Configure APN settings (Connect Router to the Internet with a SIM)
In order for the router to make an internet connection to a mobile network, the correct APN settings for the SIM need to be configured in the router.
If you are using a standard SIM with public APN (i.e. not IOT with fixed IP) the router may auto-detect the APN and make an internet connection.
If you are using a SIM with private APN (such as an IOT, M2M SIM with fixed IP or VPN services), you need to configure these private APN settings manually.
If you don't have the APN settings for your SIM, these can be obtained from the SIM provider, or in the case of a standard SIM with public APN from the network directly.
Before starting, ensure the router is reset to factory defaults and updated to the latest firmware. Then follow these steps:
- Insert the SIM card into the router.
- Attach antennas to all Cell connectors.
- Position the router and antennas in a location with strong signal coverage for the SIM’s network.
- Power on the router and log in to the WebUI.
- Immediately set the WebUI admin password to something long and complex —especially if the SIM provides a public IP address, as this greatly increases exposure to external threats.
Inside the web UI Go to Network > Mobile. In the centre of the screen you will see the below settings:
Configuring Mobile Connection Settings
When starting from factory default settings, most SIM cards only require a few changes to establish a connection. If your SIM provider has given specific instructions, always follow those instead.
Essential Settings
-
Mobile Connection Mode
- Typically set to DHCP by default. Leave as is unless instructed otherwise.
-
APN (Access Point Name)
- Enter the APN provided by your SIM provider.
-
Authentication Method
- Select the method specified by your SIM provider (commonly PAP).
- Once selected, fields for Username and Password will appear. Enter the credentials provided by your SIM provider. Often there are none, therefore leave them blank in that case.
-
MTU
- Normally does not require manual configuration. The router will automatically adjust to match the mobile network.
For most SIM cards, all other default settings should remain unchanged. After making these adjustments:
- Click Save and Apply.
- Wait 60–90 seconds for the internet connection to establish.
- Navigate to Status > Overview and check the SIM status:
- UP = Connected
- DOWN = No internet connection
Other Default Settings
- IP Passthrough – Default: Unticked. Leave unticked unless using IP Passthrough mode.
- PIN Code – Default: Blank. Most SIMs do not require a PIN; only change if specified by your provider.
- Dialing Number – Default:
*99#. Do not change unless instructed. - Dual APN – Default: Unticked. Leave as is unless required by your provider.
- Network Type – Default: Automatic. This selects the fastest available network. To lock to 4G, choose 4G (LTE) only.
- MTU – Automatically adjusted by the router.
- Online Mode – Default: Keep Alive.
- Default Route – Default: Ticked. Leave ticked if mobile is your primary route.
Connection Timing
In most cases, the SIM status will change to UP within 60–90 seconds. However, initial connections—especially for multi-network SIMs—may take up to 15 minutes.
Troubleshooting
If the SIM does not connect:
- SIM not activated – Confirm activation with your provider.
- Poor signal – Relocate the router and antennas to an area with strong coverage for your network.
- Network issues – Check your provider’s status page using your postcode (searchable via Google).