Home » Entertainment » Usb modems 3g wi fi router. Using a WiFi Router with a USB Port - Why is it and What Can You Connect? Video: what is a router

Usb modems 3g wi fi router. Using a WiFi Router with a USB Port - Why is it and What Can You Connect? Video: what is a router

In this article I want to talk about router models ASUS, which support 3G and 4G modems. I recently published an article in which I wrote about routers that support USB modems. But there I looked at the models different manufacturers, but in this article we will talk only about ASUS routers, and in more detail.

In a nutshell, what does support for 3G/4G modems actually mean? This is when we can connect to the router regular USB a modem through which it will connect to the Internet and distribute this Internet to our devices via Wi-Fi networks. This router is suitable for those who connect to the Internet via a 3G USB modem. If you have such Internet, then you probably know that we can connect the modem itself to only one computer. And accordingly, Internet access will be from one device.

But what if we have several computers, and even phones and tablets? In this case, you can buy a special router with modem support, connect the modem to the router, and set up the Internet. And all our devices (laptops, PCs, smartphones, tablets) will already receive Internet from the router via Wi-Fi, or network cable. I myself use such a connection, and by the way, I also have an ASUS router. Model RT-N18U. The only modem I have now is Huawei EC 306-2. I didn’t take a photo of it, I took another one, it was all wrapped up with electrical tape. It looks something like this:

And if for some reason you don’t want to buy a router, and you have a laptop or PC with Wi-Fi module, then you can try to distribute the Internet from your computer. Here are the instructions: how to distribute Wi-Fi from a laptop if the Internet is via a USB modem.

There would be no point in this article if you could just buy any router, connect a USB modem to it, and everything would work. The fact is that not all router models support connecting to the Internet via 3G/4G modems. And even if the router has this capability, it is not a fact that it will work specifically with your modem.

Now we will figure out which model of ASUS router you can buy to work in tandem with a USB modem. I’ll write how to determine whether the router is suitable for your modem (since you most likely already have a modem), and how to set it all up.

Which ASUS router to choose to work with a 3G modem

In this regard, ASUS company I really like it. They have almost all routers (and maybe all) that with USB ports, support 3G/4G modems. I think this is very cool. After all, if there is a USB port, then the problem is most likely only in software. So why not support modems. This is the case with other companies. There are USB connectors, but no support. Only on some models.

Once again I want to highlight two important points that I wrote about above. We will look at them:

Selecting a router model that supports 3G modems.
Compatibility check ASUS router with a modem.

As for support for USB modems, in the characteristics of routers, this point is usually indicated by the item “WAN: 3G/4G”. At the same time, routers support connecting to the Internet via a regular network cable.

Let's list all models of ASUS routers to which you can connect 3G/4G modems (I took the information from the official website): RT-N14U, RT-N10U B, RT-N18U (I have one), RT-N56U, RT-AC68U, RT-AC56U, RT-AC87U, RT-N56U B1, RT-AC51U, RT-AC55U, DSL- AC56U, RT-AC1200G+, RT-AC88U, RT-AC3100.

As you can see, the choice is very large. For any request, and for any wallet. The only thing I would recommend is to take a router that already supports 5G Wi-Fi. I got a little excited when I bought my ASUS RT-N18U. It doesn't support new standard. If interested, you can read a detailed article on choosing routers.

How to determine compatibility of a router with a modem

This is a very important point. Otherwise, the router may simply not see your USB modem after connecting. Or, don't connect to the Internet. Therefore, before purchasing, be sure to make sure that the router supports your modem.

First of all, find out the model of your modem. The model is usually indicated on the modem case. There is a page on the official website that contains all the modems with which ASUS routers are compatible. Here is the link: https://www.asus.com...s_3G4G_support/. Go ahead and look for your modem in the list. You can use page search Ctrl+F.

If you don’t find your model, you can Google something like this: “router model + modem model.” Perhaps you will find something interesting and useful. Next, you can call ASUS support and check with them. Well, if not, then look at routers from other manufacturers.

