The GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) WiFi 6 router is a powerhouse designed for high-speed internet needs. Its wide coverage, impressive gaming performance, and robust connectivity features make it a compelling option for both home users and businesses. The inclusion of 2.5G and 1G Ethernet ports offers versatility, while the advanced VPN support (OpenVPN and WireGuard) enhances security and remote access.
This router targets a broad spectrum of users, from gamers seeking low latency to businesses needing reliable connectivity for multiple devices. Its position in the market is one of competitive performance and flexibility. The key selling point is the balance it strikes between speed, range, and user-friendliness, particularly when it comes to setting up VPN connections.
Overview
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) is a high-performance WiFi 6 router designed for a variety of needs, from gaming to business applications. Its key features include fast 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring excellent wired connectivity, alongside a robust WiFi 6 network, offering a significant boost in speed and capacity compared to previous generations. The router also supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, making it suitable for users needing secure remote access.This router targets a broad audience.
Home users seeking a fast, reliable WiFi network for streaming, gaming, and online activities will find it appealing. Businesses requiring high-speed wired and wireless connections for multiple devices and potentially remote workers can also benefit. Gamers will appreciate the router’s speed and low latency, ideal for online multiplayer games.
Market Positioning
The GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) positions itself in the mid-range to high-end segment of WiFi 6 routers. It competes with other WiFi 6 routers offering similar specifications, but often at a higher price point than more basic models. The router’s strength lies in its combination of high-speed wired and wireless capabilities, along with support for VPN protocols. Its performance in handling a large number of connected devices is a key differentiator in the market, making it suitable for larger households and small businesses.
A key selling point is its versatility, catering to both home and business users, unlike routers specifically tailored for one use case.
Key Features
The GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) boasts a comprehensive feature set. It offers a range of functionalities, from its multi-gigabit ports to its support for advanced VPN protocols. This broad range of capabilities makes it a compelling option for a variety of user needs.
- High-Speed Wired Connections: The router’s two 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports provide exceptional wired speeds, ideal for users who require fast connections for computers, NAS devices, and other wired peripherals. This allows for seamless file transfer and reduces lag for intensive tasks. This is especially important for businesses and gamers who rely on reliable and high-speed wired connections.
- Robust Wireless Performance: The router’s WiFi 6 (802.11ax) technology allows for faster speeds and more stable connections compared to earlier standards. It can handle more devices simultaneously, which is essential in modern homes with multiple devices connected to the network. This ensures a stable network experience even with heavy usage.
- VPN Support: The router supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, allowing for secure remote access to the network. This is beneficial for remote workers or those who require a secure connection to their home network from anywhere. This feature is a significant advantage in a market where security is paramount.
- Mass Device Connectivity: The router is designed to handle a large number of connected devices, making it suitable for large homes and small businesses. This is crucial in today’s environment where numerous devices, such as smart home appliances, tablets, and smartphones, are connected to the network simultaneously.
Technical Specifications
The GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) offers a balance of speed, features, and versatility, making it a compelling option for a variety of users.
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Wireless Standard | 802.11ax (WiFi 6) |
Wired Ports | 2 x 2.5G + 4 x 1G Ethernet |
VPN Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard |
Performance Characteristics
The GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) boasts impressive performance across various facets, from its WiFi 6 capabilities to its multi-gig Ethernet ports. Its ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously, coupled with the efficiency of the 802.11ax standard, makes it a strong contender in the high-speed router market.The router’s performance is optimized for modern needs, including high-bandwidth applications like online gaming and streaming.
This is facilitated by its comprehensive design, focusing on speed, range, and device management.
WiFi 6 Capabilities
The GL-MT6000 leverages the 802.11ax standard, providing substantial improvements in speed and range compared to earlier Wi-Fi standards. This translates to faster data transfer rates, reduced latency, and improved overall performance for connected devices. In typical home environments, users can expect improved wireless speeds, particularly in scenarios with multiple devices contending for network resources. The router’s wide coverage area ensures reliable connectivity throughout the home, even in larger or more complex layouts.
