Modem enclosure for use with existing router

[Tgdc1978]

Forgive me if this is already covered here but I tried some searches but wasn’t sure what terms to use.

I have an existing network gateway/router and wifi access points with DSL access in a rural area. The DSL has unlimited data but is spotty since the telco line run is so long so I’d like to use LTE as a secondary wan with a directional external antenna. My gateway does support dual WAN but only has Ethernet not a USB port. What is the suggested setup? I was thinking of using a Quectel EM12 or EM20 (or something similar). I don’t need the full wifi router capabilities of some of the popular offerings so I wasn’t sure if one of the USB enclosures plus a usb to Ethernet adapter would be best (though it seems a little kludgy). Are there good dedicated enclosures that power an LTE modem and output just a single gigabit Ethernet port? Or maybe I’m just best off buying one of the known good routers even if I don’t really need the wifi. Thanks. Note: I am thinking I prefer the enclosure + Quectel card for future configuration flexibility regarding antennas, etc vs an off the shelf hotspot; but it seems most people here also have that preference.

[Didneywhorl]

The problem is driver support. The modem needs a device that has protocols and drivers to support and interface the modem.

You're best bet is to start with a simple router like the NEXQ6GO and drop in the modem you need (get adapters if needed) and turn off the wifi radio on it.

https://thewirelesshaven.com/shop/routers/lte-rou ... fi-router/
https://thewirelesshaven.com/shop/pcie-m-2/mini-p ... card-slot/
https://thewirelesshaven.com/shop/modems/quectel- ... 2-modem-2/

Pop it together, update to the latest firmware for the router. Turn off the wifi radio. Plug it into your other gear, after you set IP addresses to not conflict. Good to go with your new WAN source.