User Manual

Nighthawk M3
Model MH3150

NETGEAR, Inc.
November 2024 350 E. Plumeria Drive
202-12746-01 San Jose, CA 95134, USA
 Nighthawk M3

Support and Community

Visit netgear.com/support to get your questions answered and access the latest
downloads.
You can also check out our NETGEAR Community for helpful advice at
community.netgear.com.
Regulatory and Legal
Si ce produit est vendu au Canada, vous pouvez accéder à ce document en français
canadien à https://www.netgear.com/support/download/.
(If this product is sold in Canada, you can access this document in Canadian French at
https://www.netgear.com/support/download/.)
For regulatory compliance information including the EU Declaration of Conformity, visit
https://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory/.
See the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.
For NETGEAR’s Privacy Policy, visit https://www.netgear.com/about/privacy-policy.
By using this device, you are agreeing to NETGEAR’s Terms and Conditions at
https://www.netgear.com/about/terms-and-conditions. If you do not agree, return the
device to your place of purchase within your return period.
Applicable to 6 GHz devices only: Only use the device indoors when the 6 GHz band
is enabled. The operation of 6 GHz devices is prohibited on oil platforms, cars, trains,
boats, and aircraft, except that operation of this device is permitted in large aircraft
while flying above 10,000 feet. Operation of transmitters in the 5.925-7.125 GHz band
is prohibited for control of or communications with unmanned aircraft systems.
Trademarks
Trademarks© NETGEAR, Inc., NETGEAR, and the NETGEAR Logo are trademarks of
NETGEAR, Inc. Any non-NETGEAR trademarks are used for reference purposes only.
Compliance
When using external antennas, their net gain (antenna + cable loss) must be less than
what is specified in "LTE and 5GNR transmission specifications" in Appendix A,
"Specifications" as required by the FCC.
ISED regulation requires that the device shall not be used for control of or
communications with unmanned aircraft systems. Operation shall be limited to indoor
use only. Operation on oil platforms, automobiles, trains, maritime vessels and aircraft
shall be prohibited except for on large aircraft flying above 3,048 m (10,000 ft).

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Restrictions applicable in AT/BE/BG/CZ/DK/EE/FR/DE/IS/IE/IT/EL/ES/CY/

LV/LI/LT/LU/HU/MT/NL/NO/PL/PT/RO/SI/SK/TR/FI/SE/CH/UK(NI)/HR:
Operation in 5150-5350MHz is restricted to indoor use only.
This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm
between the radiator and your body.
SAR is measured with the device at 5 mm from the body, while transmitting at the highest
certified output power level in all frequency bands of the device. The maximum SAR
value is 1.649 W/kg (body) averaged over 10 gram of tissue.
Revision History

Publication Part Publish Date Comments

Number

202-12746-01 November 2024 First publication.

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Contents
Chapter 1 Overview and Setup
Nighthawk M3 hardware overview................................................... 9
Install or replace a SIM card............................................................. 10
Set up for travel or fixed use............................................................ 11
Travel setup................................................................................... 11
Charge the battery................................................................... 11
Charging best practices.......................................................... 12
Fixed setup.................................................................................... 13
Set up Plugged-In Mode for fixed usage.............................. 13
Power on your hotspot and finish setup........................................ 15
View the home screen...................................................................... 15
Navigate the hotspot screens.......................................................... 16
Restart or power off your mobile hotspot...................................... 17
Chapter 2 Connect devices to the Internet
Connect to WiFi using the SSID and password............................. 20
Connect to WiFi using the QR code............................................... 21
Connect a computer to the Internet using tethering................... 22
Chapter 3 View alerts and device information
View alerts from your mobile hotspot............................................ 24
Update software and firmware from an Update Available alert.. 24
View details about your mobile hotspot........................................ 25
Manually check for software and firmware updates..................... 26
View details about your SIM............................................................ 26
Chapter 4 Access the web user interface
Log in to the web user interface from a browser.......................... 30
Log in to the web user interface using the QR code.................... 30
View SMS messages from the web user interface........................ 31
Delete an SMS message from the web user interface................. 31
View details about your mobile hotspot from the web user
interface.............................................................................................. 32
Connect through local WiFi to conserve data............................... 32
Enable WiFi offloading from the web user interface............... 33
Change WiFi band settings from the web user interface............ 33
Change WiFi network name, password, encryption, or channel
settings from the web user interface.............................................. 34

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Change WiFi standby, range, bandwidth, and info display settings

from the web user interface............................................................. 35
Enable or disable Guest WiFi from the web user interface......... 36
Change Guest WiFi settings from the web user interface...... 37
Change power mode from the web user interface...................... 37
Enable or disable Airplane Mode from the web user interface... 38
Configure access controls from the web user interface.............. 39
Configure website filters from the web user interface................. 39
Configure a WiFi schedule from the web user interface............. 40
Enable SIM security from the web user interface.......................... 41
Change the web user interface login password........................... 41
Back up mobile hotspot settings from the web user interface.... 42
Restore backed up settings from the web user interface............ 42
Factory reset your mobile hotspot from the web user interface. 43
Enable or disable IP passthrough from the web user interface... 43
Disable or re-enable the DHCP server feature from the web user
interface.............................................................................................. 44
Change tethering settings from the web user interface.............. 45
View data usage from the web user interface............................... 45
Configure cellular settings from the web user interface.............. 46
Configure access point names (APNs) from the web user
interface.............................................................................................. 46
Add an APN for another network............................................... 46
Select an APN to use.................................................................... 47
Remove an APN entry.................................................................. 48
Configure port forwarding from the web user interface............. 48
Configure port filtering from the web user interface................... 49
Change display settings from the web user interface.................. 49
Change the date and time format from the web user interface.. 50
Enable or disable GPS services from the web user interface...... 51
Disable or re-enable device analytics from the web user
interface.............................................................................................. 51
Disable or re-enable VPN passthrough from the web user
interface.............................................................................................. 52
Disable or re-enable UPnP from the web user interface.............. 52
Configure a DMZ server from the web user interface.................. 53
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting
View alerts.......................................................................................... 55
SIM Error — Check SIM or SIM Not Installed.............................. 55
SIM Locked.................................................................................... 55
Temperature-related alerts......................................................... 55
Extend battery life............................................................................. 57
Third-party power adapters and USB cables................................ 57

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Improve reception with an external antenna................................. 58

Factory reset your mobile hotspot.................................................. 60
Appendix A Specifications
LTE and 5GNR transmission specifications.................................... 62
Nighthawk M3 family mobile band specifications........................ 64
WiFi specifications............................................................................ 65

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1
Overview and Setup

This user manual is for the NETGEAR Nighthawk M3 5G WiFi 6 Mobile WiFi Hotspot.

