Netgear router not working? Here's how to fix it!

The first step is to set up the router properly. Plug it into a power source and press the power button if it doesn't turn on automatically. The router's WiFi network name (SSID), which can be found in the manual or at the bottom of the device, will appear in the WiFi settings. Select the network, select Connect , then enter the password (can be found with the network name).

Netgear router not working? Here's how to fix it! Picture 1

Why is the router not connecting to the Internet?

Although you can use a router without a modem to communicate with other connected devices, you also need a modem and an Internet service provider (ISP) to access the Internet. Make sure that you have properly set up your modem and that it is securely connected to the yellow port on the router using an Ethernet cable. If you can connect to your WiFi network but cannot use the Internet, then you may need to troubleshoot your modem.

If you can't connect to the router's network at all, it could be due to one of the following reasons:

1. Interference from physical objects or other devices.
2. Your password is incorrect or has been changed.
3. The router's firmware is outdated.
4. Hardware problems such as faulty antennas or capacitors.
5. The router has an invalid IP address.

Connection is also limited by your modem and Internet plan. In addition to troubleshooting your router, make sure you're getting the right internet speed you're paying for.

How to fix Netgear wireless router?

Whatever problem you're having, here are some general router troubleshooting tips:

Restart the router . Unplug the power supply and wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. A simple reboot should remove most temporary technical glitches.

Move the router position or get closer to it . Walls and other physical objects can interfere with the wireless signal. Other electronic devices can also cause interference, so place your router in a central location, away from anything else. If your router's signal can't reach all corners of your home, consider investing in a WiFi extender.

Upgrade the router's firmware . If your router's built-in software is out of date, you may have problems. Search for your model on the Netgear website to find the most up-to-date firmware.

Replace antenna . All routers need an antenna, whether internal or external, to function properly. If your router has a faulty antenna, you can find a replacement antenna online.

Change the router's IP address . If your default gateway IP address has been changed, return it to default.

Change WiFi channel . If your Internet connection is slow, your router may be assigning too many devices to a WiFi channel. Try splitting them into two channels by choosing the best wireless channel for each device (some devices can't connect to 5GHz).

Reset the router . The reset will return the router to the way it was when you first took it out of the box. That means you will lose any customization options you have set, but reset may be the only option if you don't know the password. After the reset, you can log in to your modem using the default username and password.

Switch DNS servers . You cannot access the web if your DNS server is offline or down. Try connecting to one of the many other public DNS servers.

Replace or repair modems . If you've tried everything on this list to no avail then unfortunately you may have a hardware problem such as a damaged internal antenna. Before purchasing a new device, visit the Netgear hardware warranty page to see if your device is eligible for a free repair or replacement.

What lights should be on a Netgear router?

The power light on the modem should be a solid color (usually green). Internet lights (usually denoted by an 'i' or a planet with a circle around them) and WiFi lights should be standing or flashing. If you have a router-modem combo device, such as the Netgear Nighthawk RAX120, the icons may look slightly different.

Samuel Daniel

Update 30 June 2021