- Comet 5G ensures persistent remote access even in the event of an unexpected outage of core networks
- Multi-network failover automatically switches between Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 and 5G RedCap
- Local wireless SSID allows control even in internet-deprived environments or isolated setups
GL.iNet announced Comet 5G, a remote KVM designed to maintain control over computers when conventional network access becomes unreliable or unavailable.
The device combines wired Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 and cellular connectivity in a single package, aiming to reduce reliance on a single access method.
Comet 5G builds on GL.iNet Comet, retaining the compact, subscription-free KVM over IP simplicity that has made it popular among IT professionals and homelab enthusiasts.
Failover and multi-network connectivity claims
The main goal is simple: persistent remote control even when networks fail or environments are restricted.
Comet 5G relies on a multi-network failover system that automatically switches between Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 and cellular connections.
The intention is to keep the device accessible when the primary network goes down, especially during troubleshooting or disaster recovery scenarios.
This approach aligns with environments where access conditions are unstable, including isolated facilities where connectivity is deliberately limited.
The cellular component is based on 5G RedCap, a reduced capacity standard designed to meet lower power and bandwidth demands.
This is similar to its implementation in devices such as the CTL NL73 Chromebook, which leverages 5G RedCap to expand mid-speed connectivity at an affordable price.
While this allows basic remote access when wired or wireless networks are not available, it does not imply full 5G performance.
There’s also no microSD card slot, which removes a simple option for expandable local storage or offline media management, and the lack of eSIM support limits deployment flexibility, as physical SIM card management remains necessary.
Beyond expanded connectivity, Comet 5G includes local access functionality aimed at environments without any Internet availability.
The device can broadcast its own SSID, creating a direct wireless management link to a nearby control system.
This allows administrators to interact with connected machines on-premises, even when the KVM and controller do not have access to the external network.
Such functionality expands deployment scenarios, although it depends on physical proximity rather than remote range.
GL.iNet has increased the onboard storage to 64 GB of eMMC, intended to support multiple operating system images.
Data transfer rates are specified up to 25 MB/s, which could shorten recovery processes after a system crash.
This internal storage replaces the reliance on removable media, although it also reinforces the previous limitation created by the lack of microSD expansion.
The hardware includes a touchscreen and an HDMI port, reinforcing its role as a direct control and monitoring device rather than a purely headless tool.
Touchscreen and dual Ethernet feature echo designs seen in The Slate 7 portable router from GL.iNet, while the concept of multi-network failover is refined from their Puli AX Cellular Router.
According to GL.iNet, Comet 5G is a response to increasingly fragile network assumptions and is currently available for pre-order through its official channels.
Via TechPowerUp
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