Furthermore, the reduced latency is ideal for online gaming and streaming applications.
2.5G and 1G Ethernet Ports
The 2.5G Ethernet ports offer significantly faster wired connections compared to the 1G ports. This is beneficial for devices like NAS drives, gaming consoles, and computers that require high-bandwidth connections. The 2.5G ports are ideally suited for use cases requiring consistently high transfer rates, like file transfers or network storage applications. The 1G ports, while slower, remain adequate for standard devices like printers and smart home appliances.
The presence of both port types caters to a variety of needs within a home network.
Multi-Device Handling
The GL-MT6000 is designed to handle a substantial number of connected devices concurrently. This capability is particularly relevant for households with multiple users and devices, like smart TVs, tablets, smartphones, and gaming consoles, all vying for network bandwidth. The router’s ability to effectively manage and distribute network resources to multiple devices concurrently ensures smooth operation without noticeable slowdowns or interruptions.
This capability contributes to a stable and consistent user experience for all connected devices.
Impact of 802.11ax
The 802.11ax standard significantly enhances the router’s performance by enabling more efficient data transmission. This leads to faster speeds, lower latency, and better network stability, especially in congested environments with many active devices. The standard incorporates features like orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) and 1024-QAM modulation, which optimize network performance. This translates to a smoother, more responsive network experience for users, even during peak usage times.
Performance Comparison
Router Model | Speed (Mbps) | Range (ft) | Ports (2.5G/1G) | Multi-Device Handling |
---|---|---|---|---|
GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) | Up to 1200 Mbps (wireless) | Up to 150 ft | 2/4 | Excellent |
TP-Link Archer AX21 | Up to 1000 Mbps (wireless) | Up to 100 ft | 1/4 | Good |
ASUS RT-AX88U | Up to 1800 Mbps (wireless) | Up to 180 ft | 2/4 | Very Good |
Note: Performance metrics may vary depending on the specific environment and device configurations.
Connectivity and Security

The GL.iNet GL-MT6000 Flint 2 router boasts robust connectivity and security features, particularly its OpenVPN and WireGuard capabilities. These virtual private network (VPN) protocols enable secure remote access to your network, crucial for protecting sensitive data and maintaining privacy. The router’s support for these protocols is designed for flexibility and speed, making it suitable for a variety of use cases, from personal use to business environments.The router’s security architecture is multifaceted, incorporating multiple layers of protection to mitigate various threats.
This includes built-in firewall mechanisms, robust encryption protocols, and mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access. Understanding these features and how to utilize them effectively is key to maintaining a secure home or business network.
OpenVPN and WireGuard Capabilities
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000 supports both OpenVPN and WireGuard, offering users a choice of VPN protocols. OpenVPN is a widely adopted open-source VPN solution, known for its strong security and versatility. WireGuard, a more modern protocol, is lauded for its speed and efficiency, though its relatively newer status means it might have slightly less mature support infrastructure compared to OpenVPN.
The router’s implementation allows for seamless integration with existing VPN clients.
OpenVPN Setup Guide
To configure OpenVPN on the GL-MT6000, you will need to access the router’s web interface. The specific steps may vary slightly based on your router’s firmware version, but typically involve these steps:
- Access the router’s web interface using a web browser and enter the router’s IP address.
- Navigate to the VPN settings section within the router’s interface.
- Select the OpenVPN option.
- Enter the necessary server details, including the VPN server’s IP address and port, and the client’s authentication credentials.
- Save the settings.
After saving the settings, you will need to install an OpenVPN client on your device and connect to the VPN server using the configurations you have provided in the router.
WireGuard Setup Guide
The setup procedure for WireGuard mirrors that of OpenVPN, with similar steps involved:
- Access the router’s web interface.
- Navigate to the WireGuard settings.
- Configure the necessary parameters for the VPN connection, including the server’s IP address and port.
- Configure client authentication (e.g., pre-shared keys).
- Save the configuration.
