3g modem with wifi function. Setting up a router via a mobile modem

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 a reception of cellular operators and relay it wirelessly to other gadgets. Now this is the most mobile means of providing Internet distribution without being tied to a specific connection point (not counting mobile), but less speedy and more expensive than conventional cable Internet. Based on its features, it makes sense to set up a 3G router where there is a stable reception of a mobile network, but there is no way to stretch the Internet over a cable in order to organize a wireless network later. WiFi network.

What is a 3G WiFi router?

The work of a 3G router is that we get the Internet on it in the same way as our phones - using the built-in SIM card of a mobile operator. And he, in turn, distributes it via WiFi to a laptop or other devices. AT recent times such devices have gained great popularity, since it is autonomous, you can take it with you on a trip, on a picnic or to the country.

There are several types of 3G wifi routers for different purposes, which we will now discuss 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 samples as an example.
The most popular device of the first type is the ZTE MF30 model manufactured by the Chinese company Huawei. Almost all leading operators supply it with their SIM cards - Beeline, Megafon and MTS have definitely seen it. It's just that each of them sticks its own logo, and the device remains the same. I will show exactly on the example from MaTeris.


We open the box of the MTS Connect kit and look at the contents. The most important thing that interests us in this article is two types of settings for this 3g router: through local network or in the program via a USB cable. I am an adherent of doing all the manipulations through the web interface, and in this case it is as easy as shelling pears to do it! You just need to turn on the device and it will start broadcasting the Internet. The default SSID is MTS MF30. You will find it, as well as your username and password, on reverse side device covers. We 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 runs 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 simple to do.

Therefore, turn it on with the button, insert the supplied USB cable to the 3g router and computer and wait until it is detected by the system. No additional drivers need to be installed. After they become friends, a window will appear on the screen inviting you to start the installation software.


Of course, we agree, we launch the installation file of the Connect Manager program, which you need to enter after the installation is completed. The main program window will appear. Here we can check the balance of the SIM card and replenish it, but first of all we will press the "Connect" button to connect to the router.

If everything went well, then now your computer is already connected to the Internet and it remains only to set up the distribution of a signal 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.


We save the settings.

Now you can check through our favorite way - the web interface. Click on the network adapter icon, find our new network, we connect to it using the login and password we just saved. 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. Change this information later to secure the connection. We get to the first page, where information about the IP of the router itself, the range of masks and the inclusion of a DCHP server that automatically distributes IP to all devices connected to it.

Similarly, there is work with 3g routers Megafon and Beeline. Let's take a look at Megafon. To configure it, you need to go through the browser at 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 the following pages, click “Next” several times to apply the settings already sewn 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 connection.

I will also give some recommendations for saving battery power - after all, battery life is a 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 cause the 3g wifi router to connect only when it is being imaged to a file or page on the internet. And another mode that helps save battery is auto power off. If the router is not used for some time, it turns off automatically and turns on again with the 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 embedding 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.

Setting up a wifi 3g router of this modification is exactly the same 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 is the 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th digits of the MAC address.
Password: last 8 digits of the MAC address

For a wireless login to the admin panel, use the address http://router.3g, the login and password are original and this time they do not differ - admin-admin. In the control panel, all this, as always, can be changed.

Similarly, Huawei 3G routers are configured, that is, the same units provided by Beeline, Tele2 and other operators - I think? here and so everything is already clear. The only difference is the wired factory settings for a particular mobile network.

To return the factory settings for any of the described 3g routers, there is a button hidden in the recess on the side surface, which must be pressed with a sharp object and wait 5-10 seconds.

Hello! I already once wrote an article in which I talked about. I wrote about options. In this article, I want to dwell in more detail on choosing a router that will work with a USB 3G modem. Consider some of the nuances, so that later, after purchasing the equipment, there would be no problems.

I have experience in setting up two different routers that worked successfully (one is still working) with a USB modem from Intertelecom. It is on this experience and also on information from the comments on this site that this article will be written.

Now everyone is actively conducting Internet in villages, where, as a rule, there is no way to connect regular, cable Internet. Yes, and to carry out ADSL, it is also not always possible, even if there is a telephone line. Yes, there in the villages, even outside the city, similar problems with the Internet may 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 way to spend wired Internet. But even here, not everything is so good 🙂, only one computer or laptop can work from one USB modem. And phones, tablets, TVs and other miracles of modern technology cannot work with a wireless modem. Give them Wi-Fi, or at least a network cable connection.

