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You can use a UniFi gateway or router with AT&T by configuring the AT&T gateway’s IP Passthrough setting. It passes the gateway’s dynamic WAN IP address to one downstream device; it does not remove the AT&T gateway or turn it into a true transparent bridge. AT&T publishes instructions for this on the BGW210 and BGW320, so the setting is documented even if it is easy to overlook.
What IP Passthrough changes
AT&T describes IP Passthrough as an alternative to bridge mode, commonly used to connect third-party networking equipment. In this arrangement, the AT&T gateway remains connected to the broadband service, while the selected downstream router receives the gateway’s dynamic WAN IP rather than an ordinary LAN IP. The gateway’s firewall protection is removed for that passthrough device. AT&T Business: IP Passthrough
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That is useful when you want the UniFi device to manage your network’s routing and Wi-Fi instead of relying on the AT&T gateway for those functions. It is not evidence that AT&T equipment can be disconnected: AT&T says its gateway connects the home to its broadband network, and the supplied equipment must be returned if service is cancelled. AT&T equipment overview
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The following are AT&T’s published steps for these two gateway models. Menus and options may differ on other gateways or firmware versions. Have the UniFi device connected to the gateway and identify its WAN-side MAC address before changing the setting.
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- Using a computer connected to the AT&T gateway, open the gateway settings.
- Go to Firewall > Advanced. Enter the gateway’s Device Access Code if prompted. AT&T’s instructions say to turn off everything on the Firewall Advanced page.
- Open IP Passthrough.
- Set Allocation Mode to Passthrough and Passthrough Mode to DHCPS-fixed.
- Enter the downstream router’s MAC address in Passthrough Fixed MAC Address.
- Save the changes and restart. AT&T notes that restarting the computer and gateway may be necessary to force a new IP assignment.
Follow the directions for your specific gateway rather than assuming this interface applies to every AT&T model. AT&T’s BGW210/BGW320 IP Passthrough instructions
Understand the firewall and topology trade-off
Because AT&T says gateway firewall protection is removed for the passthrough device, do not treat this as a harmless Wi-Fi toggle. The downstream router becomes the key device handling your home network’s routing and security. Review its firewall and security settings, and avoid connecting an unprotected device as the passthrough target. AT&T documents passthrough for one device, not for multiple routers receiving the same WAN address.
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IP Passthrough also does not establish that the AT&T gateway is in a transparent bridge mode. The gateway stays in the service path, and the exact behavior depends on the gateway and its software.
Check the physical connection and UniFi compatibility
AT&T’s BGW320 setup information describes a fiber connection either directly to a fiber jack or by Ethernet to an ONT, depending on the installation. Your UniFi device connects downstream of the AT&T gateway; the supplied evidence does not establish a supported way to remove required AT&T service equipment. AT&T BGW320 setup
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The correct UniFi-side configuration depends on the gateway, UniFi model, and network topology. The available Ubiquiti source does not provide an AT&T-specific setup guide, so check the documentation for your exact UniFi device rather than copying settings for a different model. AT&T lists BGW210 and BGW320 among its IPv6-capable equipment and advises users of third-party equipment to check compatibility with that manufacturer; that does not by itself establish IPv6 behavior for every UniFi gateway. AT&T IPv6 support Ubiquiti help article
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose which device manages your home network
| Setup | Who manages routing and Wi-Fi | Addressing and firewall implications |
|---|---|---|
| AT&T gateway on its own | The AT&T gateway provides the home’s Wi-Fi and routing functions. | No IP Passthrough device is selected. |
| AT&T gateway with IP Passthrough | The selected downstream router, such as a compatible UniFi gateway, can manage the network functions you configure on it. | One downstream device receives the gateway’s dynamic WAN IP rather than a LAN IP; AT&T says gateway firewall protection is removed for that device. |
IP Passthrough is the documented route when you want third-party routing equipment while retaining AT&T’s gateway in the connection. The published instructions identify BGW210 and BGW320, but do not confirm the original author’s gateway, UniFi model, firmware, or performance results.
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