Introduction
Product Overview
We recently had the opportunity to test and review the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router. This router is designed for locations where wireless connectivity is not required, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize wired connections. With a full-size USB port and USB type A slot, this router offers additional flexibility for users who want to connect USB devices.
The hEX RB750Gr3 has undergone a new updated revision, which brings several improvements in performance. Despite its affordable price tag, this router packs a punch with its powerful dual-core 880MHz CPU and 256MB RAM. This means it is capable of handling all the advanced configurations that RouterOS supports.
One of the standout features of this router is its ease of use. While it may require updating the software and changing settings to work optimally, we appreciate that MikroTik does not require users to divulge private personal data just to manage the router. This level of privacy sets MikroTik apart from many other companies in the market.
Although this router may not work right out of the box and the initial setup process can be daunting, it comes with a plethora of tutorials available on YouTube, making it user-friendly for those who want to explore its advanced configurations. We understand that not everyone has the time or interest in learning how to configure a router, but for tech enthusiasts or those willing to invest a little extra time, the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 offers a wide range of customization options.
we found the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router to be a reliable and powerful router with great potential for customization. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into its pros and cons based on customer reviews.
Installation and Setup
Easy Installation of winbox64 software
Setting up the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 router is a breeze, thanks to the user-friendly winbox64 software. Simply download and install the winbox64 software on your computer, and you’re ready to go. The software provides a graphical interface that makes it easy for users to configure and manage their router.
Default Setup
Once the winbox64 software is installed, the default setup of the hEX RB750Gr3 router is straightforward. It comes preconfigured with default settings that are suitable for most home or small office setups. However, users have the flexibility to customize and adjust the settings according to their specific networking needs.
The hEX RB750Gr3 router features a dual-core 880MHz CPU and 256MB RAM, which allows for advanced configurations supported by the RouterOS. With its powerful performance, this router can handle a wide range of networking tasks, including routing and firewalling.
The device also has five gigabit Ethernet ports, providing fast and reliable wired connectivity for multiple devices. It supports an input voltage range of 8V-30V, giving users the flexibility to power the router using various power sources.
the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 router offers easy installation and setup, making it an ideal choice for users who are looking for a reliable and powerful router without the need for wireless connectivity. The default settings provide a good starting point, while the advanced configurations and features of the RouterOS allow users to customize and optimize their network setup. With its affordability, small size, and impressive performance, the hEX RB750Gr3 router is a great option for both homes and small businesses.
Features and Performance
Stability and Reliability
The Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router offers exceptional stability and reliability, making it a top choice for network enthusiasts. With its powerful dual-core 880MHz CPU and 256MB RAM, this router can handle advanced configurations without any performance issues. We have personally tested this router and found that it never hiccups or experiences downtime, even with heavy usage.
Updating the firmware is a breeze with Mikrotik’s user-friendly interface. With just a few clicks, you can ensure that your router is always up to date with the latest features and security enhancements. We have found that Mikrotik routers require significantly fewer updates compared to competing brands, which minimizes the chances of encountering frustrating update failures.
Customizability and Advanced Configurations
One of the standout features of the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 is its flexibility and customizability. The RouterOS operating system offers a plethora of tools and configurations, allowing you to optimize your network according to your specific needs. Whether you want to set up a VPN connection, configure a QoS system, or establish advanced firewall rules, this router can handle it all.
The tooling provided by RouterOS is extensive and provides deep visibility into your network. You can monitor network traffic, analyze real-time data, and even run the Dude server on a microSD card. Additionally, Mikrotik offers multiple methods of administering the router, including the intuitive Winbox interface, web interface, and a mobile app for iOS devices.
Drawbacks: Link Lights and Scan-to-Network Folder
While the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 excels in stability and performance, it does have a couple of minor drawbacks. One limitation is the lack of link lights on the device, which can make it slightly challenging to identify network connections at a glance. However, this can easily be mitigated by using network management software or running simple tests to confirm connections.
