H685f-W 5G Router Quick Start Guide

This guide covers the hardware setup and first-time configuration of the Proroute H685f-W 5G router. Follow the steps in order — from inserting the SIM to verifying an internet connection.

What's in the box

• 1× Proroute H685f-W 5G Router
• 1× Mains power adapter
• 4× 5G cellular stick antennas
• 2× Wi-Fi stick antennas
• 1× Ethernet patch lead

Default credentials

All routers ship with unique credentials printed on the underside label. Locate the label before proceeding.

Step 1: Insert the SIM

1. Remove the rear SIM cover (two screws)
2. Slide and lift the SIM holder
3. Place the SIM in the tray — ensure any PIN lock is removed or the PIN is known before inserting
4. Press the SIM holder down and slide to lock
5. Refit the cover

Step 2: Attach antennas

1. Connect all four 5G cellular antennas to the CELL labelled ports — 5G performance depends on all four antenna connections being made
2. Connect the two Wi-Fi antennas to the WIFI labelled ports (if Wi-Fi will be used)

5G antenna placement: 5G uses higher frequencies than 4G and does not penetrate walls or obstructions as effectively. For maximum throughput, antennas need the clearest possible line of sight to the local cell tower. If using stick antennas, positioning the router near a window — or as close to an exterior wall as possible — will significantly improve performance. If stick antennas do not provide adequate signal, an external antenna installation may be required.

Step 3: Power on

1. Connect the mains power adapter and switch on
2. Wait 60–90 seconds for the router to fully boot — the SYS LED will begin flashing green and the CELL LED will illuminate orange

Step 4: Access the web interface

1. Connect a PC to a LAN port on the router using the supplied Ethernet cable
2. Ensure the PC is configured to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP)
3. Open a browser and navigate to https://192.168.8.1
4. Log in with username admin and the password from the underside label
5. Set a new secure password when prompted on first login

If the login page does not load, see How to Access the Router's Web Interface for full troubleshooting steps.

Step 5: Update firmware

Update to the latest firmware before configuring the router.

1. Download the latest firmware for the H685f-W from the Proroute support page
2. In the WebUI, navigate to System > Firmware Upgrade
3. Upload the firmware file and apply the update
4. Do not power off the router during the upgrade — wait for it to reboot automatically

For the full firmware upgrade procedure, see Firmware Upgrade Process.

Step 6: Review security settings

Before deploying, review and apply the recommended security configuration.

See Important Device Security Guidelines & Settings.

Step 7: Configure APN and mobile connection

The router requires the correct APN to establish a mobile data connection. Many SIMs auto-configure — if the router shows a connected status with an assigned IP after inserting the SIM, no further APN configuration is needed.

1. In the WebUI, navigate to Network > Mobile
2. Enter the APN provided by your SIM or network operator
3. Add username, password, and authentication type (PAP/CHAP) if required
4. Click Save and Apply
5. Check Status > Overview — the mobile interface should show Connected with a signal strength reading and an assigned IP address

5G coverage is less widespread than 4G. If the router registers on 4G rather than 5G, this is normal in areas where 5G is not yet available. The router will use the best available network automatically.

For detailed APN configuration, see Configure APN Settings.

Step 8: Wi-Fi setup (optional)

If Wi-Fi is not required, disable it at Network > Wi-Fi.

1. Navigate to Network > Wi-Fi and click Edit on the wireless interface
2. Set the SSID to a name appropriate for your deployment
3. Confirm WPA2-PSK is selected under Wireless Security
4. Set a strong, unique passphrase
5. Click Save and Apply

Troubleshooting