (router and modem model). And let's see what information is there. Perhaps someone has already tried to make these two devices friends.
When you are already sure of the compatibility of the devices you have chosen, you can buy and configure. There shouldn't be any problems. Maybe right away.
Answers to some popular questions
Does the router use the Internet when no devices are connected?
I came across this question once in the comments. The problem was that the router itself was using the Internet when all devices were turned off. I understand that 3G Internet is usually limited, but the few megabytes that the router pumps out are not scary. Simply, he needs to check if there is an Internet connection. Several megabytes accumulate per day. But I think it's not scary.
Is it possible to place a router with a modem in the cold?
To improve the quality of reception, you often have to place the router and modem in places where the network is better and more stable. You can find the best coverage with the program (connect the modem to the laptop, and when you finish testing the network, connect to the router).
So, usually this is an attic, veranda, etc. Where it is cold in winter. It’s difficult to answer specifically here, but my router (Asus RT-N13U (Rev.B1) and modem successfully withstood a temperature of about -10 degrees. I don’t turn them off, not at all, they work all the time. Everything seems to be fine, but anything can happen 🙂 The main thing is that there is no moisture, and it’s better not to wrap them in plastic bags.
Can I use USB extension cable to connect the modem to the router?
Can. But, if it is possible to do without an extension cord, then it is better to connect the modem directly. Also, if you notice any problems: connection breaks, low speed, bad signal etc., then try removing the USB extension cable.
How to choose a Wi-Fi router for a USB 3G (4G) modem? updated: February 7, 2018 by: admin
This article should be useful to everyone who chooses a Wi-Fi router to work with a 3G/4G modem. Exactly with a USB modem. If you have cable Internet, then you need a regular router, the choice of which I wrote in the article. There I talked in detail about how to choose a router for your home, wrote about different characteristics, and even recommended specific models.
Most often, for village residents, the only way To connect to the Internet, use a 3G/4G modem. As a rule, wired Internet is available only in the city, or in the villages closest to the city. The same ADSL is also not always possible to connect, even if you have a landline telephone. All that remains is wireless Internet, via USB modem. This is exactly the situation in Ukraine. It's most likely the same in Russia.
For example: everyone who accesses the Internet in the village where my parents live does so through the 3G operator Intertelecom. And in almost every family (young family with children), Internet connected. This is of course good. But practically the only 3G operator is Intertelecom. Essentially, there is no choice, and this one is bad. Intertelecom simply has the largest coverage. And there is no normal coverage of other operators. In Russia, it seems to me, the situation is a little better. There are Yota, MegaFon, MTS, Beeline. Although, I could be wrong. There are also many operators in Ukraine. But they don't yet have 3G coverage throughout the territory (and most likely there won't be). I'm not even talking about 4G. It's good to have choice and competition. This is a big plus for the user. After all, operators are trying to provide Better conditions, for a better price.
It doesn’t matter in which country or which operator you have 3G/4G Internet. In any case, we access the Internet via a USB modem, which is connected to a desktop computer or laptop. And that's the problem. More precisely, problems begin when more than one device needs to be connected to the Internet. For example, another laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc. appeared in the house. But the Internet can only be used on one computer. And here the question arises: how to distribute the Internet from a USB modem to several devices, including via a Wi-Fi network.
If your Internet is connected to a computer with a Wi-Fi receiver (laptop), then you can try to distribute the Internet without a router. Our computer will act as a router. Here detailed instructions: . The method is not the most stable, and it’s not guaranteed that it will work, but you can try.
Everything is decided by purchasing and setting up a Wi-Fi router that supports 3G/4G modems. This means that the router will connect to the Internet through our modem and distribute it to all devices. Via Wi-Fi network or network cable (if you have a PC or other device without a Wi-Fi receiver).
Key points in choosing a router for a 3G/4G modem
This important information, don't miss it!
- The router must support 3G/4G modems. This is indicated in the specifications. As a rule, it says “WAN port: USB 3G, USB 4G”.
- If the router has a USB port, this does not mean that it supports connecting USB modems. The USB port is also used to connect printers and USB drives.
- The most important thing is USB modem compatibility with router. Just because a router has support for USB modems does not mean that it will work with your modem. You need to carefully check the specific router model for compatibility with the specific modem model.
- There are lists of compatible modems on the official websites of router manufacturers. True, if the modem is not on the list, this does not mean that it is incompatible with the Wi-Fi router. You can search for compatibility information on the Internet. I will write more about this below.
