The GL.iNet Slate 7 (BE3600) is the latest travel router designed to provide secure and high speed
connectivity on the go. Featuring Wi-Fi 7 technology, VPN integration, and enhanced
security features, this router is built for travelers, remote workers, and tech enthusiasts looking
for a reliable mobile networking solution.
Features and Performance
The Slate 7 is equipped with a Qualcomm Quad-core 1.1 GHz processor, 1GB of DDR4 RAM,
and 512MB of NAND storage. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi 7 (2.4GHz & 5GHz) and offers
speeds up to 3600 Mbps. The router also includes two 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, a USB 3.0 port,
and a touchscreen display for easy management. The addition of a QR code sign-in feature
enhances user convenience, allowing quick connections via smartphone cameras.
The Slate 7 runs on OpenWRT, an open-source operating system known for its flexibility and
customization. GL.iNet has enhanced OpenWRT with a user-friendly interface and additional
features, making it accessible to both advanced users and those new to networking.
A hardware switch on the side of the router allows users to program it for quick control over
OpenVPN, WireGuard, or Tor network connections, making it easier to toggle privacy settings
on the fly.
Real-World Usage
The router performs well in repeater mode, successfully connecting to various Wi-Fi networks,
including home setups, public hotspots, and corporate environments. The QR code sign-in
feature has been tested across multiple devices, including Pixel 9 XL, Pixel 6, Pixel 7a, and Pixel
Tablet, all of which connected seamlessly.
Users have taken the device to different locations such as hospitals, restaurants, and hotels, with
and without captive portals, and experienced no issues connecting. The router’s ability to create a
stable private network in these environments makes it a reliable tool for frequent travelers.
Security and VPN Integration
The Slate 7 provides robust security features, supporting OpenVPN, WireGuard, AdGuard, and
Tor. Mullvad VPN integration is seamless, with an easy setup wizard that downloads and
configures profiles automatically. The router also supports secure browsing with Tor, making it a
great choice for privacy-focused users.
Additionally, the Slate 7 comes with built-in support for GoodCloud and Tailscale, allowing for
easy remote network management and secure private connections across multiple devices.
AdGuardDNS is also included, offering advanced ad-blocking and privacy protection at the DNS
level.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Performance in access point and repeater modes has been strong, with solid speeds and reliable
connections. Some users encountered issues with WPA2 and 802.11W (Managed Frame
Protection), causing connectivity failures in certain setups. Adjusting security settings resolved
this problem.
Smart home devices, such as cameras, were also tested, with some IoT devices struggling to
connect due to compatibility limitations. However, the router handled multiple wireless clients
efficiently, even under high loads.
Conclusion
Overall, the GL.iNet Slate 7 (BE3600) is a powerful and flexible travel router. With its Wi-Fi 7
capabilities, secure VPN integration, OpenWRT-based OS, and strong performance in various
environments, it is an excellent choice for users needing reliable connectivity on the go. Some
minor compatibility issues exist, but the device’s overall performance and features make it a
valuable travel companion.
We would like to extend our thanks to GL.iNet and their marketing team for sending us the prerelease
Slate 7 to test. Their support has allowed us to explore the full capabilities of this router
before its official release. Stay tuned for further updates as more users test and provide feedback
on this device.
Technical Specifications
• Processor: Qualcomm Quad-core 1.1 GHz CPU (ARMv7 Processor rev 4 (v7l))
• RAM & Storage: 1GB DDR4 RAM, 512MB NAND storage
• Wireless: Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 (2.4GHz & 5GHz)
• Speeds: 688 Mbps (2.4GHz), 2882 Mbps (5GHz)
• Ethernet Ports: 2 × 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports (WAN/LAN)
• USB Ports: 1 × USB 3.0 (for tethering and storage)
• Operating System: OpenWRT-based with GL.iNet custom enhancements
• Security Features: OpenVPN, WireGuard, AdGuard Home, Tor support
• Remote Management: GoodCloud & Tailscale integration
• Hardware Features: Touchscreen interface, programmable hardware switch
• Size & Weight: 130 x 91 x 34 mm, lightweight & travel-friendly
• Current Firmware Version: 4.7.0 Beta2 (Released 01/16/2025)
• Kernel Version: 5.4.213
References
GL.iNet Official Website – Slate 7 (BE3600) Product Page
• https://www.gl-inet.com/products/gl-be3600/
• Used for technical specifications, feature highlights, and official
product information.
GL.iNet GoodCloud
• https://www.gl-inet.com/solutions/cloud-management/
• Referenced for remote management features and integration with
the router.
GL.iNet Press Kit & Documentation
• https://www.gl-inet.com/press/
• Used for official product images and promotional material.
Beta Tester Discussions & Reports
• Extracted insights from internal beta testing discussions without
attributing to specific users.
• Analyzed feedback on Wi-Fi performance, VPN speeds, repeater
mode, and compatibility issues.
BE3600 Beta Testing Report Document
• User-provided structured testing document summarizing real-world
performance metrics and bug reports.
User Experience & Testing
• Direct testing performed by WickedYoda, evaluating:
• Repeater mode with public and private networks.
• Mullvad VPN & Tor network integration.
• QR Code Wi-Fi access across multiple Pixel devices.
• Connection success on captive portal Wi-Fi networks
(McDonald’s, hospitals, etc.).
NAS Compares – GL.iNet Slate 7 (BE3600) Portable Wi-Fi 7 Router
Review
• https://nascompares.com/news/gl-inet-slate-7-gl-be3600-portablewi-
fi-7-router-revealed/
• Used for early insights into hardware specifications and VPN
features.
Tailscale Documentation
• https://tailscale.com/kb/
• Referenced for secure remote networking capabilities.
Kernel & System Information
• Device specifications extracted from running Firmware Version
4.7.0 Beta2 with Linux Kernel 5.4.213.
• Hardware: ARMv7 Processor rev 4 (v7l).