Industrial IoT connectivity for compact deployments
MikroTik KNOT Embedded LTE4 in Dubai, UAE
The MikroTik KNOT Embedded LTE4, model EC25-EU&KNe, combines LTE Category 4, Bluetooth Low Energy, GNSS, Gigabit Ethernet, eSIM and nano-SIM support, GPIO connectivity and RouterOS management in a compact enclosure suited to industrial automation, asset visibility and remote equipment projects.
Direct answer for buyers
MikroTik KNOT Embedded LTE4 is an industrial IoT gateway for connecting machines, sensors, kiosks, tracking systems and remote equipment through cellular networks while also collecting Bluetooth sensor data or GNSS location information. It is particularly relevant to system integrators, automation specialists, utilities, retail technology teams and businesses deploying compact unattended systems. Before proceeding, confirm that the EC25-EU&KNe radio bands match the intended operator, specify the required external LTE and GNSS antennas, review the nano-SIM or eSIM plan, decide whether PoE or USB-C power will be used and document any GPIO or RouterOS configuration needs.
What it does
The device creates an Ethernet-to-cellular connection for equipment that must communicate when fixed broadband is unavailable, impractical or required only as a backup. Its RouterOS platform provides routing, firewalling, VPN capability, remote administration, SMS-related control functions and automation options. Bluetooth Low Energy support enables nearby sensor and beacon data collection, while GNSS can support location-aware projects when a suitable external antenna is connected.
A GPIO header allows selected analogue and digital signals to be incorporated into an automation design. This means the KNOT can sit between operational equipment, field sensors and an IP network rather than acting only as a basic mobile modem.
Who it suits
The KNOT Embedded LTE4 is most suitable for experienced integrators and organisations that need a compact, configurable communications component rather than a consumer plug-and-play router. Typical users include vending and payment equipment operators, industrial control contractors, facilities teams, smart-city solution providers, remote monitoring companies and fleet or asset visibility specialists.
It is less suitable where built-in Wi-Fi access for users, multiple Ethernet ports, weatherproof outdoor housing or 5G performance is mandatory. In those cases, buyers should review an alternative router or use the KNOT as one component within a broader enclosure and network design.
Business challenges this gateway can address
No fixed line at the equipment
LTE connectivity can provide an IP path for remote devices where fibre or copper installation is commercially or physically unsuitable.
Limited cabinet space
The compact 90 × 70 × 22 mm enclosure and DIN-rail mounting support make it practical for constrained control cabinets and equipment housings.
Separate sensor and tracking systems
Bluetooth, GNSS, GPIO and Ethernet can be combined in one managed node, subject to application design and antenna requirements.
Need for network control
RouterOS enables routing policies, firewall rules, VPNs, monitoring and automation beyond the functions of a simple unmanaged LTE modem.
Core capabilities at a glance
LTE Cat 4 with published maximum modem rates of 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink; real performance depends on the operator, signal, congestion and configuration.
Bluetooth 5.4 support can be used in IoT scenarios involving compatible beacons and sensors.
GNSS support covers GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo, with an external SMA antenna required for location projects.
A 24 V-tolerant GPIO header supports analogue input, digital input and open-drain output use cases.
