Direct answer for buyers
MikroTik LHG is a product family of outdoor directional networking devices. The family is mainly used to create long-distance wireless links, connect a remote customer or building to an access point, or obtain LTE service where an indoor modem receives an inadequate signal. It should be considered by service providers, multi-building businesses, remote facilities and project teams that can provide a suitable mounting location. Before proceeding, confirm whether the requirement is 5 GHz wireless or cellular LTE, the expected throughput, path distance, line of sight, available tower or access point, local frequency rules, Ethernet requirements, power arrangement, weather exposure and installation scope.
What the LHG family does
An LHG device places the radio directly behind an integrated grid antenna. This architecture avoids the signal loss that can occur when a separate outdoor antenna is connected to an indoor radio through a long radio-frequency cable. Network traffic instead travels over Ethernet, which is normally easier to route into a building and can also carry power through passive PoE on many models.
In a 5 GHz installation, one unit can operate as a client connected to a compatible access point, while two correctly selected and configured units can form a point-to-point bridge. In an LTE installation, the directional antenna is aimed toward a mobile base station and the device passes connectivity to the local network through Ethernet. These uses require different hardware, configuration and site-survey methods.
Who should consider it
The family can suit organisations that have a clear outdoor path between two sites, need a high-gain client device for a fixed-wireless network, or must improve the position and directionality of a cellular endpoint. Typical buyers include wireless internet providers, logistics facilities, farms, temporary projects, hospitality compounds, industrial sites, schools, remote monitoring teams and businesses linking a gatehouse, warehouse, branch, camera cluster or service building.
It is not automatically the right choice for every location. Dense urban obstruction, reflective glass, heavy foliage, insufficient mast stability, strict radio restrictions or a requirement for broad local Wi-Fi coverage may point to a different product. A directional LHG is intended to focus energy along a planned path, not replace an indoor access-point system.
Business challenges and the practical response
Connecting separate buildings
Where trenching fibre is costly, restricted or temporary, a planned point-to-point wireless bridge may carry network traffic between locations. Clear line of sight, legal channel use, accurate alignment and capacity design remain essential.
Reaching a distant access point
A high-gain directional CPE can focus on a provider or campus access point more effectively than a low-gain indoor client. Compatibility, access-point sector design and provider acceptance must be confirmed.
Weak indoor mobile reception
An outdoor LTE model mounted high and directed toward a suitable tower can improve radio conditions compared with an indoor modem. Results still depend on network coverage, bands, congestion, SIM service and tower geometry.
Outdoor equipment exposure
The grid form reduces wind loading compared with a solid dish, but mounting hardware, cable entry, grounding, surge protection and structural suitability must be treated as part of the installation rather than afterthoughts.
Understanding the main LHG options
MikroTik uses the LHG form across several product generations and connection types. Buyers should not assume that every model shares the same radio standard, antenna gain, Ethernet interface, CPU platform, software package or cellular modem. Current and legacy availability may also differ by market. The comparison below is therefore selection guidance rather than a combined specification sheet.