Following these steps, you can install a WireGuard client on your device and establish a secure connection to the VPN server using the configured parameters.
Router Security Features
The GL-MT6000 router employs various security features to protect against common threats. These include a stateful firewall, which filters network traffic based on predefined rules, and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to identify and block malicious activity. The router also supports various encryption standards (e.g., WPA3) to safeguard data transmitted over the network.
Potential Vulnerabilities
While the router offers robust security features, potential vulnerabilities can arise from misconfigurations or outdated firmware. Failure to update the router’s firmware can leave it susceptible to known exploits. Similarly, incorrect VPN configuration settings can expose the network to potential attacks. Regular firmware updates and careful configuration are essential to mitigate these risks.
Supported Security Protocols
Protocol Name | Description | Security Level |
---|---|---|
WPA3 | Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 | High |
OpenVPN | Open-source VPN protocol | High |
WireGuard | Modern VPN protocol | High |
Stateful Firewall | Filters network traffic based on rules | Medium to High |
Use Cases and Applications
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) router excels in a wide range of applications, leveraging its high-speed capabilities, wide coverage, and advanced features. Its versatile design makes it suitable for various user groups and use cases, from demanding gamers to remote workers and home entertainment enthusiasts. This section details the ideal applications and demonstrates how the router’s features benefit different user needs.
Gaming
The GL-MT6000’s superior performance is highly beneficial for gamers. Its 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports enable high-bandwidth connections, minimizing latency and maximizing responsiveness. The router’s Wi-Fi 6 capabilities handle the high data throughput demands of online gaming, ensuring smooth gameplay even with multiple users and devices connected simultaneously. This minimizes lag and packet loss, crucial for competitive gaming experiences.
The router’s advanced features such as OpenVPN and WireGuard support facilitate secure and reliable connections to gaming servers, further enhancing the overall gaming experience. Dedicated gaming features, if present, can prioritize gaming traffic over other data streams, improving performance even further.
Streaming
High-definition video streaming is another area where the GL-MT6000 shines. Its high-speed connections ensure smooth, lag-free video playback, whether it’s live streaming or on-demand content. The wide coverage and reliable Wi-Fi 6 technology deliver consistent performance throughout the home, allowing multiple users to stream content simultaneously without interruption. The router’s ability to handle large data streams ensures uninterrupted playback, crucial for a seamless streaming experience.
Remote Work
Remote work has become increasingly prevalent, and the GL-MT6000 provides a robust network solution for remote workers. The router’s multi-gigabit ports and high-speed Wi-Fi 6 support high-bandwidth video conferencing and file sharing, essential for efficient remote collaboration. The reliable connectivity and security features, such as OpenVPN and WireGuard, ensure secure communication and data transmission, crucial for sensitive work-related data.
This reliability is particularly important for seamless video calls, online meetings, and file transfers, thus improving the overall remote work experience.
Home Network Expansion
The GL-MT6000 is well-suited for expanding home networks. The router’s multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports allow easy connection of multiple devices, such as computers, printers, and NAS drives, ensuring smooth data transfer between them. The wide coverage and high-speed capabilities ensure that all devices, including smart home devices, have consistent and reliable connectivity throughout the house. This expands the capabilities of a home network, allowing for seamless integration of a wide range of smart home devices and other peripherals.
Mass Device Connectivity
The GL-MT6000’s ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously is particularly beneficial for larger households. The router’s high bandwidth and advanced networking capabilities accommodate a large number of devices, ensuring consistent and reliable connectivity for all users. This ensures all devices have adequate bandwidth for their specific use cases, leading to a smoother and more enjoyable home network experience for everyone.
High-Speed Network for Various Needs
The GL-MT6000’s multi-gigabit ports are ideal for applications requiring high-speed data transfer, such as large file transfers, backups, and cloud storage synchronization. This capability allows users to transfer large files, backups, or sync cloud storage more quickly. The router’s capacity to manage multiple devices with simultaneous high-speed data transfer is a crucial factor for satisfying diverse needs in a home or office environment.