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 just connect the modem to the router, set it up, and the router already distributes the Internet to all devices, via Wi-Fi, or via a network cable, for example, if the computer does not have Wi-Fi. But, if you do not want to lay a cable from the router to the computer, you can buy a USB Wi-Fi receiver, see the article for more details.

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.

Here, this is the whole point, with most modems, not all.

What 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 he simply does not know how to work with your modem. As a result: several days of painful setup, hundreds of attempts to flash the router and flying into the wall 🙂 .

To avoid all this, before buying, you need to find out if the router you have chosen will work with the modem that you already have or that you are going to buy. It is very important!

Choosing a router with USB 3G support

Choosing a router is not difficult now. Go to some popular online store and see all the devices that support USB 3G. Usually, the description says: 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.

Do you want me to give you some advice? Well look, I've been working for some time TP-LINK TL-MR3220, about the setting of which I wrote in the article ““. But, after about a month and a half, it broke down, stopped detecting the modem. And the one with which he worked - Novatel U720, and I also tried to connect a modem from Kyivstar (model like ZTE MF180s, don't remember exactly). But the TP-LINK TL-MR3220 worked well, plus it's not expensive and works with a lot of modems.

I replaced it with Asus RT-N13U (Rev.B1), about the setting of which I wrote in this article -. Great router for the price! With Novatel U720 modem (provider Intertelecom, Ukraine) made friends very quickly. There were no problems at all. By the way, this winter, he worked at a temperature of about -10 degrees (this is in the place where the router and modem are). And it seems to be nothing, alive 🙂.

TP Link

But these two models (of which I wrote above) are already a bit outdated, although the 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 yes, their prices are very good. In terms of price / quality ratio, TP Link is probably the leader.

Asus

If you want something more serious, then I recommend to take Asus (but it will 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 take such a “machine” to work with a USB modem. I would buy something simpler, even from Asus, like 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.

Check the compatibility of the router and modem

It is very important! If you are going to buy only a router, you already have a modem, then you need to understand if they are compatible. As a rule, each manufacturer (for each router model) there is a page on which supported modems and providers are specified.

You need to know the model of your modem. It is the model, but “4G modem from MTS”, or “Modem Beeline” (as they usually write to me in a comment), 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 have not found lists of supported modems (perhaps you know?). Therefore, there are two options here: either take the phone, call the support service (router manufacturer) and ask about the compatibility of certain models. Or we type in Google something like this query “Keenetic Giga II and Novatel U720” (model of router and modem). And see what information is there. Perhaps someone has already tried to make friends between these two devices.

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. Except, right away.

Answers to some popular questions

Does the router use the Internet when the devices are not connected?

I came across this question in the comments some time ago. The problem was that the router itself used the Internet when all devices were turned off. I understand that 3G Internet is usually limited, but those few megabytes that the router pumps out are not scary. Simply, he needs to check if there is an Internet connection. A few megabytes a day. But I don't think it's scary.

Is it possible to place a router with a modem in the cold?

In order to improve reception quality, it is often necessary 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 (having connected the modem to the laptop, and when you are done testing the network, then connect it to the router).

So, usually, this is an attic, a veranda, etc. Where it is cold in winter. It’s hard to answer specifically here, but my router (Asus RT-N13U (Rev.B1) and modem successfully endured a temperature of about -10 degrees. I don’t turn them off, they work all the time. Everything seems to be fine, but anything can be 🙂 The main thing is that there is no moisture, and in plastic bags, it is better not to wrap them.

Is it possible to use USB extension cable for connecting modem to 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. It is 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 told in detail how to choose a router for your home, wrote about different characteristics, and even advised specific models.

Most often, for the inhabitants of villages, the only way connect to the internet, is to 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 there is a landline phone. Remains only wireless Internet, via USB modem. This is exactly the situation in Ukraine. In Russia, most likely the same.

For example: everyone who accesses the Internet in the village where my parents live does it through the 3G operator Intertelecom. And in almost every family (young family with children), internet connected. This is of course good. But almost the only 3G operator is Intertelecom. In fact, there is no choice, and this one is bad. It's just that Intertelecom 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 Yota, MegaFon, MTS, Beeline. Although, I could be wrong. There are also many operators in Ukraine. But they do not yet have 3G coverage throughout the territory (and probably won't). I'm not talking about 4G anymore. 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 more favorable price.

