NETGEAR CAX30 User Manual

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User Manual

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router

Model CAX30

NETGEAR, Inc.

350 E. Plumeria DriveMay 6 2020 San Jose, CA 95134, USA

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Support

Thank you for purchasing this NETGEAR product.

You can visit www.netgear.com/support to register your product, get help, access the latest downloads and user manuals, and join our community. We recommend that you use only official NETGEAR support resources. Contact your Internet service provider for technical support.

Trademarks

©NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR and the NETGEAR Logo are trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. Any non-NETGEAR trademarks are used for reference purposes only.

Compliance

For regulatory compliance information, visit http://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory. See the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.

Chapter 1 Hardware Setup

Unpack Your Modem Router...............................................................9

Front panel LEDs and buttons.............................................................9

Rear Panel............................................................................................12

Position Your Modem Router............................................................13

Install and Activate Your Modem Router.........................................14

Connect Your Modem Router to a Computer............................14

Activate Your Internet Service......................................................16

Perform a Speed Test....................................................................17

Chapter 2 Specify Your Internet Settings

Specify the Cable Connection Starting Frequency........................19

View Modem Router Initialization.....................................................20

Manually Set Up the Internet Connection.......................................21

Change the MTU Size.........................................................................22

Chapter 3 Connect to the Network and Access the Modem Router

Connect to the Network....................................................................26

Wired Connection..........................................................................26

Using WPS to Connect to the WiFi Network..............................26

Finding and Selecting the WiFi Network....................................26

Types of Logins...................................................................................27

Chapter 4 Control Access to the Internet

Enable access control to allow or block access to the Internet....30

Use keywords to block Internet sites...............................................31

Block services from the Internet.......................................................33

Delete keywords from the blocked list............................................34

Prevent blocking on a trusted computer.........................................34

Manage network access control lists...............................................35

Schedule when to block Internet sites and services......................36

Set up security event email notifications.........................................37

Chapter 5 Manage Network Settings

View or change the WAN settings....................................................40

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Set up a default DMZ server..............................................................41

Change the Router’s Device Name..................................................42

Change the LAN TCP/IP settings......................................................42

Specify the IP addresses that the router assigns............................44

Disable the DHCP server feature in the router...............................45

Manage reserved LAN IP addresses................................................46

Reserve an IP address....................................................................46

Edit a reserved IP address............................................................47

Delete a reserved IP address entry..............................................47

Use the WPS Wizard for WiFi connections......................................48

Specify Basic WiFi Settings................................................................49

Change the WiFi Mode......................................................................50

Change the Transmission Power Control........................................51

Change the WiFi password or the WiFi security.............................52

Set up a guest WiFi network.............................................................53

Control the WiFi radios......................................................................56

Use the WiFi On/Off button..........................................................56

Enable or disable the WiFi radios................................................56

Set up a WiFi schedule.......................................................................57

Specify WPS settings..........................................................................58

Enable or disable implicit beamforming.........................................59

Enable or disable airtime fairness....................................................59

Ethernet Port Aggregation................................................................60

Set Up Ethernet Port Aggregation...............................................61

View or Change the Modem Router Ethernet Port Aggregation

Mode...............................................................................................62

Get Multi-Gig Internet With Internet Port Aggregation.................63

Chapter 6 Manage Your Router

Update the router firmware...............................................................66

Check for new firmware and update the router.........................66

Manually upload firmware to the router.....................................67

Change the admin password............................................................68

Enable admin password recovery....................................................68

Recover the admin password............................................................69

View information about the router and the Internet and WiFi

settings.................................................................................................70

Display the statistics of the Internet port.........................................71

Check the Internet connection status..............................................72

View and manage logs of router activity.........................................73

View devices currently on the network............................................74

Monitor Internet traffic.......................................................................74

Manage the router configuration file...............................................76

Back up the settings.......................................................................76

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Erase the settings...........................................................................76

Restore the settings.......................................................................77

Remote access....................................................................................78

Set up remote management........................................................78

Use remote access.........................................................................79

Remotely access your router using the Nighthawk app................79

Disable LED blinking or turn off LEDs..............................................80

Set your time zone..............................................................................80

Set the NTP Server..............................................................................81

Specify ReadyDLNA media server settings.....................................82

Return the router to its factory default settings..............................83

Use the Reset button.....................................................................83

Erase the settings...........................................................................83

Chapter 7 Share USB Storage Devices Attached to the Router

USB device requirements..................................................................86

Connect a USB storage device to the router..................................86

Access a storage device connected to the router from a

Windows-based computer................................................................87

Map a USB device to a Windows network drive.............................87

Access a storage device that is connected to the router from a

Mac.......................................................................................................88

Back up Windows-based computers with ReadySHARE Vault.....89

Back up Mac computers with Time Machine..................................89

Set up a USB hard drive on a Mac...............................................90

Prepare to back up a large amount of data................................91

Use Time Machine to back up onto a USB hard disk................91

Enable FTP access within your network...........................................93

View network folders on a storage device......................................93

Add a network folder on a USB storage device.............................94

Edit a network folder on a USB storage device..............................95

Safely remove a USB storage device...............................................96

Chapter 8 Use Dynamic DNS to Access USB Storage Devices Through the Internet

Set up and manage Dynamic DNS...................................................98

Set up FTP access through the Internet...........................................98

Your personal FTP server...................................................................99

Set up your personal FTP server..................................................99

Set up a new Dynamic DNS account.........................................100

Specify a DNS account that you already created.....................100

Change the Dynamic DNS settings...........................................101

Access USB storage devices through the Internet.......................102

Remotely access a USB device using ReadyCLOUD...................103

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Create a ReadyCLOUD account................................................103

