Zyxel FWA Router [LTE / 5G] - Issues Zyxel vs. Provider Issues

This guide will help you determine whether typical 5G/LTE issues are more likely caused by your device configuration, the network operator, or a combination of both. Each section includes likely causes, steps to resolve the issue, and diagnostic hints to better understand the root of the problem.

No Internet Access

Possible causes:

  • SIM card not properly inserted

  • SIM PIN not entered

  • SIM card inactive, blocked, or not yet activated by provider

  • Incorrect APN configuration

  • Incompatible network mode selected (e.g., 5G in LTE-only area)

What to do:

  1. Make sure the SIM card is correctly inserted.

  2. Log in to the web interface (usually http://192.168.1.1) and enter the PIN code if required.

  3. Compare the APN settings in your router with the ones provided by your network operator.

  4. Contact your ISP to confirm whether the SIM is active, has data allowance, and if the APN details are correct.

How to assess:
If the SIM isn't detected or there's no IP address assigned, it may be due to settings or hardware. If the settings are fine but there's still no internet — the provider side may be at fault (e.g., card not activated, incorrect provisioning).

Slow Internet Connection

Possible causes:

  • Mobile network congestion

  • Weak signal due to placement or obstacles

  • Inefficient frequency band or unstable tower selection

  • Adverse weather conditions affecting wireless signals

  • Outdated firmware or suboptimal settings

What to do:

  1. Reposition the device near a window or use an external antenna to improve signal reception.

  2. Check signal metrics in the web interface (e.g., RSRP, SINR).

  3. If supported, use Band Lock or Cell Lock features to fix the device to a stable frequency or base station.

  4. Ask your provider which bands are optimal in your area.

How to assess:
If mobile phones using the same SIM or network show slow speeds too — network congestion is likely. If phones work fine but your router is slow — try adjusting device placement or signal settings.

Connection Drops Intermittently

Possible causes:

  • Automatic switching between nearby towers

  • Weak or fluctuating signal quality

  • Changing between 5G and LTE modes

  • Temporary network instability or maintenance on provider side

What to do:

  1. Use Cell Lock if available to stay connected to a stable base station.

  2. Enhance signal quality with a directional antenna or better device placement.

  3. Review the device logs for disconnect reasons (e.g., signal lost, handover failed).

  4. Contact your provider to check for outages or known instability in your area.

How to assess:
Frequent switching or unstable signals can be caused by either device configuration or network behavior. Compare device logs and behavior with other nearby devices if possible.

Cannot Access Device Interface

Possible causes:

  • Incorrect management IP address used

  • PC and device are not in the same subnet

  • No connection to the device via Wi-Fi or Ethernet

  • Misconfiguration or system instability

What to do:

  1. Confirm you're connected to the device network.

  2. Enter the default IP (usually http://192.168.1.1) in your browser.

  3. Make sure your PC’s IP is within the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.x).

  4. If needed, reset the device to factory defaults using the Reset button.

How to assess:
In most cases, this is a local connectivity issue or misconfiguration. It's not typically related to your ISP, but rather how you're accessing the device.

Device Behaving Abnormally

Possible causes:

  • Outdated firmware

  • Temporary software or memory faults

  • Incorrect settings or conflicts

  • Hardware fault or overheating

What to do:

  1. Check for and install the latest firmware via the device’s web interface or Zyxel support site.

  2. Reboot the device or perform a factory reset.

  3. Reconfigure settings step-by-step to avoid conflict.

  4. If issues persist, contact Zyxel technical support.

How to assess:
Unusual device behavior is often linked to firmware or internal errors. Eliminate setting issues first, then consider hardware malfunction if symptoms persist.

Final Advice

In many cases, careful checks of the device’s configuration and signal quality are enough to resolve the issue. If problems persist, it's best to first contact your mobile operator to rule out network-side issues, and then reach out to Zyxel Support if needed.

Contact the support team for help if the issue still persists.

 

 

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