- Please note: if in addition to the modem you want to connect a USB drive or printer to the router, then you need a router with two USB ports.
- Almost all routers that support wireless modems can distribute cable Internet without any problems. They have an RJ-45 WAN port for connecting a cable from your provider, or an ADSL modem.
- Some operators block Internet distribution through a router or from a computer. There are no such problems with Intertelecom. As far as I understand, this is a feature of Russian operators. To be honest, I'm not at all in the know on this issue. As far as I understand, the problem is solved by a replaceable TTL. You can easily find this information on the Internet for your operator.
These are the main points to understand and remember during the router selection process.
Once again :) The main thing is that the router is compatible with the model of your 3G/4G modem. Compatibility lists are available on the official websites of router manufacturers. Below I will provide links to these lists. If the modem is not in the list of compatible ones, then look for information on the Internet using the query “router model + modem model.” Maybe they are compatible, and someone has already set them up.
Now we will take a closer look at different models of routers supporting WAN 3G/4G from different manufacturers. Consider the cheapest and most affordable routers, I will share my experience, talk about the pros and cons of different models and manufacturers.
I’ll say right away that I have experience in setting up 3G modems on ASUS and TP-Link routers. And only with modems from the Intertelecom operator. Therefore, it is difficult for me to judge routers from other manufacturers and other operators. But TP-Link and ASUS are still leaders in the router market, and they have a sufficient number of router models that support connecting USB modems. Almost every network device manufacturer has at least 1-2 models that work with 3G modems.
Currently, with USB modem (Huawei EC 306, formerly Novatel U720) I have a router from Intertelecom. The router is not cheap, with two USB ports. But without 5GHz Wi-Fi support.
ASUS routers with support for 3G/4G modems
Let's first look at the models of this manufacturer. It seems to me that ASUS devices are the best in this category. Not because they distribute the Internet better than others, or work more stable, but because they organize everything very simply. AND good list compatible modems. It is more or less clear whether the modem will work on the router or not.
Almost all ASUS routers that have a USB port support 3G modems (and it is right!). And these are more than 10 models. The cheapest router model, if I'm not mistaken: Asus RT-N14U. Feel free to consider this router. Other models: Asus RT-AC750, RT-AC51U, RT-N18U, RT-N56U, RT-AC1200G+, RT-N66U, RT-AC87U, RT-AC55U, RT-AC3200. And that is not all.
List of compatible modems for all models: https://www.asus.com/event/networks_3G4G_support/
Useful articles:
- Setting up a connection via a 3G modem using the ASUS RT-N18U router as an example:
- Separate article on this topic: .
- What else do you need a USB port for on an ASUS router:
TP-Link routers compatible with USB modems
At first I had a TP-Link TL-MR3220. A good, inexpensive router. But now it seems to have been discontinued. Therefore, TP-Link has released several new, modern models. At TP-Link, everything is somehow made a little more complicated. In the sense that it is difficult to figure out which router model supports which modems, and in which country.
The manufacturer's website lists the following models:
TP-Link TL-MR3420, TL-MR3220, TL-MR3020, TL-MR3040, TD-W8968, TD-W8970, Archer VR900, Archer C2, TL-WR1045ND, Archer C7, Archer C50, TL-WR942N.
I would recommend considering the TP-LINK TL-MR3420. This is already an old model, there is a good base of compatible modems. From new ones, from Wi-Fi support 5GHz there is an interesting model Archer C2. But before buying, you need to make sure that it supports modems. There should be a corresponding icon on the box.
We have instructions for setting up: . However, there are no instructions yet for new models with a new control panel.
ZyXEL routers
ZyXEL also has many models that support 3G/4G modems. The list is large:
ZyXEL Keenetic II, III, Omni, Omni II, 4G II, 4G III, Giga II, Giga III, DSL, VOX, Extra, Extra II, Viva, Ultra and Ultra II
For a list of compatible modem models, see the link: https://zyxel.ua/kb/3390/
D-Link
D-Link also has routers that support USB/3G/LTE modems. These are the models:
DIR-620/GA, DIR-632, DIR-620, DIR-815/AC, DIR-320, DIR-816L, DIR-825/A, DIR-825/AC
To find out the list of compatible modems, you need to open the page of a specific router on the D-Link website, and there you will see “Supported USB modems.”
Other manufacturers
There are also such routers from other manufacturers. For example, MikroTik, NETIS, Cisco.
Which router model should I buy? How to choose?