Product-fit decision matrix
| Requirement | Suitable when | Confirm before ordering |
|---|---|---|
| Compact cellular gateway | Equipment needs Ethernet access over 2G, 3G or LTE in a small cabinet. | Operator bands, expected coverage and antenna placement. |
| Bluetooth sensor collection | Nearby BLE beacons or sensors must forward data to an IP platform. | Sensor protocol, payload processing and application integration. |
| Location-aware device | The project requires GNSS coordinates from a vehicle or fixed asset. | External GNSS antenna, sky visibility and data reporting method. |
| Machine signal monitoring | Analogue or digital signals need to trigger reporting or automation. | Voltage levels, electrical isolation and GPIO engineering. |
| Multi-user branch router | Only when a single Ethernet interface and modest edge role are sufficient. | Port count, Wi-Fi, throughput, redundancy and security workload; another router may fit better. |
Verified technical information
| Brand | MikroTik |
|---|---|
| Product and model | KNOT Embedded LTE4, product code EC25-EU&KNe |
| Product type | Industrial LTE, BLE and GNSS IoT gateway |
| Processor | Single-core ARM Cortex-A7, 800 MHz |
| Memory and storage | 256 MB RAM and 512 MB NAND storage |
| Operating system | RouterOS v7, License Level 3 |
| LTE | Category 4, up to 150 Mbps downlink and 50 Mbps uplink at modem level; field performance varies |
| LTE FDD bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 and 28A |
| LTE TDD bands | 38, 40 and 41 |
| MIMO | 2 × 2 downlink, 1 × 1 uplink |
| SIM support | One nano-SIM slot and eSIM support |
| Ethernet | One 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 port with PoE-in |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.4 BLE |
| GNSS | GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo; SMA-female connector |
| GPIO | Six-pin, 24 V-tolerant header for analogue and digital I/O; electrical design must follow vendor limits |
| Power | 802.3af/at PoE-in, 12–57 V, or USB-C 5 V / 0.8 A; maximum 7 W |
| Dimensions | 90 × 70 × 22 mm |
| Mounting | DIN-rail or wall mounting using the supplied K-91 fastening set; DIN rail not included |
| Operating temperature | Tested from -40 °C to +70 °C |
| Protection rating | IP20; use a suitable enclosure for dusty, wet or outdoor environments |
| Included components | K-91 fastening set and 5 V 0.8 A power adapter, subject to regional packaging confirmation |
| External antennas | Required for cellular operation; GNSS antenna is required when positioning is used. Confirm antenna type and cable length separately. |
Important configuration and compatibility dependencies
The EC25-EU&KNe is not a universal radio variant for every country. Its published LTE bands must be checked against the intended mobile network, deployment region and frequency availability. Buyers planning projects outside the UAE should compare this model with the Global variant rather than assuming identical coverage. Carrier certification, APN settings, roaming policy, private APN support and eSIM provisioning may depend on the operator and subscription.
External antennas are a mandatory planning item. The MAIN cellular antenna must be connected for modem operation. A diversity antenna is recommended for improved reception and stability, particularly where signal strength is variable, the device is mobile or the enclosure attenuates radio signals. The GNSS connector serves positioning only and requires an appropriate antenna with a practical view of the sky. Cable loss, connector type, enclosure material and antenna separation can materially influence results.
GPIO projects require careful electrical engineering. Input voltages, output current, relay isolation, grounding and surge protection must be assessed by a qualified installer. RouterOS scripts, VPN design, firewall policy, remote update procedures and monitoring integration should be included in the configuration plan rather than treated as automatic outcomes of the hardware purchase.
A practical purchase and deployment journey
Define the field role
State whether the unit will provide primary LTE access, backup connectivity, BLE collection, location reporting, GPIO automation or a combination of these functions.
Validate radio and antennas
Check mobile operator bands, expected signal conditions, antenna connectors, mounting position, cable length and whether GNSS is needed.
Prepare the network design
Document IP addressing, APN, VPN, firewall, routing, remote access, logging, failover and device-management requirements.
Confirm physical integration
Review power, DIN-rail or wall mounting, ventilation, cabinet protection, cable routing and GPIO wiring.
Test and hand over
Validate signal, connectivity, failover, sensor data, location, alerts and secure administration before operational release.
LTE connectivity with RouterOS control
The central value of the KNOT Embedded LTE4 is not merely that it contains an LTE modem. It combines mobile connectivity with RouterOS, giving integrators a configurable networking platform. In a remote equipment application, this can allow the device to establish the WAN connection, route traffic to a connected controller, apply firewall rules and create a VPN path back to a central environment. In a backup role, routing logic can be designed to use LTE when the primary connection is unavailable. The exact design depends on the wider network, application tolerance and operator service.
