In the world of SD-WAN, where reliability and performance are critical, the choice of hardware can make or break a deployment. While Huawei modems and routers may seem like cost-effective solutions, they have proven to be problematic due to numerous firmware bugs and inconsistent network behaviour. One particularly glaring issue exists in the Huawei HG series, which imposes a 512KB MTU limitation for UDP while allowing TCP traffic to function normally. This inconsistency wreaks havoc on connectivity, breaking SD-WAN overlays and leading to unpredictable application behaviour. 📉📡🖥️
Huawei’s Problematic Firmware & Network Limitations 🕵️♂️🔍🚦
Huawei devices have long been plagued by firmware bugs that introduce connectivity issues. The 512KB MTU limit on UDP traffic is a prime example. SD-WAN solutions rely heavily on UDP for transporting tunnels efficiently, often encapsulating traffic within VPNs or other overlay mechanisms. With an artificial MTU limitation, packet fragmentation increases, leading to latency, jitter, and ultimately, poor network performance. In contrast, TCP traffic does not face the same restriction, making troubleshooting particularly frustrating, as performance appears normal for certain applications while others suffer severely. ⚡🔗🔧
Beyond the MTU bug, Huawei modems and routers have also demonstrated other software inconsistencies such as unreliable NAT traversal, poor handling of multiple concurrent connections, and frequent dropped sessions under high-load conditions. For businesses relying on stable SD-WAN connectivity, these devices are a liability rather than an asset. ❌📶💥
ZTE | A Better Alternative ✅📡🔄
For those seeking a more reliable option, ZTE modems and routers offer a significantly better experience. ZTE has a more consistent firmware development track record, with fewer reported issues regarding UDP handling and SD-WAN compatibility. Businesses requiring stable LTE connectivity should strongly consider ZTE as an alternative to Huawei to ensure that their SD-WAN deployments remain resilient and performant. 🔄📊🏆
Teltonika | The Best 3G/4G/LTE Solution on the Market 🏅📶🔝
While ZTE provides a stable alternative to Huawei, the gold standard for LTE modems remains Teltonika. Teltonika devices are built specifically for industrial and enterprise use cases, featuring superior network resilience, advanced failover mechanisms, and robust firmware updates that address modern networking needs. Their devices support multiple LTE bands, ensuring excellent coverage and performance across various carriers. 📡🔄🛰️
Teltonika routers also offer advanced features such as dual-SIM failover, VPN support, and extensive monitoring capabilities, making them an ideal choice for SD-WAN deployments that require reliability, even in remote areas. 🌍🔧🛠️
The Importance of External Antennas & Proper Signal Reception 📡🏠🚀
One of the most overlooked aspects of LTE-based SD-WAN deployments is the placement of the modem and the use of external antennas. Many users rely on indoor routers with built-in antennas, which often suffer from poor signal quality due to building materials, interference, and distance from cell towers. 🏢📉🚧
For optimal performance, an external directional antenna should be mounted outdoors and pointed directly at the nearest LTE tower. This significantly improves signal strength, reduces latency, and enhances overall link stability. Directional antennas allow the modem to lock onto a stronger, more stable signal rather than relying on weak, multi-path reflections that degrade connectivity. 📈🎯📶
MikroTik LHG | A Powerful POE-Powered External CPE ⚡🏗️🔋
For businesses looking to maximise LTE performance in challenging environments, the MikroTik LHG (Light Head Grid) is an excellent solution. This device is a POE-powered outdoor CPE that functions similarly to an external antenna but with an integrated modem. It provides exceptional range and stability, especially in rural areas where signal strength can be weak. By eliminating the need for an indoor unit with a weak built-in antenna, the MikroTik LHG ensures better throughput and a more stable SD-WAN link. 🚀🔗📈
Wrap🏆📡✅
Huawei modems and routers have shown time and again that they are unsuitable for SD-WAN due to their firmware limitations and erratic behaviour. Businesses seeking a stable SD-WAN deployment should consider ZTE as a better alternative or opt for Teltonika for superior LTE-based networking solutions. Additionally, mounting an external antenna or using a MikroTik LHG can drastically improve signal reception and network stability, ensuring a more reliable SD-WAN experience. 📶🔄🏢
By choosing the right hardware and optimising network connectivity, businesses can avoid unnecessary downtime and performance issues, ensuring seamless operations in an increasingly connected world. 🌍🖥️🚀
