The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router is one of the models of Keenetic routers, the devices of which differ only in design and technical equipment: there is no USB in the Lite versions, and in the 4G versions it is used only for synchronization with USB modems. The only real differences are between the Extra and Giga models. In fact, the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router is standard, it combines the features and characteristics of devices of the entire line, with the exception of the junior and senior models.
Router package
The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II wireless comes standard. Packaged in a classic box. The second version of the router differs from the first in the presence of special software to control the device.
The kit includes the router itself, a cable for connecting to a personal computer, a power adapter, instructions for the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II, a warranty card. Separately, it should be noted that the entire ZyXEL Keenetic line is a Russian development.
Design ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II
All models of routers in this line are made in the same style: the case is made of glossy plastic with a pattern of waves. In reviews of the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router, users note the inconvenience of such a solution: fingerprints quickly remain on the surface. The cooling system is represented by grilles located on the side faces. The WPS key is located on the right side. USB connectors, like the module itself, are provided only in 4G and Omni models. The line models differ only in the presence of USB, the shape and location of the antennas. For example, the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II is equipped with two antennas located on the side edges, which is very convenient for connecting interfaces to the connectors behind the router.
Models of routers without a USB module are equipped with eight green LEDs, while those with USB have nine. They indicate the presence of power, an Internet connection or a search for a line, connection to four LAN ports or a Wi-Fi module or a USB connector (if equipped) in a particular router model.
The programmable button for configuring the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router is located on the side panel, while for other modifications it is located on the rear edge. The key can be configured for various functions: activating Wi-Fi, safely removing devices connected via USB, turning on WPS. The factory reset button is located in the same place. Nearby are LAN and WAN ports, a power button and a power adapter connector.
Router specifications
The entire model line, with the exception of the senior and junior models, has a similar hardware configuration, which is based on a processor with a clock frequency of 580 MHz. DDR-64 MB memory, 8 MB of flash memory is enough for firmware. The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router is equipped with an 802.11 b / g / n wireless controller with a maximum data transfer rate of 300 Mbps. Some models of the line have a USB 2.0 module.
In terms of their characteristics, ZyXEL Keenetic routers are significantly inferior to their counterparts - the same Xiaomi Mi Mini Router, for example, which is much better equipped at a much lower price. However, a plus in the ZyXEL piggy bank is the fact that they are much easier to configure and flash.
Connection and operation of routers
After the first connection, ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II asks for a username and password for the Internet connection and immediately starts working. The router is equipped with an integrated unified software with an auto-update function and a large number of services that can be activated at will. For example, you can disable the built-in torrent client module, especially if you don't need it.
The ZyXEL Keenetic router supports L2TP, IPoE, PPTP and PPPoE connections. The functionality of the device allows you to use it as a separate access point and repeater, connect third-party gadgets via Wi-Fi, via a USB connector, an authorizer and wireless connection supported by the 802.1 module.
Support by the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II modem for the settings of different connections makes it possible to connect them according to the set priority. The efficiency of the channels is regulated by the Ping Check module: in the absence of ping, the router reconnects to another signal source.
The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router can support IPTV using the IGMP protocol. The built-in server and the ability to allocate separate ports allow you to connect a set-top box.
The wide functionality of the wireless router supports packet capture, the operation of the IPv6 module, can identify users to provide them with access to files, connects to a DLNA server, synchronizes with most printers and USB modems, is able to work with the transmission file download system.
The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II settings imply the inclusion of means of restricting and controlling access to the network. For this purpose, a firewall is activated, thanks to which you can set specific settings for each of the interfaces. When searching, you can filter by sites and words using the functionality of the services "Yandex.DNS" and SkyDNS. Despite the fact that the latter service provides an extended package of functions for a fee, the basic ones are enough to limit children's access to inappropriate content. You can extend such restrictions not only to the entire network, but also to a specific connection or device.
Individual devices can be added to the home group through the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II router by renaming them in a convenient way. Any of the connected devices can be given a new name and changes can be made to the IP address assigned to it by the DHCP server. This function of the router is very convenient and avoids conflicts associated with IP addresses. If the router has several connection interfaces at once, then you can set its own address and name for each specific port.
Installed modules and the need to update them are displayed by the auto-update system. The user can activate / deactivate individual modules and start updating them if necessary.
The router supports almost all existing file systems and can be easily synchronized with hard drives. The software allows you to work with drives. FTP and SMB / CIFS protocols are used for network access. Remote control via the Internet and server configuration via DLNA, Microsoft Windows and BitTorrent networks are available.
