Can I use my own router with Hughesnet? Well, the short answer is yes, you can!
However, you still need to purchase the Hughesnet gateway, which houses the modem that you need for your service to work.
So, if you’re currently selecting a WiFi router for your Hughesnet services, and need to know the correct way to establish the setup, then this guide is just for you!
Let’s unwrap more!
How Can I Use My Own Router With HughesNet?
Typically, HughesNet provides everything you need for your internet and WiFi home setup, from installing the wiring to setting up your own gateway/modem.
In order to use your own router with HughesNet service, you need to connect your new router to the HughesNet modem via an Ethernet cable.
Sometimes, it’s necessary to switch the router’s IP due to a network conflict, but when ready, you can enjoy the benefits of your own WiFi router.
Advantages of Using Your Own Router!
Even though Hughesnet provides a free modem with every plan, having your own WiFi router will give you many more cool features to enjoy.
So, the major advantages are described below:
1. Faster WiFi Speeds!
The Hughesnet modem comes with up to 50 Mbps internet speed. Whereby you can purchase a router of your own that can top more than 1000 Mbps.
Then based on the HughesNet plan and internet speed, you will get the most out of your service when your WiFi router is better!
2. Advanced Controls
Even though Hughesnet allows users to access the control panel of their modem when you have your own router, you can do whatever you want.
Some advanced router models allow advanced features and much better control, as well as more parental control options.
3. Better WiFi Coverage!
We all know that some routers are simply better at spreading the WiFi signal than others.
Well, when selecting a router, selecting a unit with more antennas commonly resembles better WiFi reception, which means that you’ll be able to connect to the WiFi from any place in your home.
4. Cost-Saving
You can either rent or buy equipment from Hughesnet, which is a bit costly, for the performance you would receive.
So purchasing your own router will save you the rent money, which tops up at the end of the year, and provide you with a service-online payment in the long run.
Let’s unveil more critical facts!
How to Connect Router to Hughesnet Modem?
How can I use my own router with Hughesnet? We know the answer is yes, so let’s learn more about the setup!
There is nothing complex about connecting your own router to the Hughesnet modem; besides that, you’ll need to enter the settings and change the IP address.
This will ultimately prevent the router from conflicting with the modem’s network, saving you troubleshooting headaches later!
1. Prepare Hughesnet Modem!
The first step is to prepare your Hughesnet modem to be connected to the router.
In that regard, unplug your modem’s Ethernet cable if currently connected to a computer.
Then, verify that the modem is connected to the power and to the satellite signal cable (Hughesnet service cable).
2. Connect the Router to Your PC
Necessary: You’ll need a computer with an Ethernet port and Ethernet cable for this step!
Now you need to connect your own WiFi router to your computer to the Ethernet port of your PC or laptop so you can tweak the settings.
Note: Remember that for a wired connection later, you will need two Ethernet cables; one to connect the HughesNet modem to the router and one to connect the router to a computer.
3. Enter the Router Settings
When your router and PC are connected, open a web browser and insert “http://192.168.100.1/” into the search field.
You’ll be prompted to sign in, so try admin/admin or admin/password, and if these credentials are incorrect, consult with the router’s user manual for the login details.
4. Change Your Router’s IP
Within your router’s settings, look for the “Network” tab or “Advanced” section.
There, locate your router’s IP and change the address to “192.168.10.1”.
Then don’t forget to click the “Save” button to remember the changes and power cycle your router for an additional refresh.
5. Connect the Modem to the Router!
Finally, use an Ethernet cable to connect your Hughesnet modem (LAN port) to your router’s (internet) blue port.
Then your router will automatically acquire the necessary data from your Hughesnet modem and start functioning in a few minutes.
Tip: Tweak the router’s WiFi SSID and password as per your preference for greater security!
Does Every Router Work With HughesNet Modem?
Generally speaking, every router is compatible with the Hughesnet modem since the signal from the satellite is picked up and translated by the modem.
Then, you can either use the WiFi from the Hughesnet modem alone or connect your own router to benefit from various advantages.
Choosing a WiFi Router Compatible With Hughesnet!
When choosing a WiFi router for your Hughesnet modem, you shouldn’t be worried about compatibility rather than your internet speed.
So, based on the Hughesnet internet speeds, you must select a router that covers that speed, as well as not overpaying for something you don’t need.
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1. Routers for HughesNet 15 GB?
For the 25 GB Hughesnet satellite-only plan, you wouldn’t need the fastest router, except if you plan to upgrade to a faster internet speed.
If you’re satisfied with the 15 Mbps internet speed, then you can go with one of the following options:
ASUS AC1900 WiFi Router (RT-AC67P)
TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A8)
These units can handle up to 1300 Mbps. Hence the 15 Mbps download speed that comes with the 15 GB Hughesnet plan will be full speed.
The 3.125 download speed wouldn’t be an issue, and your Hughesnet service will work excellently on your own router.
2. Routers for HughesNet 50 GB?
For the 50 GB Hughesnet plan, you should get a decent router to enjoy the benefits of a better internet speed.
If you plan to use more devices at once, we recommend one of the following:
NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router (R6700AXS)
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router (RAX43)
These routers are an excellent choice for users who want to upgrade their old WiFi router to match their new Hughesnet internet speeds.
If you have no intention of upgrading the internet plan in the future, then getting one of these routers would be your best choice.
3. Routers for HughesNet 100/200 GB?
If you have one of the top-speed and data Hughesnet plans, we recommend getting a high-end router to handle your Hughesnet internet speed.
The 25/50 Mbps Hughesnet plans are a great opportunity to select a router that will surpass your expectations, so check out these options:
Gryphon Tower Super-Fast Mesh WiFi Router
NETGEAR Nighthawk Multi-Gig Cable Modem (CM2000)
These beasts are the performance leaders on the market and are capable of handling the top internet speeds that providers offer.
With one of these machines, you’ll have access to all network features, have excellent home coverage, and benefit from your fast Hughesnet plan.
Note: All of these routers are compatible with your Hughesnet satellite internet as long as you’ve got a Hughesnet modem set up and ready to go.
Quick Recap:
Can I use my own router with Hughesnet? Yes, you can use any router by connecting the unit to an existing Hughesnet modem via an Ethernet cable.
Sometimes, you would need to change the router’s IP to prevent conflicts with the modem, and you’re ready to go!
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Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.