Netgear is the only organization to introduce the world’s fastest wireless router for domestic and professional purposes. Nighthawk is one of the most famous wireless router and extender versions for home wireless networks. If you want to get a blazing fast internet connection, then following the Netgear Nighthawk setup process is mandatory.
It seems that you are into the setup process for the first time. So, gathering important items is necessary — the device, Ethernet cable, a computer or a mobile device and the power cord.
Installing the Netgear Nighthawk Router, Physically
The placement of the wireless networking device is very important. So, select an area where you can place the router. Make sure that every corner of your home can get complete network coverage. Supply the power to the device with the help of the power cord. If you look at the expert’s suggestions, Netgear Nighthawk setup wirelessly is the most convenient method. In this case, you don’t have to worry about plugging in the Ethernet cable to the router’s WAN port.
Netgear Nighthawk Setup with the Smart Wizard
Nowadays, most routers perform the role of both the router and the modem. So, you can easily call the device either a router or a modem router. The smart wizard is the user interface from which you will be able to access all the features and functions of the router. Open the default browser of your computer or mobile device.
Type “192.168.01” or “192.168.1.1” in the address bar. You will witness the login page. Most probably, Netgear doesn’t provide any login ID and password. So, you need to click “Login”. Now, navigate to the Setup Wizard, follow all the on-screen steps. After that, the built-in smart wizard of the router will automatically detect the network credentials.
What about the Setup with the Genie Application?
The Netgear Nighthawk setup with the help of the Genie application is for mobile devices. You need to download the Netgear Genie from Google’s Playstore or Apple’s App Store. After installing, choose the country where you belong, as well as the language. Mostly, the detected internet connection of the application is PPPoE/PPPoA. On the other hand, the entire network data synchronization will take place automatically.
Is the WEP Encryption Necessary?
Yes, the WEP encryption is necessary for the smart wizard configuration. Find out the Netgear wireless adapter folder and choose the smart wizard. The smart wizard wireless utility will appear on the screen — scan to detect all the available wireless networks. Select the active network, apply the correct SSID and connect. Now, navigate to the Settings tab and set a new password of 10 to 25 characters. And, this is how WEP encryption works.
The Netgear Extender
The Netgear Nighthawk setup process also includes the Extender. An Extender might be necessary when some corners of your home are unable to get the proper network coverage. Therefore, the installation of the device is important. Select the place where you are about to install the extender. Connect the extender with the router with the help of an Ethernet cable.
Connecting a wired network between both devices will have a lesser chance of wireless network issues. Press the WPS button to connect the Extender to the main network. When you see the green color lamp is glowing, both devices are set to deliver blazing fast internet service.
The Netgear Nighthawk Router Firmware Update, is it Important?
It’s very important to update the router’s firmware. The new firmware will provide the host organization’s latest firmware, function updates and many more. So, you need to visit the Netgear download centre webpage. Apply the router’s model number into its desired place. After that, download the package file on your computer. Hopefully, the router is already connected to the system. Navigate to the router dashboard and select “Firmware Update”. Upload the package file and wait for the process to complete.
What is the Base Station of the Netgear Router?
The Netgear Nighthawk setup process also included the base station configuration. You might not know that whatever Netgear router you are using can also act as a repeater. Therefore, the repeating functions will obviously need the base station configuration. There is one main factor you would need to initiate the configuration process, the MAC address of your system.
Navigate to the router’s dashboard and select the WPS wizard. Now, click on “Router/AP/Bridge/Repeating Mode”. The Advanced tab will open, select “Router Mode”, and then click on “Apply”.
The Netgear Router Common Issues and its Solutions
After the Netgear Nighthawk setup process, hopefully, the device will perform at its pinnacle. But, common issues of the router are inevitable. These types of issues will pose a barrier in your day-to-day working process. Therefore, resolving them is your utmost priority. Let’s look at them and how to resolve them.
The 404 Error
It seems that you are connected to the internet and trying to open a website. Now, if the 404 error shows up, then surely, there are some issues with the router. According to the experts, when your router freezes, this error pops up. The solution is to restart the device. Then, turn it off and let it be idle for 5 to 10 mins.
WiFi Error
When the WiFi error takes place, it must be because of the outdated firmware. So, you need to update the router’s firmware to resolve the WiFi error.
Firmware Update Problems
If you cannot upload the new firmware package kit to the router’s dashboard, then the update will not occur. In this type of situation, the most straightforward way is to reset the router. Hopefully, after the successful reset process, you can update the firmware.
Hardware Issues
When Netgear’s notification lights are not blinking or glowing, then surely there are hardware issues going on with the device. In this type of situation, seeking help from the official Netgear professionals will resolve the issue.