Internet connection setup
Setting up a network for connecting to the Internet is carried out through a convenient and intuitive web interface. You can connect to it by entering the combination 192.168.1.1 in the search bar of your browser. The username and password are usually printed on the bottom panel of the router, which must be entered when entering the web interface. It is advisable to immediately change the factory settings to your own. This can be done in the "Users" section after entering the password twice.
The interface offers two different options for configuring the network: quick or using the web configurator. For ordinary users, it is desirable to choose the first method. In the section "Connecting to the Internet" authorization data are indicated: login, password and other information. The information entered must correspond to that given to the user by the operator.
PPPoE settings for individual operators
In the lower menu of the router there is an icon with the image of a globe, the transition through which opens the connections tab, where the desired configuration is selected. In the Description item, the Broadband connection checkbox is set, then the Ethernet Connection tab opens, where several checkboxes are set at once: opposite the Use WAN connector and Use to connect to the network items.
Changes to the MAC address are not required, but the IP address parameter is fixed in the No IP address position.
You can add a new connection in the PPPoE / VPN section. To do this, follow these steps:
- The login and password issued by the provider are entered.
- The lines "Description" and "Service name" are left blank.
- Automatic authentication is installed.
- Type - PPPoE.
If the settings are correct, the Internet connection will appear immediately after saving the changes made.
L2TP configuration
For the provider, that is, L2TP is carried out in the same way in accordance with the steps already given:
- In the interface of the router program, select the "Add connection" item.
- Connection type - L2TP.
- Tp.internet.beeline is entered in the item "Server address".
- The login and password provided by the provider are indicated.
- The changes made are saved.
Setting up a Wi-Fi connection
The functionality of the ZyXEL router allows you to use it as a device that distributes a Wi-Fi network. In the interface of the router, select the "Access point" item, after which the following parameters are set:
- Auto channel.
- The SSID name is user-generated and is the name of the network.
- A strong password is entered.
- The maximum power is set.
- Protection degree - WPA2-PSK.
As a result
The line of ZyXEL Keenetic routers is rightfully considered one of the best: the user can choose the model that is optimal for him in terms of functionality, technical characteristics and cost. It is useless to compare the model with analogues like Xiaomi: despite the broader functionality, you can achieve similar properties on Xiaomi, but you have to suffer with the firmware, but in the end you can get a good router with a more attractive design and with the ability to work in two ranges of networks. ZyXEL Keenetic works out of the box, does not require flashing and complex settings, has a good hardware component and characteristics.
Replacing old models from the line with new ones is not worth it: the technical characteristics and hardware components are absolutely the same, the only difference is the appearance and location of the antennas. If a router from ZyXEL is purchased for the first time, then it is better to stop at the new models of the series - they are cheaper, look more presentable and, as already mentioned, their antennas are very well located on the sides.
The upper part of the router is decorated with wavelike protrusions with a glossy surface; there is also a large button with double functionality (this functionality can be changed):
Short press of the button- Starts the Quick Connection (WPS) function.
Pressing for more than 3 seconds- Enables or disables the wireless network.
At the back there are 4 LAN ports (100 Mbps) and one WAN (for connecting an Internet cable), two non-removable antennas, a power port, a power button and an FN button (a button for additional functionality, which will be discussed below).
There is a USB 2.0 port on the side.
You will see status indicators on the front of the router.
Indicator - Status
Does not burn
Zyxel Keenetic Omni is off.
Blinks rarely
The router is loading. If the indicator blinks for more than two minutes, the Keenetic is probably malfunctioning.
Flashes frequently
Firmware update.
Is burning
The Internet Center is on and functioning normally.
Indicators 0-4 Connecting to network connectors
Does not burn
The cable is not connected to the corresponding connector of the Keenetic, or the network connection is not established.
Lights up or flashes
The network connection has been established, information is being transferred.
Indicator - Wireless Wi-Fi
Does not burn
The Wi-Fi network of the corresponding frequency range is turned off.
Is burning
Wi-Fi is on.
Blinking frequently
Data is being transmitted over the wireless network.
Blinking, rarely
A quick setup session for wireless connection using WPS technology has been started.
Indicator - Internet
Does not burn
Zyxel Keenetic Omni did not receive IP parameters from the provider for connecting to the Internet or did not pass authorization.
Is burning
The IP settings for the Internet connection are set.
