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    Interface mismatch with LTE modem

    Scheduled Pinned Locked Moved General pfSense Questions
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    • G
      Gena7272
      last edited by

      Hello,

      I'm using an LTE modem (ZTE MF823) as a backup WAN link. It works correctly, however ue0 interface seems to come up online after certain delay (maybe 2-3 seconds). This delay is sufficient for the "interface mismatch" procedure to kick in during boot.
      I understand that this issue came up multiple times, but I could not find any definitive solution to this problem. Also, having main network's router to be stuck at boot due to such minor issue as a non-functional secondary WAN link is a major disaster.
      Any solutions or workarounds are welcome.

      Thank you.

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      • GrimsonG
        Grimson Banned
        last edited by

        The solution is to use a modem that connects via Ethernet.

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        • G
          Gena7272
          last edited by

          Its a somehat radical solution to a (hopefully) simple software issue, also such modems are way more exotic. If you have any specific suggestion, it'll be most welcome. Still hope there's a workaround.

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          • johnpozJ
            johnpoz LAYER 8 Global Moderator
            last edited by

            @gena7272 said in Interface mismatch with LTE modem:

            ZTE MF823

            So your backup link is a sub $30 usb dongle? Yeah get a real device that provides your router with a ethernet connection..

            Netgear makes one for $120... Cradlepoint makes some fine products as well.

            An intelligent man is sometimes forced to be drunk to spend time with his fools
            If you get confused: Listen to the Music Play
            Please don't Chat/PM me for help, unless mod related
            SG-4860 24.11 | Lab VMs 2.8, 24.11

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            • stephenw10S
              stephenw10 Netgate Administrator
              last edited by

              An Ethernet connected modem is by far the best way to do this.

              If the delay is simply in the USB modem booting you can set a longer boot delay in pfSense to allow for that. Maybe use:
              https://www.netgate.com/docs/pfsense/hardware/boot-troubleshooting.html?highlight=kern%20cam%20boot_delay#booting-from-usb

              You can also add 'ue' to the list of interfaces to ignore in the mismatch check but that's an ugly workaround.

              Steve

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