Setup and Configuration
Getting your GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) up and running is straightforward. This section details the steps for a smooth installation and configuration, covering everything from initial setup to advanced VPN configurations. Follow these instructions carefully for optimal performance and security.This section guides you through the crucial steps of setting up your GL-MT6000, enabling various network configurations, and establishing VPN connections.
Troubleshooting common issues is also addressed to ensure a smooth user experience.
Initial Router Setup
The initial setup involves connecting the router to your modem and your devices. Ensure your modem is powered on and connected to your internet service provider. Connect the GL-MT6000 to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Connect a device (computer or phone) to one of the router’s Ethernet ports or use Wi-Fi. The router will automatically detect the connection.
You’ll then need to access the router’s web interface using a web browser.
Network Configuration
Accessing the router’s web interface allows you to customize your network settings. Enter the router’s IP address (usually found on a sticker on the device) in your browser’s address bar. A login page will appear; typically, the username and password are both “admin”. From there, navigate to the network settings page. Configure your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password for secure wireless access.
Adjust the DHCP settings if necessary, such as setting a static IP address for a device.
VPN Connection Setup
The GL-MT6000 supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols for secure VPN connections. To set up a VPN connection, navigate to the VPN configuration section within the router’s web interface. You’ll need the VPN server’s details, including the server address, port, and pre-shared key. Enter these details into the relevant fields. Select the appropriate VPN protocol (OpenVPN or WireGuard).
Save the settings, and test the connection. Verify successful connectivity by pinging a server within the VPN network.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Troubleshooting is essential for resolving any encountered problems. If the router fails to connect to the internet, check the Ethernet cable connection to both the modem and the router. Verify that the router’s power supply is functioning correctly. Restarting both the modem and the router can often resolve connection issues. If the issue persists, review the router’s logs for error messages that may point to the cause.
Consult the GL.iNet support website or forums for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What if my router isn’t detecting my modem? Ensure the Ethernet cable connecting the modem and router is securely plugged into both devices. Try a different Ethernet cable if possible. If the problem persists, consult the GL.iNet support resources.
- How do I change the router’s password? Access the router’s web interface and navigate to the system settings. Update the password in the specified field, and confirm the changes.
- What is the default username and password for the router’s web interface? The default username and password are typically “admin”.
- Why is my VPN connection unstable? Verify the VPN server’s details are correct. Check the internet connection stability. Ensure that there are no network congestion issues or firewall restrictions.
- How can I find the router’s IP address? The router’s IP address is typically printed on a sticker on the device itself.
Technical Specifications
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) router boasts a powerful combination of hardware and software features, delivering exceptional performance and versatile connectivity options. This section details the technical specifications, encompassing hardware components, software functionalities, physical attributes, and a comprehensive tabular representation.
Hardware Components
The Flint 2’s robust hardware foundation is crucial for its high-performance capabilities. The router’s internal architecture comprises several key components, each contributing to its overall functionality. These components work in concert to ensure stable and reliable network operation.
- CPU: The router utilizes a high-performance processor, enabling rapid data processing and efficient handling of network traffic. This processor type and clock speed are crucial for managing the router’s various functionalities.
- RAM: Sufficient RAM is essential for multitasking and handling concurrent connections. Adequate RAM ensures the router’s smooth operation under heavy network load.
- Flash Memory: The router’s flash memory stores the operating system and essential configuration files. Adequate flash memory is critical for storing and accessing the router’s firmware.
- Network Interfaces: The GL-MT6000(Flint 2) features multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer. It also includes 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports, signifying support for faster data transmission.
- Wireless Standards: The router supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), providing enhanced speed and efficiency in wireless data transmission. This is vital for handling numerous devices concurrently and maintaining high speeds.
Software Features and Functionalities
The GL-MT6000(Flint 2) offers a suite of software features that enhance its versatility and performance. These functionalities include support for VPN protocols, which allow for secure remote access and data transmission.
- VPN Support: The router supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, facilitating secure connections for remote users. This ensures confidential communication between the network and remote users.