Indicator - USB connections.
Does not burn
The router did not find compatible equipment connected to the USB connectors, or the USB device is not ready for use. Some USB devices take up to 30 seconds to get up and running.
Is burning
The USB device is connected.
Flashing
Preparing to safely remove USB storage. Unplug the drive only after the light stops blinking.
Quick setup of the Zyxel Keenetic Omni router.
Before you start configuring the router, you need to set on the computer / laptop from which you plan to configure automatic retrieval of network settings ... Next, connect the Zyxel Keenetic Omni to a 220V power supply, connect the Ethernet cable (included in the kit) to any LAN port of the router, and the other end of the cable to your computer / laptop. Run any browser (IE, Chrome, Opera) on your computer / laptop and enter 192.168.1.1 in the router's web interface window select " Quick setup". If you have already logged into the web interface, then you need to enter the login and password (login admin, the password is the one you entered when you first set up the router). If you do not remember the password, you need to reset Zyxel Keenetic Omni settings to the factory settings, to do this, press and hold the Reset button on the case (note that in this case, all settings made earlier will be deleted and the router will return to the factory settings).
Next, you need to indicate the type of connection of the provider and if it is necessary to enter the login and password (you can get this information in the agreement with the provider or by calling technical support). In my case, the provider provides an automatic IP, so I immediately got the following menu offering to update the Zyxel Keenetic Omni firmware. Click "Update". Updating the firmware makes the router more stable, faster and fixes bugs that were found in the previous firmware.
In the next information window, confirming the installation of updates, click "Next".
Then you will be prompted to enable the Yandex.DNS function, if you do not plan to use IPTV, then this function can be enabled, if you use IPTV, it can block the viewing of TV programs.
This completes the quick configuration of the router and then you can go to the web configuration of the router for further settings.
As you may have noticed in the quick setup of the router, there were no Wi-Fi related settings. This is due to the fact that the Wi-Fi network has already been configured and in order to find out what it is called (its SSID) and password, it is enough to turn the router over and its sticker will indicate the network name and password for connection.
In my opinion, this is the right decision, since it provides the user with a ready-made secure Wi-Fi network with a complex password, and if you forget this password, you will always know where to look at it.
Setting up the Internet on Zyxel Keenetic Omni.
In order to set up an Intrent on Zyxel Keenetic Omni, you need to go to its web interface (as described above) go to the "Internet" tab and select the type of connection. The most common types of Internet protocols are PPTP, L2TP (connection is via a virtual private VPN) or PPPoE (access with login and password authorization), to configure one of them select the "PPPoE / VPN" tab and click "Add connection".
Then, in the connection settings window, select the protocol and fill in the login and password fields (for PPTP, L2TP, you also need to register the server name). You can find all this information in the agreement with the provider or by calling those. provider support.
If you automatically obtain an IP address, you do not need to do this, all settings will "come" automatically.
Updating the Zyxel Keenetic Omni firmware.
Video review of the Zyxel firmware update.
Updating the firmware is an integral attribute of the stable and fast operation of the router, so it is advisable to do it as often as possible. In order to install updates, go to the "System" menu, the "Components" tab.
Check that there are checkmarks above each menu item and at the very bottom, click the "Update" button.
After that, the process of downloading and installing updates will automatically start.
Setting up a Wi-Fi network on the Zyxel Keenetic Omni.
On the web interface of the router, go to the "Wi-Fi network" and in the "Access point" tab enter (or change):
Network name (SSID)- the name of your network, which will be seen by all devices on the Wi-Fi network.
Network key- enter the password to connect to the Wi-Fi network, I recommend using a complex password, at least 8 characters with upper and lower case letters, numbers and specials. characters ("#%. & ^ $ #).
The country- choose Russia Federation
Standard- 802.11bgn - this standard allows you to connect both obsolete and modern equipment.
Channel- Auto, or you can determine which channel you have more free and choose it, I described how to do this in the article - How to select / change the wireless channel on the router / router .
Signal strength- the range of the network depends on the signal strength, this must be taken into account when choosing.
Enable WPS- a function that allows you to securely connect a device via a Wi-Fi network without entering a password.
Finally, do not forget to click the "Apply" button to save the settings.
Zyxel Keenetic Omni makes it possible to configure, in addition to the main network, a guest network, it is designed to connect users who do not need access to a local network, only access to the Internet. It is very often used in offices to provide the Internet to employees who do not work for this company. In order to configure the guest network, select the "Wi-Fi" menu, the "Guest network" tab and specify its settings (they can be done by analogy with the main one, only with a different name and password or no password at all).