Figure 1. Nighthawk M3 mobile WiFi hotspot

This manual describes how to manage your mobile WiFi hotspot from the device user
interface and web user interface.
NOTE: This manual might refer to the M3 5G WiFi 6 Mobile WiFi Hotspot as the
mobile hotspot.
The Nighthawk M3 supports AX3600 WiFi 6 with dual-band concurrent radio operation:
• 2.4 GHz radio: 40 MHz channel width, speeds up to 688 Mbps
• 5 GHz radio: 80 MHz channel width, speeds up to 2882 Mbps
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Nighthawk M3 hardware overview
• Install or replace a SIM card

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• Set up for travel or fixed use
• Power on your hotspot and finish setup
• View the home screen
• Navigate the hotspot screens
• Restart or power off your mobile hotspot

For more information about the topics covered in this manual, visit the support website
at netgear.com/support.

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Nighthawk M3 hardware overview

The Nighthawk M3 package includes your mobile hotspot, a battery, and a USB-A to
USB-C charging cable.

Figure 2. Nighthawk M3 package contents

The Nighthawk M3 has an LCD screen and a Power/Navigation button.

LCD screen

Power/navigation button
Figure 3. Nighthawk M3 device

The Nighthawk M3 connectors are located on the rear panel. The connectors include
a USB Type-C connector and two TS-9 external antenna ports.

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TS-9 USB-C TS-9

antenna port port antenna port
Figure 4. Nighthawk M3 connectors

Install or replace a SIM card

To use your mobile hotspot, you need to install a valid, activated nano SIM card with a
data plan from your mobile provider. If you change your mobile data provider or plan,
you might need to replace the SIM card that you previously installed.
Battery cover

Battery

Nano SIM card

Figure 5. Nighthawk M3 SIM card installation

To replace a SIM card:

1. Remove the mobile hotspot back cover by lifting the corners.
2. Remove the battery.
3. If a SIM card is already installed, slide the SIM card out of its slot.

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4. Insert the replacement SIM card in the slot.

5. Reinstall the battery.
6. Reinstall the back cover.

Set up for travel or fixed use

You can set up your mobile hotspot for travel usage using battery power, or you can
set it up for fixed usage inside a home or office using wall power for extra performance.

Travel setup
To set up your mobile hotspot for travel usage, install and fully charge the battery before
turning the device on.

Charge the battery

Your mobile hotspot battery comes partially charged. We recommend that you fully
charge the battery before using your mobile hotspot away from home.
NOTE: For the fastest possible charging, use the USB cable included with your
mobile hotspot and a high quality Quick Charge 2.0-certified or Quick Charge
3.0-certified USB power adapter. Low quality third-party USB power adapters
and computer USB ports typically do not provide sufficient current and will not
charge your battery as quickly. Third-party cables can also limit battery charging
speed.

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Figure 6. Nighthawk M3 battery charging

To charge your battery:

1. Connect the USB charging cable to your mobile hotspot.
2. Connect the other end of the charging cable to a USB power source.

Charging best practices

Charging your mobile hotspot properly is important to ensure its longevity and maintain
its performance. Follow these best practices when charging your mobile hotspot:
• Use a high quality USB cable and power adapter: Typical third-party USB power
adapters and computer USB ports do not provide the same amount of current as
official NETGEAR power adapters and will not charge your battery as quickly.
Third-party cables can also limit battery charging speed. However, high quality
third-party USB power adapters and cables that meet certain standards should
provide similar performance to the official NETGEAR parts. For more information,
see Third-party power adapters and USB cables on page 57.
• Check the charging status: When you plug in the charging cable, check the device's
charging status. The charging indicator in the status bar shows a lightning bolt over
the battery icon if the device is charging. If the charging indicator does not appear,
try unplugging the cable and plugging it back in.
• Charge the device fully: We recommend that you charge the mobile hotspot fully
before using it for the first time, and that you let the device recharge fully before

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using it again when you discharge the battery. This helps to maintain the battery's
lifespan and overall performance.
• Avoid overcharging: Overcharging the device can damage the battery and shorten
its lifespan. When the device is fully charged, unplug it from the power source. Don't
leave it plugged in overnight or for long periods of time. Remove the battery and
use Plugged-In Mode if you are using the device in a fixed location.
• Charge in a well-ventilated area: Charging your mobile hotspot in a well-ventilated
area can prevent overheating and ensures that the device charges efficiently. Avoid
charging the device in an enclosed space or in direct sunlight.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your mobile hotspot stays charged
and performs well for years to come.

Fixed setup
Depending on your needs, you might want to use your mobile hotspot in a fixed location
as a replacement for a conventional modem or a modem router/gateway.
NOTE: Attempting to use Plugged-In Mode with low quality third-party USB
power adapters or cables might cause your hotspot to malfunction. For more
information, see Third-party power adapters and USB cables on page 57.

Set up Plugged-In Mode for fixed usage

Removing your Nighthawk M3's battery and plugging it into wall power enables
Plugged-In Mode, which boosts performance and improves WiFi coverage.
NOTE: Low quality third-party USB power adapters and computer USB ports
typically do not provide sufficient current for Plugged-In Mode. Use the USB
cable included with your mobile hotspot and a high quality Quick Charge
2.0-certified or Quick Charge 3.0-certified USB power adapter for reliable
operation in Plugged-In Mode.

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Figure 7. Nighthawk M3 fixed setup

To enable Plugged-In Mode for fixed usage:

1. Remove the mobile hotspot back cover by lifting the corners.
2. Remove the battery.
NOTE: When using Plugged-In Mode, we recommend that you do not
reinstall the back cover after removing the battery for better device cooling
performance.
3. Connect the USB charging cable to your mobile hotspot.
4. Connect the other end of the charging cable to a Quick Charge 2.0-certified or Quick
Charge 3.0-certified USB power adapter.
5. Plug the USB power adapter into a wall outlet.

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Power on your hotspot and finish

setup
After configuring your mobile hotspot for travel or fixed usage, power on the device to
complete the setup process.
NOTE: When idle, the touch screen goes dark to save power. Quickly press and
release the Power/Navigation button to wake the screen.
To power on your hotspot and finish setup:
1. Press and hold the Power/Navigation button for two seconds.
The NETGEAR logo displays and your mobile hotspot starts up.
The welcome screen displays.
2. Follow the onscreen instructions to set up your WiFi network and connect your first
device.
Your mobile hotspot is set up.

View the home screen

From your mobile hotspot's home screen, you can view information about your device
and connection status.
Signal Mobile Battery
strength network charge

Total devices
connected

WiFi band
status

Internet
status

Figure 8. Home screen

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Table 1. Icons

Icons Description

Indicates the strength of the mobile broadband

network signal.

Indicates that you are connected to the 5G network.

Indicates the amount of charge in the battery.

Navigate the hotspot screens

You can navigate through your mobile hotspot's screens using the Power/Navigation
button on the device. To navigate to the next screen on the device, press the button
one time.

