GL-SFT1200 (Opal) User Manual⁚ A Comprehensive Guide
This user manual provides a comprehensive guide to setting up and using the GL-SFT1200 (Opal), a pocket-sized travel router supporting 1200Mbps wireless transfers speed.
Introduction
Welcome to the GL-SFT1200 (Opal) user manual. This manual is designed to guide you through the setup, configuration, and use of your new travel router. The GL-SFT1200 is a compact and powerful device that provides a secure and reliable Wi-Fi connection wherever you go. This manual covers various aspects of the GL-SFT1200, from basic setup to advanced features like VPN configuration. It also includes troubleshooting tips and information on finding support.
Hardware Overview
The GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is a compact and feature-rich travel router designed for portability and ease of use; It boasts a powerful CPU and dual-band Wi-Fi for fast and reliable internet access. The router features three Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices, a USB 2.0 port for connecting 3G/4G modems or external storage, and a Micro-USB port for power. The GL-SFT1200 comes with a 5V/3A Type-C power adapter, ensuring compatibility with various power outlets around the world. It also supports a TF card for additional storage, providing flexibility for your data needs.
Setting Up Your GL-SFT1200
Getting started with your GL-SFT1200 is straightforward. First, power on the router by plugging the Type-C power cable into the power port. Ensure you use a standard 5V/3A power adapter to avoid malfunction. Next, you can connect to the router using either an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. Note that this step only connects your devices to the local area network (LAN) of the router, not the internet yet. Once connected, access the web admin panel by opening your web browser and entering the default IP address (usually 192.168.8.1). From there, you can configure your language, set up an admin password, and proceed with internet connection setup.
Powering On and Connecting
To power on your GL-SFT1200, simply plug the Type-C power cable into the power port of the router. Make sure you are using a standard 5V/3A power adapter; using a different adapter may cause malfunctions. Once the router is powered on, you can connect to it via either an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. This initial connection only links your devices to the router’s local area network (LAN), not the internet. Keep in mind that hot plugging for a TF card is not supported, so if you wish to use one, insert it before powering on the router.
Accessing the Web Admin Panel
To access the web admin panel of your GL-SFT1200, open a web browser on a device connected to the router’s network. The default address is http://192.168.8.1. You may be prompted to enter a username and password. The default username is “root” and the default password is “password”. However, you can change the admin password and set up your preferred language through the web admin panel. This panel allows you to customize various settings, including internet connection, wireless network configuration, security and privacy options, and applications and features.
Internet Connection Setup
The GL-SFT1200 (Opal) offers multiple options for connecting to the internet. You can choose from a cable connection, Wi-Fi connection, repeater mode, or a USB 3G/4G modem. Each method has its unique setup process. The manual provides step-by-step instructions for configuring each option, including choosing the appropriate connection type, entering network credentials, and customizing settings like DNS servers and IP addresses. It also includes information about troubleshooting common connection issues and using AT commands for specific modems.
Cable Connection
To establish a wired internet connection, connect an Ethernet cable from your internet service provider’s modem or router to one of the GL-SFT1200’s Gigabit Ethernet ports. The router will automatically detect the connection and configure itself to access the internet. If your network requires specific settings, such as a static IP address or PPPoE authentication, you can access the web admin panel and manually configure the connection. The manual provides detailed instructions on navigating the interface and setting up these configurations.
Wi-Fi Connection
The GL-SFT1200 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect to the internet using either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency band. To connect to the router’s Wi-Fi network, locate the SSID (network name) and password on the device’s label or in the web admin panel. Select the SSID from your device’s Wi-Fi settings and enter the password to establish a connection. The router’s Wi-Fi settings can be customized in the web admin panel, allowing you to change the SSID, password, and security settings to suit your preferences.