| Buyer need | LHG type to consider | Main selection factor | Confirm before ordering |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modern long-range 5 GHz link | LHG 5 ax or LHG XL 5 ax | 24.5 dBi or 27 dBi antenna, path length and Wi-Fi 6 design | Far-end compatibility, RouterOS configuration, channel plan and region |
| Established 802.11ac deployment | LHG 5 ac or LHG XL 5 ac, subject to availability | 24.5 dBi versus 27 dBi, Gigabit Ethernet and installed-base compatibility | Lifecycle, stock status, software support and exact regional version |
| Long-distance cellular access | LHG LTE18 kit, LHGG LTE6 kit or another supported cellular variant | Mobile category, bands, carrier aggregation, Ethernet speed and tower conditions | UAE operator bands, SIM plan, region code, tower direction and local coverage |
| Legacy or cost-sensitive fixed wireless | LHG 5 or LHG XL HP5 where specifically required | 802.11n generation, interface limitations and existing network design | Whether a newer ax or ac design provides better lifecycle value |
Buyer information table
| Brand | MikroTik |
|---|---|
| Product family | LHG, meaning Light Head Grid |
| Product type | Outdoor directional wireless CPE, point-to-point device or LTE endpoint, depending on model |
| Typical deployment | Pole or mast mounted outdoors with Ethernet back to the local network |
| Antenna | Integrated directional grid antenna; gain is model dependent |
| Wireless generations | Model dependent, including 802.11n, 802.11ac and newer 802.11ax options |
| Cellular options | Selected LTE models and kits; modem category and supported bands vary |
| Ethernet | One Ethernet interface is typical; speed is model dependent and must be confirmed |
| Power | Passive PoE is used by many models; acceptable voltage and included injector depend on the exact package |
| Management | RouterOS or model-specific MikroTik software; version and license level vary |
| Mounting | Included and optional mounting components vary; LHG mount and solidMOUNT are relevant accessories for supported units |
| Regional version | Region dependent. Frequency restrictions and cellular bands must match the destination |
| Warranty guidance | Confirm current manufacturer and seller terms in the quotation |
| UAE availability | Contact FourTeck for the exact model, quantity, lead time and included accessories |
Compatibility and dependency notice
A successful link is a system outcome, not a property of one radio. For 5 GHz deployment, both ends must support compatible operating modes, channel widths, security and regulatory settings. The path must provide adequate clearance around the direct line of sight, and the channel plan must account for interference. For LTE deployment, the modem must support the operator bands used at the site, while the SIM, data plan, network policy and tower capacity remain external dependencies.
Quoted wireless data rates are not the same as application throughput. Real performance changes with modulation, signal level, noise, channel width, protocol overhead, distance, weather, alignment, Ethernet limits and traffic load. FourTeck can help frame realistic requirements, but a site survey or field test may be needed where conditions are uncertain.
A practical purchase and deployment journey
Define the traffic
Identify the applications, expected users, peak traffic, latency sensitivity and whether the link is primary, backup or temporary.
Survey the path
Measure coordinates, distance, elevation, obstructions, mounting points, cable routes and available power. Check the likely Fresnel-zone clearance.
Select the exact model
Choose 5 GHz or LTE, antenna class, radio generation, Ethernet speed, region and mount. Confirm the far-end device and all accessories.
Install and align
Use a structurally suitable pole, outdoor cable, drip loops, grounding and surge protection. Align with live signal and quality measurements.
Configure and test
Apply secure management, bridge or routing design, frequency settings and monitoring. Test local throughput, stability and failover where required.
Directional gain and link engineering
The defining feature of the LHG format is its directional grid antenna. Higher gain can help a device receive and transmit more effectively along a narrow path, but it also makes alignment more sensitive. An XL model with a larger antenna may be appropriate for a longer or more demanding path, while the standard version may be easier to mount and sufficient for a shorter route. Choosing the largest antenna without considering mast loading, beam width, local regulations and actual path conditions is not a substitute for design.
For point-to-point work, the two endpoints should be plotted by coordinate and elevation. Buildings, cranes, trees and future construction can affect the path. The Fresnel zone—the volume around the direct radio line—also needs practical clearance. A link that appears visually clear can still lose margin when part of this zone is obstructed. In Dubai and other developed areas, reflections from façades and interference from neighbouring networks may also influence performance.
A sound design establishes a target receive level and fade margin rather than relying only on a maximum-distance statement. It also considers expected rain, heat, channel noise, cable quality, mount movement and the required service level. Final alignment should use RouterOS signal, noise and modulation indicators at both ends, followed by controlled throughput tests over the local link rather than an internet speed test alone.
Wi-Fi 6, 802.11ac and installed-base choices
The newer LHG 5 ax and LHG XL 5 ax introduce Wi-Fi 6 capability for long-range outdoor links, with integrated 24.5 dBi and 27 dBi antenna choices respectively. They also bring current RouterOS v7 positioning and WPA3 support. These features can be useful for new deployments where both ends can be planned together and the buyer wants a current platform. The practical benefit still depends on channel width, signal quality, CPU resources, configuration and the device used at the opposite side.
LHG 5 ac and LHG XL 5 ac remain relevant in many installed networks because they support 5 GHz 802.11ac, dual-polarisation integrated antennas and Gigabit Ethernet. However, availability and lifecycle should be confirmed rather than assumed. A buyer expanding an existing network may value protocol and operational consistency; a buyer starting a new system may prefer to compare newer ax hardware, support horizon and management approach.