Press to navigate

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The icons at the bottom of the screen indicate which screen in the sequence you are
currently viewing. After you have cycled through every screen, pressing the button again
returns you to the first screen.

Press button

To perform an action when the device prompts you, press and hold the button.

Hold to
perform

NOTE: If no prompt is displayed, pressing and holding the button opens the
Power Options menu, where you can shut off or restart the device.

Restart or power off your mobile

hotspot
When you are done using your mobile hotspot, power it off to preserve battery life. You
can also restart your mobile hotspot.
To power off or restart your mobile hotspot:
1. Hold down the Power/Navigation button for 5 seconds.

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The Restart/Power Off/Sleep menu appears.

2. Press the Power/Navigation button to select an option, then press and hold to
confirm.
Depending on your selection, your mobile hotspot restarts, powers off, or goes to
sleep.

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Connect devices to the Internet

When you turn on your mobile hotspot, it automatically connects to the mobile
broadband network in your area. To access the Internet on other devices, connect them
to your mobile hotspot's WiFi or wired network.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Connect to WiFi using the SSID and password
• Connect to WiFi using the QR code
• Connect a computer to the Internet using tethering

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Connect to WiFi using the SSID and

password
When your mobile hotspot is powered on, it broadcasts a WiFi network name (SSID)
and password. You can connect to the Internet by selecting your hotspot's SSID and
entering the password on your WiFi devices.
NOTE: You can choose to connect to your hotspot using the 2.4 GHz band
(slower speeds, longer range) or the 5 GHz band (faster speeds, shorter range)
by cycling to the appropriate screen on your hotspot.

WiFi network
name

Password

To connect to WiFi using the SSID and password:

1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
2. Press the Power/Navigation button one time to cycle to the 2.4 GHz WiFi screen,
or press the button two times to cycle to the 5 GHz WiFi screen.
The 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi screen displays your mobile hotspot SSID in the Wi-Fi
Name field and your hotspot password in the Password field for other devices to
connect with.
3. From your WiFi device, open your WiFi network connection manager.
4. Select or enter the SSID shown on your mobile hotspot's home screen.
5. Enter the password shown on your mobile hotspot's home screen.
Your WiFi device connects to your mobile hotspot's WiFi network.

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Connect to WiFi using the QR code

Your mobile hotspot's WiFi QR code enables mobile devices like smartphones and
tablets to connect to WiFi without manually entering an SSID and password.
NOTE: You can choose to connect to your hotspot using the 2.4 GHz band
(slower speeds, longer range) or the 5 GHz band (faster speeds, shorter range)
by cycling to the appropriate screen on your hotspot.

WiFi QR
code

To connect to WiFi using the QR code:

1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
2. Press the Power/Navigation button one time to cycle to the 2.4 GHz WiFi screen,
or press the button two times to cycle to the 5 GHz WiFi screen.
The 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi screen displays, with a QR code that you can scan to
connect directly to the network.
3. Open your mobile device's camera application and aim the camera at the QR code.
Depending on your mobile device, you might need to tap the QR code in your
camera app to proceed.
Your mobile device connects to your mobile hotspot's WiFi network.

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Connect a computer to the Internet

using tethering
You can connect a computer to your mobile hotspot using the included USB cable
instead of connecting with WiFi. This kind of cable connection is called tethering.
NOTE: There might be a brief delay when your computer's operating system
detects the mobile hotspot the first time you use the USB cable to connect your
mobile hotspot to your computer.

To connect a computer to the Internet using tethering:

1. If your mobile hotspot is powered on, press and hold the Power button for two
seconds, then select Shut down to power it off.
2. Connect your mobile hotspot to your computer using the included USB cable.
The mobile hotspot powers on and your computer detects the mobile hotspot.
Your computer connects to the Internet.

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View alerts and device information

This chapter contains the following sections:

• View alerts from your mobile hotspot
• Update software and firmware from an Update Available alert
• View details about your mobile hotspot
• Manually check for software and firmware updates
• View details about your SIM

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View alerts from your mobile

hotspot
Your mobile hotspot displays alerts on the LCD screen to inform you of device status
changes. Alerts display as long as the cause of the alert is present. When the cause of
an alert is resolved, the corresponding alert is removed automatically.
To view alerts from your mobile hotspot:
Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
If any alerts are active, your mobile hotspot displays them.
For example, if no SIM card is installed, the following alert appears:

Update software and firmware from

an Update Available alert
Your mobile hotspot automatically checks for new software and firmware updates. If an
update becomes available, your hotspot displays an alert. Because software and firmware
updates typically improve device performance and usability, we recommend that you
update your hotspot whenever possible.
NOTE: Updating your mobile hotspot temporarily interrupts your network
connection. Make sure that you are prepared to lose connectivity before starting
the update process.

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To update software or firmware from an Update Available alert:

1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays a Software Update Available alert, and your hotspot
downloads the update.
2. Do one of the following:
• Press and hold the Power/Navigation button to install the update immediately.
• Press the Power/Navigation button to install the update later and return to the
home screen.
NOTE: Your hotspot battery must have a charge of at least 20% to install
updates.

View details about your mobile

hotspot
You can view details about your device, such as the model number, software version,
and serial number.
To view details about your mobile hotspot:
1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
2. Press the Power/Navigation button four times.
The Hotspot Information screen displays the following information:
• Model Number
• Software Version
• Serial Number

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Manually check for software and

firmware updates
Your mobile hotspot will notify you when it detects the availability of new software or
firmware. However, you can also check for updates manually. Because software and
firmware updates typically improve device performance and usability, we recommend
that you update your hotspot whenever possible.
NOTE: Updating your mobile hotspot temporarily interrupts your network
connection. Make sure that you are prepared to lose connectivity before starting
the update process.
To manually check for software and firmware updates:
1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
2. Press the Power/Navigation button four times.
The Hotspot Information screen displays a prompt to check for updates.
3. Press and hold the Power/Navigation button to check for updates.
The screen refreshes and your hotspot checks for updates.
If no update is available, press the Power/Navigation button to return to the Hotspot
Information screen.
If an update is available, your hotspot downloads the update, and you receive
additional options:
• Press and hold the Power/Navigation button to install the update immediately
• Press the Power/Navigation button to install the update later and return to the
Hotspot Information screen
NOTE: Your hotspot battery must have a charge of at least 20% to install
updates.

View details about your SIM

You can view details about your SIM, such as the SIM type, ICCID, and IMEI number.