Network folder using Zyxel Keenetic Omni.
Using the Zyxel Keenetic Omni router, you can make a USB flash drive or hard drive network (accessible over the network). To do this, connect a USB flash drive or hard drive to the USB connector of the router. In the web interface of the router, go to the "Applications" menu - the "MS Windows Network" tab, all the checkboxes must be checked here and a USB drive must be added (it is automatically added). In addition, it is necessary to check the working group and if it is necessary to change the name of the balls (network name), for this click - Change.
You will go to the system settings, here you can specify the network name through which the folder will be available (by default, it is Keenectic_Omni) and check whether the same workgroup is used on your Windows computers that is registered here (on all computers on the network and on the router there should be one workgroup / domain name, default is Workgroup).
In order to get to the network folder, you must click Start (or the keyboard shortcut Win + R) and enter \\<сетевое имя>(e.g. \\ Keenectic_Omni)
A network folder will open (i.e. a USB flash drive or hard drive connected to the router).
Setting up a torrent client on a Zyxel Keenetic Omni router.
The Zyxel Keenetic Omni router is able to act as a client for downloading and distributing torrents, i.e. you can simply copy the torrent file or specify the URL and the router, without the help of a computer, will be able to download files to a USB flash drive or a hard disk connected to it. The only drawback of this method is the limitation of the download speed from torrents - up to 5 MB / s to ensure the stable operation of the main functions of the Keenetic. But if you consider that the router can not be turned off at all and it can swing 24 hours a day, then this is not such a drawback, in my opinion.
Before you start setting up a torrent on your router, connect a USB flash drive or external hard drive to it. Go to the Zyxel Keenetic Omni web interface in the Applications menu in the Swap file tab. Enabling the paging file is necessary for a faster operation of the router. We tick the box "Use swap file", indicate the drive and indicate the size, the optimal router writes to use 256 Mbit, we will not argue with him and indicate this size. At the end, don't forget to click the "Apply" button.
Now you can start configuring the torrent directly, for this, in the same menu, select the "BiTtorrent Client" tab, check the "Enable" box, you can leave the pot numbers by default and select the connected USB flash drive or external hard drive in the "File storage directory" field. It will automatically create a transmission folder for service files and your downloads (download folder). Finally, click "Apply".
In order to manage (add, delete) torrents there is a web interface, to get to it, enter my.keenetik.net:8090 in the address bar of the browser, go 192.168.1.1:8090. Then you will need to enter a password and login (it is the same as for connecting to the router's web interface) and as a result you will open the torrent web interface on the Zyxel Keenetic Omni. In order to add a torrent, click on the folder in the upper left corner and specify the path to the torrent file or URL, see where it will save the flash drive file / transmission / download (this path can be changed). Click the "Ok" button.
As a result, you will see the process of downloading the file. You can add more torrnets in the same way.
DLNA setup on the Zyxel Keenetic Omni router.
DLNA protocol provides the ability to view the contents of media over the network on TV and other devices. In other words, if your TV supports DLNA function, you can connect a USB flash drive or external hard drive to the router and view its contents on the TV.
In order to configure this function on the router, go to the router's web interface in the Applications menu, DLNA Server tab, check the Enable box and specify the file directory.
After that, turn on the DLNA function on the TV and you will see the contents of the USB flash drive or hard drive.
For example, on a Philips TV, you need to press the house icon on the remote and select "Browse PC" from the menu.
After that, you will see the contents of the connected USB flash drive or external hard drive to the router.
Setting up a printer on the Zyxel Keenetic Omni.
By connecting the printer to Zyxel Keenetic Omni, it is easy to make it network and connect to all computers / laptops in the network. Convenience is that computers / laptops do not need to be connected directly to the printer, they can be connected via Wi-Fi to a router and use a network printer.
To configure a network printer, connect the printer to the USB router, Then go to the router's web interface in the "System Monitor" menu, the "USB" tab, here you should see your printer and its status should be READY.
In principle, this is where the setup is complete, in order to connect a network printer, read the article Connecting and Configuring a Network Printer in Windows (second part of the article). For example, here's what I found on the network by connecting an Epson L800 printer to a router.
Changing the function of the buttons on the Zyxel Keenetic Omni.