Published LTE Category 4 data rates are theoretical modem capabilities rather than a service guarantee. Actual speeds depend on cell capacity, radio signal, antenna gain, cable loss, frequency band, operator policy, APN, location and network load. For telemetry, alarms and machine status, stable connectivity may be more important than peak speed. For video or high-volume transfers, the project team should test the live site and may need a higher-category LTE or 5G platform.
RouterOS also supports automation and remote management, but a secure operating model is essential. Change default credentials, restrict administrative access, maintain software updates, use encrypted management channels, back up configurations and establish a recovery process. Businesses operating many sites should define a repeatable template for APN settings, VPN identity, firewall policy, monitoring and alerting. FourTeck can help scope these requirements as part of a configuration or deployment discussion.
Bluetooth and sensor-data collection
Bluetooth Low Energy can reduce the need to cable every nearby sensor back to the communications gateway. In a vending area, retail cabinet, plant room or mobile asset, compatible BLE beacons and sensors may broadcast identifiers, temperature readings, movement events or other telemetry. The KNOT can receive these transmissions and pass selected information to a network application using a design built around RouterOS and the target platform.
Compatibility must be assessed at the data level, not only at the Bluetooth version level. The sensor advertising format, encryption, scan interval, payload interpretation, filtering rules and destination protocol all influence the integration. Some sensors expose proprietary data formats or require a vendor platform. Others can be decoded through documented beacon standards. Buyers should provide sample sensor models and the required output so the integration team can determine whether scripting, middleware or an external application is necessary.
Radio placement is also relevant. The unit has an internal Bluetooth antenna, and metal enclosures or dense machinery can reduce range. The installer should test reception in the final cabinet and consider sensor spacing, interference and battery behaviour. The KNOT is a capable collection point, but it does not remove the need for application-level planning and field validation.
GNSS, GPIO and automation flexibility
GNSS support gives the device a role in mobile tracking, movable equipment, service vehicles and location-aware field assets. The supported satellite systems include GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo. A dedicated external GNSS antenna connects through SMA, and its placement should provide sufficient sky visibility. A device mounted deep inside a metal enclosure or building may need a remotely positioned antenna and suitable low-loss cable.
GPIO extends the KNOT into simple machine monitoring and control scenarios. The header can accommodate analogue input, digital input and open-drain output functions within published electrical limits. Examples may include reading a voltage state, detecting a tamper contact or controlling an isolated relay. These examples require proper electrical design; direct connection to industrial circuits without suitable protection can damage equipment or create safety risks. Isolation, fusing, grounding, surge protection and relay selection must match the field environment.
The most useful projects combine these capabilities intentionally. A remote cabinet might report its location, use a digital input for door status, gather BLE temperature data and forward all information over LTE. Another installation may use the same hardware only as a cellular backup for an Ethernet controller. This flexibility is a strength, but it makes requirement definition important. FourTeck can help turn the application description into a clearer bill of materials and configuration scope.
Ideal business environments and use cases
Vending and unattended retail
Connect controllers, collect machine status, support payment or telemetry systems and monitor cabinet conditions where fixed broadband is not practical.
Industrial control cabinets
Provide LTE access to PLCs, meters or controllers while using DIN-rail mounting and a separate industrial enclosure.
Utility and environmental monitoring
Forward readings from distributed sites, including BLE or GPIO-connected inputs, subject to sensor and platform compatibility.
Fleet and movable assets
Combine mobile data and GNSS location for vehicle-mounted equipment or transportable systems, with careful antenna and power design.
Kiosks and digital signage
Deliver an independent cellular connection to an Ethernet device for management, content updates or operational reporting.
Resilient equipment links
Act as an LTE backup path for selected systems where a single Gigabit Ethernet connection is enough for the design.
Integration and operational considerations
The KNOT Embedded LTE4 should be treated as part of an end-to-end system. Start with mobile coverage and operator selection, then define the addressing and security model. Some mobile subscriptions use carrier-grade NAT, which can prevent unsolicited inbound connections. A VPN initiated from the device, a private APN or an application-level outbound connection may therefore be needed. The choice depends on whether the central platform must poll the unit or the unit pushes data outward.
