Internet Failover with the Netgear LM1200
Virgin Media broadband is fast and generally reliable, but when it fails, it tends to fail hard. After several extended outages, I decided I needed a backup connection that could take over automatically.
Why I Needed a Backup
Outages lasting most of the day left me without a connection for work. Checking the service status page repeatedly wasn’t a sustainable strategy, and it was clear that Virgin’s infrastructure wasn’t going to improve on my timeline. A local failover solution seemed the most practical way forward.
Choosing the Hardware
After looking through various options and recommendations, I settled on the Netgear LM1200 4G modem. It’s a straightforward device designed to provide a secondary connection when the primary one fails.
The LM1200 appealed because it:
- Works with existing routers and network setups
- Provides adequate 4G speeds for typical workloads
- Automatically switches over when the main line drops
- Requires minimal configuration
It’s not the most attractive bit of hardware, but it does the job reliably.
Setup
The LM1200 sits between my Virgin Media hub and my router, monitoring the connection and stepping in when required. The physical installation was quick — about 15 minutes including cable management.
Data Plan
I’ve been a Three Mobile customer for years, and after contacting them, they supplied a free SIM with unlimited data. That became the dedicated backup connection. This part of the setup will vary depending on your provider, but it’s worth asking what options are available.
Configuration
Setup was handled through the web interface and included:
- Inserting the SIM card into the LM1200
- Connecting the device between the modem and router
- Configuring failover detection and switchover rules
- Testing by disconnecting the primary line
Results
Monitoring
The LM1200 integrates smoothly with my existing Ubiquiti equipment. I receive alerts whenever the system switches to backup, which is useful for tracking outages even when I’m away.
Performance
The 4G connection is slower than the main broadband line, but it’s more than sufficient for work and general use. External antennas could further improve performance if required.
The device does run warm, so it benefits from being placed in an open, well-ventilated spot.
Conclusion
This setup has eliminated the stress of unexpected broadband outages. The switchover is seamless, and I can continue working without interruption. While 4G isn’t a perfect substitute for fibre speeds, it provides a practical safety net.
For anyone facing similar issues, a dedicated failover device like the LM1200 is a cost-effective and reliable option.
Thanks for reading. If you’re interested in more practical home network projects, keep an eye on the blog for future write-ups.