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To view details about your SIM:

1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
2. Press the Power/Navigation button five times.
The SIM Information screen displays the following information:
• SIM Type
• ICCID
• IMEI

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Access the web user interface

Your mobile hotspot is equipped with a web user interface that you can use to change
settings and access advanced features.
This chapter contains the following sections:
• Log in to the web user interface from a browser
• Log in to the web user interface using the QR code
• View SMS messages from the web user interface
• Delete an SMS message from the web user interface
• View details about your mobile hotspot from the web user interface
• Connect through local WiFi to conserve data
• Change WiFi band settings from the web user interface
• Change WiFi network name, password, encryption, or channel settings from the web
user interface
• Change WiFi standby, range, bandwidth, and info display settings from the web
user interface
• Enable or disable Guest WiFi from the web user interface
• Change power mode from the web user interface
• Enable or disable Airplane Mode from the web user interface
• Configure access controls from the web user interface
• Configure website filters from the web user interface
• Configure a WiFi schedule from the web user interface
• Enable SIM security from the web user interface
• Change the web user interface login password
• Back up mobile hotspot settings from the web user interface

28
• Restore backed up settings from the web user interface
• Factory reset your mobile hotspot from the web user interface
• Enable or disable IP passthrough from the web user interface
• Disable or re-enable the DHCP server feature from the web user interface
• Change tethering settings from the web user interface
• View data usage from the web user interface
• Configure cellular settings from the web user interface
• Configure access point names (APNs) from the web user interface
• Configure port forwarding from the web user interface
• Configure port filtering from the web user interface
• Change display settings from the web user interface
• Change the date and time format from the web user interface
• Enable or disable GPS services from the web user interface
• Disable or re-enable device analytics from the web user interface
• Disable or re-enable VPN passthrough from the web user interface
• Disable or re-enable UPnP from the web user interface
• Configure a DMZ server from the web user interface

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Log in to the web user interface

from a browser
You can access the mobile hotspot web user interface by visiting the hotspot's IP address
in a web browser on a computer, laptop, or other WiFi device.
To log in to the web user interface:
1. From a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the mobile hotspot, launch a
web browser.
2. Enter your device's IP address.
By default, the IP address is http://192.168.1.1. If you've configured a different IP
address, are using WiFi offloading, or are using other advanced features, your IP
address might be different.
The mobile hotspot web page displays.
3. Log in using your admin password.
The default admin login password is printed on the product label in the battery
compartment. The password is case sensitive.
The web user interface dashboard displays. The dashboard displays any active alerts.

Log in to the web user interface

using the QR code
You can quickly connect to the mobile hotspot web user interface by scanning the QR
code on a mobile device like a smartphone or tablet.
To log in to the web user interface using the QR code:
1. Quickly press and release the Power/Navigation button to wake your mobile
hotspot.
The home screen displays.
2. Press the Power/Navigation button three times.
The Web User Interface screen displays, with a QR code that you can scan to connect
to the web user interface.
3. Open your mobile device's camera application and aim the camera at the QR code.

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Depending on your mobile device, you might need to tap the QR code in your
camera app to proceed.
The mobile hotspot web page displays.
4. Log in using your admin password.
The default admin login password is printed on the product label in the battery
compartment. The password is case sensitive.
The web user interface dashboard displays. The dashboard displays any active alerts.

View SMS messages from the web

user interface
Your mobile hotspot can receive text (SMS) messages. You can view them from the web
user interface.
To view SMS messages from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Messages.
A list of messages displays, showing the first portion of the text.
2. Click or tap a message to read the full text.

Delete an SMS message from the

web user interface
You can delete SMS messages from the web user interface when you are done reading
them.
To delete an SMS message from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Messages.
A list of messages displays, showing the first portion of the text.
2. Select a message and click or tap Delete.
The message is deleted.

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View details about your mobile

hotspot from the web user interface
You can view details about your mobile hotspot from the web user interface.
To view details about your mobile hotspot from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > WiFi Status.
The Status menu expands.
2. Select one of the following pages to view additional information:
• Account: Displays cellular account info, such as your service number, IMEI, and
MAC address.
• Network: Displays network connection info, such as your time connected, data
transfer totals, and IP addresses.
• Device: Displays mobile hotspot info, such as the hardware and software versions.
• WiFi Details: Displays WiFi network info, such as your encryption type, connected
devices, and broadcast mode.
• Diagnostics: Displays diagnostic info, such as cellular band technical info, device
temperature, and battery voltage.

Connect through local WiFi to

conserve data
Your mobile hotspot supports WiFi offloading, which can lower your device's cellular
data usage and power consumption, along with other benefits:
• WiFi offloading lets your mobile hotspot use a local WiFi Internet connection for
data instead of your cellular network. WiFi offloading can extend your battery life,
prevent connection interruptions when switching between networks, and enable
consistent Internet access in areas where cellular coverage is weak or unavailable.
You might want to use WiFi offloading in locations where a public Internet connection
is available, but you get poor cellular reception on your hotspot or want to conserve
cellular data usage.
For example, if you need to use the Internet at an airport that provides public WiFi, you
can set up your mobile hotspot to offload data to the airport WiFi. In addition to

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conserving your cellular data, using offloading to connect through your hotspot to
public Internet connections provides an extra layer of security for your devices.

Enable WiFi offloading from the web user

interface
To enable WiFi offloading from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > Internet.
The Internet page displays.
2. Click or tap WiFi + Cellular to enable WiFi offloading.
The default setting is Cellular Only (no offloading).
3. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
4. Click or tap Continue.
Your settings are saved.

Change WiFi band settings from

the web user interface
Your mobile hotspot can broadcast WiFi signals on two WiFi bands simultaneously.
Note that the overall throughput speed could decrease when WiFi dual-band is enabled.
To change WiFi band settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > WiFi Band.
The WiFi Band page displays.
2. Select a WiFi band option from the following:
• Dual-Band (2.4 & 5 GHz)
• 5 GHz Only
• 2.4 GHz Only
• Turn Off WiFi
3. Click or tap Apply.

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A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
4. Click or tap Continue.
Your settings are saved.

Change WiFi network name,

password, encryption, or channel
settings from the web user interface
The WiFi network name (SSID) identifies your WiFi network and is visible to other
WiFi-enabled devices. From the web user interface, you can change the SSID, password,
WiFi encryption type, and broadcast channel settings.
NOTE: In some regions, not all channels are available. Do not change the channel
unless you experience interference (shown by lost connections or slow data
transfers). If this happens, experiment with different channels to see which is the
best.
To change the WiFi network name, password, encryption, or channel settings from
the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > WiFi Band.
The WiFi Band page displays.
2. Click or tap More.
Additional settings display.
3. Enter a WiFi Name and WiFi Password.
4. Select an Encryption Type and Channel.
Your WiFi client devices must support the encryption type that you select for your
mobile hotspot, or they will not be able to connect.
5. Clear or select the Broadcast WiFi Name SSID check box.
If you clear the check box, you must manually enter your SSID when connecting your
WiFi devices.
6. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
7. Click or tap Continue.

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Your settings are saved.

If you changed the SSID or password, your previously connected WiFi devices must
reconnect using the new credentials.

