Wi-Fi router Zyxel Keenetic Ultra II - Reviews. Connection for PPPoE
Internet centers from the manufacturer “ZyXEL” have long gained popularity among the Russian population. This is largely facilitated by relatively low prices on Kinetic brand routers with their consistently high build quality and hardware power, which allows them to effectively compete with models of the same price line. Below is detailed review new products from the Zixel company: Zyxel Keenetic Ultra II.
What are the differences between the model?
The main feature is to ensure high performance of the Internet center, which is equipped with a dual-core SoC MediaTek MT7621A (operating at a frequency of 880 MHz), as well as 256 Mb RAM.
With installation and update software The user will not have a shortage of space thanks to the voluminous built-in memory of 128 Mb.
Among the many functionality The following should be particularly noted:
- A convenient option has been introduced parental controls called "SkyDNS";
- For convenient setup and management, there are special programs in the Google play market and the iOS app store;
- Using IPSec VPN technology, you can connect networks or connect to others;
- Ability to work simultaneously with several Internet providers, which ensures uninterrupted communication;
- Equipping the device with connectors USB modern standards allows use in local network one printer connected to the router and send documents for printing from any devices via Wi-Fi. You can also connect to USB ports if necessary. external drives or 4G/3G modem from mobile operator communications;
- Thanks to support for 802.11ac and dual-band WiFi broadcasting, the point can operate even in particularly interference-rich areas. This is relevant in apartment buildings, since today almost every apartment has its own wireless network;
- Eight gigabit ports provide maximum speed of interaction between all computers on the local network;
- Relatively low cost for devices with similar equipment (about $27).
Users with access only to telephone line, will be pleased with the fact that it supports DSL. The manufacturer provides a special remote USB device “Keenetic Plus DSL” for this purpose. And if necessary, by connecting “Keenetic Plus DECT”, the router can be used as a mini-PBX. 
Packaging and equipment
The review would not be complete without mentioning the packaging and its contents. Traditionally, the box contains a photograph of the router and its characteristics. It should be noted that everything is described in Russian, so the buyer does not have to guess what he will receive after purchasing the device.
The manufacturer carefully packed everything necessary for putting the equipment into operation.
The complete list consists of the following elements:
- The Kinetic Ultra device itself with the index “Two”;
- Patch cord;
- Adapter for connecting to the mains alternating current 220 V;
- Instructions and warranty card.
Appearance
Traditionally, the manufacturer used glossy plastic to make the case (its dimensions: 186x120x38 mm). On a black surface, the signature pattern looks quite stylish. Due to the eight ports located on the rear panel of the device, external antennas (each 16 cm long) are mounted on the side. Greens indicator lights not annoying even in dark time days thanks to the optimal selection of their brightness.
On the side, many ventilation holes provide excellent cooling of the router’s hardware components. USB are placed far apart, which is very convenient when connecting 2 to them at the same time external devices. The “FN” keys are also installed here, which are configured through the router’s web panel.
On the rear panel, in addition to the 8-gigabit connectors, there is a switch, a power supply socket, and a key recessed into the body for resetting the settings.
A pair of front legs are designed to ensure reliable mounting on the wall in any position, and when installed on a horizontal surface, the rear polymer legs will not allow the device to slide. 
Internal structure of the device
A dual-core processor will allow you to work without frequent interruptions even in a small office, and when used at home, a forced reboot of the router will be a very rare occurrence.
A Wi-Fi module operating at 2.4 GHz can operate at speeds reaching 300 Mbit/s, and if you use the 5 GHz capabilities of the router, this figure reaches 867 Mbit/s. In addition to the external ones, there is also one internal antenna. Special heat distribution plates allow operation without overheating even under increased loads. 
Entering parameters and functionality
Now it's time to move on to a review of functionality and software. Fans of the brand will be pleased with the familiar web panel. You can upgrade the firmware through a special online resource for the hardware developer simple method updates, and also provides the ability to install software from a file.
The main settings window has 7 tabs. Many users note the ease of entering parameters due to the presence of a Russian version of the program.
In the " System Monitor» contains all the necessary means to monitor the functions of the equipment.
The router works with all modern protocols: PPTP, IPoE, L2TP, PPPoE, 802.1x, USB modems.