It does not matter in which country, and which operator has 3G / 4G Internet. In any case, we access the Internet through a USB modem that is connected to a desktop computer or laptop. And that's the whole 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. And 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 a fact that it will work out, but you can try.

Everything is decided by the purchase, and Wi-Fi setting 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. By Wi-Fi network, or by 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 is 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, USB drives.
  • The most important thing is USB modem compatibility with router. If the router has support for USB modems, that does not mean that it will work with your modem. You need to carefully check the specific router model for compatibility with a specific modem model.
  • The official websites of router manufacturers have lists of compatible modems. True, if the modem is not in the list, then this does not mean that it is incompatible with the Wi-Fi router. You can search for compatibility information on the Internet. Below I will write about this in more detail.
  • Please note: if you want to connect a USB drive or a printer to the router in addition to the modem, then you need a router with two USB ports.
  • Almost all routers that support wireless modems can distribute cable Internet without problems. They have an RJ-45 WAN port for connecting a cable from an ISP, or an ADSL modem.
  • Some operators block the distribution of the Internet 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. Frankly, I'm not at all in the subject 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 that you need to understand and remember in the process of choosing a router.

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 we search the Internet for information on the request "router model + modem model". Maybe they are compatible, and someone already set them up.

Now we will take a closer look at different models of routers with WAN 3G / 4G support from different manufacturers. Consider the cheapest and most affordable routers, share my experience, talk about the pros and cons of different models and manufacturers.

I must say right away that I have experience in setting up 3G modems on ASUS and TP-Link routers. And only with modems of 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 manufacturer of network devices has at least 1-2 models that work with 3G modems.

At the moment, with a USB modem (Huawei EC 306, before Novatel U720) I have a router from Intertelecom. The router is not cheap, with two USB ports. But without support for Wi-Fi 5GHz.

ASUS routers supporting 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 have everything very simply organized. And a good list of 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 this is more than 10 models. cheapest router model if I'm not mistaken: Asus RT-N14U. You can safely 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:.
  • Why else do you need a USB port on an ASUS router:

TP-Link routers compatible with USB modems

At first I had a TP-Link TL-MR3220. Good, inexpensive router. But now it seems to be out of production. Therefore, TP-Link has released several new, modern models. At TP-Link, everything is somehow a little more complicated. In the sense that it is difficult to figure out which model of the router supports which modems, and in which country.

The following models are listed on the manufacturer's website:

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 advise considering TP-LINK TL-MR3420. This is already an old model, there is a good database of compatible modems. Of the new ones, with Wi-Fi 5GHz support, there is an interesting Archer C2 model. But before buying, you need to make sure that it supports modems. There should be a corresponding badge on the box.

We have setup instructions: . True, so far there are no instructions for new models with a new control panel.

ZyXEL routers

ZyXEL also has many models with support for 3G/4G modems. The list is big:

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

See the list of compatible modem models at 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 other manufacturers of such routers. For example, MikroTik, NETIS, Cisco.

Which router model to 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 routers from cheap to expensive if you're on a tight budget or want to find the cheapest router.

We will get a list of routers that work with modems. Choose the 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 query "router model + modem model". Open a couple of pages, read. I think you will find a lot of useful information. Look at the page for a specific model on the manufacturer's website.

It seems to me that this is the best way to 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 of all, find the setup instructions to make sure you are doing everything right. Above I gave links to some instructions. Connect the modem without a USB extension cable, if available. Update your router firmware. Make sure your devices are compatible again.

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 with which modem it worked. it useful information. You can also ask questions. Good luck!

Among external devices for connecting to the Internet using 3G or 4G technology, USB modems and routers can be distinguished. Modems provide a connection for only one device (usually a laptop or desktop PC). Routers differ in that they support WiFi and, as a rule, are equipped with a battery for autonomous operation. The editors of WiNetwork have prepared a rating of such devices that allow access to global network without cable connection to the provider.

5th place in the ranking: ZTE MF65

Inexpensive model of a mobile router with 3G support. Autonomous operation is provided by a built-in battery with a capacity of 1500 mAh. It lasts for 280 hours in standby mode or 4 hours of active use of ZTE MF65. The router does not have a connector for connecting an external antenna, but if you have certain skills, you can add it yourself. The forums dedicated to mobile devices have step by step instructions on disassembling the MF65 and adding this connector.