As I wrote earlier, the function of pressing the buttons can be programmed, for example, there is an FN button - which is designed for this, that you will program it for any actions in case of pressing. In order to select the function when pressing the buttons, go to the web interface of the router in the "System" menu, the "Buttons" tab and select the button to specify the actions. Do not forget to save the result by clicking the "Apply" button.
Setting up IPTV on Zyxel Keenetic Omni.
In order to use the IPTV function on a router, you need to do a number of simple steps:
1 Update the router's firmware (how to do it is described above)
2 Check if the IPTV function is turned on. To do this, on the web interface of the router, go to the "Home network" tab "IGMP Proxy" and check that the Enable IGMP Proxy function is ticked
3 just in case, turn off Yandex.DNS. To do this, on the web interface of the router, go to the "Security" menu - the "Yandex.DNS" tab and uncheck the "Enable" checkbox
In this article, I reviewed all the basic settings of Zyxel Keenetic Omni, I really hope that you liked the presentation of the information and turned out to be useful. If you have any questions or wishes, you can post them in the comments.
Zyxel Keenetic Omni setup video.
Today we will consider ZyXEL Keenetic Omni and ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II... In one review, we will consider them for the reason that they have the same hardware and functionality, and their differences are cosmetic. In fact, they are one and the same device, with minor design changes. You can also add here ZyXEL Keenetic Lite III, ZyXEL Keenetic Lite II, ZyXEL Keenetic 4G, ZyXEL Keenetic 4G II... In fact, this is one and the same device with the same filling, and the old or updated design, as indicated by II or III in the model, as well as in the Lite versions there is no USB, and in the 4G versions it is present, but intended for USB connection modems. These are all distinctive features. Only the Giga and Extra versions have real differences. So our today's review will cover almost the entire line of ZyXEL Keenetic wireless routers, except for the younger and older models.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni delivery set
The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni wireless router comes in a standard box for the line. The difference between ZyXEL Keenetic Omni and ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II is that the second version has an application for controlling the router.
The box contains the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni itself, a power adapter, a cable for connecting to a PC, a detailed user manual and a warranty card. I was glad that the Keenetic series is a domestic development.
Appearance of ZyXEL Keenetic Omni
The appearance of the entire line, even the older models, does not differ. This is a "brick", the upper part of which is glossy, which I don't like, so I still haven't removed the sticker from the Giga, and the pattern is in the form of waves. On the bottom right side there is a WPS button. The lower part is made of glossy plastic. The side ends have a grid wall for the cooling system. Omni, 4G models also have USB on the side. The only difference is in the form and location of antennas and the presence or absence of USB. The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni has two round antennas located behind the device. The ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II antennas have been moved to the side ends and have a more interesting shape. By the way, the side antennas have become a good solution, since they do not interfere with the connection of the interfaces behind the router.
From the front end, the ZyXEL Keenetic Omni has 9 LED indicators. Rulers without USB have 8 LEDs. The LEDs are green with medium brightness. The LEDs indicate the presence of power, connection to WAN and 4 LAN ports, connection of the Wi FI module, the presence of the Internet or search for a line, as well as USB connections on all devices where the port is available.
At the back are faded connections: a customizable button that can be configured to turn on / off the Wi Fi module, WPS, or safely remove USB devices. Under the button there is a reset button to factory settings - Reset. Then there are 100Mbps WAN and 4 LANs, a power button and a connector for a power adapter. Line II has a customizable button on the side.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni hardware configuration
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni, like other models, except for older versions, is based on a MediaTek MT7620N processor with a frequency of 580 MHz, 8 MB of flash memory for 64 MB DDR firmware. 802.11 b / g / n wireless controller with speeds up to 300 Mbps 2.4 GHz. And also in models with USB - USB 2.0.
As you can see from the characteristics, they are much worse than the Xiaomi Mi Mini Router at the same or even higher price. The only thing is that ZyXEL Keenetic Omni allows you to work out of the box, at a time when Xiaomi will have to flash, moreover, it is quite difficult.
Connection and operation of ZyXEL Keenetic Omni
When you connect the device to a computer, it will immediately prompt you to enter your username and password from your Internet, after which it immediately starts working. ZyXEL Keenetic has a unified embedded software NDMS2 with a modular structure and an auto-update system via the Internet. The modules contain additional services, which, if desired, can be enabled and disabled. For example, if you do not need a Torrent client, you can disable this module.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni has connection support IPoE, PPPoE, PPTP and L2TP... In addition, ZyXEL Keenetic Omni can work as a repeater and access point, has the ability to connect via Wi Fi connection, Wi Fi client mode, connect via USB modem, 802.1x and KABiNET authorizer.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni supports setting up various connections, giving them connection priority. The Ping Check module helps to monitor the health of communication channels. In case of bad ping, the device tries to connect to another signal source.