Older 802.11n models can still appear in project specifications, replacement requests or cost-sensitive environments. Their Ethernet and radio constraints may limit a modern connection. FourTeck can help compare replacement compatibility, mounting reuse, power requirements and configuration migration. An upgrade should be evaluated end to end because changing only one endpoint may not unlock the intended performance and could alter operating-mode compatibility.
LTE models for difficult coverage locations
Cellular LHG products address a different problem from the 5 GHz wireless units. They are intended to communicate with a mobile operator base station rather than another private LHG endpoint. By moving the modem and antenna outdoors, raising the installation point and directing the antenna toward a suitable tower, the deployment can improve radio conditions where walls, glazing or terrain weaken an indoor device.
The LHG LTE18 kit uses a Category 18 modem and a high-gain antenna for last-mile cellular connectivity, while the refreshed LHGG LTE6 kit provides a Category 6 route with Gigabit Ethernet and a newer platform. Category numbers describe modem capability, not a guaranteed service rate. The operator must support relevant band combinations, the tower must have usable capacity, the signal must be clean enough and the SIM plan must permit the intended traffic. Local tests at different heights and directions can reveal whether a cellular LHG is a sensible investment.
Before buying, record the operator, SIM type, known bands, current indoor and outdoor signal readings, nearest probable tower direction, required Ethernet handoff and whether the connection will be primary or failover. Also confirm whether remote management through the mobile operator network is possible, because carrier-grade NAT or provider policy may restrict inbound access. A VPN initiated from the site can be considered where secure remote operations are required.
Ideal environments and use cases
Warehouse and yard connectivity
A point-to-point link can extend the corporate network to a detached warehouse, security office or gatehouse. The design should account for vehicle movement, cranes, metal structures and a suitable path above routine obstruction.
Video-surveillance backhaul
Remote camera clusters can use a wireless bridge where fibre is unavailable. Required bandwidth must be calculated from camera count, codec, resolution, frame rate, recording method and viewing patterns, with margin for management traffic.
Farm and remote facility access
Directional 5 GHz or LTE equipment may connect irrigation controls, offices, sensors or staff accommodation. Power quality, mast access, lightning exposure and the ability to maintain equipment are especially important.
Temporary project networks
Construction and event teams may use a planned outdoor link while permanent telecom services are pending. Mounts must remain stable, frequency use must be managed and relocation should be included in the operating plan.
ISP customer-premises equipment
Service providers can deploy an LHG as a directional client toward a compatible sector or access point. Network authentication, provider configuration, frequency planning and customer installation standards should be controlled centrally.
Cellular branch backup
An LTE LHG may provide an independent backup path for a branch with weak indoor signal. Failover logic, data allowances, VPN behaviour, public addressing and periodic test procedures must form part of the design.
Integration and operational considerations
Decide early whether the LHG connection will operate as a transparent Layer 2 bridge or as a routed link. Bridging can simplify extension of an existing network, but it may also carry broadcast traffic and enlarge the failure domain. Routing can create cleaner boundaries, support specific failover behaviour and make monitoring easier, but it requires an addressing and policy plan. Security teams should define management access, administration networks, credential handling, firmware procedures and logging.
Power and cabling deserve equal attention. Verify the model’s passive PoE input range, injector, cable category, conductor material and total length. Outdoor-rated UV-resistant cable, shield continuity where appropriate, surge protection and grounding should be selected for the site. The cable entry should form a drip loop and remain protected from water. Long cable runs can introduce voltage drop, so the full power path must be checked before installation.
Monitoring should include more than simple reachability. Useful indicators include signal level, signal-to-noise ratio, modulation rate, retransmissions, error count, Ethernet negotiation, CPU load, temperature where reported, mobile-cell information for LTE and traffic utilisation. Thresholds can be chosen based on the designed margin. Configuration backups, change records and photographs of alignment and mounting help future maintenance teams.
Questions to resolve before requesting a quotation
Is the requirement 5 GHz or LTE?
A private wireless bridge needs compatible equipment at both ends. LTE needs a supported mobile network, SIM and suitable tower conditions.