Change WiFi standby, range,

bandwidth, and info display settings
from the web user interface
To change WiFi standby, range, bandwidth, and info display settings from the web
user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > WiFi Band.
The WiFi Band page displays.
2. Click or tap More.
Additional settings display.
3. Select Global Settings.
The Global Settings page displays.
4. Select a WiFi Standby time period and WiFi Range setting.
5. Select a Bandwidth (channel frequency) option for each WiFi band that your device
supports.
6. To allow the WiFi information to be displayed on your mobile hotspot home screen,
leave the WiFi Info on Home check box selected.
7. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
8. Click or tap Continue.
Your settings are saved.

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Enable or disable Guest WiFi from

the web user interface
You can turn on Guest WiFi to share your Internet connection with temporary visitors
on a separate connection from your personal WiFi devices. Guest WiFi is disabled by
default.
To enable or disable Guest WiFi from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > Guest Network.
The Guest Network page displays.
2. Select the Enable check box to enable Guest WiFi, or clear the check box to disable
Guest WiFi.
3. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
4. Click or tap Continue.
Guest WiFi is enabled.
A QR code for devices to connect with displays on the Guest Network page.
Additional settings also display.

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Change Guest WiFi settings from the web

user interface
When Guest WiFi is enabled, your mobile hotspot's web user interface displays additional
settings for the Guest WiFi network. You can change the Guest WiFi network name,
password, encryption, and channel settings. You can also choose to randomly generate
a Guest WiFi password or disable Guest WiFi SSID broadcast.
To change Guest WiFi settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > Guest Network.
The Guest Network page displays.
2. Enter a WiFi Name and WiFi Password.
3. Select an Encryption Type and Channel.
Your WiFi client devices must support the encryption type that you select for your
mobile hotspot, or they will not be able to connect.
4. Clear or select the Generate Passphrase check box.
If you clear the check box, you must enter your own WiFi password for the guest
network.
5. Clear or select the Broadcast WiFi Name SSID check box.
If you clear the check box, you must manually enter the guest SSID when connecting
your WiFi devices.
6. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
7. Click or tap Continue.
Your settings are saved.
If you changed the SSID or password, your previously connected WiFi devices must
reconnect using the new credentials.

Change power mode from the web

user interface
You can change your mobile hotspot's power mode to quickly prioritize either
performance or battery life without changing individual settings one-by-one.

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• Balanced: Best battery life.

• Performance: Best performance on battery.
• Plugged In: Max performance with battery removed.
Table 2. Power Manager Profile Settings

Balanced Performance Plugged In

LCD on 1 minute 1 minute 1 minute

time

WiFi range Standard Long Extended

WiFi 5 minutes 60 minutes Never

standby

To change power mode from the web user interface:

1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > Power Mode.
The Power Mode page displays.
2. Click or tap to select a power mode that suits your needs.
3. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
4. Click or tap Continue.
Your settings are saved.

Enable or disable Airplane Mode

from the web user interface
You can turn on Airplane Mode to disable cellular service, but keep your WiFi connection
active. Airplane Mode is disabled by default.
To enable or disable Airplane Mode from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > General > Airplane
Mode.
The Airplane Mode page displays.
2. Select the Enable check box to enable Airplane Mode, or clear the check box to
disable Airplane Mode.
3. Click or tap Apply.

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A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart
WiFi connections.
4. Click or tap Continue.
Airplane Mode is enabled.

Configure access controls from the

web user interface
You can use access control to set up a list of specific devices to be allowed access or
blocked from accessing your mobile hotspot's Internet connection.
To configure access controls from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Security > Access
Controls.
The Access Controls page displays.
2. Select the Enable check box.
3. From the Filter Type menu, select Allow List or Block List.
Depending on your selection, the page displays an Allow List or a Block List.
4. To add a device to the list, click or tap Add.
The Add Device window displays.
5. Enter a Device Name and MAC Address.
6. Click or tap Add.
The device is added to the list.
7. To remove a device from the list, select the device and then click or tap Delete.
The device is removed from the list.

Configure website filters from the

web user interface
You can set up a filter to block or allow access to websites that you specify. You can also
set up a list of devices that are unrestricted. The website filtering does not apply to
unrestricted devices.

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To configure website filters from the web user interface:

1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Security > Website
Filters.
The Website Filters page displays.
2. Select the Enable check box.
3. From the Filter Type menu, select Block List or Allow List.
Depending on your selection, a Blocked Websites list or an Allowed Websites list
displays.
4. To add a website to the list, click or tap Add and enter the website.
The website is added to the list.
5. To edit an entry in the list, do the following:

a. Select its check box.

b. Click the Edit icon.
c. Enter the changes.
6. To remove a website from the list, select its check box and then click or tap Delete.
The website is removed from the list.
7. To create a list of unrestricted devices, do the following:

a. In the Unrestricted Devices section, click or tap Add.

b. Select the device.
The device is added to the list.
8. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Configure a WiFi schedule from the

web user interface
You can configure rules that determine time periods when your mobile hotspot's Internet
connection is accessible to devices.
To configure a WiFi schedule from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Security > Schedule.
The Schedule page displays.
2. Select the Enable check box.

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3. To add a schedule rule, click or tap Add.

The New Rule page displays.
4. Specify the name of the rule and the days and times for the rule.
5. Select the Enable check box.
6. Click or tap Save.
Your settings are saved.

Enable SIM security from the web

user interface
You can create another level of security by configuring a PIN that you must enter each
time that you power on your mobile hotspot.
To enable SIM security from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Security > SIM Security.
The SIM Security page displays.
2. Click or tap ACTIVATE.
3. Enter a PIN to use for your device and click or tap Apply.
Your PIN is saved.
NOTE: If you enter an incorrect PIN three times, the SIM is blocked. If the
SIM is blocked, contact your cellular data service provider to receive a PUK
number to unblock the SIM.

Change the web user interface

login password
Your mobile hotspot is set up to use a default web user interface login password. The
default password is printed on a label in the battery compartment. You can optionally
change the default password to your own password.
To change the web user interface login password:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Administration > Set
Password.

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The password settings are displayed.

2. In the New Password field, enter the password that you want to use.
The maximum password length is 31 characters.
3. In the Repeat Password field, enter the new password a second time to confirm.
4. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Back up mobile hotspot settings

from the web user interface
You can back up and restore settings. Backing up and restoring is useful if you use more
than one device and you want the same settings on all of your devices.
You can also save your settings before resetting to factory defaults or changing the
settings.
To back up mobile hotspot settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Administration > Backup
Settings. The Backup Settings page displays.
2. Click or tap Backup. By default, the file (export.cfg) is saved to your Downloads
folder.

Restore backed up settings from

the web user interface
To restore backed up settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Administration > Backup
Settings.
The Backup Settings page displays.
2. Select the export.cfg file to restore using one of the following methods:
• To browse and select a local file, click the Choose File button.
• To select a backup file from the network, click or tap Upload.