Chapter 9 Use VPN to Access Your Network

Set up a VPN connection.................................................................106

Specify VPN Service in the Router..................................................106

Install OpenVPN Software...............................................................107

Install OpenVPN Software on Your Windows Computer.......107

Install OpenVPN Software on Your Mac Computer................110

Install OpenVPN Software on an iOS Device...........................111

Install OpenVPN Software on an Android Device...................111

Use a VPN Tunnel on Your Windows Computer..........................112

Use VPN to Access the Router’s USB Device and Media............114

Use VPN to Access Your Internet Service at Home......................114

Set Up VPN Client Internet Access in the Router.....................115

Block VPN Client Internet Access in the Router.......................115

Use a VPN Tunnel to Access Your Internet Service at Home..116

Chapter 10 Manage Port Forwarding and Port Triggering

Manage Port Forwarding to a Local Server..................................119

Set Up Port Forwarding to a Local Server.................................119

Add a Custom Port Forwarding Service...................................120

Edit a Port Forwarding Service...................................................121

Delete a Port Forwarding Entry..................................................122

Application Example: Make a Local Web Server Public.........122

How the Router Implements the Port Forwarding Rule..........123

Port Triggering.................................................................................123

Add a Port Triggering Service....................................................124

Enable Port Triggering................................................................125

Application Example: Port Triggering for Internet Relay Chat port

triggering......................................................................................125

Chapter 11 Troubleshooting

Quick tips...........................................................................................128

Sequence to restart your network.............................................128

Check the power adapter and Ethernet cable connections...128

Check the WiFi settings..............................................................128

Check the network settings........................................................128

Troubleshoot with the LEDs............................................................129

Standard LED behavior when the router is powered on........129

Power LED is off or blinking.......................................................129

LEDs never turn off......................................................................129

Internet or Ethernet LAN port LEDs are off..............................130

WiFi LED is off..............................................................................130

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

You cannot log in to the router.......................................................130

You cannot access the Internet.......................................................131

Troubleshoot Internet browsing.....................................................133

Changes are not saved....................................................................133

Troubleshoot WiFi connectivity......................................................134

Troubleshoot your network using the ping utility........................134

Test the LAN path to your router...............................................134

Test the path from a Windows-based computer to a remote

device............................................................................................135

Chapter 12 Supplemental Information

Factory Settings................................................................................138

Technical Specifications..................................................................139

Hardware Setup

This chapter covers the following topics:

• Unpack Your Modem Router

• Front panel LEDs and buttons

• Rear Panel

• Position Your Modem Router

• Install and Activate Your Modem Router

For more information about the topics covered in this manual, visit the support website at support.netgear.com.

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Unpack Your Modem Router

Your package contains the modem router, Ethernet cable, and power adapter.

Figure 1. Package contents

Front panel LEDs and buttons

Status LEDs are located on the front of the modem router. The WiFi and WPS buttons are also located on the front.

User Manual9Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Figure 2. Modem router LEDs and buttons

You can use the LEDs to verify status and connections. The following table lists and describes each LED on the top panel of the modem router.

User Manual10Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Table 1. LED descriptions

DescriptionLED

Power

Downstream

Upstream

Online

Solid white. Power is supplied to the modem router.

•

Off. No power is supplied to the modem router.

•

Solid red. Thermal cutoff mode. Power off the modem router, let it

• cool, and move it away from heat sources (such as a TV, DVD player,

or speakers) and keep it vertical in open air.

Solid amber. One downstream channel is locked.

•

Solid white. Two or more downstream channels are locked.

•

Blinking white. The modem router is scanning for a downstream

• channel.

Off. No downstream channel is locked.

•

Solid amber. One upstream channel is locked.

•

Solid white. Two or more upstream channels are locked.

•

Blinking white. The modem router is scanning for an upstream

• channel.

Off. No upstream channel is locked.

•

Solid white. The modem router is online.

•

Blinking white. The modem router is synchronizing with the cable

• provider’s cable modem termination system (CMTS).

Slow blinking amber and white. The modem router reached the

• traffic meter limit.

Off. The modem router is offline.

•

Ethernet ports 1-4

The LEDcolor indicates the speed: white for Gigabit Ethernet connections and amber for 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps Ethernet connections.

Solid. A powered-on device is connected to the Ethernet port.

•

Blinking. The port is sending or receiving traffic.

•

Off. No device is connected to this Ethernet port.

•

User Manual11Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Table 1. LED descriptions (Continued)

2.4 GHz radio

5 GHz radio

USB port

Solid white. The 2.4 GHz WiFi radio is operating.

•

Blinking. The router is sending or receiving WiFi traffic.

•

Off. The 2.4 GHz WiFi radio is off.

•

Solid white. The 5 GHz WiFi radio is operating.

•

Blinking. The router is sending or receiving WiFi traffic.

•

Off. The 5 GHz WiFi radio is off.

•

Solid white. A USB device is connected and is ready.

•

Solid amber. A USB device is connected and is ready.

•

Off. No USB device is connected, or someone clicked the Safely

• Remove Hardware button and it is now safe to remove the attached

USB device.

The WiFi and WPS buttons are located on the front of the modem router.

Table 2. Front panel buttons

DescriptionButton

WiFi

WPS

Pressing this button for two seconds turns the WiFi radios in the modem router on and off. If this LED is lit, the WiFi radios are on. If this LED is off, the WiFi radios are turned off and you cannot use WiFi to connect to the modem router.

This button lets you use WPS to join the WiFi network without typing the WiFi password. The WPS LED blinks during this process and then lights solid.

