1. Introduction
The GL.iNet Puli GL-XE300 is a portable 4G LTE Smart VPN Router designed for versatile use in home, business, and IoT applications. Featuring OpenWrt support and extensive storage compatibility, it offers a flexible platform for developing DIY IoT projects. Its built-in 5000mAh rechargeable battery ensures portability, allowing you to maintain connectivity wherever you go. The router supports maximum 300 Mbps (2.4GHz) Wi-Fi speeds and is compatible with over 30 VPN providers, offering enhanced online security and privacy.
GL.iNet Puli GL-XE300 router, front view, highlighting key features: Max. 300 Mbps (2.4GHz) Wi-Fi Speeds, Supports MicroSD Cards up to 512GB, Built-in 5000mAh Battery, Compatible with 30+ VPN Providers.
2. Package Contents
The GL.iNet Puli GL-XE300 package typically includes:
- GL.iNet Puli GL-XE300 4G LTE Smart VPN Router
- Power Adapter (5V/2A or 5V/3A, depending on battery inclusion)
- USB Cable
3. Device Overview
The GL-XE300 features a compact design with essential ports and indicators for easy operation.
Ports and Slots:
- 1 x WAN Ethernet Port (10/100M)
- 1 x LAN Ethernet Port (10/100M)
- 1 x USB 2.0 Port
- 1 x MicroSD Slot (supports up to 512GB)
- 1 x Nano SIM Card Slot
- 1 x Reset Button
LED Indicators:
The device is equipped with multiple LED indicators to show its status:
- Power Supply Indicator
- PWR Status Indicator
- WAN Status Indicator
- LAN Status Indicator
- Wireless Status Indicator
- 3G/4G Status Indicator
- Battery Power Indicator
Angled view of the GL-XE300 router, showing the power button, WAN and LAN ports, and LED indicators.
4. Initial Setup
4.1. Insert SIM Card
- Ensure the device is powered off.
- Locate the Nano SIM card slot.
- Carefully insert your Nano SIM card with an active data plan into the slot until it clicks into place.
4.2. Insert MicroSD Card (Optional)
- Ensure the device is powered off.
- Locate the MicroSD card slot.
- Carefully insert your MicroSD card into the slot.
4.3. Power On
- Using Battery: Press and hold the power button until the power indicator lights up.
- Using External Power: Connect the router to a power source using the provided power adapter and USB cable. The device will power on automatically or can be turned on by pressing the power button.
4.4. Connect to Wi-Fi
- On your computer or mobile device, search for available Wi-Fi networks.
- Select the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) displayed on the router's label.
- Enter the default Wi-Fi password (also found on the router's label).
4.5. Access Web UI
- Open a web browser and navigate to
192.168.8.1. - Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup, including setting a new administrator password and configuring your internet connection.
5. Operating Modes
5.1. 4G LTE Hotspot
The GL-XE300 functions as a portable 4G LTE hotspot, providing internet access via a Nano SIM card. Once the SIM is inserted and configured, the device will broadcast a Wi-Fi signal, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet.
5.2. Wi-Fi Router
In addition to 4G LTE, the device can operate as a standard Wi-Fi router, connecting to an existing wired internet source via its WAN port and broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal.
5.3. VPN Client/Server
The router supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, allowing you to establish secure VPN connections. It can act as both a VPN client (connecting to a VPN server) or a VPN server (allowing remote access to your local network). It is compatible with over 30 VPN service providers.
Diagram illustrating the secure networking capabilities of the GL-XE300, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and DNS over TLS, managed via Web UI 3.0.
5.4. IoT Gateway
With OpenWrt support and large storage, the GL-XE300 is suitable for various IoT applications, allowing for custom firmware and development projects.
6. Advanced Features
6.1. VPN Performance
The GL-XE300 offers robust VPN capabilities. Tests conducted on a local network show WireGuard achieving speeds of up to 38Mbps, while OpenVPN reaches up to 10Mbps. Note that real-world speeds may vary based on network configuration, and OpenVPN speeds will be slower when the device acts as a server (results above are in client mode).
Graph comparing WireGuard (Max 38Mbps) and OpenVPN (Max 10Mbps) speeds, with notes on local network testing and client mode performance.
6.2. Cloudflare DNS over TLS
Enhance your online privacy and security with DNS over TLS. This protocol encrypts DNS queries and answers, preventing eavesdropping and manipulation of DNS data through man-in-the-middle attacks. You can configure this feature easily within the Web UI 3.0.
Screenshot of the GL.iNet Admin Panel showing Custom DNS Server settings.
6.3. 4G Modem Management
The built-in 4G modem offers advanced management features accessible via the Web UI 3.0, including:
- AT Command interface for detailed control
- Manual/Automatic Dial Number configuration
- SMS checking
- Signal Strength Checking
Screenshots of the GL.iNet Admin Panel showing AT Command interface and modem configuration fields.
6.4. Interchangeable LTE Module
The Puli (GL-XE300) router features an easily configurable and interchangeable LTE module for optimal performance. It supports both CAT4 and CAT6 modules, offering different downstream throughputs and band compatibility to meet various requirements.