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By default, mobile hotspot setting files are saved to your Downloads folder.
3. Click or tap Open.
Your mobile hotspot is restored with the uploaded file's settings.

Factory reset your mobile hotspot

from the web user interface
To factory reset your mobile hotspot from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Administration > Factory
Reset.
The Factory Reset page displays.
2. Click or tap Factory Reset.
3. Click or tap Yes to confirm.
Your mobile hotspot resets and returns to its factory settings.

Enable or disable IP passthrough

from the web user interface
Depending on how you use your mobile hotspot, you might want to enable IP
passthrough. When IP passthrough is enabled, your mobile hotspot takes the IP address
that your cellular service provider assigned to your device and passes it through to a
connected device.
Enabling IP passthrough can help prevent a double network address translation (double
NAT) scenario when you connect your mobile hotspot to a downstream routing device.
When double NAT occurs, you might experience problems with secure websites that
use SSL, VPN connections, online games, and other communication problems.
NOTE: Most carriers issue a private wireless wide area network (WWAN) IP
address to your device. Some carriers have special plans that issue a public
WWAN IP, or can add a public WWAN IP to your existing plan for an additional
charge. Contact your carrier for more information if your situation requires a
public WWAN IP address.

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To enable or disable IP passthrough from the web user interface:

1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Mobile
Router Setup.
The Mobile Router Setup page displays.
2. Select the IP Passthrough ON or OFF button.
If you select ON, additional options display:

a. From the Type menu, select IP passthrough over USB.

b. Enter a MAC address.
3. Tap Apply.
Your mobile hotspot asks you to confirm that it must restart to enable or disable IP
passthrough.
4. Tap Continue.
Your mobile hotspot restarts with IP passthrough enabled or disabled.

Disable or re-enable the DHCP

server feature from the web user
interface
By default, your mobile hotspot acts as a DHCP server. The server assigns IP, DNS server,
and default gateway addresses to all computers connected to the LAN. The assigned
default gateway address is the LAN address of the router.
You can use another device on your network as the DHCP server, or specify the network
settings of all your computers.
To disable or re-enable the DHCP server feature from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Mobile
Router Setup.
The Mobile Router Setup page displays.
2. Clear the Use mobile router as DHCP server check box to disable the DHCP server
feature, or select the check box to re-enable it.
3. Click or tap Apply.
A message displays telling you that to save this change, your device must restart.
4. Click or tap Continue.

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Your settings are saved.

Change tethering settings from the

web user interface
By default, tethering is enabled on your hotspot, and it continues broadcasting WiFi
when tethering is used. You can change these settings from the web user interface.
To change tethering settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Mobile
Router Setup.
The Mobile Router Setup page displays.
2. In the TETHERING section, select the Turn off WiFi when tethering check box to
disable WiFi broadcasting when tethered, or clear it to enable WiFi broadcasting
when tethered.
3. Select an option from the Use USB port for drop-down:
• Charge + tether (default): your hotspot battery charges and uses WiFi tethering
when connected to a computer USB port.
• Charge only: tethering is disabled and your hotspot only charges when connected
to a computer USB port.
4. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

View data usage from the web user

interface
To view data usage from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, click or tap See data usage, or select
Settings > Advanced > Data Usage.
The Data Usage page displays.
2. (Optional) To reset the data usage counter, click or tap Reset.
The counter is reset.

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3. (Optional) To set a regular reset date or data plan limit, select the appropriate check
box and enter or select your desired values.
4. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Configure cellular settings from the

web user interface
To configure cellular settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Cellular.
The Cellular page displays.
2. Change the data, band region, and network mode settings as needed.

Configure access point names

(APNs) from the web user interface
Your mobile hotspot comes preconfigured with the access point names (APNs) for most
cellular network service providers. You can add additional APNs and select among the
configured APNs for use by the mobile hotspot. The mobile hotspot checks the APN to
determine the type of network connection to establish.
NOTE: Your carrier determines its own APN information and must provide you
the information for its own data plan. APN settings can also vary depending on
the type of plan that you subscribe to. We recommend that you contact your
carrier for the correct APN settings and only use the APN that your carrier instructs
you to use for your specific plan.

Add an APN for another network

To add an APN for another network:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Cellular.
The Cellular page displays.
2. Click or tap Add.

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The APN page displays.

3. Specify the APN name.
The APN name is a label for display in the UI.
4. Specify the APN.
This step specifies the APN as defined by the carrier.
5. Change the PDP (data protocol), if necessary:
• IPV4
• IPV6
• IPV4V6
6. Change the PDP roaming protocol, if necessary:
• None
• IPV4
• IPV6
• IPV4V6
NOTE: PDP roaming protocol is the IP protocol used while you are roaming
(for example when you are traveling and the roaming network does not
support IPv6).
7. Select the network authentication mode:
• None
• PAP
• CHAP
• PAPCHAP
8. Enter the name and password, if they are required for the network.
9. Click or tap Add.
The entry is added to the table.

Select an APN to use

To select an APN to use:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Cellular.
The Cellular page displays.
2. Select the Active radio button next to the APN entry.
The APN is selected.

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Remove an APN entry

To remove an APN entry:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Cellular.
The Cellular page displays.
2. Select the box to the left of the APN.
3. Click or tap Delete.
The APN is removed.

Configure port forwarding from the

web user interface
Port forwarding is an advanced feature. If your computer is hosting a server, you can
enable port forwarding so that other users can access the server.
NOTE: Port forwarding creates a security risk. When not required, disable port
forwarding.
To configure port forwarding from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Port
Forwarding.
The Port Forwarding page displays.
2. Click or tap to select the Enable check box.
The Port Forwarding list displays.
Incoming traffic is forwarded to specific ports and devices on your network using
their local IP addresses.
3. To add a port forwarding address, click or tap Add.
The Add Service page displays.
4. Enter the following port forwarding information:
• Rule Name. Enter a descriptive name.
• IP Address. Enter the IP address of the connected device.
• Port. Enter the port number or range of port numbers that the application uses.
• Protocol. If you are unsure, select TCP.
5. Click or tap Add.

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Your settings are saved.

Configure port filtering from the

web user interface
You can select which applications (for example, HTTP, FTP, email servers) can access
the Internet. Used with other security measures such as a firewall, port filtering can
enhance network security.
To configure port filtering from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Port Filtering.
The Port Filtering page displays.
2. Click or tap to select the Enable check box.
The Port Filtering list displays.
3. From the Port Filtering list, select one of the following:
• Block List. Specific applications and services are not allowed to access the Internet
(block list).
• Allow List. Only specific applications and services are allowed to access the
Internet (allow list).
Only one list at a time can be active, either a block list or an allow list.
4. Identify the ports to filter.
Enter a meaningful label that describes the application or service.
5. Enter the port being used.
6. Enter the communication protocol being used.
7. Click or tap Save.
Your settings are saved.