I think to describe such standard features as NAT, DHCP, VLAN, filtering DNS requests, firewall, etc. doesn't make sense. All this is in ZyXEL Keenetic Omni.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni supports work IPTV by protocol IGMP... Has the ability to allocate a port to set-top boxes, also has a built-in server udpxy.
The wireless router supports IPv6, packet capture module, user authentication for file access, transmission file upload system, server DLNA, the work of a large number of USB modems and printers (relevant for models with USB, except 4G).
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni allows you to configure controls and access restrictions, such as parental controls. For this, a firewall is used, which allows you to configure rules for each interface. SkyDNS and Yandex.DNS services allow filtering by words and sites. Despite the fact that the advanced features of SkyDNS are paid, the basic ones are enough to prevent children from surfing porn sites. In addition, it is possible to set these rules not only for the entire network, but also for a specific connection, as well as for a specific device.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni allows you to add devices to the home group by giving them meaningful names. You can select one of the connected devices and give it a name, as well as set the IP address that will be issued by the DHCP server. Quite a handy feature to avoid IP address conflicts. In this case, you can set the name and address for each specific port, if the device has several connection interfaces.
The auto-update system will show which modules you have installed, which ones are not, and for which modules an update has appeared. You can select the modules you need, as well as disable unnecessary ones, and then update.
Working with USB ZyXEL Keenetic Omni
This applies to all devices of the ZyXEL Keenetic family with a USB port, except for 4G models, where the port serves only for connecting USB modems.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni supports FAT32, NTFS, EXT2, EXT3 and NFS + file systems. My 2TB Seagate HDD picked up no problem. It is possible to provide access to work with drives. Network access is carried out via SMB / CIFS protocols as well as FTP. You can also set up a network of servers Microsoft Windows, DLNA, BitTorrent. Remote control via the Internet is possible.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the ZyXEL Keenetic line turned out to be wonderful. Everyone can choose a device for the price and the features they need. Is ZyXEL Keenetic Omni better than Xiaomi Mi Mini Router? The question is difficult, all this can be achieved on Xiaomi by means of firmware, while having a prettier router that supports work in two ranges of networks. At the same time, Xiaomi has higher characteristics. However, the firmware of the device is quite complicated and at your own peril and risk. In ZyXEL Keenetic Omni everything works out of the box, but only works at 2.4 GHz, 4 LAN ports versus 2 Xiaomi. In general, you need to choose an access point based on your needs and knowledge. Is it worth updating the old line with a new one? No, no and NO. If you decide to purchase your first device from ZyXEL, you should take a new line, since it is cheaper and the antennas are on the sides, and a little prettier. If you already have ZyXEL Keenetic Omni, then you will spend money on exactly the same device, only with different locations and types of antennas.
ZyXEL Keenetic Omni was purchased by a friend, ZyXEL Keenetic Omni II was purchased by his brother when his ASUS N12 could not pull a TV and two laptops. One device was purchased more than a year ago (yes, I am writing articles at such a speed))), the second more than 8 months. During all this time, none of the devices has ever "lied down".
The Zyxel company does not tire of delighting us with more and more new routers (routers) of the ZyXEL Keenetic series. And, despite the variety of models presented, various technical features and characteristics, as well as the software part of all devices, are almost identical, and the settings are made in the same way. And in this faq we will deal with setting up, updating the software of the ZyXEL Keenetic series routers. If you are wondering if this article is for you, then here is a complete list of router models for which the presented settings are suitable: Show →
ZyXEL Keenetic Lite; ZyXEL Keenetic Lite II; ZyXEL Keenetic Start; ZyXEL Keenetic; ZyXEL Keenetic II; ZyXEL Keenetic 4G; ZyXEL Keenetic 4G II; ZyXEL Keenetic Omni; ZyXEL Keenetic Giga; ZyXEL Keenetic Giga II; ZyXEL Keenetic Ultra.
All routers from the list work under the control of the NDMS V2 firmware, which is why the settings are made identically. And if suddenly your model is not in the list (this is possible if the router appeared after the article was written), then look at your model on the zyxel.ru website, in the "Support" section, check which firmware your router uses.