Rear Panel

The connections and button on the rear panel are shown in the following figure.

User Manual12Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Figure 3. Modem router rear panel

Position Your Modem Router

The modem router lets you access your network anywhere within the operating range of your WiFi network. However, the operating distance or range of your WiFi connection can vary significantly depending on the physical placement of your modem router. For example, the thickness and number of walls the WiFi signal passes through can limit the range.

Additionally, other WiFi access points in and around your home might affect your modem router’s signal. WiFi access points are modem routers, repeaters, WiFi range extenders, and any other device that emits a WiFi signal for network access.

Position your modem router according to the following guidelines:

Place your modem router near the center of the area where your computers and

• other devices operate, and within line of sight to your WiFi devices.

Make sure that the modem router is within reach of an AC power outlet and near

• Ethernet cables for wired computers.

Place the modem router in an elevated location, minimizing the number walls and

• ceilings between the modem router and your other devices.

User Manual13Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Place the modem router away from electrical devices such as these:

•

Ceiling fans

- Home security systems

- Microwaves

- Computers

Base of a cordless phone

- 2.4 GHz cordless phone

Place the modem router away from large metal surfaces, large glass surfaces, and

• insulated walls, and items such as these:

- Solid metal doors

- Aluminum studs

- Fish tanks

- Mirrors

- Brick

- Concrete

Install and Activate Your Modem Router

The modem router provides a connection between your cable Internet provider’s network and your computer, router, or WiFi router.

Connect Your Modem Router to a Computer

During the installation and activation, you must connect the modem router directly to a computer.

User Manual14Hardware Setup

12V 3.5A

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Figure 4. Connect the modem router directly to a computer

Note: Before you connect your modem router and contact your cable Internet provider, collect your cable account number, account phone number, and login information (your email address or user name and password).

To connect your modem router directly to a computer:

1. Connect a coaxial cable. Use the coaxial cable that your cable company provided to connect the cable port

on the modem router to a cable wall outlet or a line splitter. Make sure that the cable is tightly connected.

Note: If Xfinity is your cable Internet provider, Xfinity recommends connecting your modem router directly to a cable wall outlet.

2. Connect the power adapter provided in the package to the modem router and plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet.

When the startup procedure is complete, the Power LED lights solid white.

If the Power LED does not light, press the Power On/Off button on the rear panel of the modem router.

Wait for the modem router to come online. When the modem router comes online, the Online LED stops blinking and lights

solid white.

This process might take up to 10 minutes.

Even though an Internet connection is established, Internet service is available only after you set it up with your cable Internet provider.

User Manual15Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

For information about how to activate your Internet service, see Activate Your Internet Service on page ?.

Activate Your Internet Service

Before you activate your Internet service, gather the following information:

Your cable Internet provider account information

•

Modem router model number, which is CAX30

•

Modem router serial number, which is on the modem router label

•

Modem router MAC address, which is on the modem router label

•

Your modem router’s serial number and MAC address are on the modem router label.

The following is contact information for cable Internet providers that support your modem router.

Table 3. Cable Internet provider contact information

Contact InformationCable Internet Provider

Cox

Mediacom

Sparklight

Spectrum

Xfinity

https://www.cox.com/activate 1-800-234-3993

https://maestro.mediacomcc.com/walledgarden/page/login.jsp 1-855-Mediacom (1-855-633-4226)

https://support.sparklight.com/ 1 (877) 692-2253

https://activate.spectrum.net/ 1-833-267-6094

http://xfinity.com/activate https://www.xfinity.com/support/internet/activate-purchased-modem/ 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-934-6489)

Note: Your cable Internet provider’s contact information might change. You can find the contact information in your monthly Internet service billing statement.

User Manual16Hardware Setup

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

To activate your Internet service:

Visit your cable Internet provider’s website and follow the onscreen instructions to activate your Internet service.

If you are unable to activate your Internet service using the instructions on your cable Internet provider’s website, call your cable Internet provider for support.

3. To determine the accurate Internet speed, visit your cable Internet provider's speed test website and perform a speed test. .

If your actual speed is lower than your subscribed speed, contact your cable Internet provider.

Perform a Speed Test

To determine the accurate Internet speed, visit your cable Internet provider's speed test website and perform a speed test.

If your actual speed is lower than your subscribed speed, contact your cable Internet provider.

User Manual17Hardware Setup

Specify Your Internet Settings

Usually, the quickest way to set up the modem router to use your Internet connection is to allow the modem router to detect the Internet connection when you first access the modem router with an Internet browser. You can also customize or specify your Internet settings.

This chapter contains the following sections:

• Specify the Cable Connection Starting Frequency

• View Modem Router Initialization

• Manually Set Up the Internet Connection

• Change the MTU Size

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Specify the Cable Connection Starting Frequency

The starting frequency is automatically generated. For most Internet connections, you do not need to specify this information. If you must enter a starting frequency, contact your Internet provider.

To change the starting frequency:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the modem router network.

Enter http://routerlogin.net or 192.168.1.1. A login window opens.

3. Enter the modem router user name and password. The user name is admin. The default password is password. The user name and

password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Cable Connection.

The page displays the status of all downstream and upstream channels.

Enter the starting frequency.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

User Manual19Specify Your Internet Settings

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

View Modem Router Initialization

You can track the initialization procedure of the modem router and get details about the downstream and upstream cable channel. The time is displayed after the modem router is initialized.

The modem router automatically goes through the following steps in the provisioning process:

1. Scans and locks the downstream frequency and then ranges the upstream channels.

2. Obtains a WAN address for the modem router.

3. Connects to the Internet.

To view the status of the modem router initialization:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the modem router network.