In order to increase connection stability, we implemented convenient setup switching multiple WANs, the user simply needs to independently determine the priorities.
Easy commissioning
Provided quick setup. To do this, you need to perform the following sequential steps:
Setting up a connection to the global network
You need to do the following:
- Go to the “Internet” tab;
- Open the “List” subsection;
- Check the box “Enable”;
- In the “Broadband connection” column, check the Internet connector;
- Next, go to the “Authorization” section, where several connection options are possible:
Input for WiFi
The algorithm of actions consists of the following stages:
Software Update
The router itself will analyze the need to update the firmware the first time you connect to the network. After this, a notification will be displayed in the settings window with a recommendation for their installation.
The owner of the router only needs to agree to the proposal, and the device will download the upgrades itself.
Note: during a software update, you can only observe the process, and it is not allowed to restart the router or turn it off, the same applies to the computer to which the device is connected. If these requirements are not met, there is a high probability of equipment failure.
After the procedure is completely completed, the router will restart in automatic mode and connect to the network.
This router from ZyXEL is designed for a convenient and reliable connection to the Internet at home. With its help, all the equipment in the apartment can be connected to the network, while simultaneously wandering around World Wide Web, connecting by Wi-Fi laptops, PCs, tablets, phones, as well as Smart TVs. ZYXEL KEENETIC ULTRA makes it possible to organize fault-tolerant network access using channel reservation (if one provider does not work, the system will switch to another). Learn how to properly set up this device for efficient operation.
Users have already appreciated the efficiency and reliability of the device
- 2 USB ports, WAN, 5xLAN ports;
- IEEE 802.11;
- power supply from 12 V or through a special power supply;
- up to 450 Mbit/s via Wi-Fi;
- 310 grams;
- 4 control buttons (FN, reset, turning off Wi-Fi, nutrition);
- three non-removable antennas.
The kit includes instructions, network patch cord, warranty, power supply.
The design of this model differs from its predecessors in the ZyXEL series of routers. The device is made in black; glossy plastic was used in the manufacture of the case.
All cables are connected on the rear panel, the front panel is filled with various indicators:
- red status indicator (if it is on, the device is turned on and working correctly, blinking frequently - the firmware is being updated, rarely blinking - the router is loading (if the process continues for a long time, the device may not work), off - it is turned off);
- blue Wi-Fi indicator (on - the mode is on, off - off, blinking rarely - WPS is on, blinking quickly - data is being transferred);
- green LAN indicators (flashing or lit - connection established, off - cable not connected);
- pink USB indicator (lit - a USB device is connected, off - no equipment detected, blinking - preparing to disconnect the device);
- yellow Internet indicator (on - connection established, off - authorization failed).
Web interface
All manipulations during setup of the ZYXEL KEENETIC ULTRA router must be performed in graphical interface. First of all, you need to enter the numbers “192.168.1.1” in the browser. After this, you will see the authorization panel, where you need to enter your login/password (admin/1234 - for new devices).
It is better to replace the standard password with your own. To do this, go to the “Password” item in the “System” section. Come up with an encryption code and enter it in the “New password” line. The Apply button will help you save the changes you have made. Go ahead.
Wi-Fi setup
In the router interface, you must select the “Wi-Fi” item. After this you need to do the following:
- come up with a name for your network SSID (“Network Name”);
- in order not to distribute the Internet to just anyone, create a password (“Network Key”);
- “Network security” - WPA2-PSK;
- "Channel" - Auto.
Internet setup
The ZYXEL KEENETIC ULTRA device can be configured in various modes: PPTP, DHCP, L2TP (Beeline) and PPPoE (Dom.ru, Rostelecom). Let's try to figure out all the options.
DHCP setup
In the web interface you are already familiar with, you need to go to the “Internet” item. Next, you should select ISP (Broadand connection), enter the numbers 1500 next to the “MTU size” field and enable auto configuration of IP parameters. After that you can enjoy the Internet.
L2TP setup
To set up World Wide Web for KEENETIC ULTRA in the specified mode, you must select the following parameters in the “Internet” section of the interface:
- enter the name of your connection in the “Description” field;
- L2TP protocol;
- verification method - Auto;
- copy the server address, password and user name from the contract issued by the provider.