Power resilience matters in unattended environments. PoE can simplify cabling by combining data and power on the Ethernet run, while USB-C may be convenient inside equipment using a regulated supply. The published maximum consumption is low, but the power source, surge protection and backup arrangement should match the project. Where service continuity is important, include the gateway in the cabinet power and UPS calculations.
Environmental protection must not be overlooked. IP20 is appropriate for protected indoor installation, not exposed outdoor deployment. Dust, condensation, direct sunlight, water ingress, vibration and heat from adjacent equipment may require an industrial enclosure and careful layout. Although the published tested temperature range is broad, the complete installation, including antennas, cables, power supplies and SIM, must be suitable for the environment.
Operational ownership should be agreed before rollout. Define who manages RouterOS updates, mobile contracts, eSIM profiles, monitoring alerts, VPN credentials, configuration backups and hardware replacement. A pilot at one representative site can reveal radio, enclosure or application issues before a larger deployment.
Buyer questions to resolve before ordering
Procurement checklist
- Confirm product code EC25-EU&KNe
- State required quantity and rollout phases
- Provide deployment country and mobile operator
- Choose nano-SIM or eSIM provisioning approach
- Specify MAIN and diversity LTE antennas
- Add a GNSS antenna when location is required
- Confirm PoE or USB-C power source
- Review DIN-rail or wall mounting method
- Document GPIO signals and electrical protection
- Define RouterOS configuration and security scope
- Confirm VPN, APN and remote management needs
- Request installation, testing and support options
FourTeck consultation and configuration assistance
FourTeck can help convert a general requirement such as “connect this machine over LTE” into a more complete quotation request. The review can cover the exact model, radio region, quantity, antennas, mounting, power, operator assumptions, SIM format and RouterOS configuration. For sensor projects, share the BLE device model, sample data format and destination platform. For GPIO projects, provide the required inputs, outputs and voltage details so the engineering scope can be assessed.
Configuration support may include APN setup, Ethernet addressing, routing, firewall policy, VPN parameters, logging, alerting and basic automation, depending on the agreed statement of work. Installation planning can also address cabinet position, antenna routing, DIN-rail mounting and test procedures. These services are not automatically included with the hardware and should be requested in the quotation.
Explore the broader FourTeck technology product range, review available installation and configuration services, or send your project requirement for commercial guidance.
UAE availability and support guidance
Contact FourTeck to confirm current UAE availability for the MikroTik KNOT Embedded LTE4. Supply can depend on the exact EC25-EU&KNe model, order quantity, regional packaging and vendor lead time. The quotation should identify whether external LTE antennas, a GNSS antenna, cabling, PoE equipment, mounting accessories or configuration services are required in addition to the gateway.
For projects across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman, FourTeck can coordinate requirement review, quotation preparation, delivery planning and an agreed installation or configuration scope. Service coverage and scheduling depend on the project location, site access, quantity and technical work required. Buyers should provide the destination, deployment timeline and site conditions instead of assuming a standard delivery or installation date.
GCC Availability
Businesses planning KNOT Embedded LTE4 projects across the GCC can contact FourTeck for requirement review and quotation coordination. The regional assessment should start with the destination country, because mobile frequency support, operator policy, eSIM provisioning, power arrangements and project logistics may differ between the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. FourTeck can assist with model confirmation, antenna selection, license and RouterOS scope, delivery planning and installation discussions after the application is understood. Product availability, service visits, lead times and fulfilment arrangements vary by country, quantity and vendor supply. Buyers should share the exact product code, required units, preferred operator, deployment location, anticipated schedule and any configuration or onsite expectations. For Kuwait-related coordination, the FourTeck Kuwait technology resource may also support regional planning.
