Router Review GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800)

The GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) is a great router. It's considered a Travel Router, however it is packed full of features. Let's get into it.

Why you need a Travel Router

We all know about using a VPN while connecting to a public network such as a coffee shop, airport or other public network. Security is a big concern. The question is "Do you Trust the connection I am connecting to?" In order to have complete trust is to build your own network while you are traveling. You can do this with a Travel Router.

One significant advantage of using a travel router is that it eliminates the need to repeatedly connect your devices to different Wi-Fi networks. Instead of connecting each device individually, you keep them connected to the travel router. When you switch networks, you only need to connect the travel router, streamlining the process.



Moreover, this setup conceals all your connected devices from the network's perspective—technically, only the travel router is visible as connected. This arrangement can offer enhanced security benefits by reducing exposure of individual devices. Additionally, it allows you to bypass any restrictions imposed by the network owner on the number of devices permitted to connect.

Also, with the GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) you have the ability to connect to a VPN service such as PIA Vpn, Nord VPN or even your own home VPN Network via Wireguard or OpenVPN. The GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) also supports peer-to-peer VPN's such as Zerotier and Tailscale.

GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) Features

Most other Travel Routers on the market are very limited in what they offer. This is because they are based on Propietory Software limited to the features they offer. The GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) is based on OpenWRT and is open-sourced meaning it is packed full of Features you will not find in other competative routers.

Features I like and use:

  • Wifi 6 Technolgy
  • Fast and Secure Browsing with VPN Encryption
  • Access Your Local Network Storage from Anywhere
  • Adguard Home - Ad Blocking
  • DNS over HTTPS & DNS over TLS
  • VPN Server mode and/or VPN Client (supporting all commerical VPN Services)
  • Peer-to-Peer Zerotier and Tailscale VPN Support
  • Endless supply of Plugins including WebServer and other Hosted Services
  • Tor Support
  • Dynamic DNS is a breeze - simply toggle the on switch
  • Compact and easy to pack for Travel

Hardware

Slate AX is engineered to be a powerful and efficiently compact device. Its retractable antennas are both powerful and space-efficient for travel-friendly storage, and its enclosure holes pattern is both eye-catching and perfect for heat dissipation.

The device comes with a powerful CPU, Type-C power supply, USB 3.0 port, 3 gigabit ports, and a TF card slot that supports up to 512GB. Slate AX is ideal for file sharing and installing third-party applications that suit your needs.

Cost

You cannot buy the GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) at your local Bestbuy or Computer Store. It's not a retail product. You can purchase the GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) on Amazon for about $179 CAD or $129 USD.

Summary

In summary I have to say this is the best Router I have ever owned. I originally purchased one for use as a Travel Router. I was so impresed with the features and performance that I put my Telus Router in Bridge Mode and installed a GLiNet Slate AX (GL-AXT1800) as my main home Router. Thank you GLinet! This router Rocks!

Clustered Networks

Located in Canada, Clustered Networks has been in business since 2001 and has offered Network / Internet and IT Consulting services for over 30 years. - Click Here for our Contact Info

#travelrouter #glinet #router #security

Posted in Network Security Tips, Product Reviews, Tech How To on Apr 18, 2024