Go to some large online store, go to the section with routers, and in the filter settings, select routers that support “WAN port: USB 3G, USB 4G”. This setting may be called differently. But there most likely is such a function. Then, you can sort the routers from cheap to expensive if you're on a budget or want to find the cheapest router.
We will receive a list of routers that work with modems. Choose a model that suits your price and features. Then, be sure to check it for compatibility with your modem (as I wrote above). Also, type in Google or Yandex the request “router model + modem model”. Open a couple of pages and read. I think you will find a lot of useful information. Look at the specific model page on the manufacturer's website.
I think this is The best way choose the optimal model for yourself, with minimal risk of getting incompatible devices. And then you can order online, or buy in a regular store.
If after purchase the router does not see the modem
First, look for the setup instructions to make sure you're doing everything correctly. Above I provided links to some instructions. Connect the modem without a USB extension cable, if you have one. Update the router firmware. Please double check that your devices are compatible.
I hope this article helped you in choosing a router to work with a USB modem. Write in the comments what router you have and what modem it worked with. This helpful information. You can also ask questions. Best wishes!
Using a router with 4G modem support, you can provide high-speed communications to dozens of other devices.
This may be especially important if it is impossible to use wired Internet (country housing, lack of support at home by a provider, the need for high-speed access if it is not available in the area).
And the functionality of most of these devices ensures not only high speed, but also complete security of the transmitted data.
4G routers
You can get high-quality Internet in the absence of a fast wired connection (when there is no cable network at all or it is too slow) using wireless routers that support the 4G format. However, such a device can only be connected to one computer or laptop. And, if you need to provide network access to users of several gadgets at once - from a PC to a smartphone with Wi-Fi.
A wireless 4G modem gains access to the network through a telephone SIM card installed in it. And, if there is 4G network coverage in your area, you can use it not only to surf the Internet, but also to listen to music, watch movies and work with resource-intensive applications online.
In conjunction with a router that allows you to connect a 4G modem via a USB input, this device provides speeds that are not only no less, but even better than a conventional wired network.
It should be noted that even the lack of 4G coverage is not always an obstacle to purchasing a modem that supports this technology and a router suitable for it. Over time, high-speed communications will appear almost everywhere - in any locality or region.
And while there is no 4G coverage, the same set of equipment is quite suitable for stable operation with 3G communications. After all, although it is noticeably inferior in capabilities to the new generation, it also provides speeds of up to 1–2 Mbit/s.
4G modem + Wi-Fi router
Connecting 4G Internet at home, office or any room.
Popular routers with 4G modem support
Now on the market you can find many routers that support the connection of a 4G modem and, thus, allow you to use Mobile Internet on devices such as PCs, laptops, tablets without SIM cards. And even distribute it to mobile gadgets, providing those around you with high-speed communication.
However, some models are in greater demand than others: some, thanks to decent technical specifications, others - due to the affordable price.
TP-LINK TL-WR1045ND - an inexpensive device with good signal amplification
Model TL-WR1045ND is a device that has the features and functionality of both wireless routers and conventional 4-port switches. The device is capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 450 Mbit/s and connects to both printers and data storage devices (external HDDs and flash drives). And it’s easy to set up using the disk included with the router.
The router makes it possible to protect information by pressing just one button - WPS. With its help, data becomes protected using WPA2 technology. And, thanks to the ability to determine the priority of downloaded information, bandwidth is evenly distributed among the most important data.
Specifications:
- operating frequency: 2.4 GHz;
- data transfer rate (Wi-Fi/LAN), Mbit/s: 450/1000;
- gain: 15 dBi;
- number of antennas: 3;
- cost: from 3000 rub.
Rice. 1. Thanks to three antennas, the router provides a high-quality signal.
D-Link DIR-825/ACF – functional and reliable
Connecting to a 4G network using a DIR-825/ACF router from D-Link and a modem that supports this technology makes it possible to:
- access the Internet at speeds up to 1167 Mbit/s (300+867);
- use any storage medium connected to the router as a network drive;
- print from the network by connecting a printer to the device (one of the models supported by DIR-825/ACF);
- protect information using security technologies such as WPA, WPA2 and WEP);
- create a so-called “guest” Wi-Fi network with individual settings and speed limits.
The model is equipped with a firewall, which allows you to minimize the likelihood of your network being hacked and other actions by fraudsters. While intuitive settings and automatic update search function software on the D-Link server make working with the router easier.