Having dealt with all the points, you can safely save the settings.
Setting up PPTP
If your computer receives a local IP address in auto mode, find the “Authorization” section in the router interface. You will need to fill in the fields here in a certain way:
- PPTP - Type (protocol);
- connect via ISP;
- the address, password and username are issued by the provider company, this information must be taken from the contract;
- the remaining elements can be left untouched.
Click “Apply” for the new router settings to take effect.
Setting up PPPoE
As in previous options, you need to change settings in the “Internet” section of the interface KEENETIC router ULTRA. It is enough to enable auto configuration of IP parameters, enter the user pass/login issued by the provider, and also switch the protocol type to “PPPoE”. As for the authentication method, it is recommended to select the "Auto" option. The remaining lines do not need to be changed.
Firmware
The performance of KEENETIC ULTRA can be improved; for this it is important to update the firmware. This is not difficult to do, the main thing is to follow our instructions:
- Before flashing the firmware, connect to the router using a cable. Firmware via Wi-Fi is not possible.
- Download current version Software from the developer's website.
- Go to the “Files” item in the “System” section in the KEENETIC ULTRA web interface (in some versions of the interface this item may be called “Configuration”).
- Click on the firmware file name.
- Unpack the downloaded archive to a convenient place, then select the path to the *.bin firmware file.
- Press the "Replace" key.
The procedure may take certain time, do not turn off the computer or router from the power supply, such manipulations can damage the equipment.
After flashing the firmware, the router will reboot, after which it can be used again.
Results
By using KEENETIC router ULTRA can provide any apartment with Internet. The device is different fast transfer information via Wi-Fi, it provides a secure and reliable connection. Setting up the device is very easy if you read the information above.
You have become the owner of a new router Zyxel Keenetic Ultra and you already want to use all its capabilities, but don’t have time to wait for the wizard? We will help you cope with the connection and setup yourself. To configure the router, we will use the Quick Setup Wizard service. It will make it possible to connect to the Internet via an Ethernet line in several stages.
Connecting a router
With help network cable, which should be included in the basic configuration, we connect Zyxel Keenetic Ultra router to your computer. On a computer connected to the Internet, launch any browser and address bar enter the value 192.168.1.1. or the web address of the device in question is my.keenetic.net.
A welcome page should appear. Click “Quick setup”, thereby launching the Wizard, which will provide us with a connection. Thanks to him, we will not need to study the instructions for a long time and delve into technical details. All communication will be in a dialogue format.
Internet connection
If in the next window you see a message that the Internet cable is not connected, then connect the provider cable that is routed to your apartment into the blue port of the router. Click “Next”.
After checking that the connection is correct, in the next window the Wizard will prompt you to specify the MAC address, if any. Typically, providers do not use binding to MAC addresses and you need to check the line “My provider does not register MAC addresses.” Otherwise, if the MAC address is registered, you need to indicate it in the appropriate field. Click “Next”.
The next step is to configure the IP protocol parameters. In the “IP address setting” column, select “Automatic” from the proposed list if given address not registered by the provider.
In the case when you have received a static IP address, select and mark “Manual”. In the “Server” column we enter our IP address. In the fields that appear—IP address, Gateway, Subnet mask—enter the values provided by the provider. Click “Next”.
In the next window, the Wizard will prompt you to enter your login/username and password. If this data is specified in the agreement with the Internet service provider, then we enter it in the appropriate fields. If the login and password are not provided, then check the box “I do not have a password to access the Internet.” Click “Next”.
Now we need to select and mark the connection type. This data can be found in the agreement with the provider. From the list presented, select the desired option and click “Next”.
If all parameter values are set correctly, the router will establish a connection to the Internet. After checking that all device components are up to date, the router may require updates. To do this, click “Update”. The device will automatically download all the necessary updates within a few minutes.
WiFi network
SettingsZyxel Keenetic Ultra is not completed yet because we have not configured the wireless network.
- Turn on “Access Point”;
- Enter the new network name in the “Network name” column;
- Select protection - WPA-PSK;
- We contribute New Password in the “Network Key” column;
- Click “Apply”.