- Firmware Upgradability: The router’s firmware is upgradable, allowing users to access the latest features and security patches. This is crucial for maintaining the router’s security and functionality.
- QoS (Quality of Service): QoS prioritizes network traffic based on predefined criteria, ensuring that critical applications receive preferential treatment. This is particularly useful for maintaining high-quality video conferencing and gaming experiences.
- Network Management Tools: The router provides comprehensive network management tools for administrators to monitor and control network performance. These tools are crucial for managing and monitoring network traffic.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The router’s physical characteristics are important considerations for placement and integration into various environments. The compact design and lightweight nature make it suitable for a wide range of installations.
- Dimensions: The router’s dimensions are suitable for desktop or rack mounting, accommodating diverse placement needs.
- Weight: The router’s weight is appropriate for various mounting scenarios and is manageable for user transport and installation.
Technical Specifications Table
This table summarizes the key technical specifications of the GL.iNet GL-MT6000(Flint 2) router.
Category | Detail | Value |
---|---|---|
CPU | Processor Type | [Specific Processor Model] |
CPU | Clock Speed | [Specific Clock Speed] GHz |
RAM | Capacity | [RAM Capacity] GB |
Flash Memory | Capacity | [Flash Memory Capacity] MB/GB |
Network Interfaces | 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports | 2 |
Network Interfaces | 1 Gigabit Ethernet Ports | 4 |
Wireless Standards | Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
VPN Support | Protocols | OpenVPN, WireGuard |
Physical Dimensions | Width | [Specific Width] mm |
Physical Dimensions | Depth | [Specific Depth] mm |
Physical Dimensions | Height | [Specific Height] mm |
Weight | Weight | [Specific Weight] g |
Alternatives and Comparison
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) competes with a range of WiFi 6 routers, each offering unique features and performance characteristics. This comparison highlights key aspects to consider when selecting a router, emphasizing the GL.iNet GL-MT6000’s advantages. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of various alternatives is crucial for making an informed decision.A critical aspect of choosing a WiFi 6 router involves balancing features, performance, and price.
Factors such as multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, advanced security protocols, and user-friendly interfaces contribute to the overall value proposition. This comparison will assess these key elements to demonstrate the value proposition of the GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2).
Alternative Router Models
Several prominent WiFi 6 routers compete with the GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2). These alternatives often cater to different needs and budgets, presenting various trade-offs in performance and features.
- ASUS RT-AX88U: Known for its robust performance and comprehensive features, the ASUS RT-AX88U is a high-end option often praised for its gaming capabilities and overall stability. It excels in handling multiple devices and high bandwidth demands, but at a higher price point than the GL.iNet model.
- Netgear Nighthawk AX8: A popular choice in the WiFi 6 market, the Netgear Nighthawk AX8 offers excellent performance and a user-friendly interface. Its affordability and reliable connection make it a solid contender, but its feature set might be less extensive compared to some competitors.
- TP-Link Archer AX6000: The TP-Link Archer AX6000 is a versatile option with solid performance. Its wide coverage and ease of setup make it a good mid-range choice. However, its advanced features might be less pronounced than those in higher-tier routers.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Alternatives
A thorough analysis reveals the strengths and weaknesses of each router. The following table provides a concise overview:
Router Model | Strengths | Weaknesses |
---|---|---|
ASUS RT-AX88U | Excellent performance, extensive features, gaming capabilities, stable connections | High price point, complex setup for some users |
Netgear Nighthawk AX8 | Good performance, user-friendly interface, affordability, reliable connection | Limited advanced features compared to premium models |
TP-Link Archer AX6000 | Solid performance, wide coverage, ease of setup, good mid-range value | Less pronounced advanced features compared to higher-tier routers |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a WiFi 6 Router
Several factors are crucial when selecting a WiFi 6 router:
- Performance Requirements: The expected number of connected devices, bandwidth demands, and specific use cases (e.g., gaming, streaming) will influence the necessary performance level.
- Budget: The price range for WiFi 6 routers varies significantly. Budget constraints will narrow down the selection of available models.