Device parameters:
- data transmission: wireless from 1167 Mbit/s, wired – from 1 Gbit/s;
- operating frequencies: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz;
- number of antennas: 2;
- gain: 10 dBi;
- prices: from 5000 rub.
Rice. 2. Model D-Link DIR-825/ACF - a device with good functionality.
D-Link DIR-825/AC – good speed at an affordable price
The DIR-825/AC/G1 router, manufactured by a renowned router manufacturer, provides an impressive speed of 867 Mbps for wireless connections. No less speed is obtained for wired devices - general access is provided at the level of 1 Gbit/s. This is more than enough for watching video over the network, for video conferencing, and for playing games - and from several devices at once.
In fact, thanks to such a device, you can easily connect at least 10 users to the Internet, providing them with a volume of traffic sufficient for any purpose.
It is worth noting the possibility of operating in 2 bands – 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. As a result, the device can transmit information at a total speed of 300+867 = 1167 Mbit/s.
At the same time, the router, like most other popular models, connects to both a printer and a USB flash drive, supports several security protocols and is equipped with a firewall.
It is also capable of disconnecting devices connected via Wi-Fi from the Internet, leaving a wired connection. The only drawback of the model is the relatively small signal gain, despite the presence of 2 antennas.
Device parameters:
- Wi-Fi data transfer speed: up to 1167 Mbit/s;
- LAN speed: up to 1000 Mbit/s;
- operating frequency: 2.4 and 5 GHz;
- gain: 4–6 dBi;
- number of antennas: 2;
- price: from 2900 rub.
Rice. 3. DIR-825/AC/G1 – slight signal amplification, but affordable price.
ASUS RT-AC51U – technology for high-speed wireless connection
Another router, operating in 2 bands, supports data transfer speeds of up to 733 Mbit/s - of which 433 at a frequency of 5 GHz, and 300 at 2.4 GHz. The model is characterized by an increased coverage area, an almost complete absence of “dead zones” and stable operation. A printer and external storage devices can be connected to the router.
A minor drawback would be the maximum data transfer speed over a wired connection of only 100 Mbit/s. On the other hand, this is more than enough for the simultaneous operation of 4 devices (it will not be possible to connect more via wires).
Main parameters:
- data transfer speed: wireless – up to 733 Mbit/s, wired – 100 Mbit/s;
- frequency: 2.4 and 5 GHz;
- gain: 10 dBi;
- number of antennas: 2;
- cost: 2250 rub.
Rice. 4. ASUS RT-AC51U – a router more designed for wireless connections.
ASUS RT-AC1200G+ – stylish design with high speed
The ASUS RT-AC1200G+ router is a device that provides information transfer speeds via Wi-Fi up to 1167 Mbit/s - 867 in the 5 GHz band, another 400 in the 2.44 GHz frequency. Thanks to AiRadar technology, the router has a significant coverage area, thanks to which it provides Internet to large rooms and even entire houses.
The device is equipped with a parental control function that allows you to limit access to unwanted resources not for an individual device connected to the ASUS RT-AC1200G+, but for all of them at once. And, thanks to the built-in media server, the router transfers multimedia files to all connected devices - thus, you can organize, for example, broadcasting a movie.
Device characteristics:
- information transmission: wireless – up to 1167 Mbit/s (867+300), wired – 100 Mbit/s;
- device operating frequency: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz;
- signal gain: 20 dBi;
- number of antennas: 4;
- cost: 4360 rub.
Rice. 5. RT-AC1200G+ – attractive appearance, good features.
ASUS RT-AC87U – the most stylish and fastest model
The high transmission speed of RT-AC87U is combined with the original appearance and good amplification, due to the configuration with 4 antennas at once. The maximum performance of the device is 2334 Mbps, as a result of which it can be called the most powerful router on the modern market.
The coverage area of the device reaches 465 square meters. m. - more than 30% more compared to standard routers. This allows you to build wireless network even in a fairly tall and long multi-story building.
Another one unique opportunity– support for 300 thousand connections simultaneously. Due to this, the router provides not only the connection of a significant number of users, but also the downloading of any number of files.
Time Machine technology provides backup of information from Apple devices. And for the convenience of storing data, you can connect iCloud 2.0 cloud storage to the router.
Basic parameters of the router:
- speed: Wi-Fi – up to 1734 Mbit/s, LAN – 1000 Mbit/s;
- signal gain: 20 dBi;
- number of antennas: 4;
- prices: from 6850 rub.
Rice. 6. ASUS RT-AC87U – stylish and fast.