Change display settings from the

web user interface
You can change your mobile hotspot's display settings from the web user interface.
Lowering the LCD screen’s brightness level or reducing the screen time-out to a shorter

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period reduces power consumption and might increase your mobile hotspot's battery
life.
To change display settings from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Device.
The Device page displays.
2. Adjust the following settings:
• Screen Brightness: From the menu, select the screen brightness level.
• Screen Timeout: From the menu, select a time period.
3. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Change the date and time format

from the web user interface
Your mobile hotspot is initially set to display a date and time format that is common for
your region. However, if you prefer to use a different date and time format, you can
change the format that your device uses.
To change the date and time format from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Device.
The Device page displays.
2. In the Date Time Format section, select an option for the following settings:
• Date Format
• Time Format
3. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

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Enable or disable GPS services from

the web user interface
You can enable GPS location services on some mobile hotspot models. When GPS is
enabled,users can turn on location services to launch GPS-enabled apps on connected
devices.
To enable or disable GPS services from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > GPS.
The GPS page displays.
2. Select the Enabled check box to enable GPS services, or clear it to disable GPS
services.
3. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Disable or re-enable device

analytics from the web user
interface
NETGEAR improves its products and services by automatically sending daily diagnostic
and usage data. Device analytics are enabled by default. You can disable or re-enable
device analytics from the web user interface.
To disable or re-enable device analytics from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Analytics.
The Analytics page displays.
2. Clear the Enabled check box to disable device analytics, or select it to re-enable
device analytics.
3. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

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Disable or re-enable VPN

passthrough from the web user
interface
To connect to a corporate network using VPN, VPN connections (passthrough) must be
enabled. VPN passthrough is enabled by default, but you can disable it from the web
user interface.
To disable or re-enable VPN passthrough from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Other.
The Other page displays.
2. In the VPN Passthrough section, clear the Enable check box to disable VPN
passthrough, or select the check box to re-enable it.
VPN passthrough is enabled by default.
3. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Disable or re-enable UPnP from the

web user interface
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) helps devices and computers access the network and
connect to other devices as needed. UPnP devices can automatically discover the
services from other registered UPnP devices on the network.
If you use applications such as multiplayer gaming, peer-to-peer connections, or real-time
communications such as instant messaging, keep UPnP enabled, which is its default
setting.
When UPnP is disabled, the router does not allow any device to automatically control
router resources, such as port forwarding.
To disable or re-enable UPnP from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Other.
The Other page displays.
2. In the UPnP section, clear the Enable check box to disable UPnP, or select the check
box to re-enable it.

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UPnP is enabled by default.

3. (Optional) If you enabled UPnP, select a UPnP IGD Version from the menu.
This setting typically does not need to be changed unless a specific application or
device requires it.
4. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Configure a DMZ server from the

web user interface
In a demilitarized zone (DMZ) network configuration, a computer runs outside the firewall
in the DMZ. This computer intercepts incoming Internet traffic, providing an extra layer
of protection for the rest of the network and sending all incoming data to a particular
IP address.
To configure a DMZ server from the web user interface:
1. From the web user interface dashboard, select Settings > Advanced > Other.
The Other page displays.
2. In the DMZ section, select the Enable check box.
3. In the DMZ Address field, enter the IP address of the computer to which you want
all data sent.
If your mobile hotspot is tethered using a USB cable, this address is 192.168.1.4. If
your mobile hotspot is connected using WiFi, the first WiFi client’s IP address is
usually 192.168.1.XX. You can typically check the IP address of your client device
from the device's WiFi settings menu or control panel.
NOTE: IPv6 addresses are not supported.
4. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

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5
Troubleshooting

This chapter provides suggestions for troubleshooting problems that might arise when
you are using your mobile hotspot. This chapter covers the following topics:
• View alerts
• Extend battery life
• Third-party power adapters and USB cables
• Improve reception with an external antenna
• Factory reset your mobile hotspot

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View alerts
Your mobile hotspot displays alerts to advise you of device status changes.

SIM Error — Check SIM or SIM Not Installed

Ensure that your cellular data carrier’s SIM card is fully inserted in your mobile hotspot's
SIM card slot. If a problem still exists, contact your carrier's customer service. The SIM
card might be damaged and need replacement.

SIM Locked
If your SIM card is locked, you can unlock the SIM.
To unlock the SIM card:
1. If you did not add a PIN for the SIM, contact your cellular data carrier's customer
service for the PIN to unlock the SIM card.
2. From a computer or WiFi device that is connected to the mobile hotspot, launch a
web browser.
3. Enter http://192.168.1.1.
The mobile hotspot web page displays.
4. Log in using your admin password.
The default admin login password is printed on the product label in the battery
compartment. The password is case sensitive.
The web user interface dashboard displays.
5. Enter the SIM PIN when prompted.
6. Click or tap Apply.
Your settings are saved.

Temperature-related alerts
To get the best performance and longest life from your mobile hotspot, managing the
device’s temperature is important. As your mobile hotspot’s temperature increases, its
performance is reduced, while overheating the device will cause it to shut down entirely.
Considering thermal management when you use your mobile hotspot can prevent it
from overheating and ensure that you have the best experience with your device.

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Your mobile hotspot has specific heat limits for each operating mode. Removing the
battery and plugging your mobile hotspot in raises its temperature limits, as it doesn’t
need to limit heat as much to protect the battery. Exceeding these limits results in
reduced performance, stability issues, or even automatic shutdown.

Understanding temperature limits

• Battery Powered mode
○ Level 1: Battery is slow charging. Carrier 4G, 5G, and 5G mmWave (if supported)
connections are limited to fewer bands. Device speed is reduced.
○ Level 2: Battery stops charging. Carrier 4G connections are limited to one band.
5G bands stop operating. Device speeds are reduced further, and data connection
errors might occur.
○ Level 3 (Critical): Device shuts down to protect itself.
• Plugged In mode (no battery)
○ Level 1: Carrier 4G, 5G, and 5G mmWave (if supported) connections are limited
to fewer bands. Device speed is reduced.
○ Level 2: Carrier 4G connections are limited to one band. 5G bands stop operating.
Device speeds are reduced further, and data connection errors may occur.
○ Level 3 (Critical): Device shuts down to protect itself.

