Connecting a router MTS to the computer via USB cable — an alternative way to share the internet, which is useful if Wi-Fi is unstable or a network card is missing. This method provides a more stable connection, especially in conditions of high interference, but requires proper configuration on both the router and the PC. Unlike a wireless connection, a USB connection can offer lower latency (ping) and higher speeds in some scenarios, such as online gaming or streaming 4K.
However, not all router models MTS support this mode, but proper operation often requires the installation of special drivers. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions for popular models (for example, MTS MF927, MF920V, MF923), let's look at typical mistakes (for example, "Device not recognized" or Limited Connection) and we'll give you recommendations for speed optimization. If your router isn't detected by the system, don't rush to blame the cable: in 80% of cases, the problem lies in Windows settings or the device's firmware.
Which MTS routers support USB connections?
Not all devices from MTS can work in the mode USB modemThis feature is available primarily in 4G/5G routers with port USB Type-C or Micro-USB, which are initially positioned as multifunctional. Below is a list of proven models and their features:
- 🔹 MTS MF927 — supports USB mode out of the box, but requires drivers for Windows 10/11.
- 🔹 MTS MF920V — compatible with most operating systems, but may slow down under heavy loads.
- 🔹 MTS MF923 — budget model, USB mode works only after firmware update.
- 🔹 MTS MR6550 (5G) - supports high-speed connection, but requires proprietary software MTS Connect Manager.
To make sure your model supports this feature, please check the specifications on the official website. MTS or look at the sticker on the back of the device - the mode should be indicated there USB Tethering or RNDISIf there is no such information, try connecting the router to the PC: if in Device Manager A new network device will appear (even with an exclamation mark), which means the function is supported but requires configuration.
What you need to connect
Before you begin setup, please prepare the following:
A working USB cable (preferably the original one from the kit)
MTS router with USB mode support
A computer with Windows 10/11 or macOS (Linux may require additional drivers)
Access to your router's personal account (login/password is usually on the device's sticker)
Proprietary software MTS Connect Manager (optional for some models)-->
Pay special attention USB cableCheap, uncertified cables often fail to provide a stable connection, leading to errors such as "The network cable is not connected."If you don't have the original cable, choose the one with support. USB 2.0/3.0 and no more than 1.5 meters long—this minimizes signal loss. Also, check that the connector fits snugly into the router port; poor contact can cause intermittent connection interruptions.
If you use Windows, disable antivirus programs in advance (for example, Kaspersky or Avast) - they can block the installation of drivers. macOS Additional drivers are usually not required, but manual configuration of the network interface may be required in System settings.
Step-by-step instructions for connection
Follow this algorithm to set up a USB connection:
- Connect the router to the computer via USB cable. Use the port
USB 3.0(blue) for maximum speed. - Enable USB tethering mode on the router:
- Go to the web interface at
192.168.1.1(or192.168.0.1for some models). - Go to the section
Settings → Operating mode → USB Tethering(the name may differ). - Activate the option and save the changes.
- Go to the web interface at
- Open
Control Panel → Network Connections. - Find a new connection (usually called
EthernetorUSB RNDIS). - Right click →
Properties → IPv4 Protocol. - Check the boxes
Obtain an IP automaticallyAndObtain DNS automatically. - Restart your router and PC, if the Internet does not work immediately.
Critical detail: if after connecting in Device Manager "Unidentified device" is displayed with the error code 43, this indicates a driver issue. Solution: Remove the device from the Device Manager, disconnect/connect the cable, and wait for the drivers to reinstall.
What to do if the router is not detected?
If Windows doesn't see the router even after reconnecting:
1. Check the cable on another device (e.g. smartphone).
2. Try a different USB port (preferably on the back of the system unit).
3. Install the drivers manually via Device Manager → Update Driver Software → Browse my computer, specifying the folder with the downloaded drivers.
4. Disable power saving for USB ports in Device Manager → USB Controllers → Properties → Power Management (uncheck "Allow shutdown...").
Setting up your router for maximum speed
By default, a USB connection may be slower than Wi-Fi due to protocol limitations. RNDISTo optimize speed, follow these steps:
| Parameter | Recommended value | How to change |
|---|---|---|
| USB mode | RNDIS (for Windows) or ECM (for macOS/Linux) |
In the router's web interface, section USB Settings |
| MTU | 1472 |
In the connection settings on your PC (IPv4 Properties → Advanced) |
| DNS servers | 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) or 8.8.8.8 (Google) |
Manually in IPv4 properties |
| Power saving mode | Disabled | In Windows power settings |
If the speed remains low (less than 50 Mbps (for 100+ Mbps tariff), check the following points:
- 🔌 Is it used?
USB 3.0-port (blue connector)?USB 2.0limited by speed480 Mbps, which could be a bottleneck. - 📶 Check the 4G/5G signal strength on your router (in the web interface). If it's lower
-90 dBm, the speed will drop. - 🖥️ PC CPU load. If the CPU load is at 100%, Windows may artificially limit network traffic.