Africa Availability
FourTeck can support organisations evaluating MikroTik IoT connectivity for selected African projects, including deployments in East Africa and other regions where remote monitoring, vending, utility or asset applications require cellular access. The EC25-EU&KNe band set should be checked carefully against the destination operator; the Global variant may be more appropriate in some markets. Availability and fulfilment can depend on model, quantity, license region, antenna requirements, shipping arrangements, power standards, local regulations and vendor lead time. Buyers should provide the destination country, expected deployment dates, mobile operator, antenna environment and support scope. FourTeck can then help with product selection, accessories, configuration planning and procurement guidance without assuming local inventory or guaranteed delivery. Regional information is available through FourTeck Africa, FourTeck Kenya and FourTeck Uganda.
Related products, services and alternatives
External LTE antennas
Select MAIN and diversity antennas to suit signal conditions, enclosure type, mounting position and cable length.
GNSS antenna
Add a suitable GNSS antenna when the application requires GPS or multi-constellation location data.
KNOT Embedded LTE4 Global
Consider the Global EG25-G&KNe variant where expanded international cellular band support is required.
Industrial enclosure design
Use a suitable protected enclosure when the installation is exposed to dust, moisture, heat, vibration or outdoor conditions.
RouterOS configuration
Request APN, VPN, firewall, routing, monitoring and automation configuration as a separate project scope.
Higher-capacity LTE or 5G routers
Review alternatives when multiple Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi, higher mobile throughput or advanced redundancy is required.
Why businesses contact FourTeck
The purchase decision for an embedded IoT gateway usually involves more than choosing a part number. FourTeck can help clarify whether the KNOT Embedded LTE4 matches the intended operator, installation environment, data path and management model. This reduces the chance of receiving hardware without the required antennas, power arrangement or configuration plan.
Assistance can include model and regional-variant review, bill-of-material guidance, antenna and accessory discussion, RouterOS scope, deployment planning, quote coordination and support options. For larger rollouts, buyers can define a pilot, standard configuration and acceptance checklist before ordering the full quantity. Learn more about FourTeck or contact the team with a site-specific requirement.
Frequently asked questions
Is the MikroTik KNOT Embedded LTE4 a normal office router?
It is primarily an industrial IoT and embedded cellular gateway. It has one Gigabit Ethernet port and no general-purpose Wi-Fi access point, so buyers needing a conventional multi-user office router should compare other products.
Which exact model is covered on this page?
This page covers EC25-EU&KNe, the KNOT Embedded LTE4 variant with the published European and regional band set. Confirm operator compatibility before ordering.
Are LTE antennas included?
The device requires external cellular antennas. Antennas should be selected separately to match the installation, signal conditions, connector arrangement and cable length.
Does it support eSIM?
Yes, the model supports eSIM as well as a nano-SIM slot. eSIM provisioning and profile availability depend on RouterOS version, the operator and the selected service.
Can it be mounted on a DIN rail?
Yes. The supplied K-91 fastening set supports mounting on a standard DIN rail or wall. The DIN rail itself is not included.
Can the gateway collect Bluetooth sensor data?
It supports Bluetooth 5.4 BLE, but application compatibility depends on the sensor advertising format, encryption, payload and target platform. Integration should be reviewed using the exact sensor model.
Is GNSS available without an external antenna?
GNSS capability is built in, but a suitable external antenna connected to the GNSS SMA port is required for practical positioning.
Can FourTeck configure RouterOS and VPN access?
Configuration support can be included in the quotation when the APN, addressing, VPN, firewall, routing and management requirements are defined.
Is the unit suitable for outdoor installation?
The unit is rated IP20, so exposed outdoor use requires a suitable enclosure, environmental protection, correctly installed antennas and appropriate power arrangements.
What information is needed for a quotation?
Provide the exact quantity, destination, operator, antenna needs, SIM or eSIM preference, mounting and power method, GPIO or BLE use, RouterOS configuration scope and expected project schedule.
Plan the right KNOT Embedded LTE4 deployment
Share your operator, application, antennas, quantity and configuration needs so FourTeck can help confirm the model and prepare a practical UAE quotation.