What throughput is actually required?
List applications and peak demand. Do not use the internet subscription headline alone as the design target.
What is the distance and path profile?
Coordinates, heights and obstruction details help determine antenna class, mounting and whether a survey is needed.
Which regional model is appropriate?
Radio frequency restrictions, modem bands and product codes vary. The destination and operator must be stated.
What installation work is included?
Clarify mounting, cable route, access equipment, grounding, surge protection, configuration, testing and handover.
How will the link be supported?
Define monitoring, backup configuration, spares strategy, remote access and responsibility for tower or roof access.
Procurement checklist
☐ Exact LHG model or a clear request for model selection
☐ Required quantity and whether a matched pair is needed
☐ 5 GHz wireless or LTE connection type
☐ Endpoint coordinates, distance and proposed mounting heights
☐ Target usable throughput and critical applications
☐ Existing access point, far-end radio or mobile operator
☐ Regional frequency or cellular-band requirements
☐ Ethernet speed and local router or switch interface
☐ Passive PoE voltage, injector and power-source plan
☐ Mount, pole, brackets and alignment adjustment required
☐ Outdoor cable, grounding and surge-protection scope
☐ Configuration, VPN, routing or bridge requirements
☐ Installation access, lifting equipment and permit constraints
☐ Warranty, lead time and support terms to be confirmed
FourTeck consultation and configuration support
FourTeck can assist at the point where a broad requirement needs to become an orderable bill of materials. Start by sharing the link purpose, endpoint locations, distance, expected speed, current network, preferred mobile operator where relevant, and any existing MikroTik equipment. This information helps separate a standard LHG from an XL model, a wireless unit from an LTE kit, and a current-generation choice from a legacy replacement.
Support can also be scoped around configuration rather than hardware alone. Buyers may require bridge or routing setup, VLAN handling, IP addressing, secure administrative access, basic monitoring, cellular failover, VPN integration or handover documentation. These activities are not automatically included with every product quotation and should be identified during requirement review. Visit the FourTeck technology services page to discuss planning and implementation needs.
Where physical installation is required, the quotation should distinguish device supply from mounting, structured cabling, pole or mast work, access equipment, electrical work, grounding and testing. FourTeck can coordinate the commercial scope after the site responsibilities and expected deliverables are agreed. Buyers can also browse related network and security products that may be needed around the link.
UAE availability and support guidance
Contact FourTeck to confirm current UAE availability for the required MikroTik LHG model. Supply can depend on the product generation, regional code, quantity, cellular variant, included accessories and vendor lead time. A listing for one family member should not be interpreted as confirmation that all LHG versions are immediately available.
For projects in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman, FourTeck can review requirements, coordinate a quotation and discuss delivery or project support after the exact scope is known. Installation and configuration should be included in the quotation when required. Buyers should provide the deployment address, rooftop or mast access conditions, target schedule, local contact and any permit or safety restrictions. Use the FourTeck contact page to submit the model, quantity and project details.
GCC Availability
FourTeck can assist organisations planning MikroTik LHG deployments across GCC markets by reviewing the required connection type, model, quantity, regional radio requirements and installation scope. A project may involve a 5 GHz bridge between buildings, customer-premises equipment for a fixed-wireless service, or an LTE endpoint for a remote branch. Requirements can differ across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman, particularly where frequency rules, mobile bands, import processes, site access and project responsibilities vary. Product availability, licensing where applicable, delivery schedules, service visits and vendor lead times are country, model and quantity dependent. Buyers should share the destination country, exact use case, endpoint information, required quantity, expected schedule and whether configuration or installation planning is needed. For Kuwait-focused coordination, the FourTeck Kuwait resource can provide an additional regional contact route.
Africa Availability
Organisations planning fixed-wireless or cellular connectivity in Africa can contact FourTeck for model evaluation, accessory planning, quotation coordination and deployment guidance. LHG suitability can change significantly by location because the result depends on path terrain, available spectrum, tower density, cellular bands, power quality, mounting infrastructure, shipping arrangements and local project conditions. East African deployments in markets such as Kenya and Uganda may use the family for remote facilities, service-provider access or branch connectivity, but each site requires its own assessment. Availability and fulfilment can vary by destination, exact model, quantity, regional radio code, modem version and vendor lead time. Buyers should provide the destination country, endpoint coordinates where possible, required traffic, preferred operator for LTE, target deployment schedule and any need for installation or remote support. Regional enquiries can also use FourTeck Africa, FourTeck Kenya or FourTeck Uganda.
