🛠 Initial Setup of the KNOT Gateway HL9

Objectives

This tutorial guides you through the initial setup of the MikroTik KNOT Gateway HL9. By the end, you will know how to power the device, establish a wired network connection, and access the RouterOS v7 management interface to verify system startup. This level is suitable for beginners discovering IoT gateway administration.

Required Materials

• MikroTik KNOT Gateway HL9 gateway.
• A PoE (Power over Ethernet) 802.3af/at compatible switch or router, OR an external DC power supply (12-57V) with a suitable connector.
• A Cat5e or higher Ethernet cable.
• A computer with a web browser and an Ethernet cable for initial configuration.
• A flathead screwdriver (if accessing the eSIM compartment is needed, though not required for first boot).

Steps

1. Location Preparation: Choose a protected indoor or outdoor location. Although IP66 certified (dust and water jet resistant), avoid direct immersion. Ensure ambient temperature remains between -40°C and +50°C.
2. Network Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable from the KNOT HL9's Gigabit Ethernet port to your PoE switch. The Ethernet port serves as both network uplink and power source via PoE.
3. Powering Up: If using a PoE switch, the device powers on automatically upon cable connection. If using a DC power supply, plug the adapter into the DC input (12-57V) then connect the Ethernet cable to your local network (without PoE).
4. Boot Wait: Observe the status LEDs. The RouterOS v7 boot process takes approximately 1 to 2 minutes. LEDs typically indicate Wi-Fi, cellular, and power activity.
5. Interface Access: By default, the gateway uses DHCP. Identify the assigned IP address via your DHCP server or network scan. Open a web browser and enter http://<ip-address> or https://<ip-address>.
6. Administrative Login: On the login page, use default credentials (often admin with no password, or set at first login depending on firmware version). Accept terms of use if required.

Verification

Once logged into RouterOS v7, verify the following:

• The Ethernet interface status is "connected".
• Cellular signal (LTE Cat 1 bis) appears if a SIM/eSIM is inserted and active.
• Firmware version is RouterOS v7.
• The Qualcomm IPQ-5010 processor temperature is within normal ranges.

Going Further

Explore the 915 MHz Wi-Fi HaLow configuration for long-range connectivity, or activate the multi-constellation GPS for asset tracking. Consult documentation on Quectel EG800Q eSIM management for flexible cellular connectivity.