Cradlepoint Netcloud License Renewed — But Device Still Offline? Here’s What to Check

CradlePoint Netcloud License

Here is a bit of history on what is Netcloud.

NetCloud is Cradlepoint’s cloud‑based subscription platform that ties your hardware, software, and support into a single, always‑up‑to‑date service. Through a secure web console (and companion mobile app), NetCloud Manager lets you see every Cradlepoint router in your fleet on one screen, push firmware updates, roll out new VPN or SSID settings in minutes, monitor data‑plan usage in real time, and even troubleshoot remotely with out‑of‑band tools. Because the core intelligence lives in the cloud, you don’t need to be on‑site—or even on the same continent—to configure a new branch, IoT kiosk, or mobile work‑truck as soon as it powers up.

The subscription also unlocks Cradlepoint’s advanced software features—think application‑aware traffic steering, WAN bonding, Zero‑Trust security policies, and AI‑driven cellular analytics—that are baked into NetCloud OS. Regular over‑the‑air updates add new 5G bands, security patches, and enhanced performance profiles without requiring a hardware swap. Plus, an active license keeps your hardware warranty intact and provides 24×7 Cradlepoint support, so mission‑critical deployments aren’t left hanging if something goes sideways.

Because all of that goodness is tied to the license term, renewal is more than a paperwork exercise—it’s the key that keeps your router functional, secure, and manageable. Letting NetCloud lapse pushes the device into an “Unlicensed” state: you lose remote visibility, automatic firmware updates, and many premium features, and the unit will eventually stop checking in altogether. Renewing on time (or quickly moving the device back into a licensed group, as outlined above) ensures uninterrupted connectivity, continuous security coverage, and a full support safety net for the life of the hardware.

If you’ve recently renewed your Cradlepoint NetCloud license but your router still appears offline or inactive, you’re not alone. This is a common hiccup that many users run into — and fortunately, the fix is simple.

 Why Your Cradlepoint Isn’t Online After Renewal

When a Cradlepoint device’s license expires, NetCloud automatically shifts the device to the “Unlicensed” section of your account. This lets you retain access to device history and makes it easy to relink the license later — but it doesn’t automatically move it back to the active group when you renew.

That means:

  • Your license is valid
  • But the router is still sitting in the “Unlicensed Devices” section ❌
  • And as a result, it’s not online, not managed, and not visible in your active groups

How to Fix It: Move the Device Back to the Right Group

Here’s how to quickly move your device from “Unlicensed Devices” back into your licensed NetCloud group:

Step-by-Step:

  1. Log in to your NetCloud account at cradlepointecm.com
  2. Go to Devices > Unlicensed Devices
  3. Find your router (look for serial number or device name)
  4. Select the device(s) you renewed
  5. Choose Move to Group (top right menu)
  6. Select the appropriate licensed group or create a new one
  7. Click Confirm — and your router should come back online shortly

 Note: It may take a few minutes for the device to check in with Netcloud once moved.

Pro Tip:

If you manage multiple routers or renew in batches, it’s a good idea to periodically review your Unlicensed Devices list to ensure nothing was missed.


Still Not Showing Online?

If your device still doesn’t appear online after moving it:

  • Power cycle the router
  • Confirm it’s connected to the internet (SIM card active, Ethernet plugged in, etc.)
  • Make sure the renewed license is correctly applied

If you’re still stuck, contact us at support@5gstore.com or 833-547-8673 or contact us we’re happy to walk you through it.


Avoid Downtime Next Time

To help avoid this situation in the future:

  • Set a calendar reminder a few days before your license expires
  • Let us help manage your renewals and NetCloud groups — we offer fully managed services for Cradlepoint!