ZyXEL Keenetic DSL – router for working with IP-TV
The Keenetic DSL router only supports mono-channel operation in the 2.4 GHz band. However, even a throughput of 300 Mbit/s over Wi-Fi and 100 Mbit/s over a wired connection is enough to provide a network for an entire house or several apartments. Moreover, the device works with MIMO technology, allowing you to expand throughput channel and thus gain access to additional services of the Internet provider - for example, IP-TV.
Model features:
- information transmission: wireless – up to 300 Mbit/s, wired – up to 100 Mbit/s;
- number of antennas: 2;
- signal gain: 2 x 5 dBi;
- operating frequencies: 2.4 GHz;
- cost of equipment: 3200 rub.
Rice. 7. ZyXEL Keenetic DSL is a suitable option for additional services providers.
ASUS DSL-N17U – router with its own cloud storage
The Asus DSL-N17U wireless router provides good data transfer speeds using 3G and 4G modems connected to it (although, like any modern routers of this type, it can also work from the network).
With its help, you can organize several wireless networks, protect data transmission and use it to store information cloud storage iCloud. To work with cloud resources, the router comes with free apps for iOS and Android.
Equipment parameters:
- data transfer via Wi-Fi: up to 300 Mbit/s;
- speed (LAN): up to 1000 Mbit/s;
- operating range: 2.4 GHz;
- signal gain: 10 dBi;
- cost: from 3300 rub.
Rice. 8. ASUS DSL-N17U – stylish look, own cloud storage.
ASUS RT-AC68U_W – bright and fast
Using the ASUS RT-AC68U_W router, which is attractive in appearance and has impressive characteristics, you can provide Internet distribution at speeds of up to 1900 Mbps - 600 at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, another 1300 in the 5 GHz band. Such capabilities, taking into account the signal amplification of 15 dBi, are enough for any modern office, large premises and even multi-storey buildings.
ASUS RT-AC68U_W parameters:
- operating frequency: 5 and 2.4 GHz;
- wireless speed: up to 1900 Mbit/s (600+1300);
- LAN data transfer speed: up to 1 Gbit/s;
- signal gain: 15 dBi;
- device price: from 10,500 rub.
Rice. 9. ASUS RT-AC68U_W router – good signal, stylish design.
ZyXEL USG 40 – security center for corporate tasks
The ZyXEL USG 40 model, the price of which is significantly higher than other routers in the review, can no longer be called a router, but a real security center. In addition to transmitting data for sufficient high speed(especially with a wired connection), the device provides maximum information security and can become excellent option for a corporate network.
Important: It is worth noting that the device supports network reception from three network providers at once. This ensures maximum reliability of the Internet connection.
Router characteristics:
- WAN data transfer speed: up to 1 Gbit/s;
- transmission of information via wireless network: up to 450 Mbit/s (150+300);
- cost: about 25,000 rubles;
- frequencies: 2.4 and 5 GHz;
- number of connected antennas: 2 (5 dBi each).
Rice. 10. ZyXEL USG 40 is an expensive but functional device.
Comparison of characteristics
| Model | Maximum speed transfersWi-Fi, Mbit/s | Transmission speedLAN, Mbit/s | Gain, dBi | price, rub. |
| TL-WR1045ND | 450 | 1000 | 15 | 3000 |
| D-Link DIR-825/ACF | 1167 | 1000 | 10 | 5000 |
| DIR-825/AC/G1 | 1167 | 1000 | 4–6 | 2900 |
| ASUS RT-AC51U | 733 | 100 | 10 | 2250 |
| ASUS RT-AC1200G+ | 1167 | 1000 | 20 | 4360 |
| ASUS RT-AC87U | 2334 | 1000 | 20 | 6850 |
| ZyXEL Keenetic DSL | 300 | 100 | 10 | 3200 |
| ASUS DSL-N17U | 300 | 1000 | 10 | 3300 |
| ASUS RT-AC68U_W | 1900 | 1000 | 15 | 10500 |
| ZyXEL USG 40 | 450 | 1000 | 10 | 25000 |
A mobile 3G WiFi router is a wireless device with a SIM card that allows you to connect to the Internet anywhere in the world where there is reception from cellular operators, and relay it via a wireless signal to other gadgets. Now this is the most mobile means of providing Internet distribution without being tied to a specific connection location (not counting mobile), however, it is less high-speed and more expensive compared to regular cable Internet. Based on its features, it makes sense to set up a 3G router where there is stable mobile network reception, but there is no way to extend the Internet via cable and then organize a wireless WiFi network.
