Netgear WiFi extenders have proven their worth with excellent features on the vast horizon of the networking world. That is why millions setup Netgear extender when it comes to blanketing the dead zones in the house with a lightning-fast internet connection. However, since Netgear range extenders are networking devices, they are also vulnerable to various problems. But, by implementing a few tips, these problems can be avoided. What are those tips? Let’s find out.
How to Avoid Netgear WiFi Extender Problems?
- Say No to Overheating
For networking devices like Netgear extenders, heating is a natural phenomenon. But, it is advisable not to let the extender overheat. This is because overheating of the Netgear extender can force you to face problems like poor internet connection, red light issue, etc.
To avoid the overheating of your Netgear range extender, turn it off when not in use. Besides, consider dusting off the dirt accumulated on the surface of your Netgear extender.
- Never Ignore Firmware Update
Performing Netgear extender firmware update regularly is one of the essential factors to keep the device’s performance on track. Not only this but updating the firmware also helps in keeping cyber threats at bay. Therefore, you should never ignore updating your Netgear extender.
Do you know how to update the firmware of your Netgear extender? No? Let us help you.
To update the Netgear extender’s firmware:
- Power up your Netgear extender and connect it to the router.
- Now, get access to a PC and open a web browser.
- Go to the address bar and type the 192.168.1.250 IP address.
- Press the Enter key and log in to your extender using its default username and password.
- When welcomed by the Netgear Genie setup wizard, select Settings > Maintenance.
- Find the Firmware Update option and click it to check if there is a need to update your device.
- If a new firmware update is available for your extender, then walk through the on-screen prompts and let your device get updated.
That’s how you can update the firmware of your Netgear wireless extender.
- Use a Hardwired Connection
When it comes to the networking between two devices, nothing can defeat the benefits offered by a wired connection. After all, it enables you to create a direct connection between your devices. Well, this is what you need to do with your extender and the host router. Consider connecting both devices using an Ethernet cable.
All you need to do is, make sure that the Ethernet cable used is free of cuts. And of course, the golden rule of a firm connection remains the same.
- Keep WiFi Interference at Bay
After completing the Netgear WiFi extender setup process, users need to relocate their extender. It is done to turn dead zones into live zones. But, some users make the mistake of placing their WiFi extenders in a signal interference zone. Remember that your Netgear extender needs to be away from the below-mentioned things:
- Electromagnetic waves emitting devices: Televisions, refrigerators, cellular phones, radios, etc.
- Bluetooth devices: keyboards, speakers, cameras, etc.
- Reflexive surfaces: Mirrors and objects with a metal coating.
- Thick objects and surfaces: Concrete walls, thick timber walls, almirah, wooden table, etc.
- Anything containing water: Fish tanks and indoor waterfall walls.
Apart from these things, your Netgear extender needs to be away from corners, plants, and other devices operating on the same frequency as the extender.
- Rebooting Should be in Your Schedule
Yes, you read that right. If you own a Netgear wireless extender, then you should give it a regular reboot. Just in case you are wondering how the rebooting process will help in avoiding Netgear extender problems, then know that it resolves technical glitches.
Rebooting the extender is all about executing three steps: unplug, rest, and re-plug. To be more specific, unplug your extender from its wall outlet, let it rest, and re-plug it. Isn’t rebooting a simple task to do?
- Change WiFi Speed
What is the purpose of installing a Netgear extender if it does not deliver a lag-free internet speed? Well, this problem can be avoided by changing the WiFi speed of the extender.
You can change the WiFi speed of your range extender by accessing the Netgear Genie smart setup wizard.
- Disable SSID Broadcast
What is the biggest threat to your Netgear extender? It is the extender’s WiFi network being hacked. No worries, you can circumvent this problem by disabling the SSID broadcast.
Once you hide the SSID of your extender, it won’t be visible on any of the network lists thereby keeping one of the most dangerous Netgear WiFi extender problems away.
Did you find this reading helpful in avoiding Netgear extender problems? Let us know in the comment section.