Having issues with your Netgear router can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an important task.
Whether it’s a sudden loss of internet connection or an unresponsive router, the problem can throw a wrench into your day.
Fortunately, most Netgear router issues are easy to fix if you know what to look for.
In this article, we’ll guide you through simple troubleshooting steps that can help resolve the most common issues with a Netgear router.
Common Reasons Why Your Netgear Router Is Not Working-
Generally, Internet connection problem appears on netgear router because of the loose or disconnected cables.
So first of all, you need to verify the internet connection.
If doesn’t find anything wrong with the connection but netgear router is still flashing orange. This could happen due to the following reasons:
- Power outage issue.
- Firmware is outdated or corrupted.
- Default IP Address is conflicting with the Other networking device.
- Router Is overheating due to the improper ventilation or heavy network load.
- Network signals are interfering with the router.
- Router is unable to obtain the ip address from ISP.
- Other ISP issues.
So these are the major issues, due to which netgear router stops working. Now let’s move on to troubleshooting and fixing your Netgear router.
How Do I Fix Netgear Router Not Working Problem?
- Check the Power and Cables
Whenever you are seeing an orange/ amber light on the netgear router. The first and most obvious step is to check the physical connections.
Be Sure that router is powered on. This may seem basic, but sometimes the power adapter may get loose, or the outlet could stop working. Check if the power light on the router is on.
- Check Ethernet cables:
Please make sure that the cables are connected properly. Make sure none of the cables are loose or damaged.
Try unplugging and replugging them to ensure a secure connection.
If any of the cables seem damaged, replace them. Also, ensure the router is properly connected to a working power outlet.
- Reboot Your Netgear Router
Sometimes, all your router needs is a simple reboot. Just like computers, routers can experience temporary glitches that affect their performance. A restart often resolves these issues.
- Unplug the power cord from the router.
- Wait for about 30 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back in and allow the router to restart.
After a few minutes, check if your internet connection has been restored. Restarting your router will refresh its system.
Update Router Firmware
Outdated firmware is a common culprit for Netgear routers not working as they should. Firmware updates help your router stay compatible with new technologies and fix security vulnerabilities.
- Open a web browser on a device connected to your router.
- Type “routerlogin.net” or 192.168.1.1 into the address bar and hit Enter.
- Log in using your admin credentials (default is “admin” for username and “password” for the password unless you’ve changed it).
- Once logged in, Go to the “Advanced” or “Settings” section.
- Go to the administration.
- Look for the “Firmware Update” option.
- If a new firmware version is available, follow the prompts to update your router.
Once the firmware is updated, your router will automatically reboot. Check if the issue has been resolved after the update.
Reset Your Netgear Router to Factory Settings
If you are still seeing flashing orange light after the simpler fixes work, you may need to reset the router to its factory settings. Resetting can help resolve deeper software issues that a simple reboot can’t fix.
- Locate the reset button on the back of the router (usually a small, recessed button).
- Use a paperclip or a pin to press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds.
- Release the button when the lights on the router start flashing.
Note: Resetting will remove all custom settings, including Wi-Fi name and password, so you’ll need to set them up again.
Once the router has rebooted, use the default login details to access the router settings and reconfigure your network.
Check for IP Address Conflicts
Sometimes, an IP address conflict can occur when two devices on your network try to use the same IP address. This can lead to connection problems.
- Log into your router’s dashboard via “routerlogin.net”.
- Go to the “LAN Setup” section.
- Check the list of connected devices for any duplicate IP addresses.
- If duplicates are found, change the IP address for one of the devices, or restart the device to automatically assign a new IP.
This should resolve the conflict and restore your internet connection.
Minimize Signal Interference
If you’re facing intermittent connectivity or slow speeds, signal interference might be the issue.
Routers operate on specific frequencies, which can sometimes overlap with other devices like microwaves, cordless phones, or neighboring Wi-Fi networks.
- Move your router to a more central location.
- Keep the router away from other electronic devices that could cause interference.
- Change your Wi-Fi channel to avoid overlapping with nearby networks. You can do this through your router’s settings in the “Wireless” section.
Changing the channel can significantly improve your Wi-Fi performance, especially in crowded areas.
Contact Your ISP
If all else fails, the issue might not be with your router but with your internet service provider.
Your ISP could be experiencing technical difficulties, or there might be an outage in your area.
- Contact your ISP’s customer support and ask if there’s an outage.
- Use the ISP’s website or mobile app to check for reported issues in your area.
If there’s no outage, the customer support team can guide you through additional troubleshooting steps, or they may need to reset your connection on their end.
Clone Mac Address –
Sometimes, Netgear router has a solid orange light because of the physical address problem. Which can be fixed by cloning the mac address.
- Open the router Dashboard.
- Go to the Advanced option
- Under the setup wizard, click on the Internet setup.
- Now scroll down to reach to the Router mac address.
- Select use my computer mac address.
- Finally, click on the apply and ok .