The design of the device is as simple as possible: there are only two buttons on the case - turning the router on / off and activating the WiFi Protected Setup mode. LED indicators of operation are located on a black glossy strip at the top of the case. A nice addition to this budget model is a microSD memory card slot that supports drives up to 32 GB. When you install a memory card on the router, a file server is turned on, which opens file sharing on microSD via WiFi.

4th place: Xiaomi ZMI 4G

An unusual device that combines the functions of a 3G / 4G router and a universal mobile battery (power bank) of 7800 mAh. Despite the absence of external antennas, ZMI 4G stably receives a signal from base stations mobile operators. On the top side of the case there are connectors and indicators:

  • USB connector for charging external devices;
  • Micro USB port for charging Xiaomi ZMI 4G;
  • Network reception level indicator;
  • WiFi module operation indicator;
  • Battery charge indicator.

Like many other network Xiaomi devices, this model has a drawback in the form of the absence of the Russian language in the web interface. To set up and monitor the status, you can use mobile app for Android or iOS. It is available in English, Chinese and Japanese, and there is no translation into Russian either.

Note! When ordering Xiaomi ZMI 4G in Chinese online stores, be sure to consider the hardware version of the router. The MF815 model is designed for the Chinese market, so it will not work with mobile networks in Russia or other CIS countries. Suitable frequencies are used in the international version - MF855.

3rd place: TP-Link M5250

Compact 3G router with long time battery life and a nice streamlined design. Supports simultaneous connection of up to 5 different wireless devices via WiFi. Can be used to receive and send SMS through the built-in control panel. Easy to use, has a user-friendly configuration interface.

The disadvantages include the lack of a power supply in the package and the WPS button on the router case. The router is equipped with a microSD card slot, the full use of which is difficult due to the lack of a file server. Information from the memory card can only be read when the M5250 is connected via a cable. Network sharing on microSD is not possible. Also, this TP-Link model cannot work in USB modem mode. Even if the router is connected to the computer via USB, Internet access is available only via WiFi.

2nd place: Huawei E5330

Reliable 3G router with the ability to send text messages, which supports modem operation. Differs in fast inclusion — the device is completely ready to work in 5 seconds after pressing the power button. Allows you to simultaneously connect to WiFi up to 10 devices at a frequency of 2.4 GHz.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not provide for the possibility of sending USSD requests through the router's web interface. Of course, most mobile operators allow you to track the balance or balance of packet traffic through Personal Area on the site. But if your operator does not provide such an opportunity, in order to clarify the necessary data, you will have to send SMS or remove the SIM card from the router, and then install it in your mobile phone.

Important advice! The E5330 can also work as a wireless network repeater (repeater). This method of use is relevant in conjunction with the main router if it does not provide sufficient WiFi coverage.

1st place: NETGEAR AC785

Wireless 3G/4G router with built-in display and two slots for connecting external antennas. They are connected via TS9 connectors hidden under the plugs on the bottom panel. The most expensive model among routers in this rating, the price of which is fully consistent with the high technical specifications and a large number supported features.

Unlike most other mobile routers, it supports WiFi broadcasting at a frequency of 5 GHz in addition to the standard 2.4 GHz. Among the wireless functions, it is also worth noting the possibility of creating a guest network. AC785 works up to 10 hours after a full charge of the 2000 mAh battery. The screen diagonal is about 1.8 inches, it displays:

  • The signal level of the mobile operator's network;
  • Type of network used (2G, 3G or 4G);
  • Current data transfer activity (download or upload);
  • The name of the operator;
  • Notification of unread SMS;
  • USB connection status;
  • Battery level;
  • Current charging status (charging or discharging);
  • Number of devices connected to AC785 via WiFi;
  • Wireless network name (SSID);
  • WiFi password;
  • The amount of traffic used.

Important! NETGEAR has also developed two docking stations to connect the AC785. They are not included in the package, but can be purchased separately. The docking stations are equipped with reinforced antennas and Ethernet ports for connecting to wired home network devices.

Summing up

As the best among the presented devices, the editors of WiNetwork choose NETGEAR AC785. This router is easy to set up and easy to use. And when connected to a docking station, it turns into a full-fledged router for an apartment or house. If only 3G networks are supported in your region or you do not need a dual-band router, pay attention to the Huawei E5330 model, which occupies the second place in this rating.