- Features: Advanced features like multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, QoS settings, and VPN support can enhance the router’s capabilities and tailor it to specific needs.
- Ease of Setup and Configuration: The user interface and complexity of the setup process can impact the overall user experience.
Value Proposition of the GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2)
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000 (Flint 2) offers a compelling value proposition by combining advanced features, exceptional performance, and a user-friendly interface at a competitive price. Its multi-gigabit ports and support for OpenVPN and WireGuard provide enhanced connectivity options.
Future Considerations
The GL.iNet GL-MT6000, with its robust WiFi 6 capabilities and multi-gigabit ports, positions itself well for future networking demands. Anticipating evolving needs is crucial for long-term market success. This section explores potential future updates, emerging technologies, and the router’s potential evolution.This discussion will examine how the router can adapt to upcoming advancements in networking technology and user expectations. It will also speculate on the long-term market impact of this device, considering its current strengths and possible future iterations.
Potential Hardware Enhancements
The current configuration of the GL-MT6000 is solid, offering 2.5G and 1G Ethernet ports. However, future iterations might benefit from incorporating even faster networking standards. This could include incorporating Wi-Fi 7 or 6E capabilities, potentially enhancing throughput and coverage. Simultaneously, upgrading the processor and memory could further boost performance in demanding applications. The addition of more antennas or a more sophisticated antenna design could improve signal strength and reliability in larger or more complex environments.
Emerging Technologies and Integration
Emerging technologies, such as the growing adoption of mesh networking, could impact the router’s role. The router could potentially integrate mesh networking capabilities, enabling seamless coverage expansion for larger homes or businesses. Furthermore, the integration of AI and machine learning into network management functions could optimize performance in real-time, adapting to changing user demands and network conditions. Support for the growing number of IoT devices will be crucial, as home networks are increasingly becoming hubs for smart home devices.
Evolution to Address Future Needs
The GL-MT6000 could evolve by supporting more advanced security protocols and encryption standards, such as quantum-resistant cryptography. This would safeguard against evolving threats and maintain user data security. Supporting future generations of VPN protocols, like WireGuard, will be essential to meet the evolving needs of remote workers and businesses. The device might incorporate a more intuitive user interface, making it easier to manage advanced features and configurations.
Long-Term Market Impact
The long-term market impact of the GL-MT6000 hinges on its ability to adapt to future technological advancements. If the router can effectively integrate emerging technologies and provide superior performance and security, it could remain a strong competitor in the high-end router market. The adoption of more advanced networking standards, like Wi-Fi 7 and Ethernet 40G, will be a key differentiator in the future.
The increasing reliance on high-bandwidth applications, such as cloud gaming and video conferencing, suggests a sustained demand for high-performance networking solutions.
Closing Summary
In conclusion, the GL.iNet GL-MT6000 stands out with its robust performance, versatile connectivity, and robust security features. Its comprehensive approach to networking needs, particularly for demanding applications like gaming and remote work, makes it a strong contender in the WiFi 6 router market. The router’s ease of setup and configuration further enhances its user-friendliness.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the typical use cases for this router?
Ideal use cases include high-bandwidth applications like gaming, video streaming, and remote work. Its multi-device support makes it suitable for households or small businesses with multiple users and devices.
How does the router handle multiple devices simultaneously?
The router’s WiFi 6 capabilities, combined with its multiple gigabit Ethernet ports, are designed to handle a large number of devices without significant performance degradation. The router’s intelligent traffic management ensures optimal performance for each connected device.
What are the differences between 2.5G and 1G Ethernet ports?
2.5G ports offer significantly faster data transfer rates compared to 1G ports, making them ideal for high-bandwidth applications like file transfers and large data streams. 1G ports provide a reliable connection for standard tasks. The combination of both port types provides flexibility.
Are there any known security vulnerabilities?
While the router boasts robust security features, potential vulnerabilities exist like any networking device. Regular firmware updates and adherence to recommended security practices are crucial to mitigate potential risks.