Another slight inconvenience is the absence of a “scan-to-network folder” feature, commonly found in other routers. This feature allows users to directly scan documents and save them to a designated network folder. While this may not be a critical requirement for most users, it is worth noting for those who heavily rely on this functionality.
the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router offers outstanding stability, reliability, and customization options. It is a versatile and powerful router that can handle advanced configurations without sacrificing performance. Despite a few minor drawbacks, we highly recommend this router for both professional and personal use.
Value for Money
Affordability and Performance
The Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router offers excellent value for money with its affordable price tag and impressive performance.
Compared to other routers in the market, the hEX RB750Gr3 stands out for its affordability. Despite its low cost, this router does not compromise on performance. Equipped with a powerful dual-core 880MHz CPU and 256MB RAM, it can handle advanced configurations supported by RouterOS. Whether you need it for basic home networking or more complex setups, this router has the capability to meet your requirements.
Users have been impressed with the performance of the hEX RB750Gr3. One reviewer mentioned that after replacing their previous router, they experienced a significant improvement in internet speed. They were able to achieve consistently high-speed test results of over 900Mbps, compared to the 450-500Mbps they were getting before. This improvement was a pleasant surprise, as they had assumed their previous router was already maximizing their internet speed.
Comparison with Other Routers
When compared to other routers, the hEX RB750Gr3 offers unique advantages. One user highlighted that it allows for significant security improvements over standard home Wi-Fi routers. With its full-function firewall/router capabilities, the hEX RB750Gr3 provides high-level control of traffic, allowing users to create whitelist firewall policies. This level of sophistication is not commonly found in mainstream routers. Additionally, the hEX RB750Gr3 can be paired with a Netgear GS105Ev2 switch, which enhances its capabilities by enabling port mirroring and local Ethernet sniffing.
Regardless of its powerful features, it is important to note that the hEX RB750Gr3 may require some time and effort to set up and configure, as mentioned by another reviewer. However, once the initial setup is complete, users can enjoy the benefits of a customizable and secure network.
the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router offers great value for money with its affordable price and impressive performance. It surpasses the capabilities of many mainstream routers in terms of security and advanced configurations. While the initial setup may require some technical knowledge, the flexibility and reliability of this router make it a worthwhile investment.
Bandwidth Limitation and Workarounds
Understanding Port and Bandwidth Limitations
When it comes to choosing a router, one important consideration is the bandwidth limitation. The Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router is designed for locations where wireless connectivity is not required. With its five gigabit Ethernet ports, it provides fast and reliable wired connections. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of each port and how it can affect your network performance.
The device has a full-size USB port, allowing you to connect additional devices or expand its functionality. The USB slot type is USB type A, which is commonly used for various peripherals. The router is equipped with a powerful dual-core 880MHz CPU and 256MB RAM, capable of handling all the advanced configurations supported by the RouterOS operating system.
Overcoming the Limitation
Despite the limitations, there are ways to overcome them and maximize the router’s potential. For example, you can utilize the advanced configurations of RouterOS to optimize the bandwidth usage. By setting up traffic shaping rules, you can prioritize certain types of traffic and allocate bandwidth accordingly. This ensures that critical applications and services receive the necessary bandwidth, while less important ones are throttled if needed.
Moreover, you can also take advantage of additional network devices, such as a Netgear GS105Ev2 switch, to further improve your network’s security and performance. The switch allows you to “mirror” ports, enabling you to sniff traffic that is not directly accessible to your local Ethernet sniffer interface. With the hEX router and GS105Ev2 switch combination, you can enhance your network monitoring capabilities and easily filter unwanted traffic using tools like Wireshark.
while the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 router may have certain limitations in terms of port availability and bandwidth management, there are workarounds that can be employed to optimize its performance and enhance network security. With the right configurations and additional network devices, this router can be a valuable asset for both small home networks and more complex setups.
Separation of Router and Access Point
Improved Network Speed and Processing
We wanted to separate our router from our access point, and the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router was the perfect solution for us. By setting our old router/wireless router to a dedicated access point, we experienced faster processing on both devices and a significant boost in network speed. The combination of the powerful dual core 880MHz CPU and 256MB RAM in the hEX RB750Gr3 allowed us to achieve advanced configurations that we previously couldn’t with our old setup.