Common errors and their solutions
Even with proper setup, users still encounter common issues. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:
⚠️ Attention: If Wi-Fi is lost after connecting the router via USB, check the operating mode settings in the web interface. Some models (for example, MF920V) disable the wireless network when the USB modem is activated. Solution: enable the option Simultaneous Wi-Fi & USB (if available).
| Error | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| "The network cable is not connected." | The driver is not installed or the USB port is faulty | Reinstall the drivers, try a different port |
| Limited Connection | No IP address received from router | Set IP manually 192.168.1.100 with a mask 255.255.255.0 and a gateway 192.168.1.1 |
| Low speed (less than 10 Mbps) | Windows traffic saving is active | Turn it off Set as metered connection in the network settings |
| The router overheats and turns off. | USB mode increases the load on the processor | Use active cooling (fan) or switch to Wi-Fi |
If none of the solutions helped, reset the router to factory settings (button Reset (For 10 seconds) and repeat the setup from scratch. In 90% of cases, this resolves software issues. Also, make sure your plan doesn't have any connection type restrictions—some carriers block USB mode for corporate SIM cards.
Alternative ways to connect a router to a PC
If your USB connection isn't working or the speed isn't satisfactory, consider these alternatives:
- 🔄 Ethernet (LAN) — the most stable connection, but requires a cable
RJ-45The speed is limited only by the tariff. - 📶 Wi-Fi in bridge mode - connect your PC to the router as a repeater (function
WDSorRepeater). - 📱 Mobile hotspot - if the router supports distribution via a smartphone (for example, MTS Smart Connect).
- 🔌 USB Wi-Fi adapter - If your PC doesn't have a built-in module, buy an external one (we recommend TP-Link TL-WN823N).
Comparison of methods by key parameters:
| Method | Speed | Stability | Difficulty of setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB | Up to 300 Mbps (USB 3.0) | Average (depending on drivers) | High |
| Ethernet | Up to 1 Gbps | Maximum | Low |
| Wi-Fi (5 GHz) | Up to 867 Mbps | Average (depending on interference) | Average |
For most tasks (work, streaming, gaming) the optimal solution remains wired Ethernet connectionUSB is less reliable, but more portable—for example, if you need to quickly connect a laptop without a LAN port.
USB connection safety
A USB connection creates a direct link between the router and the computer, which can be exploited for attacks. To minimize the risks:
- 🔐 Disable remote access to the router's web interface (
Settings → Administration → Remote Management). - 🛡️ Update the firmware router to the latest version (check once every 3 months).
- 🚫 Disable connection of unknown USB devices in Windows settings (
gpedit.msc → Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → System → Removable Storage Access). - 🔄 Use a VPN when transmitting confidential data (for example, ProtonVPN or Windscribe).
⚠️ Attention: If you connect your router to a public PC (for example, in an internet cafe), be sure to delete all network profiles in it after use. Network Settings → Manage Known NetworksOtherwise, the next user may gain access to your router's web interface.
We also recommend disabling USB mode when not needed. Constantly connecting increases the load on the router and reduces the port's lifespan. For convenience, you can create a desktop shortcut with the disable command:
netsh interface set interface "Local Area Connection" admin=disable(replace the interface name with the current one from ipconfig /all).
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to connect an MTS router to a PC via USB on macOS?
Yes, but you may need to manually configure the network interface. Once connected, open System Preferences → Network, add a new connection of the type USB Ethernet and specify the DHCP settings. For models MF927 And MR6550 Sometimes you need drivers from the chipset manufacturer (for example, Qualcomm).
Why is the speed via USB lower than via Wi-Fi?
It has to do with protocol. RNDIS, which adds overhead. To improve speed:
- Disable background Windows updates (
Settings → Update & Security → Advanced Options → Delivery Optimization). - Set MTU =
1472in the connection properties. - Check if your tariff limits the speed (for example, some MTS tariffs have a limit
100 Mbpsfor USB).
How to connect an MTS router to Linux?
In most distributions (Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora) the router will be automatically detected as a network device cdc_etherIf not:
sudo modprobe cdc_ether
sudo dhclient usb0
For chipset models Qualcomm a package may be needed qmi_wwan:
sudo apt install qmi-utilsIs it possible to charge a router via a PC's USB port?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. A PC's USB port only supplies up to 0.5A, whereas a router needs it for stable operation 1–2AProlonged operation in this mode will drain the battery and cause the port to overheat. Use the original power supply.
What should I do if my MTS router doesn't turn on after connecting to USB?
This is a typical problem for models MF920V And MF923 When using non-original cables. Solutions:
- Disconnect the cable and connect the router to the charger for 10 minutes.
- Reset settings with the button
Reset(hold for 15 seconds). - Check if the power controller is burned out (signs: the router does not heat up, the indicators do not light).
If the problem persists, please contact a service center - it may be a hardware fault.