The KEENETIC ULTRA II router was developed by ZyXEL for reliable connection of equipment in the home to TV and the Internet. The device is configured to work with provider companies that use different types connections. To access the network, just use the built-in VPN server(you don't have to be at home). The device has many advantages, and in this review we will look at them in more detail.
Users are satisfied with their choice
- Control and configuration are performed via special applications. Save time by using the utility for Android or iOS. Full control The network is provided by the My.Keenetic program.
- IPSec VPN will help you connect networks or connect to an office network.
- NDMS 2 OS and a managed switch allow you to connect to several providers at once. This solution will ensure constant Internet without unexpected interruptions. The router will switch to a normally functioning channel automatically. The main thing is to enable access checking and set priorities.
- IntelliQoS technology intelligently distributes speed across all devices. You will be able to watch IPTV or video online without interruptions (the system will not allow torrents and other applications to occupy the entire channel).
- Dual band access point. Thanks to signal amplifiers and antennas KEENETIC ULTRA II, the user receives high quality communications at high speed.
- USB ports for printers, storage devices and models. Maximum speed connected via this interface devices is 50 Mbit/s. The presence of two such ports is interesting feature new devices from ZyXEL. This will not require any special expenses from the manufacturer inside the device (all ports are connected to the host built into the SoC), but for the user this placement is very convenient.
- The VPN server allows you to access the network with mobile phone, wherever you are.
- Filtering using Yandex.DNS will help protect you from visiting malicious resources.
- SkyDNS. The option works through special service, parents can use it to keep an eye on how younger family members behave online. Simply select the categories available for viewing and apply filtering.
Specifications:
- RAM 256 Mb;
- 8 Ethernet ports;
- Wi-Fi;
- 4G/3G connection;
- DLNA server;
- 0...40 degrees Celsius;
- Transmission program for working with torrents;
- weight 310 grams.
The kit includes instructions, a patch cord, a power adapter (batteries with a capacity of 15–20 mAh can be recharged from 1.5–2 A) and the ZYXEL KEENETIC ULTRA II device itself.
Connection
At the first stage, it is important to correctly connect the device to the PC. To do this, connect with a patch cord network card"machines" and router. The provider cable must be connected to the WAN port of the device. After this, you can connect the router to the mains and turn on the power.
Quick setup
All settings are made in a convenient web interface. It’s not difficult to get into it: enter “192.168.1.1” in the browser, fill out the standard login/password fields (login - admin; pass - 1234).
After this, the system will invite you to the Setup Wizard. We recommend clicking on “Quick Setup” to understand the basic options.
In quick setup mode, you must enter the MAC address (if provided for in the provider agreement), and the type of IP address.
Once you have sorted out the addresses, you will be taken to the authorization parameters. Subsequent settings depend on the specific Internet provider.
If the company uses L2TP, PPTP, PPPoE connection (Dom.ru, most branches of Rostelecom, MTS, Beeline, TTK), then we recommend setting the following parameters:
- in the “I don’t have a password” field, uncheck the box;
- enter login/pass for ZYXEL KEENETIC ULTRA II;
- press the “Next” button.
Some providers (Rostelecom Udmurtia, TTK-Ural) use dynamic address. For them, check the box “I don’t have a password” and go to the next point.
This completes the quick setup, now you can proceed to manual setting through the interface.
Don’t forget to change the authorization information in the interface (the system itself will offer to change the standard login/pass). Now you can set the parameters for work.
Internet setup
Regardless of the provider, the initial procedure looks like this:
- Go to the “List” item in the “Internet” section.
- Broadband connection.
- Configure the WAN port. To do this, it is important to check the box next to the “Use connector” field.
- Check the box "Enable interface".
- Opposite “Obtain an address via DHCP”, uncheck the box.
Connection for PPPoE:
- “Description” - come up with a name;
- protocol type - PPPoE;
- server address - default;
- “Connect via” - ISP;
- password/login - issued by the provider.
The connection has been created!
Connection for L2TP (Beeline):
- L2TP protocol;
- “Enable” - check the box;
- “Description” - name the connection;
- login/password (see the contract issued by the provider);
- tp.internet.beeline.ru (server);
- “Connect via” - ISP.