Enter http://routerlogin.net or 192.168.1.1. A login window opens.

3. Enter the modem router user name and password. The user name is admin. The default password is password. The user name and

password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Cable Connection.

The Startup Procedure section displays the initialization progress. The page also displays the status of all downstream and upstream channels. (You must scroll down to view all the channels.) The number of downstream and upstream channels that are locked depends on the number of channels that your Internet provider uses.

User Manual20Specify Your Internet Settings

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Manually Set Up the Internet Connection

In most situations, you do not need to change these settings. We recommend that you use the default settings for DHCP because most cable Internet services provide the IP address through DHCP.

To specify the Internet connection settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the modem router network.

Enter http://routerlogin.net or 192.168.1.1. A login window opens.

3. Enter the modem router user name and password. The user name is admin. The default password is password. The user name and

password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > Internet.

If your Internet connection requires an account name or host name, type it in the Account Name (If Required) field.

If your Internet connection requires a domain name, type it in the Domain Name (If Required) field.

For the other sections in this page, the default settings usually work, but you can change them.

7. Select an Internet IP Address radio button:

Get Dynamically from ISP. Your ISP uses DHCP to assign your IP address. Your

•

ISP automatically assigns these addresses.

User Manual21Specify Your Internet Settings

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Use Static IP Address. Enter the IP address, IP subnet mask, and the gateway IP

•

address that your ISP assigned. The gateway is the ISP modem router to which your modem router connects.

8. Select a Domain Name Server (DNS) Address radio button:

Get Automatically from ISP. Your ISP uses DHCP to assign your DNS servers.

•

Your ISP automatically assigns this address.

Use These DNS Servers. If you know that your ISP requires specific servers, select

•

this option. Enter the IP address of your ISP’s primary DNS server. If a secondary DNS server address is available, enter it also.

9. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

If the NETGEAR website does not display within one minute, see Troubleshooting on page 127.

Change the MTU Size

The maximum transmission unit (MTU) is the largest data packet a network device transmits. When one network device communicates across the Internet with another, the data packets travel through many devices along the way. If a device in the data path uses a lower MTU setting than the other devices, the data packets must be split or “fragmented” to accommodate the device with the smallest MTU.

The best MTU setting for NETGEAR equipment is often the default value. In some situations, changing the value fixes one problem but causes another. Leave the MTU unchanged unless one of these situations occurs:

You experience problems connecting to your ISP or other Internet service, and the

• technical support of either the ISP or NETGEAR recommends changing the MTU

setting. These web-based applications might require an MTU change:

A secure website that does not open, or displays only part of a web page

- Yahoo email

- MSN portal

You use VPN and experience severe performance problems.

•

You used a program to optimize MTU for performance reasons, and now you are

• experiencing connectivity or performance problems.

User Manual22Specify Your Internet Settings

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Note: An incorrect MTU setting can cause Internet communication problems. For

example, you might not be able to access certain websites, frames within websites, secure login pages, or FTP or POP servers.

To change the MTU size:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the modem router network.

Enter http://routerlogin.net or 192.168.1.1. A login window opens.

3. Enter the modem router user name and password. The user name is admin. The default password is password. The user name and

password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > WAN Setup.

In the MTU Size field, enter a value from 64 to 1500.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

If you suspect an MTU problem, a common solution is to change the MTU to 1400. If you are willing to experiment, you can gradually reduce the MTU from the maximum value of 1500 until the problem goes away. The following table describes common MTU sizes and applications.

Table 4. Common MTU sizes

ApplicationMTU

1500

The largest Ethernet packet size. This setting is typical for connections that do not use VPN, and is the default value for NETGEAR routers, adapters, and switches.

User Manual23Specify Your Internet Settings

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Table 4. Common MTU sizes (Continued)

Maximum size to use for pinging. (Larger packets are fragmented.)1472

Used in some DHCP environments.1468

1460

Usable by AOL if you do not send or receive large email attachments, for example.

User Manual24Specify Your Internet Settings

Connect to the Network and Access the Modem Router

This chapter contains the following sections:

• Connect to the Network

• Types of Logins

• Log In to the Modem Router

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Connect to the Network

You can connect to the modem router’s network through a wired or WiFi connection. If you set up your computer to use a static IP address, change the settings so that it uses Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP).

Wired Connection

You can connect your computer to the modem router using an Ethernet cable and join the modem router’s local area network (LAN).

To connect your computer to the modem router with an Ethernet cable:

1. Make sure that the modem router is receiving power (its Power LED is lit).

2. Connect an Ethernet cable to an Ethernet port on your computer.

Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to one of the numbered Ethernet ports. Your computer connects to the local area network (LAN). A message might display

on your computer screen to notify you that an Ethernet cable is connected.

Using WPS to Connect to the WiFi Network

You can connect to the modem router’s WiFi network with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) or you can find and select the WiFi network.

To use WPS to connect to the WiFi network:

1. Make sure that the modem router is receiving power (its Power LED is lit).

Check the WPS instructions for your computer or mobile device.

3. Press the WPS button on the modem router.

Within two minutes, on your computer or WiFi device, press its WPS button or follow its instructions for WPS connections.

Your computer or mobile device connects to the WiFi network.

Finding and Selecting the WiFi Network

To find and select the WiFi network:

1. Make sure that the modem router is receiving power (its Power LED is lit).

On your computer or mobile device, find and select the WiFi network. The WiFi network name is on the modem router label.