I can say for sure that the router will work with Huawei modem EC 306-2 and Novatel U720 (Intertelecom). This has been verified. Everything works very stable. True, it all depends on the modem and operator. Because demon wired internet itself is not very stable.

Setting up a connection via a 3G/4G modem on an ASUS router

Everything is very simple there. In addition, the control panel is the same on all models. Therefore, everything can be configured according to the instructions that I wrote using the example of setting up the ASUS RT-N18U router.

As far as I remember, the router started distributing the Internet immediately after connecting the modem to the USB connector. The settings there look like this:

Choose, buy, configure, you will succeed. Even if you live in a village, outside the city, and you only have the opportunity to connect to wireless 3G/4G Internet, then you can easily create a Wi-Fi network in your home and connect all your devices. Moreover, the Internet is fast now, especially 4G. Yes, and 3G is enough even for Smart TV, if good tariff, modem, signal and base station are not loaded. For greater speed, you can install an antenna for the modem, or configure the modem itself for better reception through the AxesstelPst EvDO BSNL program.

You can ask in the comments. Always happy to help. And I will be very grateful if you write about the compatibility of your router and modem. If you have already configured and everything works.

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

5th place in the ranking: ZTE MF65

Inexpensive model of mobile router with 3G support. Autonomous operation is ensured 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 the 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. On forums dedicated to mobile devices, there are 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 body - turn the router on/off and activate WiFi mode Protected Setup. LED operation indicators are located on a glossy black strip at the top of the case. A nice addition to this budget model is a card slot. microSD memory, supporting drives up to 32 GB. When you install a memory card on the router, the file server is turned on, opening general access to files on microSD via WiFi.

4th place: Xiaomi ZMI 4G

An unusual device that combines the functions of a 3G/4G router and a 7800 mAh universal mobile battery (power bank). Despite the absence 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;
Port Micro USB 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 the disadvantage of the absence of the Russian language in the web interface. To configure and monitor the status, you can use mobile application for Android or iOS. It is available in English, Chinese and Japanese; there is also no translation into Russian.

Pay attention! When ordering Xiaomi ZMI 4G in Chinese online stores be sure to take into account the hardware version of the router. The MF815 is designed for the Chinese market and 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 for a 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 via the built-in control panel. Easy to use, has a convenient configuration interface.

Disadvantages include the absence of a power supply included in the package and a WPS button on the router body. The router is equipped with a slot for microSD cards, the full use of which is difficult due to the lack of file server. Information from a memory card can only be read when the M5250 is connected via a cable. General network access access to microSD data is not possible. It is also impossible to operate this TP-Link model in USB modem mode. Even if the router is connected to the computer via USB, access to the Internet is only via WiFi.

2nd place: Huawei E5330

A reliable 3G router with the ability to send text messages and supports modem operation. It features quick start-up - the device is fully ready for use within 5 seconds after pressing the power button. Allows you to simultaneously connect up to 10 devices to WiFi at a frequency of 2.4 GHz.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not provide the ability to send USSD requests through the router’s web interface. Of course, most mobile operators allow you to track the balance or remaining packet traffic via personal account on the website. But if your operator does not provide this option, to clarify the necessary data you will have to send an SMS or remove the SIM card from the router and then install it in your mobile phone.

Important tip! The E5330 can also operate 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 a built-in display and two slots for connecting external antennas. They are connected via TS9 connectors, hidden under plugs on the bottom panel. The most expensive model among routers in this rating, the price of which fully corresponds to the high technical specifications and a large number of supported functions.

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 ability to create 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:

Network signal strength mobile operator;
Type of network used (2G, 3G or 4G);
Current data transfer activity (downloading or uploading);
Operator name;
Notification of unread SMS;
USB connection status;
Battery charge 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 accommodate the AC785. They are not included in the package, but can be purchased separately. Docking stations are equipped amplified antennas and Ethernet ports for connecting to wired home network devices.

Let's sum it up

The WiNetwork editors choose the NETGEAR AC785 as the best among the presented devices. 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 don’t need a dual-band router, pay attention to the Huawei E5330, which ranks second in this rating.