Managing Temperature for Best Performance

The following tips can help you manage your mobile hotspot’s heat to get the best
performance:
• Ensure proper ventilation: Use your mobile hotspot in a well-ventilated area to
help keep it cool. Avoid using the device on soft surfaces like beds or couches,
because they can block airflow and trap heat.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: The mobile hotspot is designed for safe operation
in the 0°C to 35°C (32° F to 95°F) ambient air temperature range. Avoid exposing
the device to direct sunlight, high-temperature environments, or extremely cold
conditions, because they can reduce performance and cause device problems.
• Remove the battery/battery cover and use Plugged In mode: When using your
mobile hotspot continuously for long periods of time, we recommend that you
remove the battery and battery cover and plug your mobile hotspot in to enable
Plugged In mode. Plugged In mode allows your mobile hotspot to safely operate
at higher temperatures with increased performance. This mode is particularly
beneficial for applications that require heavy data usage, such as online gaming,
video streaming, or large file downloads. Removing the battery enables Plugged In
mode and removing its cover helps your hotspot stay cool.

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• Reduce load on the device: When using your mobile hotspot in higher temperature
environments, limit the number of simultaneous connections and bandwidth-intensive
activities. This can help reduce the heat generated by the device.
• Install firmware updates: Keep your mobile hotspot’s firmware up to date. NETGEAR
firmware updates can include performance optimizations and thermal management
improvements, ensuring the best performance for your device.

Extend battery life

By default, your mobile hotspot is configured to optimize battery life. The following
factors can affect battery life:
• Screen brightness
• Standby time
• Data throughput
• Mobile broadband signal strength (the better the signal, the longer the battery life)
• WiFi range
For example, you can increase battery life by reducing the LCD screen’s brightness
level, or set the screen time-out to a shorter period.
You might want to try the following to improve your battery life:
• Change WiFi standby, range, bandwidth, and info display settings from the web
user interface on page 35
• Change display settings from the web user interface on page 49
• Change power mode from the web user interface on page 37

Third-party power adapters and

USB cables
The power adapter and USB cable that you use with your mobile hotspot must meet
certain standards to provide sufficient power for device charging and Plugged-In Mode.
For mobile hotspot models that include a power adapter, NETGEAR supplies a Quick
Charge 2.0-certified or Quick Charge 3.0-certified power adapter (depending on region)
and a USB 3.2 Type-A to Type-C cable. If your hotspot includes a power adapter and

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USB cable, we recommend that you use the included parts with your hotspot for best
performance.
NETGEAR cannot guarantee the performance of specific third-party power adapters or
USB cables with your hotspot. However, high quality third-party power adapters and
USB cables that meet the following standards should provide similar performance to
the official NETGEAR parts:
• Quick Charge 2.0 power adapter with USB 3.2 Type-A to Type-C cable
• Quick Charge 3.0 power adapter with USB 3.2 Type-A to Type-C cable
• Quick Charge 4.0 power adapter with USB 3.2 Type-C cable
• USB Power Delivery 3.0 power adapter with USB 3.2 Type-C cable

Improve reception with an external

antenna
Using an external antenna can improve the reception of your mobile hotspot if you have
less than 2 bars of reception. Improving your reception can increase your data transfer
speeds. The NETGEAR Omnidirectional MIMO Antenna is compatible with all recent
NETGEAR mobile hotspots and fixed wireless devices.
NOTE: If you have more than 2 bars of reception, using an external antenna
might decrease your reception due to interference.
NETGEAR mobile hotspots and fixed wireless devices are all equipped with two TS-9
connectors for use with external antennas. The NETGEAR Omnidirectional MIMO Antenna

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comes with two SMA to TS-9 adapters so that it can work with devices that have either
SMA or TS-9 connectors.

1. SMA to TS-9 adapters

2. SMA connectors
CAUTION: Be gentle when plugging and unplugging the TS-9 connectors from
your device because they can be delicate.
Tips on improving your reception with an external antenna:
• The positioning and aiming of your antenna can have a large impact on its
performance.
• Aim your antenna towards your closest cell tower. Contact your carrier for information
on where your closest cell tower is located.
• Finding the best location for your antenna might require some trial and error. Move
it around your space while monitoring the reception on your device to find the best
location.

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Factory reset your mobile hotspot

You can reset your mobile hotspot to the factory settings. This is useful if you reset the
admin login password for the web user interface and forgot the new password, or if you
want to set up your mobile hotspot in a different way.
NOTE: When you reset your mobile hotspot, any currently connected devices
lose access and must be reconnected after the mobile hotspot restarts.
For more information, see Factory reset your mobile hotspot from the web user interface
on page 43.

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A
Specifications

This appendix covers the following topics:

• LTE and 5GNR transmission specifications
• Nighthawk M3 family mobile band specifications
• WiFi specifications

61
 Nighthawk M3

LTE and 5GNR transmission

specifications
Transmission specifications
The following tables indicate the LTE and 5GNR transmission characteristics.
Table 3. LTE transmission characteristics for MH3150

Frequency (MHz) Bands Ext Ant Gain

(dBi)

1850-1910 B2 4

1710-1755 B4 4

824-849 B5 4

2500-2570 B7 4

698-716 B12 4

777-787 B13 4

788-798 B14 4

1850-1915 B25 4

814-849 B26 4

2305-2315 B30 1.05

2496-2690 B41 4

3400-3600 B42 -0.23

3550-3700 B48 0.17

1710-1780 B66 4

663-698 B71 4

Table 4. 5GNR transmission characteristics for MH3150

Frequency (Mhz) Bands Ext Ant Gain (dBi)

1850-1919 n2 4

824-849 n5 4

698-716 n12 4

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Table 4. 5GNR transmission characteristics for MH3150 (Continued)

Frequency (Mhz) Bands Ext Ant Gain (dBi)

788-798 n14 4

1850-1915 n25 4

2305-2315 n30 1.05

2496-2690 n41 4

3550-3700 n48 0.17

1710-1780 n66 4

663-698 n71 4

3300-3550, 3700-4200 n77 4

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 Nighthawk M3

Nighthawk M3 family mobile band

specifications
The following table indicates the Nighthawk M3 (model MH3150) mobile band
specifications.
Table 5. Mobile bands

Technology Band

4G/LTE bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14,

20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 42, 66

5GNR bands n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n20,

n28, n38, n40, n41, n71, n77,
n78

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 Nighthawk M3

WiFi specifications
WiFi support
• WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, 2x2 MIMO
• 2.4/5 GHz Standalone
The following restrictions apply in
AT/BE/BG/CZ/DK/EE/FR/DE/IS/IE/IT/EL/ES/CY/LV/LI/LT/LU/HU/MT/NL/NO/PL/PT
/RO/SI/SK/TR/FI/SE/CH/UK(NI)/HR/HK:
• Operation in 5150MHz to 5350MHz is restricted to indoor use only.
• This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20
cm between the radiator and your body.
• SAR is measured with the device at 5 mm to the body, while transmitting at the
highest certified output power level in all frequency bands of the device. The
maximum SAR value is 1.652 W/kg (body) averaged over 10 gram of tissue.

Table 6. GHz specifications

GHz Range

5GHz 5150-5350MHz, 5470-5875MHz

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