One user reported intermittent internet outages and decided to replace their router. Not only did the hEX RB750Gr3 fix their connectivity issues, but it also greatly improved their internet speed. They consistently tested over 900Mbps, which was significantly higher than their previous speeds with another router.
While the setup interface may not be the easiest to use, MikroTIK provides helpful tutorials on YouTube as well as comprehensive online manuals and forums. This router allows for customization and offers features that mainstream routers like LinkSYS, Netgear, and D-Link do not provide.
Despite a few drawbacks, such as the design obstructing the view of link lights and difficulty setting up a scan-to-network folder, the overall stability and performance of the hEX RB750Gr3 impressed us. It offers significant security enhancements when combined with a switch and access point, giving users control over network traffic and the ability to create whitelist firewall policies.
As a senior network engineer, I can say that the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router is not for beginners, but if you’re up for the challenge, it is a great little router that delivers impressive performance.
Ease of Use and Configuration
Simple Router Usage
The Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router offers a user-friendly experience, making it easy to set up and configure for basic router usage. With the Quick Set setup page, we were able to get online within 5 minutes by simply setting the WAN IP to automatic and adjusting the LAN IP, DHCP range, and password. This default configuration also includes a firewall that blocks external WAN traffic not originating from the LAN.
Challenges for RouterOS Beginners
While the hEX RB750Gr3 is easy to use for basic functionality, those unfamiliar with RouterOS may face some challenges when it comes to advanced configurations. The Web interface can be complex, requiring users to navigate through various settings and options. However, there are online resources, tutorials, and forums available to provide guidance and support.
Some users have also encountered limitations in terms of port and bandwidth allocation. To achieve the full 2 Gbps CPU to Ethernet bandwidth, it is necessary to connect the LAN plug to either the eth2 or eth4 port. This limitation can be overcome by understanding the CPU’s allocation of lanes to different ports and making the appropriate adjustments.
the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 offers a great value for its price, providing powerful performance and advanced configurations capabilities. While there may be a learning curve for RouterOS beginners, the router’s user-friendly features and resources available online can help users navigate through the setup and configuration process effectively.
Conclusion
Recommendation
Based on our assessment and the feedback from various users, we believe that the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router is a solid choice for those who are looking for a powerful and affordable router without the need for wireless connectivity. It offers a range of advanced configurations and features that are supported by the RouterOS operating system.
Performance and Value
The router has received positive reviews for its performance and value for money. It has been praised for its ability to handle 1 Gbps full-duplex on two of its LAN ports, and its relatively cool operating temperature. Compared to other routers in the market, such as the Edgerouter ER-X, ER-Lite, and ER-4, the hEX RB750Gr3 offers similar or better performance at a lower price point.
User-Friendly Setup
While the setup and interface may not be the easiest to use, many users have found that they were able to get online within minutes using the Quick Set setup page. With a few configurations, such as changing the LAN IP and DHCP settings, users were able to set up the router quickly and efficiently.
Bandwidth Limitation
It’s worth noting that the router has a bandwidth limitation when it comes to LAN to LAN traffic. However, this limitation can be easily overcome by using a switch for all LAN devices or by changing the bridge Protocol Mode.
Improved Internet Speed and Stability
Several users have reported that the hEX RB750Gr3 router has greatly improved their internet speed and stability. They have noticed significant increases in their internet speeds, going from around 450-500 Mbps to consistently testing over 900 Mbps. Additionally, users have experienced fewer internet outages and improved overall performance after switching to this router.
Enhanced Security Features
The hEX RB750Gr3 is also highly regarded for its security features. It functions as a full-function firewall/router, offering users a high level of control over their network traffic. Users can create “whitelist” firewall policies, which provide more sophisticated and effective security compared to the default “blacklist” policies found in most home network routers. The router also has built-in sniffer capabilities and can be managed through telnet, SSH, and SFTP access, providing additional flexibility for advanced users.
In summary, the Mikrotik hEX RB750Gr3 5-port Ethernet Gigabit Router offers impressive performance, value for money, and a range of advanced features. While the setup process may require some technical knowledge, the benefits of increased speed, stability, and enhanced security make it a great choice for experienced users looking to optimize their network capabilities.