Access the Modem Router

User Manual26Connect to the Network and

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

3. Join the WiFi network and enter the WiFi password. The password is on the modem router label.

Your computer or mobile device connects to the WiFi network.

Types of Logins

Separate types of logins serve different purposes. It is important that you understand the difference so that you know which login to use when.

Types of logins:

WiFi network key or password. Your modem router is preset with a unique WiFi

• network name (SSID) and password for WiFi access. This information is on the modem router label.

Note: Your modem router broadcasts dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi signals. The label shows the SSID for the 2.4 GHz signal. For information about 5 GHz WiFi settings, see Specify Basic WiFi Settings on page 49.

Modem router login. This logs you in to the modem router web pages as admin

• from an Internet browser.

Log In to the Modem Router

When you connect to the network (either with WiFi or with an Ethernet cable), you can use a web browser to access the modem router to view or change its settings. The first time you access the modem router, the modem router automatically checks to see if it can connect to your Internet service.

To log in to the modem router:

Launch a web browser from a WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device that is connected to the network.

Type http://routerlogin.net or http://192.168.1.1. A login window opens.

3. Enter the modem router user name and password. The user name is admin. The default password is password. The user name and

password are case-sensitive.

User Manual27Connect to the Network and

Access the Modem Router

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

The first time you log in to the modem router, you are prompted to change the admin password and set up security questions. You must enter these settings before you can access the Internet.

4. Enter a new password.

5. Select security questions and enter the answers.

6. Click the Next button.

7. Click the Next button. The modem router connects to the Internet. The BASIC Home page displays the

status of the Internet connection.

Access the Modem Router

User Manual28Connect to the Network and

Control Access to the Internet

The router comes with a built-in firewall that helps protect your home network from unwanted intrusions from the Internet.

This chapter contains the following sections:

• Enable access control to allow or block access to the Internet

• Use keywords to block Internet sites

• Manage network access control lists

• Schedule when to block Internet sites and services

• Set up security event email notifications

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Enable access control to allow or block access to the Internet

You can use access control to block or allow access to the Internet through your router.

To set up access control:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Access Control. The Access Control page displays.

5. Select the Turn on Access Control check box. You must select this check box before you can specify an access rule and use the

Allow and Block buttons. When this check box is cleared, all devices are allowed to connect, even if a device is in the blocked list.

6. Select an access rule:

• Allow all new devices to connect. With this setting, a new device can access

your network. You don’t need to enter the its MAC address. This is the default setting. We recommend that you leave this radio button selected.

•

Block all new devices from connecting. With this setting, a new device cannot

access your router’s Internet connection, but can still access your router’s local network. Before a device accesses your router’s Internet connection, you must enter its MAC address for an Ethernet connection and its MAC address for a WiFi connection in the allowed list.

The access rule does not affect previously blocked or allowed devices. It applies only to devices joining your network in the future after you apply these settings.

To view allowed or blocked devices that are not connected, click one of the following links:

•

View list of allowed devices not currently connected to the network

•

View list of blocked devices not currently connected to the network

User Manual30Control Access to the Internet

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

The list displays.

8. To allow the WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device you’re currently using to continue to access the Internet, select the check box next to your computer or device, and click the Allow button.

9. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Use keywords to block Internet sites

You can use keywords to block certain Internet sites from your network. You can use blocking all the time or based on a schedule.

To block Internet sites:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Block Sites. The Block Sites page displays.

5. Select a keyword blocking option:

Per Schedule. Turn on keyword blocking according to a schedule that you set.

•

For more information, see Schedule when to block Internet sites and services on page 36.

Always. Turn on keyword blocking all the time, independent of the Schedule

•

page.

In the Type keyword or domain name here field, enter a keyword or domain that you want to block.

For example:

Specify XXX to block http://www.badstuff.com/xxx.html.

•

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Specify .com if you want to allow only sites with domain suffixes such as .edu or

•

.gov.

Enter a period (.) to block all Internet browsing access.

•

7. Click the Add Keyword button. The keyword is added to the keyword list. The keyword list supports up to 32 entries.

8. Click the Apply button. Keyword blocking takes effect.

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Block services from the Internet

You can block Internet services on your network based on the type of service. You can block the services all the time or based on a schedule.

To block services:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Block Services. The Block Services page displays.

Specify when to block the services:

• To block the services all the time, select the Always radio button.

• To block the services based on a schedule, select the Per Schedule radio button.

For information about how to specify the schedule, see Schedule when to block Internet sites and services on page 36.

6. Click the Add button. The Block Services Setup page displays.

7. To add a service that is in the Service Type menu, select the application or service. The settings for this service automatically display in the fields.

To add a service or application that is not in the menu, select User Defined, and do the following:

If you know that the application uses either TCP or UDP, select the appropriate protocol. Otherwise, select TCP/UDP (both).

b. Enter the starting port and ending port numbers.

If the service uses a single port number, enter that number in both fields. To find out which port numbers the service or application uses, you can contact the publisher of the application, ask user groups or newsgroups, or search on the Internet.

Select a filtering option:

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•

Only This IP Address. Block services for a single computer.

•

IP Address Range. Block services for a range of computers with consecutive IP

addresses on your network.

•

All lP Addresses. Block services for all computers on your network.

10. Click the Add button. Your settings are saved.

Delete keywords from the blocked list

To delete keywords from the list:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Block Sites. The Block Sites page displays.

Do one of the following:

• To delete a single word, select it and click the Delete Keyword button.

The keyword is removed from the list.

• To delete all keywords on the list, click the Clear List button.