6.5. IPv6 and WPA3 Support
The router supports the latest Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) and WPA3 encryption, providing an extra layer of cybersecurity and next-generation Wi-Fi security.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| CPU | QCA9531, @650MHz Soc |
| Memory | DDR2 128MB |
| Storage | FLASH 8MB + NAND FLASH 128MB |
| 3G/4G Modem | CAT4 Module (DL/UL 150/50Mbps) or CAT6 Module (DL/UL 300/50Mbps) |
| LTE Antenna | 2 x Internal Full Frequency Antennas (700M~2.7GHz) |
| Wi-Fi Antennas | Internal Antennas |
| Protocol | 802.11 b/g/n |
| Wi-Fi Speed | 2.4GHz (300Mbps) |
| Ethernet Port | 2 x Ethernet Ports, 10/100M (1 WAN, 1 LAN) |
| USB Interface | 1 x USB 2.0 |
| MicroSD Slot | Yes, up to 512GB |
| SIM Card Slot | Nano SIM Card |
| LED Indicators | Power, PWR, WAN, LAN, Wireless, 3G/4G, Battery |
| Power Supply | 5V/2A (with battery), 5V/3A (without battery) |
| Power Consumption | <3.4W (with battery), <4.4W (without battery) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 ~ 40°C (32 ~ 104°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -20 ~ 45°C (-4 ~ 113°F) |
| Dimension | 120 x 74 x 28mm |
| Weight | 224g (with battery) |
| Certification | CE, FCC |
7.1. LTE Band Variants
The GL-XE300 supports various LTE modules with different band compatibilities:
- EG25-G (Global):
LTE FDD: B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/B12/B13/B18/B19/B20/B25/B26/B28
LTE TDD: B38/B39/B40/B41
WCDMA: B1/B2/B4/B5/B6/B8/B19
GMS: B2/B3/B5/B8
LTE band variants for the Global EG25-G module.
- EP06-E (EMEA/Australia/Brazil):
LTE-FDD: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B32
LTE-TDD: B38/B40/B41
2xCA: B1+B1/B5/B8/B20/B28; B3+B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28; B7+B5/B7/B8/B20/B28; B20+B32; B38+B38; B40+B40; B41+B41
WCDMA: B1/B3/B5/B8
LTE band variants for EP06-E module.
- EP06-A (North America):
LTE-FDD: B2/B4/B5/B7/B12/B13/B25/B26/B29/B30/B66
2xCA: B2+B2/B5/B12/B13/B25/B26/B29; B4+B4/B5/B12/B13/B26/B29; B7+B5/B7/B12/B13/B26/B29; B25+B5/B12/B13/B26/B29; B30+B5/B12/B13/B26/B29; B66+B5/B12/B13/B26/B29
WCDMA: B2/B4/B5 - EC25-E (EMEA/Korea/Thailand):
LTE FDD: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20
LTE TDD: B38/B40/B41
WCDMA: B1/B5
LTE band variants for EC25-E, EC25-AF, and EC25-AU modules.
- EC25-AF (North America):
LTE FDD: B2/B4/B5/B12/B13/B14/B66/B71
WCDMA: B2/B4/B5 - EC25-AU (Australia/New Zealand/Taiwan/Brazil):
LTE FDD: B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/B28
LTE TDD: B40
WCDMA: B1/B2/B5/B8
GSM: B2/B3/B5/B8
8. Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your GL-XE300 router:
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates via the Web UI to benefit from new features, security patches, and performance improvements.
- Cleaning: Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid liquid cleaners.
- Temperature: Operate the device within the recommended temperature range (0 ~ 40°C). Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the device in a cool, dry place within the recommended storage temperature (-20 ~ 45°C).
- Battery Care: For models with a built-in battery, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently and store it with a partial charge if not used for a long time to prolong battery life.
9. Troubleshooting
9.1. No Internet Connection
- Check SIM Card: Ensure the Nano SIM card is correctly inserted and has an active data plan. The device requires a service provider's data plan to function as a mobile hotspot.
- Signal Strength: Verify the 3G/4G status indicator. If the signal is weak or absent, try moving to an area with better cellular coverage.
- APN Settings: In the Web UI, check the APN settings for your cellular provider. These are usually auto-configured but may need manual adjustment.
- Reboot: Try restarting the router and your connected devices.
9.2. Wi-Fi Not Visible or Cannot Connect
- Wi-Fi Indicator: Check the Wireless status indicator on the device.
- SSID/Password: Confirm you are selecting the correct Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and entering the correct password.
- Channel Interference: If in a crowded Wi-Fi environment, try changing the Wi-Fi channel in the Web UI.
9.3. Slow Internet Speeds
- Signal Strength: Weak 3G/4G signal will result in slower speeds.
- Network Congestion: High network traffic from your cellular provider can affect speeds.
- VPN Usage: VPNs can introduce overhead and reduce internet speeds. Refer to the VPN performance section for expected speeds.
- Connected Devices: Too many devices connected to the Wi-Fi or high bandwidth usage by one device can slow down others.
9.4. How to Change IMEI
Changing the IMEI typically involves using AT commands. This is an advanced procedure and should only be performed if you understand the implications and requirements. An example AT command format is: AT +EGMR=1,7,"MY IMEI HERE". Consult your service provider or GL.iNet support for specific guidance.
10. User Tips
- Data Plan Required: Remember that the GL-XE300 is a 4G LTE router and requires a Nano SIM card with an active data plan from a mobile network provider to access the internet. It is not a free mobile Wi-Fi device.
- VPN Speed Awareness: When using VPNs, especially OpenVPN in server mode, expect some reduction in internet speed. WireGuard generally offers better performance.
- OpenWrt for Customization: Leverage the OpenWrt operating system for advanced customization and development of IoT projects.
- Advanced Modem Control: Utilize the AT command interface in the Web UI for granular control and diagnostics of the 4G modem, including checking signal strength and managing SMS.
11. Warranty and Support
The GL.iNet Puli GL-XE300 typically comes with a 2-year warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or further assistance, please contact GL.iNet customer support directly through their official website or authorized channels. Ensure you have your product model and serial number ready when contacting support.
