D-Link 4G Wireless LTE Router DWR-921_E User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the D-Link DWR-921_E 4G Wireless LTE Router. The DWR-921_E allows you to access and share your 4G LTE or 3G mobile broadband connection. Once connected, you can transfer data, stream media, and send SMS messages. Simply insert your SIM card and share your 4G LTE or 3G Internet connection through a secure wireless network or using any of the four Ethernet ports.

2. Package Contents

Ensure that your package contains the following items. If any item is missing or damaged, please contact your local D-Link reseller.

• D-Link DWR-921_E 4G Wireless LTE Router
• Power Adapter
• Ethernet Cable
• Quick Installation Guide
• Two Detachable 4G LTE Antennas

3. Physical Features

3.1 Front Panel

The front panel of the DWR-921_E features LED indicators that provide status information about the router's operation.

Image: Front view of the D-Link DWR-921_E router, showing the D-Link logo and status LEDs.

• Power LED: Indicates power status.
• WAN LED: Indicates status of the wired WAN connection.
• LAN LEDs (1-4): Indicate activity on the respective Ethernet LAN ports.
• 3G/4G LED: Indicates the type of mobile network connection (3G or 4G LTE).
• SMS LED: Indicates new or unread SMS messages.
• WLAN LED: Indicates wireless network activity.
• WPS LED: Indicates Wi-Fi Protected Setup status.

3.2 Rear Panel

The rear panel provides all the necessary ports and buttons for connecting the router to power, network devices, and inserting the SIM card.

Image: Rear view of the D-Link DWR-921_E router, showing the power port, SIM card slot, WAN port, LAN ports, and antennas.

• Power Port (12V): Connects to the included power adapter.
• Power On/Off Switch: Toggles the router's power.
• SIM Card Slot: Insert your 4G LTE or 3G SIM card here.
• WAN Port: Connects to a wired broadband modem for an alternative internet source.
• LAN Ports (1-4): Connect wired devices such as computers, gaming consoles, or network storage.
• Reset Button: Press and hold for 10 seconds to restore factory default settings.
• Antenna Connectors: Attach the two detachable 4G LTE antennas.

4. Setup

Follow these steps for the initial setup of your D-Link DWR-921_E router.

1. Insert SIM Card: Ensure the router is powered off. Carefully insert your 4G LTE or 3G SIM card into the SIM card slot on the rear panel until it clicks into place.
2. Attach Antennas: Screw the two detachable 4G LTE antennas onto the connectors on the rear panel. Ensure they are securely fastened.
3. Connect Power: Connect the included power adapter to the power port on the rear of the router and then plug the adapter into a power outlet.
4. Power On: Press the Power On/Off switch to turn on the router. Wait for the Power LED to turn solid green and the 3G/4G LED to indicate a stable connection (e.g., solid green or blue, depending on the network type).
5. Connect to Router:
   • Wired Connection: Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to a LAN port on the router and the other end to your computer's Ethernet port.
   • Wireless Connection: On your computer or mobile device, search for available Wi-Fi networks. Select the network name (SSID) printed on the label on the bottom of your router and enter the Wi-Fi password (WPA/WPA2 Key) when prompted.
6. Access Web Interface: Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox) and type http://192.168.0.1 into the address bar. Press Enter.
7. Login: When prompted, enter the default username (usually admin) and password (usually admin or left blank) as printed on the router's label.
8. Run Setup Wizard: Follow the on-screen instructions of the setup wizard to configure your internet connection, Wi-Fi name, and password. It is recommended to change the default administrator password for security.

5. Operating

5.1 Connecting Devices

• Wi-Fi Devices: Use the Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password you configured during setup to connect smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other wireless devices.
• Wired Devices: Connect devices like desktop computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles to any of the four LAN ports using Ethernet cables.

5.2 Understanding LED Indicators

Regularly observe the LED indicators on the front panel to monitor the router's status. A solid green 3G/4G LED typically indicates a stable mobile broadband connection. Flashing LEDs usually indicate data activity.

5.3 Web Interface Navigation

The web interface (accessible via http://192.168.0.1) allows you to manage various settings:

• Internet Settings: Configure APN settings, PIN management for your SIM card, and WAN failover options.
• Wireless Settings: Change Wi-Fi name (SSID), password, security type, and channel.
• Network Settings: Adjust LAN IP address, DHCP server settings, and port forwarding rules.
• SMS: View and send SMS messages directly from the router.
• System: Update firmware, backup/restore configuration, and change administrator password.

6. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your DWR-921_E router, consider the following maintenance tips:

• Optimal Placement: Place the router in a central location, away from obstructions, large metal objects, and other electronic devices that may cause interference. Ensure good ventilation.
• Regular Reboots: Periodically reboot the router (e.g., once a month) by unplugging the power adapter for 10 seconds and then plugging it back in. This can resolve minor performance issues.
• Firmware Updates: Check the D-Link support website for the latest firmware updates. Keeping your firmware up-to-date can improve performance, add new features, and enhance security.
• Physical Cleaning: Keep the router clean and free of dust. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners.
• Secure Passwords: Regularly review and update your Wi-Fi and administrator passwords to strong, unique combinations.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your DWR-921_E router.

7.1 No Internet Connection

• Check SIM Card: Ensure the SIM card is correctly inserted and activated with a data plan.
• Check LEDs: Verify that the Power LED is solid and the 3G/4G LED indicates a stable connection. If the 3G/4G LED is off or flashing erratically, there might be a network issue or SIM card problem.
• Signal Strength: Check the signal strength indicator in the web interface. If the signal is weak, try repositioning the router or antennas.
• APN Settings: Confirm that the Access Point Name (APN) settings in the router's web interface match those provided by your mobile network operator.
• Reboot Router: Power cycle the router by turning it off, waiting 10 seconds, and turning it back on.

7.2 Slow Internet Speeds

• Signal Strength: Weak 4G LTE/3G signal will result in slower speeds. Optimize router placement.
• Network Congestion: Mobile network speeds can vary based on network traffic in your area.
• Wi-Fi Interference: Other wireless devices or networks can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. Try changing the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings.
• Number of Connected Devices: Too many devices actively using the network can reduce speeds for all.

7.3 Cannot Access Web Interface

• IP Address: Ensure you are typing the correct IP address (http://192.168.0.1) into your browser.
• Wired Connection: If connecting wirelessly, try connecting your computer directly to the router with an Ethernet cable.
• IP Address Conflict: Ensure your computer is set to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP).
• Firewall/Antivirus: Temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus software on your computer to see if it's blocking access.
• Reset Router: As a last resort, perform a factory reset by pressing and holding the Reset button for 10 seconds. Warning: This will erase all your custom settings.

8. Specifications

Below are the technical specifications for the D-Link DWR-921_E 4G Wireless LTE Router.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official D-Link website. D-Link provides various support resources, including FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and driver downloads, to assist you with your DWR-921_E router.

D-Link Support Website: www.dlink.com/support