All keywords are removed from the list.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Prevent blocking on a trusted computer

You can exempt one trusted computer from blocking. The computer that you exempt must be assigned a fixed IP address. You can use the reserved IP address feature to specify the IP address. See Manage reserved LAN IP addresses on page 46.

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To specify a trusted computer:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Block Sites. The Block Sites page displays.

5. Scroll down and select the Allow trusted IP address to visit blocked sites check box.

In the Trusted IP Address field, enter the IP address of the trusted computer.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Manage network access control lists

You can manage network access control lists (ACLs) that block or allow access to the Internet through your router.

To manage devices that are allowed or blocked:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Access Control. The Access Control page displays.

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5. Select the Turn on Access Control radio button.

Click the View list of allowed devices not currently connected to the network link.

The list displays.

Select the check box for a device.

Use the Add button, Edit button, and Remove from the list button as needed.

9. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Schedule when to block Internet sites and services

When you schedule blocking, the same schedule is used to block sites and to block services.

To schedule blocking:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > Schedule. The Schedule page displays.

Specify when to block keywords and services:

Days to Block. Select the check box for each day that you want to block the

•

keywords, or select the Every Day check box, which automatically selects the check boxes for all days.

Time of Day to Block. Select a start and end time in 24-hour format, or select

•

the All Day check box for 24-hour blocking.

6. Click the Apply button.

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Your settings are saved.

Set up security event email notifications

The router can email you its logs of router activity. The log records router activity and security events such as attempts to access blocked sites or services.

To set up email notifications:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Security > E-mail. The E-mail page displays.

Select the Turn E-mail Notification On check box.

In the Send to This E-mail Address field, type the email address to which logs and alerts are to be sent.

This email address is also used for the From address. If this field is blank, log and alert messages are not sent.

In the Your Outgoing Mail Server field, enter the name of your ISP outgoing (SMTP) mail server (such as mail.myISP.com).

You might be able to find this information in the configuration window of your email program. If you leave this field blank, log and alert messages are not sent.

In the Outgoing Mail Server Port Number field, enter a port number in the field. If you do not know the port number, leave the default port number.

If your outgoing email server requires authentication, select the My Mail Server requires authentication check box, and do the following:

In the User Name field, type the user name for the outgoing email server.

In the Password field, type the password for the outgoing email server.

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10. To send alerts when someone attempts to visit a blocked site, select the Send Alerts Immediately check box.

Email alerts are sent immediately when someone attempts to visit a blocked site.

11.

To send logs based on a schedule, specify these settings: a. From Send logs according to this schedule menu, select the schedule type.

b. From the Day menu, select the day.

c. From the Time menu, select the time, and select the am or pm radio button.

12. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Logs are sent automatically according to the schedule that you set. If the log fills before the specified time, it is sent. After the log is sent, it is cleared from the router memory. If the router cannot email the log and the log buffer fills, the router overwrites the log.

User Manual38Control Access to the Internet

Manage Network Settings

The router comes ready for WiFi, Ethernet, and USB connections. You can customize the router’s network settings. We recommend that you install the router and connect it to the Internet before you change its network settings.

This chapter contains the following sections:

• View or change the WAN settings

• Set up a default DMZ server

• Change the Router’s Device Name

• Change the LAN TCP/IP settings

• Specify the IP addresses that the router assigns

• Disable the DHCP server feature in the router

• Manage reserved LAN IP addresses

• Use the WPS Wizard for WiFi connections

• Specify Basic WiFi Settings

• Change the WiFi Mode

• Change the Transmission Power Control

• Change the WiFi password or the WiFi security

• Set up a guest WiFi network

• Control the WiFi radios

• Set up a WiFi schedule

• Specify WPS settings

• Enable or disable implicit beamforming

• Enable or disable airtime fairness

• Ethernet Port Aggregation

• Get Multi-Gig Internet With Internet Port Aggregation

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

View or change the WAN settings

You can view or configure wide area network (WAN) settings for the Internet port. You can set up a DMZ (demilitarized zone) server, change the maximum transmit unit (MTU) size, and enable the router to respond to a ping to its WAN (Internet) port.

To view or change the WAN settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > WAN Setup. The WAN Setup page displays.

View or change the following settings:

Disable Port Scan and DoS Protection. DoS protection protects your LAN against

•

denial of service attacks such as Syn flood, Smurf Attack, Ping of Death, and many others. Select this check box only in special circumstances.

Default DMZ Server. This feature is sometimes helpful when you are playing

•

online games or videoconferencing, but it makes the firewall security less effective.

Respond to Ping on Internet Port. This feature allows your router to be

•

discovered. Use this feature only as a diagnostic tool or for a specific reason.

MTU Size (in bytes). The normal MTU (maximum transmit unit) value for most

•

Ethernet networks is 1500 bytes. Change the MTU only if you are sure that it is necessary for your ISP connection.

NAT Filtering. Network Address Translation (NAT) determines how the router

•

processes inbound traffic. Secured NAT protects computers on the LAN from attacks from the Internet but might prevent some Internet games, point-to-point applications, or multimedia applications from working. Open NAT provides a much less secured firewall but allows almost all Internet applications to work.

Disable SIP ALG. Some voice and video communication applications do not

•

work well with the SIP ALG. Disabling the SIP ALG might help your voice and video applications to create and accept a call through the router.

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5. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Set up a default DMZ server

The default DMZ server feature is helpful when you are using some online games and videoconferencing applications that are incompatible with Network Address Translation (NAT). The router is programmed to recognize some of these applications and to work correctly with them, but other applications might not function well. In some cases, one local computer can run the application correctly if the IP address for that computer is entered as the default DMZ server.