Everyone who uses the Internet via a 3G USB modem sooner or later wonders how to distribute the Internet over a Wi-Fi network. If we have one 3G/4G modem, no matter which internet provider (I, for example, have Intertelecom), we can only connect the modem to one computer. In this case, the Internet will be only on one computer to which the modem is connected.

And since now there are a lot of smartphones, tablets, laptops and many other devices that can connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi, we need to somehow distribute the Internet from a 3G USB modem. Yes, there are now modems that have a built-in Wi-Fi router that can distribute the Internet over Wi-Fi. In addition, they can work independently. But, they also have their drawbacks: a small network radius, many devices cannot be connected at the same time, etc. And if you already have a regular USB modem, then do not throw it away.

In this article, we will talk about real, ordinary routers that support 3G / 4G modems. Almost every manufacturer now has several models that distribute the Internet from USB modems without any problems. At the same time, these routers support the connection of conventional cable Internet RJ-45. If you have the opportunity to connect cable Internet instead of a modem, then you do not have to change the router.

Routers that support 3G/4G modems

We have a USB modem, and we need to organize wifi network so that the Internet from the modem can be distributed to all your devices via Wi-Fi, well, you can connect via a network cable, for example desktop computer.

For this case, we need to buy a router to which we can connect our modem. The router will receive the Internet from the modem and distribute it to your devices. Here's how it all works:

In principle, nothing is difficult. Only, there are some nuances in choosing the router itself. Since not all routers support USB 3G modems. And those that support, are able to work not with all modems.

Manufacturer Asus, for example, has a lot of models with support for USB modems. For example: Asus RT-N18U, RT-AC56U, RT-N14U, RT-N66U, RT-N10U B, etc. I wrote about setting up a 3G modem on Asus routers in the article

Tp-Link also has several models: Tp-Link TL-MR3420, TL-MR3220 and a few more. ZyXEL has many good models: Zyxel Keenetic DSL, Keenetic Omni II, Zyxel Keenetic Viva, Zyxel Keenetic Extra and others.

As you can see the choice is great. In the characteristics of a router that can work with a USB modem, as a rule, you can see something like: WAN port - USB 3G / 4G. Well, they also support regular Ethernet.

If the router has a USB connector, this does not mean that it is exactly compatible with 3G modems. This information needs to be corrected. See the specifications, or ask consultants in stores.

Choosing a device is not difficult, but the compatibility of the router with the modem must be checked.

Checking the compatibility of the router with the modem

The main thing you need to know, and what you need to make sure when buying a router for a modem, is compatibility. You need to check if the router (which you are going to purchase) supports your modem. Since you most likely already have a modem.

As I wrote above, the router you have chosen may simply not work with your modem. Therefore, be sure to check the devices for compatibility.

How do you know if your router is compatible with your modem? The best way, is to see the list of compatible devices on the router manufacturer's website.

Compatibility pages for some router manufacturers:

  • Compatibility of 3G/4G modems with routers Tp Link- http://www.tp-link.ua/ru/comp-list.html (Select the correct model under the heading "List of compatible 3G/3.75G USB modems"). Save the .xlsx file to your computer, open it and see the list of modems.
  • Router Compatibility List Asus with modems - https://www.asus.com/event/networks_3G4G_support/ . Look in the list for the country, modem model and provider. At the very top are the routers for which this list is suitable.
  • List of USB modems that are compatible with all routers Zyxel who work for new version OS firmware NDMS V2 (second generation)- http://zyxel.ua/kb/2222
  • To view a list of compatible 3G modems with routers D-Link, on the official website, find the page of the desired router. Supported modems will be listed there.

I can say for sure that the Asus RT-N18U router works great with the Huawei EC 306 modem from Intertelecom.

At my home, a Huawei EC 306 modem is connected to an Asus RT-N18U. In addition, I recently connected. Everything works stably. It happens, however, that the Internet sometimes disappears, but this is most likely some kind of failure at the base station. However, wireless Internet is not as stable as wired.

This topic is very popular now for setting up a router with a USB modem. People have many different devices that they want to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. And the Internet is only on the computer, through a modem. So you need to somehow get out of this situation. And installing and configuring a router with support for USB modems is the best solution.