Access To Router Hard Drive Via Gateway- Partial Solution

I offer a solution, though not ideal(but very close to ideal), to access a USB drive connected to a router with TMobile gateway. 

However, I would like to know why the gateway does not allow the USB drive connected to a router, to be seen by Windows 11.

Equipment Used:

Computer/OS:   Windows 11 Pro & Windows 11

Gateway:  TMO-G4AR(White, “stylish” device with small LCD panel)

Router:  TP Link Archer C90 V6(circa 2019 or so...2.4 & 5.0 GHZ) with USB port.  Many other routers with USB might be used, but this is my current router. 

Wired Connections:    
1.    Ethernet Cable from Gateway LAN1 to Router Internet Port.
2.    USB Cable from Router USB Port to USB Drive
3.    As of Oct 28 2024, the USB port on the TMobile gateway is not activated.

Wireless Connections:

1.    For Full Access To Internet & USB Drive:
       1.  Wirelessly connecting to ROUTER, I have 400 Mbps Internet Access and can map/assign the USB drive a drive letter.  Map assignment is  \\FIREFIGHTER\sdb1, where FIREFIGHTER and sdb1 are both assigned via the router setup.
(In other words, one needs to know how to login to their router and go through the myriad of options to assign the FIREFIGHTER and sdb1 labels...not a task for the faint of heart.  On the other hand, prior to receiving your Gateway, if your router was being used for USB access, leave your router settings alone and wire connections as indicated above, which should give you USB access.)

2.    For 400 Mbps Access To Internet, but NO Access To USB Drive:
       1.  Wirelessly connecting to GATEWAY, I have no access to USB drive.