WARNING: DMZ servers pose a security risk. A computer designated as the default

DMZ server loses much of the protection of the firewall and is exposed to exploits from the Internet. If compromised, the DMZ server computer can be used to attack other computers on your network.

The router usually detects and discards incoming traffic from the Internet that is not a response to one of your local computers or a service that you configured on the Port Forwarding/Port Triggering page. Instead of discarding this traffic, you can specify that the router forwards the traffic to one computer on your network. This computer is called the default DMZ server.

To set up a default DMZ server:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > WAN Setup. The WAN Setup page displays.

Select the Default DMZ Server check box.

6. Type the IP address.

7. Click the Apply button.

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Your settings are saved.

Change the Router’s Device Name

The router’s default device name is based on its model number. This device name displays in the file manager when you browse your network.

To change the router’s device name:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup. The LAN Setup page displays.

In the Device Name field, type a new name.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Change the LAN TCP/IP settings

The router is preconfigured to use private IP addresses on the LAN side and to act as a DHCP server. The router’s default LAN IP configuration is as follows:

LAN IP address. 192.168.1.1

•

Subnet mask. 255.255.255.0

•

These addresses are part of the designated private address range for use in private networks and are suitable for most applications. If your network requires a different IP addressing scheme, you can change these settings.

You might want to change these settings if you need a specific IP subnet that one or more devices on the network use, or if you use competing subnets with the same IP scheme.

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To change the LAN TCP/IP settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup. The LAN Setup page displays.

In the IP Address field, type the IP address.

In the IP Subnet Mask field, type the subnet mask of the router. The IP address and subnet mask identify which addresses are local to a specific

device and which must be reached through a gateway or router.

7. Change the RIP settings. Router Information Protocol (RIP) allows a router to exchange routing information

with other routers.

a. Select the RIP direction:

Both. The router broadcasts its routing table periodically and incorporates

• information that it receives.

Out Only. The router broadcasts its routing table periodically.

•

In Only. The router incorporates the RIP information that it receives.

•

b. Select the RIP version:

Disabled. This is the default setting.

•

RIP-1. This format is universally supported. It is adequate for most networks,

• unless you are using an unusual network setup.

RIP-2. This format carries more information. Both RIP-2B and RIP-2M send the

• routing data in RIP-2 format. RIP-2B uses subnet broadcasting. RIP-2M uses multicasting.

8. Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

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If you changed the LAN IP address of the router, you are disconnected when this change takes effect.

9. To reconnect, close your browser, relaunch it, and log in to the router.

Specify the IP addresses that the router assigns

By default, the router acts as a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server. The router assigns IP, DNS server, and default gateway addresses to all computers connected to the LAN. The assigned default gateway address is the LAN address of the router.

These addresses must be part of the same IP address subnet as the router’s LAN IP address. Using the default addressing scheme, define a range between 192.168.1.2 and 192.168.1.254, although you can save part of the range for devices with fixed addresses.

To specify the pool of IP addresses that the router assigns:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup.

The LAN Setup page displays.

5. Make sure that the Use Router as DHCP Server check box is selected.

Specify the range of IP addresses that the router assigns: a.

In the Starting IP Address field, type the lowest number in the range. This IP address must be in the same subnet as the router.

In the Ending IP Address field, type the number at the end of the range of IP addresses.

This IP address must be in the same subnet as the router.

7. Click the Apply button.

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Your settings are saved.

The router delivers the following address information to any LAN device that requests a DHCP address:

An IP address from the range that you define

•

Subnet mask

•

Gateway IP address (the router’s LAN IP address)

•

DNS server IP address (the router’s LAN IP address)

•

Disable the DHCP server feature in the router

By default, the router acts as a DHCP server. The router assigns IP, DNS server, and default gateway addresses to all computers connected to the LAN. The assigned default gateway address is the LAN address of the router.

You can use another device on your network as the DHCP server or specify the network settings of all your computers.

To disable the DHCP server feature in the router:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup.

The LAN Setup page displays.

5. Clear the Use Router as DHCP Server check box.

6. Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

(Optional) If this service is disabled and no other DHCP server is on your network, set your computer IP addresses manually so that the computers can access the router.

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Manage reserved LAN IP addresses

When you specify a reserved IP address for a computer on the LAN, that computer always receives the same IP address each time it accesses the router’s DHCP server. Assign reserved IP addresses to computers or servers that require permanent IP settings.

Reserve an IP address

To reserve an IP address:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup.

The LAN Setup page displays.

5. In the Address Reservation section, click the Add button.

In the IP Address field, type the IP address to assign to the computer or server. Choose an IP address from the router’s LAN subnet, such as 192.168.1.x.

Type the MAC address of the computer or server.

Tip: If the computer is already on your network, you can copy its MAC address from the Attached Devices page and paste it here.

8. Click the Apply button.

The reserved address is entered into the table.

The reserved address is not assigned until the next time the computer contacts the router’s DHCP server. Reboot the computer, or access its IP configuration and force a DHCP release and renew.

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Edit a reserved IP address

To edit a reserved address entry:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup.

The LAN Setup page displays.

5. Select the radio button next to the reserved address that you want to edit.

6. Click the Edit button.

The Address Reservation page displays.

7. Change the settings.

8. Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

Delete a reserved IP address entry

To delete a reserved address entry:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Setup > LAN Setup.

The LAN Setup page displays.

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5. Select the radio button next to the reserved address that you want to delete.

6. Click the Delete button.

The address is removed.

Use the WPS Wizard for WiFi connections

The WPS Wizard helps you add a WPS-enabled device to your WiFi network without typing the WiFi password.

To use the WPS Wizard:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > WPS Wizard.