First connection of Zyxel Keenetic
To start working with the Zyxel Keenetic series router, it is enough to power the router and connect to it for the initial setup. Let's see how to do it. Show →
After connecting the power supply, Zyxel Keenetic will immediately start to turn on, it takes about 1 minute. If you suddenly did not start to turn on, look - perhaps your model has a power button (it is located at the back, next to the power socket).
After turning on, we can connect to the router to complete the initial configuration, this can be done in two ways:
over a wireless Wi-Fi network. After turning on, the router immediately creates a Wi-Fi network, the network name and password for connection are written on a sticker on the bottom of the router; via Ethernet (using a wire). Everything is simple here - just connect the router and the network card of your computer with a twisted pair cable (included in the kit). It does not matter which connector to connect the cable to the router - now all Zyxel Keenetic models are supplied with NDMS V2 firmware (the operating mode of the connector - LAN / WAN is determined automatically). If you suspect that your router has an old version of the firmware on the first connection, connect the twisted pair cable to the yellow socket.If you just need to create a network between several devices, then no configuration is required - just connect all devices to Zyxel Keenetic and they will "see" each other.
Basic setup of Zyxel Keenetic
Internet connection: Show →
It all depends on the provider: unfortunately, there is no universal instruction. If no configuration is required, or you already have a configured router or modem, and you want to connect Zyxel Keenetic to it, then simply connect the devices with a twisted pair cable, then turn on Zyxel Keenetic. The router himself will understand what is required of him. If setting is required, check the settings with your provider and go to "First login to the WEB-interface (Quick setup)".
First login to the WEB-interface (Quick setup): Show →
If setting is required to access the Internet, and we know its parameters, then let's see where and how to specify them.
First of all, connect the twisted pair cable (network cable) of your provider to the router, and the router to the computer (see "The first connection of Zyxel Keenetic").
Access point
Let's see what settings are available to us on the "Access Point" tab:
- "Enable access point" - checkbox to enable / disable Wi-Fi network.
- "Network name (SSID)" - you can set the name of the network (as your Wi-Fi network will be called).
- "Hide SSID" - you can hide the network name, then it will not be visible in the list of available networks (but the devices on which this Wi-Fi network was saved, and the automatic connection option is enabled, will automatically connect to the wireless network as before) ...
- "Network protection" - here you can select the type of password encryption for connecting to the Wi-Fi network. If you do not have antediluvian computers with WinXP SP2, then choose "WPA2-PSK". If there are legacy devices, you can select "WPA-PSK + WPA2-PSK". If you want an open network, then choose "No".
- "Network key" is a password that must be entered to connect to a Wi-Fi network, for WPA2 it must be at least 8 characters (Latin letters and numbers). Keys 1-4 are used for WEP encryption, but it is rarely used.
- "Standard" is a communication standard, for a successful connection your network card must comply with the selected standard. I recommend choosing "802.11bgn", all devices should work with it.
- "Channel" is the frequency at which the wireless network will broadcast, select "Auto" - then the router itself will determine the least noisy frequency and will work on it.
- "Signal strength" - signal strength, 25% will be enough for an average apartment; if the signal is weak in some places, you can increase it.
After all the necessary settings have been specified, do not forget to click "Apply". If you were connected to the router via Wi-Fi, then after changing most of the available settings, you will disconnect from the network, and you will need to re-select the network and connect to it.
When changing the password, you should also change the network name (otherwise, to connect, you may need to manually delete the old saved network on the device from which you are connecting).
Guest network
The essence of the guest network is that the devices connected to it have access to the Internet through your router, but do not have access to your home network (the parameters of which are set on the "Access point" tab). After turning on the guest network in the list of available networks, you will see a new network, which will be completely independent from your home network.
All settings are almost identical to the settings in the "Access Point" tab, so there is no point in describing them. But it is worth paying attention to the "IP Settings for Guest Access". In general, everything should be left as it is, but just in case - "DHCP address pool size" is equal to the maximum possible number of devices connected to the guest network.
Access list
This tab provides the ability to control access to the network created by the router using MAC addresses (MAC address is a unique identifier of a network device). The function is very convenient if you have a fixed number of devices connected to the router, and you do not plan to connect more to the router. Then you can add their MAC addresses to the "white" list, and only they will be able to connect to the router.
The following blocking modes are possible:
- "Do not block" - entered MAC addresses are not taken into account in any way;
- "White list" - only those devices whose MAC addresses are in the list will be able to connect to the router's network;
- "Blacklist" - only those devices whose MAC addresses are in the list will not be able to connect to the router's network.