Related options and supporting services
LHG mount
A basic metal pole-mount adapter designed for supported LHG and LHG XL products. Confirm package contents and adjustment needs.
solidMOUNT
An adjustable metal mounting option that supports vertical and horizontal alignment for compatible LHG family devices.
MikroTik NetMetal ax
A separate outdoor-radio approach for buyers who need a robust enclosure and external antenna flexibility rather than an integrated grid.
Outdoor switching and routing
Local routers, PoE arrangements, managed switches, VLAN design and secure remote access may be needed around the wireless endpoint.
Site survey and link planning
Path review, channel assessment, mounting design and installation planning help convert a product choice into a maintainable connection.
Configuration and handover
RouterOS setup, bridge or routing design, monitoring, backup configuration and documentation can be included as a separate service scope.
Why businesses contact FourTeck
The value of consultation is practical: reducing the risk of ordering the wrong radio type, regional version, antenna class or accessory set. FourTeck can help buyers translate a business requirement into the exact information needed for a commercial quotation. This may include a matched pair of wireless devices, an LTE kit with the appropriate regional modem, mounts, outdoor cable considerations, power components and a defined configuration scope.
FourTeck can also help identify where more evidence is needed. A desktop path review may be enough for a simple clear route, while a congested urban path, critical link or uncertain cellular site may justify an onsite survey or test. Compatibility review can cover the far-end radio, existing RouterOS environment, VLANs, addressing, VPNs and monitoring. For broader company information, visit about FourTeck UAE.
Frequently asked questions
What is the MikroTik LHG Series used for?
It is used for directional outdoor connectivity. Depending on the model, that can mean a 5 GHz point-to-point bridge, a customer-premises link to an access point, or an outdoor LTE connection to a mobile base station.
What is the difference between LHG and LHG XL?
Within comparable 5 GHz generations, XL generally identifies the larger, higher-gain antenna version. For example, current ax variants are offered with 24.5 dBi and 27 dBi antennas. The correct choice depends on path design and mounting conditions.
Should I choose LHG 5 ax or LHG 5 ac?
For a new matched deployment, the ax range offers a newer Wi-Fi 6 platform. An ac model may be relevant for compatibility with an installed network. Confirm lifecycle, far-end support, RouterOS design and current UAE availability.
Can one LHG create a point-to-point link?
A complete private point-to-point link normally needs suitable equipment at both endpoints. This may be two compatible LHG units or an LHG connected to another supported access-point design. Both sides must be planned together.
Does an LTE LHG guarantee faster mobile internet?
No. Outdoor placement and antenna direction can improve radio conditions, but service speed still depends on supported bands, signal quality, tower capacity, operator configuration, SIM plan and network congestion.
Is line of sight required?
Clear line of sight and adequate Fresnel-zone clearance are strongly preferred for reliable long-range 5 GHz links. LTE may tolerate some obstruction, but terrain and buildings can still affect the signal and tower selection.
What accessories should be included?
The answer can include an appropriate mount, PoE injector or power supply, outdoor Ethernet cable, surge protection, grounding components and pole hardware. Included items differ by model and package and must be checked.
Can FourTeck configure the devices?
Configuration can be discussed as a separate scope, including bridge or routing mode, IP addressing, VLANs, management security, monitoring and testing. Provide the intended topology and existing network details.
How do I request an accurate quotation?
Share the connection type, exact model if known, quantity, endpoint distance, required throughput, operator for LTE, mounting requirements, regional destination and whether installation or configuration is needed.
Is the MikroTik LHG Series available in Dubai?
Contact FourTeck to confirm current Dubai and UAE availability. Supply depends on the exact model, region, quantity, cellular variant, accessories and vendor lead time.
Turn the site requirement into the right LHG model
Send FourTeck the distance, endpoint details, target throughput, preferred connection type and installation scope. The team can help define the model, accessories and quotation requirements without treating every LHG variant as interchangeable.