GL.iNet GL-AR750 (Creta) Travel AC VPN Router

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your GL.iNet GL-AR750 (Creta) Travel AC VPN Router. The GL-AR750 is a compact and powerful dual-band AC wireless router designed for travelers, offering secure and flexible network connectivity. It comes with OpenWrt/LEDE pre-installed, supporting advanced features like VPN client and server functionalities.

Figure 1.1: GL.iNet GL-AR750 (Creta) Travel AC VPN Router

2. Product Overview and Features

The GL-AR750 is engineered to provide a robust and secure network experience on the go. Its key features include:

• Dual Band AC Wireless: Simultaneous dual-band operation with wireless speeds of 300Mbps (2.4GHz) and 433Mbps (5GHz).
• Tethering Compatible: Supports tethering from smartphones to share internet access.
• Public to Private Wi-Fi Conversion: Converts public wired or wireless networks into a private Wi-Fi network for enhanced security.
• Open Source & Programmable: Pre-installed with OpenWrt/LEDE, offering extensive customization and software repository support.
• VPN Client & Server: OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed, compatible with over 30 VPN service providers.
• Ample Storage & Extensibility: Equipped with 128MB RAM, 16MB NOR Flash, a MicroSD slot supporting up to 128GB, a USB 2.0 port, and three Ethernet ports (1 WAN, 2 LAN).

Figure 2.1: Top view of the GL-AR750 router

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Package Contents

Before you begin, ensure all items are present in the package:

• GL-AR750 (Creta) Travel Router
• Power adapter
• USB cable
• Ethernet cable
• User Manual (this document)

3.2 Powering On

Connect the provided USB cable to the router's power input port and then to the power adapter. Plug the power adapter into a wall outlet. The router will power on automatically.

3.3 Initial Connection Methods

The GL-AR750 offers multiple ways to connect to the internet:

1. Ethernet: Connect an Ethernet cable from your modem or existing router's LAN port to the WAN port (usually labeled) on the GL-AR750.
2. Repeater Mode: Connect wirelessly to an existing Wi-Fi network (e.g., hotel Wi-Fi, public hotspot) and extend its signal.
3. Tethering: Connect your smartphone via USB to the router to share your phone's mobile data connection.

Figure 3.1: Methods to access the Internet with GL-AR750

3.4 Accessing the Admin Panel

To configure your router, access its web-based admin panel:

1. Connect your computer or mobile device to the GL-AR750's Wi-Fi network. The default SSID (Wi-Fi name) and password are typically found on a sticker on the bottom of the router. For this specific unit, the SSID is GL-AR750-3ee and the Key is goodlife.
2. Open a web browser and navigate to http://192.168.8.1.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your administrator password and complete the initial configuration.

Figure 3.2: GL.iNet Admin Panel Interface

Figure 3.3: Router Bottom Label with Default Credentials

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Wi-Fi Configuration

Once logged into the admin panel, you can customize your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. It is recommended to change the default password for security reasons.

4.2 VPN Setup

The GL-AR750 supports OpenVPN and WireGuard. To set up a VPN connection:

• Navigate to the VPN section in the admin panel.
• Select your preferred VPN protocol (OpenVPN or WireGuard).
• Import your VPN configuration file or enter the required server details provided by your VPN service provider.
• Activate the VPN connection.

4.3 MicroSD Storage

The router features a MicroSD card slot for expanded storage, useful for file sharing or running applications that require more space.

Figure 4.1: Inserting a MicroSD Card

4.4 Router and Bridge Mode

The GL-AR750 can operate in both router and bridge modes. You can switch between these modes using the configurable switch button on the device or through the admin panel, depending on your network requirements.

5. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the GL.iNet GL-AR750 router:

6. Troubleshooting

Common issues and their solutions:

• How to setup the Router?
  All GL.iNet devices have a simple and almost identical setup process. Refer to Section 3 of this manual for initial setup. For more detailed instructions, please check the official GL.iNet documentation.
• How does this VPN replace a VPN service? Is the pre-installed as secure as a paid VPN service?
  The router itself cannot replace a VPN service. You still need to subscribe to a VPN service provider to obtain VPN service. The router acts as a client or server to utilize that service, providing an extra layer of protection.
• Can it in repeater mode connect with a hotel Wi-Fi that uses a web page for access to its network?
  Yes, the GL-AR750 can connect to public or hotel Wi-Fi networks that require web page authentication (captive portals). After connecting in repeater mode, you will be redirected to the hotel's login page.

7. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your GL-AR750 router:

• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install the latest firmware updates from the GL.iNet official website. This ensures you have the most secure and feature-rich software.
• Cleaning: Keep the router clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners.
• Ventilation: Ensure the router is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.

Figure 7.1: GL-AR750 in a travel setting

8. Warranty and Support

The GL-AR750 (Creta) travel router comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. For technical support, additional documentation, or warranty claims, please visit the official GL.iNet website or contact their customer service.

For more information and support resources, visit the GL.iNet Store on Amazon.