To add a new MAC address to the list, click "Add Address", in the window that appears, specify the MAC address and click "Save".
The MAC address of the device can be viewed, if it is connected to Zyxel Keenetic, in the "Home network" section (the icon with two miniature monitors at the bottom left) or at the link http://192.168.1.1/RU/hosts.html.
Connecting a USB modem to Zyxel Keenetic
You can connect a USB modem (3G / 4G) to all Keenetic series routers (except Lite / Lite II, Start routers) to access the Internet, this feature is widely used. Let's see how to connect the Modem to the Zyxel Keenetic. Show →
In fact, everything is very simple - turn off the router, connect the Yota Modem to the USB connector, turn on the router. Everything should work (the modem must be determined by the router).
You can check whether the modem is determined or not on the main page of the router's WEB interface - information about the new connection should appear there.
Yota modem is connected to the router
If the modem is not detected, try resetting to factory settings (for 15 seconds, press the "RESET" button on the device case). If it does not help, make sure that the software version of the router is up to date and update if necessary.
Saving and restoring Zyxel Keenetic settings
It is often necessary, for one reason or another, to save the current configuration of the router (for example, to transfer it to a similar device or to restore the configuration after a firmware update). On Zyxel Keenetic routers, of course, the ability to save and restore settings is provided.
Saving Zyxel Keenetic settings: Show →
1) Open the "System" section, the "Files" tab on the WEB-interface of the router (the page is also available via the direct link - http://192.168.1.1/RU/files.html).
2) Click on the "startup-config" file.
Restoring Zyxel Keenetic settings: Show →
1) As well as when saving the settings, go to the WEB-interface in the "System" section, the "Files" tab (the page is also available via the direct link - http://192.168.1.1/RU/files.html).
2) Click on "startup-config" and in the dialog box that appears, click "Select file", select the previously saved "startup-config" file from the computer. After we press "Replace".
Choosing "Replace"
3) In theory, the router should reboot itself with the new settings, but in practice, for some reason, this does not always happen (it may depend on the model / firmware version). Therefore, go to the "Restart" tab and click "Restart".
The router will reboot and start working with the settings from the file.
Updating the firmware (firmware) Zyxel Keenetic
Let's take a look at how to update the Zyxel Keenetic firmware. There is one peculiarity here, a number of models were previously released with a fundamentally different firmware from the NDMS V2, in new models it was abandoned.
The old firmware looks something like this:
Old firmware
The new (current) firmware (NDMS V2) looks something like this:
NDMS Firmware V2
Updating Zyxel Keenetic with an old firmware version: Show →
There are several nuances that should be taken into account - when updating, all settings will be lost - you cannot transfer them to the new version (you will have to configure again). Rollback is quite difficult to do.
Let's get started (the router must be connected to the Internet):
zyxel.ru
2) Go to the WEB-interface of the router (http://192.168.1.1), go to the "System" section, select "Firmware" there.
Installing the firmware
3) Click "Browse" and select the previously downloaded firmware file * .bin, click update.
4) Wait for the process to complete, it may take up to 3 minutes. The router will reboot during the update process.
Updating Zyxel Keenetic with a new firmware version (NDMS V2): Show →
1) Open the WEB-interface of the router (http://192.168.1.1).
2) On the "System Monitor" page, we find the "System Information" block and there we are looking for the "Updates" line. If a newer version of the firmware is available (than the current one), then next to the line "Updates" there will be a link "Available".
Update available
3) Click on "Available". A section of the "Components" tab will open (in the "System" section), where we will be asked to install updates. Click "Ok" and wait for the update to be downloaded and installed.
This method has one drawback - an Internet connection must be configured. But it may turn out that the firmware needs to be updated, but the connection to the Internet is not configured on the router. Therefore, there is the following opportunity to perform the update under such conditions:
1) Download the current version of the firmware for your router model from the zyxel.ru website. Extract the * .bin file from the archive.
2) Open the "System" section, the "Files" tab on the WEB-interface of the router (the page is also available via the direct link - http://192.168.1.1/RU/files.html).
3) Click on the "firmware" file, and in the opened dialog box, first select "Select file" - select the firmware file * .bin, then click "Replace".
4) We are waiting for the installation to complete.
We will definitely talk about more complex settings in future articles. If you are interested in a specific topic, or if you have questions, write in the comments.