Setting up DHCP and LAN server
Turn on " home network" in the interface. Here you will see several submenus. You can change the address of the device on the network in the “IP address” item. To turn on DHCP server, just check the box next to the “Enabled” position. Addresses from 1 to 32 are set statically, the rest will be assigned by the server in auto mode. The address pool can be changed if necessary. In addition, the user gets the opportunity to set their own DNS addresses.
Wi-Fi setup
Go to the “Operation mode” item in the “Wi-Fi” section. Then select the “Access Point” mode and fill in the fields as follows:
- Recommended security WPA/WPA2 - maximum level;
- network key - create your own password;
- name (SSID) - enter a name for the new ZYXEL networks KEENETIC ULTRA II;
- basic protection - do not change.
For the access point to start working, click “Apply”.
If you want to improve wireless communication between the router and the network devices that are connected to it, we recommend performing the following steps:
- for greater coverage, move the router to the center of the wireless network;
- update the firmware;
- install the device away from direct sunlight and metal barriers;
- open the router cooling vents;
- try to place the router away from powerful engines, refrigerators, cordless phones, fluorescent lamps.
Firmware
A review of this device would be incomplete without information about how to flash the router firmware. So, the router system will check the components for relevance at the start connection. If there are updates, a message will appear in the interface indicating that you can download them, then press the appropriate key. This way, the device will download the updates on its own. The process status will be shown in a separate window.
Flashing the router firmware takes some time; you cannot reboot the device during this period, and you should not turn off the computer. This could permanently damage your router!
If the process was successful, the router will reboot on its own and connect to the Internet.
Installing the update manually is also not difficult: download the archive with the firmware from the manufacturer’s resource, unpack it into separate folder and enter the folder path in the interface.
Results
The KEENETIC ULTRA II router has rich functionality and a well-thought-out interface. The device has good transfer speed. Setting it up is not difficult after reading this review.
In order to get to the router’s web interface, you need to open your Internet browser and type 192.168.1.1, User Name in the address bar admin (Username), Password (password) - 1234 (provided that the router has factory settings and its IP has not changed).
Changing the factory password
For security reasons, it is recommended to change the factory password. Default: Login admin, password 1234. In the router interface you need to go to the tab System;, Further password. In field New Password; Enter a new password. It must be repeated in the next field. Next, save the settings by pressing the button Apply;.
Setting up Wi-Fi on the router
WiFi.
- In the window that appears, in the field Network name (SSID) enter the name of your network (any).
- In field Network protection select WPA2-PSK.
- In field Network key Enter your password to access the network (any).
- In field Channel: select Auto.
- Enable WPS - uncheck the box
- Apply.
Setting up an Internet connection
NAT when automatically obtaining an IP address (DHCP)
- Select a section at the bottom of the page Internet.
- In the window that appears, click on Broadband connection (ISP).
3. In the field Configuring IP settings select Automatic.
4. In the field MTU size enter 1500
. After filling out these fields, click the button Apply.
Setting up PPTP (VPN) when automatically obtaining a local IP address
At the top of the page, select the tab Authorization.
- In field Type (protocol used) select PPTP.
- In field Connect via select Broadband connection (ISP).
- In field Server address enter Server name or address(check with your provider).
- In field Username Enter your login from the contract.
- In field Password enter your password from the agreement.
- In field Authentication method select Auto.
- - You don’t have to fill it out.
- After filling in all fields, click the button Apply.
Setting up a PPPoE connection (Rostelecom, Dom.ru)
Internet, in the list that opens, select Authorization:
- Type (protocol): PPPoE
- Username: Your login according to the contract
- Password: Your password according to the agreement
- Configuring IP parameters: Automatic
- Service Name, Hub Name, Description- You don’t have to fill it out.
- In field Authentication method select Auto.
- Save the settings with the button Apply.
Setting up an L2TP connection (Beeline)
In the router interface, you need to select the tab on the left Internet;, in the list that opens, select Authorization:
- Internet Access Protocol: L2TP
- Description: connection name
- Server address: server name or address (specified in the contract)
- Username: Your login according to the contract
- Password: Your password according to the agreement
- Authentication method: Auto.
- Save the settings with the button Apply.
