---
title: "Configure Non-Preapproved Gateways"
canonical: "https://help.scopious.co.nz/space/KB/179306544/Configure%20Non-Preapproved%20Gateways"
format: markdown
---
> ℹ️ Any LoRaWAN compliant gateway that supports either SemTech [LoRa Basics Station](https://github.com/lorabasics/basicstation) protocol or SemTech [UDP Packet Forwarder](https://github.com/lora-net/packet_forwarder) protocol can be connected to the Scopious network. However we discourage this practice, as non-preapproved gateways will not be supported by our support staff should issues arise.

> ⚠️ We strongly recommend using gateways that support SemTech [LoRa Basics Station](https://github.com/lorabasics/basicstation) protocol, as this protocol provides enhanced security features over the SemTech [UDP Packet Forwarder](https://github.com/lora-net/packet_forwarder) protocol.

> ℹ️ We highly recommend setting up and testing gateways in a stable environment with reliable power and internet connectivity before deploying them in the field. This helps identify and fix configuration or connectivity issues that are harder to address on-site.

The following steps can be used as a general guide to configuring a gateway, however refer to the individual manufacturer’s user guides for detailed instructions.

1. If you are using an external antenna, attach that to the gateway before continuing (to prevent RF damage to the componentry).
2. Open the gateway's configuration settings. With most gateways this can be done by connecting to the gateway using a web browser (refer to the manufacturer's instructions to get the gateways default IP address, username, and password).
3. Configure the packet forwarding protocol to communicate with the Scopious network server:
  - Select **LoRa Basics Station** protocol if the gateway supports it (highly recommended). Refer to [LoRa Basics Station Protocol](https://scopious.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/KB/pages/180092952) for configuration settings.
  - Select **UDP Packet Forwarder** if there is no other option.
4. Disable other features not required of the gateway to minimise power usage and network bandwidth.
5. Configure the network interface to allow the gateway to connect to the internet.
6. Test internet connectivity to ensure gateway can reach the internet (ie. ping `8.8.8.8`).
7. Test network server connectivity by following the instructions to [test gateway configuration](https://scopious.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/KB/pages/75169790/Add+a+gateway#3.-Test-gateway-configuration).
8. Backup the gateway configuration for future use.