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 they call 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 interesting places, publishing 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 operator networks mobile communications for transmitting and receiving 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 technologies wireless communication, which 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. It will also be a plus low cost modems that only work with 3G.

4G networks are capable of transmitting data at much higher speeds – up to 1 Gbit/s. True, it depends on the type of device: for example, not on all mobile devices It will be possible to achieve speeds 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 by Russian telecom operators. In the absence of the latest and fastest networks, devices usually switch to networks previous generation. 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, we should not forget about these important factors battery consumption, how to work 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 decide to set up a stationary Internet point, for example, in the country.

Additional features

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.

Connector for MicroSD card 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 the computer and be able to immediately launch everything necessary programs on another device by simply inserting the modem).

SMS service support allows you to use special program installed on your computer, receive and send SMS messages. 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 an 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.

Selection criteria

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.

To 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 wear Wi-Fi point with you, pay attention to small-sized 4G mobile routers.

Router or router– a specialized device for connecting a local (user) network and a global (Internet) – manufactured with a different set of functions.

Therefore, router manufacturers provide more and more new products every day.

How to choose a router for a 4g modem

The essence of each router is to redirect information from global network to local, i.e. establishing “routes” for information. Inside each is a list of “routes” from one network to another or from one router to another. The purpose of this list is to create a network with optimal and short paths from one part to another.

Of course, the Internet can be connected to a personal computer (PC) using an ordinary provider cable, if an ADSL line is not used, a router is not needed for this. But its task is to provide more devices with the Internet.

When choosing a router, remember that there are different types, functions and configurations.

Main criteria to pay attention to:

Connection via provider cable or via 3G\4G modem

Router options are available that provide two types of ports, and it is recommended to give preference to them. If you choose a model that only has one, decide which port you need.

Of course, the option with a modem is more compact and convenient. After all, unlike a USB connection, you don’t have to run a cable, you just need to purchase a modem and connect the modem to the router. It is advisable to use 4G, because the Internet speed is much higher compared to 3G.

Connection via network cable or Wi-Fi network

Models are produced that include modules for distributing a signal via Wi-Fi; they are more convenient and more in demand. But some people still have computers that don't connect to Wi-Fi.

There are 2 solutions to this problem: purchase a kit that contains network cables for connecting to a PC, or buy an additional Wi-Fi receiver for the PC.

Models with antennas designed for Wi-Fi signal, operate in two channels at once (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) or only in one. Before you choose wireless router, be sure to find out what frequencies it recognizes personal computer or laptop.

Important! How more quantity antennas, the more stable the data reception/transmission.

Types of routers for 4g modem

Routers vary in operating time

If you need a portable and compact router, then give preference to those with a battery capacity greater than 1500 mAh (1500 mAh – 2-3 hours of operation). Or buy more external battery larger capacity. If you need a stationary device that is constantly connected to the mains, then the battery capacity is absolutely not important.

ISP modem compatibility

If you choose a device with a modem connector, you need to remember that not all routers are compatible with modems. Each manufacturer has a list of modems on its official website that are compatible with its products.

Before purchasing, be sure to check out such a site so that you don’t have any problems with installation and configuration in the future, especially if you do it yourself.

Depending on the model chosen, the kit includes:

the device itself;
charger;
necessary set of network cables;
set of antennas for Wi-Fi.

In addition, some models have a number of additional functions: built-in Firewall ( firewall– network defender), the ability to install additional printers and other devices, a USB port for connecting storage media, which turns the router into a data server.

The following models are available:

Home/consumer routers;
Car routers - powered by a modem, compact, available with powerful batteries or work from the cigarette lighter;
Internal routers – installed inside the computer;

The best and most practical router option for home use is a router with a port for a 4G modem and a Wi-Fi distribution function, since this model is mobile and universal in use.

How to use a router for a 4g modem

If you have already purchased the device, then you have two options for installing it: connect it yourself or call specialists. In general, this procedure is not labor intensive.

