ZTE MC801A Pro 5G Router Overview

The ZTE MC801A Pro is a powerful 5G WiFi router designed for both home and office use, delivering ultra-fast internet speeds with future-proof technologies.

It supports true 5G dual-mode (NSA + SA), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), and is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 chipset.

The ZTE MC801A Pro offers extensive global band compatibility and enhanced wireless performance with advanced antenna design, making it ideal for users wanting blazing 5G internet shared across multiple devices simultaneously.

Here is a comprehensive expert article covering requested aspects:

Specifications

  • Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 + WCN6856 Wi-Fi chip

  • CPU: Cortex A7 up to 1.4GHz

  • 5G Support: NSA + SA dual mode, 3GPP Release 16

  • Supported 5G Bands: N1/3/7/8/20/28/38/40/41/75/77/78

  • 4G LTE Bands: 1/3/4/5/7/8/20/28/32/38/40/41/42/43

  • Max 5G Download Speed: Up to 3.8 Gbps

  • Max 5G Upload Speed: Up to 542 Mbps

  • Wi-Fi Standards: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (Wi-Fi 6), dual-band

  • Wi-Fi Speed: Peak rate up to 3600 Mbps

  • MIMO: 4×4 MIMO support for Wi-Fi

  • Max Wi-Fi Users: Up to 64 simultaneous users

  • Ports: 2x LAN (1 WAN), 1x RJ11 Tel port, 2x TS-9 external antenna connectors

  • SIM Card Slot: Nano-SIM

  • Dimensions: 182 x 124 x 70 mm

  • Power Supply: 12V/4A

  • Security: WPA, WPA2, firewall, VPN, IPv6 support

  • Other Features: Carrier aggregation, ENDC tech for better coverage, MAC filtering, guest SSID, port forwarding, etc.

Key Features

  • Dual-mode 5G support: Enjoy high-speed and low latency with both NSA and SA 5G networks worldwide.

  • Wi-Fi 6 technology: Delivers fast and stable connections with a peak Wi-Fi rate of 3600 Mbps and supports up to 64 users simultaneously.

  • High gain antennas: Unique antenna design with 12dBi gain for better penetration, wider coverage, and 15% speed improvement over ordinary devices.

  • Dual network access: Supports wireless 5G and wired broadband connections with seamless switching for stable internet.

  • External antennas: Two TS-9 antenna ports allow attaching high-gain external antennas to boost signal strength in weak coverage areas.

  • Advanced security and network options: Extensive firewall, VPN support, guest network, multiple SSIDs, and parental control features.

ZTE MC801A Pro Price

The ZTE MC801A Pro is positioned as a premium 5G router with pricing typically ranging from $350 to $450 depending on the retailer and region.

Prices may vary with promotions or bundles including antennas and accessories.

Manual and Documentation

The official user manual and operation guide provide comprehensive instructions on device setup, configurations, and troubleshooting.

It includes details on network connections, indicator meanings, and advanced network settings.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

  1. Insert Nano SIM Card: Power off the router, open the SIM card slot, and insert an activated Nano SIM card.

  2. Connect Power: Plug in the 12V power adapter and turn on the router using the power button.

  3. Connect Devices: Use Wi-Fi (SSID and password provided on the device label) or Ethernet cable to connect computers and devices.

  4. Access Router Interface: Open a web browser and enter 192.168.0.1 to reach the admin console. Log in with default credentials (usually indicated on the router).

  5. Configure Internet Settings: Set APN details if required by the carrier, choose network mode (auto or manual 5G/4G selection), and check connectivity status.

  6. Customize Wi-Fi: Change SSID, password, and enable guest network or parental controls as needed.

  7. Save Settings and Reboot: Apply changes and restart the router if necessary to activate configurations.

Firmware Update

Firmware updates enhance security, fix bugs, and add new features. To update:

  1. Visit the ZTE official support website or check within the router’s admin interface for available updates.

  2. Download the latest firmware version matching the MC801A Pro model.

  3. Upload the firmware file via the router’s admin interface under System Update section.

  4. Wait for the process to complete without interrupting power. The router will reboot automatically when done.

  5. Verify firmware version to confirm the update.

External Antenna Support

The ZTE MC801A Pro includes two TS-9 ports for external 5G antennas. Using high-gain external antennas:

  • Enhances signal strength and network reliability in low coverage or rural areas.

  • Allows better penetration through walls and long-distance communication.

  • Is recommended when indoor signal reception is weak or unstable.

  • Compatible antennas with TS-9 connectors should be used for best performance.

Conclusion

The ZTE MC801A Pro is a top-tier 5G router combining state-of-the-art Qualcomm technology, dual-mode 5G compatibility, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.

It is well-suited for families, businesses, and advanced users who demand robust, lightning-fast internet while supporting multiple simultaneous devices.

Its external antenna support and wide network band compatibility make it a versatile option for diverse deployment environments.

Though priced at a premium, its feature set and performance justify the investment for those needing future-ready 5G home or office networking solutions.

This article covers all key aspects for understanding and using the ZTE MC801A Pro router effectively.

Let me know if a specific section requires more depth or if assistance with configuration screenshots or troubleshooting tips is needed.