What is a 3G WiFi router?
The way a 3G router works is that we get the Internet to it in the same way as our phones - using the built-in SIM card mobile operator. And he, in turn, distributes it via WiFi to a laptop or other devices. IN Lately Such devices have gained great popularity, since they are autonomous and can be taken with you on a trip, to a picnic or to the country house.
There are several types of 3G wi-wi routers for different purposes, which we will now examine in detail.
Setting up a mobile 3G router from MTS
Now let's take a closer look at how to set up the Internet using two examples.
The most popular device of the first type is the ZTE MF30 model produced by the Chinese company Huawei. Almost all leading operators supply it with their SIM cards - Beeline, Megafon and MTS have definitely seen it. Each of them simply sticks on their own logo, and the device remains the same. I will show it using the example from Mother.
Open the box of the MTS Connect kit and look at the contents. The most important thing that interests us in the framework of this article is two types of configuration of this 3g router: through local network or in the program via a USB cable. I am a fan of doing all manipulations through the web interface, and in this case it’s as easy as pie! You just need to turn on the device and it will start broadcasting the Internet. The default SSID is MTS MF30. You can find it, as well as your login and password, at back side device covers. Click on the network connections icon in the Windows tray, find this network and connect.
As you can see, you don’t even need to configure anything, everything starts on autopilot. If we want to tinker with the settings, and also if we want to receive the Internet not via wifi, but directly from the router, for example, if the PC does not have a wifi adapter, then this is also very easy to do.
Therefore, we turn it on with the button, insert the included USB cable into the 3g router and the computer and wait until it is detected by the system. There is no need to install any additional drivers. After they become friends, a window will appear on the screen inviting you to begin installing the software.
We, of course, agree, launch the installation file of the Connect Manager program, which you need to enter after the installation is complete. The main program window will appear. Here we can check the balance of the SIM card and top it up, but first of all we will click the “Connect” button to connect to the router.
If everything went well, then now your computer is already connected to the Internet and all that remains is to configure the signal distribution to other gadgets. To do this, go to the router section and set the familiar network parameters - SSID, encryption modes, login and password for the connection.
Save the settings.
Now you can check through our favorite method - the web interface. Click on the network adapter icon and find our new network, connect to it using the newly saved login and password. The Internet should start working.
After that, go to the browser at http://192.168.0.1 and enter admin/admin to access the admin panel. To secure your connection, change this information later. We get to the first page, where there is information about the IP of the router itself, the range of masks and the inclusion of a DCHP server, which automatically distributes IP to all devices connected to it.
The same applies to 3g routers Megafon and Beeline. Let's take a look at Megafon. To configure it, you need to go through a browser to the address 192.168.1.1. We will get to the start page, where you need to enter the password indicated on the sticker on the cover of the router.
After that, on subsequent pages, click “Next” several times to apply the settings already built into the device. As usual, in the WAN section from the Settings menu, you can easily set the network name (SSID), login and password for the connection.
I will also give some recommendations for saving battery power - after all, the duration of battery life is the determining parameter when working “on the road”. So, in order for the charge to last as long as possible, activate the “Connection Mode” on the device to “Automatic”. This will allow the 3g wifi router to connect only when a file or page on the Internet is being accessed. And another mode that helps save battery is auto power off. If the router is not used for a while, it turns off automatically and turns on again with a button located on the side.
How to set up a 3G router with Megafon support?
And this is a more advanced model, something between what we just looked at and a full-fledged router with modem support. There is already one LAN cable connector for integrating the router into a local wired network, but its operation requires a separately purchased 3G modem from the same operator as the router itself. In this example from Megafon.
WiFi setup 3g router of this modification occurs in exactly the same way as in the first case. Either we immediately connect to it via wifi, using the access data indicated on the bottom of the device, or we connect via USB.
Network name (SSID): MegaFon_3G_Wi-Fi_xxxx
where xxxx – 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th digits of the MAC address.
Password: last 8 digits of MAC address
To log in wirelessly to the admin panel, use the address http://router.3g, the login and password are original and this time no different - admin-admin. All this, as always, can be changed in the control panel.
Huawei 3G routers are configured in the same way, that is, these same units provided by Beeline, Tele2 and other operators, I think? here everything is already clear. The only difference is the built-in factory settings for one or another mobile network.
To return the factory settings for any of the described 3g routers, there is a button hidden in a recess on the side surface, which must be pressed with a sharp object and wait 5-10 seconds.
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