Repeater Mode
Repeater mode allows the GL-SFT1200 to extend the range of an existing Wi-Fi network. To enable repeater mode, you will need to connect the router to the existing network and configure the repeater settings in the web admin panel. This involves selecting the existing network’s SSID and entering its password; Once configured, the GL-SFT1200 will act as a bridge between the existing network and your devices, extending the Wi-Fi signal to areas where it might otherwise be weak or unavailable. This can be especially useful in larger homes or areas with thick walls.
USB 3G/4G Modem
The GL-SFT1200 supports connecting a USB 3G/4G modem for internet access. This allows you to use the router even when a wired or Wi-Fi internet connection is not available. To connect a modem, simply plug it into the USB port on the router. You will then need to configure the router’s internet settings to use the modem’s connection. This typically involves entering the modem’s APN (Access Point Name) and other relevant information. Once configured, the GL-SFT1200 will use the modem’s data connection to provide internet access to your devices.
Wireless Network Configuration
The GL-SFT1200 allows you to customize the wireless network settings to suit your needs. You can change the network name (SSID), security settings, and other parameters. Access the router’s web admin panel and navigate to the Wireless Network section. Here, you can set the SSID, choose the desired Wi-Fi band (2.4GHz or 5GHz), select the encryption type (WPA2/WPA3), and configure the password.
Basic Wireless Settings
The basic wireless settings allow you to configure the fundamental aspects of your Wi-Fi network. You can set the SSID (network name), which is the name that appears in the list of available Wi-Fi networks on your devices. You can also choose the desired Wi-Fi band (2.4GHz or 5GHz), depending on your needs and the devices you want to connect. Additionally, you can select the encryption type, such as WPA2/WPA3, to secure your network and prevent unauthorized access.
Advanced Wireless Settings
The advanced wireless settings offer more granular control over your Wi-Fi network. You can configure the channel width, which affects the bandwidth and potential interference. You can also adjust the transmission power of the router, which can influence the signal range and strength. Additionally, you can enable or disable features like MU-MIMO, which allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, potentially improving performance.
Security and Privacy
The GL-SFT1200 prioritizes security and privacy. It features a built-in firewall that helps protect your network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. You can configure the firewall to block specific IP addresses or ports, or to apply more general rules based on network traffic. You can also set up a VPN connection to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your online activities from prying eyes.
Firewall Settings
The GL-SFT1200 includes a robust firewall to safeguard your network. You can configure the firewall to block specific IP addresses, ports, or entire networks, or use predefined rules to block common threats. For more granular control, you can set up custom firewall rules based on traffic type, protocol, and source/destination addresses. The firewall offers comprehensive protection, but it’s essential to keep it updated with the latest security patches for optimal defense against evolving threats.
VPN Configuration
The GL-SFT1200 allows you to establish secure VPN connections for enhanced privacy and security. You can configure various VPN protocols, including OpenVPN and WireGuard, to encrypt your internet traffic and route it through a remote server. This ensures your online activities remain private, even when using public Wi-Fi networks; Setting up a VPN is straightforward; you can choose from pre-configured VPN services or manually configure your own VPN server. The GL-SFT1200 provides a user-friendly interface for configuring VPN settings, making it accessible for users of all levels of technical expertise.
Applications and Features
The GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is packed with features designed to enhance your mobile networking experience. It offers a range of applications and functionalities that go beyond basic routing. These include a built-in firewall for enhanced security, support for various VPN protocols for privacy and anonymity, and the ability to act as a repeater to extend your Wi-Fi network coverage. The GL-SFT1200 also supports USB tethering, allowing you to connect to the internet using a 3G/4G modem. With its open-source nature, you can install and manage custom applications and configurations, further tailoring the router to your specific needs.
Troubleshooting and Support
If you encounter any issues while setting up or using your GL-SFT1200 (Opal), there are resources available to help. The GL.iNet website offers a comprehensive user manual and a dedicated section for troubleshooting common problems. You can also find helpful guides and tutorials on the GL.iNet community forums, where users share their experiences and solutions. Additionally, GL.iNet provides customer support through their website, allowing you to submit inquiries and receive assistance from their technical team.