What is the Difference Between a CellGate “VPN” Model vs. an “Ethernet” Model?

Jun 23, 2025 | Blog, Watchman

If you’ve explored the CellGate website or product line, you may have noticed references to “VPN” versions and “Ethernet” versions of similar products. At first glance, both seem to simply offer internet connectivity—but in practice, these two options serve different needs and use cases. Let’s break down what sets them apart.

VPN vs. Ethernet: The Basics

While both CellGate VPN and Ethernet models connect to the internet, the key distinction lies in how they’re set up and what capabilities they support.

You’ll most commonly encounter this difference across product pairings like:

Why Choose an Ethernet Model?

CellGate’s Ethernet models (W461, W480, WXL, Entría 4DC) offer the ability to integrate with external cameras—a valuable feature for customers who require additional visual verification at entrances or those who expect to add external cameras in the future. These models leverage CellGate’s TrueCloud Connect™ platform to combine access control and photo/video data, which necessitates a more advanced setup process due to the need to accommodate multiple communication protocols.

So, if camera integration is a priority now or could be in the future—and the property can support a wired internet connection—Ethernet is the way to go.

CellGate Ethernet model with external camera integration

Why Choose a VPN Model?

In contrast, VPN models (W482, W462, WXL2, E1DC, E1DC MU) are designed for simplicity and speed of installation. Also referred to as “One‑Step Connectivity” models, these units do not support external camera integration. However, they still provide full access control functionality over an internet connection via the TrueCloud Connect™ cloud infrastructure.

For customers who do not need external cameras for their security application and simply want a quicker, more cost‑effective installation, the VPN model is an ideal choice.

CellGate VPN model with simple installation and no external camera support

Final Thoughts

When choosing between a VPN or Ethernet model from CellGate, it really comes down to your current and future needs:

Need (or may want) external camera integration? Go with Ethernet.
Want a simpler setup and lower upfront cost without external camera support? Opt for VPN.

Both options leverage CellGate’s powerful TrueCloud Connect™ cloud‑based technology—but understanding their distinctions ensures you invest in the right solution for your property today, with scalability for tomorrow.

Still not sure which is right for your site? Contact our team—we’re happy to help guide your selection.