The most important thing is to follow the instructions:

Check the router's compatibility with the devices it will work with.
Turn on the router and connect the Internet to it. To do this, connect to your router USB cable or the provider's modem via the WAN (Internet) port.
Connect the router to the PC you are using using the router's Ethernet (LAN) port and a network cable.
Turn on the PC and open the router settings by opening a browser and entering its full IP address, which is in the instructions or description of the model.
Open the Network Settings menu and save the default settings.
Open the menu " Wireless network» and set the name of your wireless access point and create a password for it. Check the "Radio Signal Type" and "Security Type" parameters, setting the values that your PC can handle.
After saving the settings, reboot the router.
Connect your PC to Wi-Fi.

In order for the router to work for a long time and without problems, it is necessary to follow safety precautions and connect it correctly, because correct installation– the key to further uninterrupted operation.

Installation Precautions:

Check the integrity of the device; if it does not correspond to the description or the integrity of some sections is damaged, then to avoid problems, do not connect it and contact the technical support center.
The installation location must meet the following requirements: temperature from -10 to +40 °C, the router must not be exposed to direct sunlight, the room must be ventilated, the router must be isolated from other electromagnetic devices and placed on a hard and clean surface;
Leave 10 centimeters of space on each side of the router to dissipate heat, and leave 20 centimeters around the antennas.
The device must be in a stable position, out of reach of children and animals.

Do not allow moisture to get on the router and other parts of its equipment (charger, cables, antennas).
Do not damage the integrity of the device and its parts.
If it breaks down, do not disassemble the device yourself, but contact the technical support center.
Make sure the port lights are on.
If the router is not in use at this moment, turn it off.
Do not use the router in medical institutions, on airplanes, or in potentially explosive areas.
Wipe the device after turning it off beforehand. Use a soft cloth to avoid damaging the device.
Turn off the router before removing the modem or USB cable to avoid electrostatic discharge.
In case of power surges or during a thunderstorm, it is advisable to turn off the router so as not to damage it.

Malfunctions

All router malfunctions are divided into two types: related to system support router or PC, and related to the technical integrity of the devices.

The router does not turn on when connected to the mains.

Everything is connected, but nothing works and not a single light comes on. There may be several reasons, and each has its own method of repair.

Many reasons cause this problem: defects, voltage surges, non-compliance with safety precautions, so be prudent.

First check if the device is turned on, as sometimes it can turn off randomly. If it is turned on, then the problem is either in the router’s firmware or in the battery.

To check what the reason is, check the performance of the battery with a special tester or connect a working battery to the router. If the device works, then you need a new battery. If not, then the problem may be in the firmware.

If all else fails, the device needs to be repaired under warranty or replaced.

Devices won't connect to Wi-Fi

The reason sometimes happens both in the router and in the connected devices. To check this, connect a new working device to the router. If there is no access to the Internet, then the problem is in the router.

Follow all steps in this sequence, moving on to the next one if the problem is not resolved:

reboot the router and check if the buttons are enabled;
check the connections of each cable, because they may have moved away from the port;
check their integrity, both indoors and outdoors;
contact your provider and find out if there are any problems on their part;
recheck the settings and restore them if necessary;
try changing the Wi-Fi frequency, because in the presence of a large number of signals on one channel, sometimes failures occur.

If all else fails, contact technical support or replace the router.

If you open several sites at once, the Internet turns off

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 about 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 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 landline phone. The only thing left is wireless Internet via a 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 best 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 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 the purchase, and Wi-Fi setup 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. If the router has USB support modems, this does not mean that it will work with your modem. You need to carefully check the specific router model for compatibility with specific model modem
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 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 WAN port RJ-45 for connecting a cable from a 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 affordable routers, I’ll share my experience, talk about the pros and cons 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 manufacturer network devices, there are at least 1-2 models that work with 3G modems.

On at the moment, 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 rightly so!). 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's 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 good base compatible modems. Among the new ones, with support for 5GHz Wi-Fi, 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: . True, there are no instructions for new models yet, with new panel management.

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 best way choose for yourself optimal model, with minimal risks to receive 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 your 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 useful information. You can also ask questions. Best wishes!

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