Managing your 4G wireless routers

May 20, 2023

Information to help schools, colleges, local authorities and trusts manage routers they received from DfE.

You should keep records of the types of routers you received, who you loaned them to and the IMEI number for each device. This information is essential for responding to any Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) requests you may get.

Our guidance on device ownership and distribution includes examples of loan agreements and suggestions for insurance.

You’ll also need to supply a SIM card (with a data allowance) for each router.

Some 4G routers came with SIM cards that have now expired – to continue using these routers, you’ll need to reset them and replace the SIM cards. The process to reset your router depends on the type of router you have.

Please note: Replacing the SIM card in your router will remove the content filters. Read our safeguarding guidance and information for parents and carers on keeping children safe online.

To reset your Huawei router, you’ll need to use another internet connection to download a firmware update onto the router.

It takes around 10 minutes to reset your router. You’ll need:

You should read all the steps before you begin.

You can reset your router and insert another SIM card at any time. This process will take around 5 minutes. You should make sure the router is turned on and fully charged before you begin.

If a router powers up but will not connect to the internet, check if:

Updated content now that the DfE 'Get help with technology' service has closed.

First published.