A note explaining WPS displays.

5. Click the Next button.

The WPS page displays.

6. Select a setup method:

• Push button. Click the WPS button on this page.

• PIN Number. The page adjusts. Enter the client security PIN and click the Next

button.

Within two minutes, go to the WPS-enabled device and use its WPS software to connect to the WiFi network.

The WPS process automatically sets up yourr WPS-enabled device with the network password when it connects. The router WPS page displays a confirmation message.

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Specify Basic WiFi Settings

The router comes with preset security. This means that the WiFi network name (SSID), network key (password), and security option (encryption protocol) are preset in the factory. You can find the preset SSID and password on the router label.

Note: The preset SSID and password are uniquely generated for every device to protect and maximize your WiFi security.

If you change your preset security settings, make a note of the new settings and store it in a safe place where you can easily find it.

If your computer is connected with WiFi when you change the SSID or other WiFi security settings, you are disconnected when you click the Apply button. To avoid this problem, use a computer with a wired connection to access the router.

To specify basic WiFi settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Wireless.

The Wireless Settings page displays.

You can specify the settings for the 2.4 GHz band and 5 GHz band.

5. From the Region menu, select your region.

In some locations, you cannot change this setting.

6. To control the SSID broadcast, select or clear the Enable SSID Broadcast check

box. When this check box is selected, the router broadcasts its network name (SSID) so

that it displays when you scan for local WiFi networks on your computer or mobile device.

To change the network name (SSID), type a new name in the Name (SSID) field.

User Manual49Manage Network Settings

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The name can be up to 32 characters long and it is case-sensitive. The default SSID is randomly generated and is on the router label. If you change the name, make sure to write down the new name and keep it in a safe place.

To change the WiFi channel, select a number from the Channel menu. In some regions, not all channels are available. Do not change the channel unless

you experience interference (shown by lost connections or slow data transfers). If this happens, experiment with different channels to see which is the best.

When you use multiple access points, it is better if adjacent access points use different channels to reduce interference. The recommended channel spacing between adjacent access points is four channels (for example, use Channels 1 and 5, or 6 and

10).

9. Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

If you connected wirelessly to the network and you changed the SSID, you are disconnected from the network.

10. Make sure that you can connect wirelessly to the network with its new settings. If you cannot connect wirelessly, check the following:

• Is your computer or mobile device connected to another WiFi network in your

area? Some WiFi devices automatically connect to the first open network without WiFi security that they discover.

• Is your computer or mobile device trying to connect to your network with its old

settings (before you changed the settings)? If so, update the WiFi network selection in your computer or mobile device to match the current settings for your network.

Change the WiFi Mode

To change the WiFi mode settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

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4. Select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

In the Wireless Network (2.4 GHz b/g/n) section, select a WiFi mode from the Mode menu.

Up to 54 Mbps. This mode allows 802.11n, 802.11g, and 802.11b devices to

•

join the network but limits 802.11n devices to functioning at up to 54 Mbps.

Up to 430 Mbps. This mode allows for reduced interference with neighboring

•

WiFi networks. This mode allows 802.11n, 802.11g, and 802.11b devices to join the network but limits 802.11n devices to functioning at up to 430 Mbps.

Up to 860 Mbps. This mode allows 802.11n, 802.11g, and 802.11b devices to

•

join the network and allows 802.11n devices to function at up to 860 Mbps. This mode is the default mode.

In the Wireless Network (5 GHz a/n/ac) section, select a WiFi mode from the Mode menu.

Up to 430 Mbps. This mode allows 802.11ac, 802.11n, and 802.11a devices to

•

join the selected WiFi network in the 5 GHz band of the network but limits

802.11ac and 802.11n devices to functioning at up to 430 Mbps.

Up to 860 Mbps. This mode allows for reduced interference with neighboring

•

WiFi networks. This mode allows 802.11ac, 802.11n, and 802.11a devices to join the selected WiFi network in the 5 GHz band of the network but limits 802.11ac devices to functioning at up to 860 Mbps.

Up to 1801 Mbps. This mode allows 802.11ac, 802.11n, and 802.11a devices

•

to join the selected WiFi network in the 5 GHz band of the network and allows

802.11ac devices to function at up to 1801 Mbps. This mode is the default mode.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Change the Transmission Power Control

By default, you router’s transmission power is set to 100%. This allows your router to give you whole home WiFi coverage. If you don’t need whole home WiFi coverage, and you also want to save power consumption while using your router, you can lower the transmission power of your router.

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To change the transmission power control:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

In the Wireless Network (2.4 GHz b/g/n) section, select a percentage from the Transmit Power Control menu.

In the Wireless Network (5 GHz a/n/ac) section, select a percentage from the Transmit Power Control menu.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Change the WiFi password or the WiFi security

The WiFi password is different from the admin password that you use to log in to the router.

Your router comes with preset WPA2 or WPA security. We recommend that you use the preset security, but you can change the settings. Do not disable the preset security.

To change the WiFi password or the WiFi security:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

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The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. To change the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi password, enter a new password in the Password (Network Key) field.

You must enter a phrase of 8 to 63 characters. The Password (Network Key) field displays if the WPA2-PSK [AES] or WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES] security radio button is selected.

To change the WiFi security for the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi network, select a Security

Options radio button.

None. An open WiFi network that does not provide any security. Any WiFi device

•

can join the WiFi network. We recommend that you do not use an open WiFi network.

WPA2-PSK [AES]. This option is the default setting. This type of security enables

•

WiFi devices that support WPA2 to join the router’s WiFi network. If you did not change the WiFi password, the default password displays. The default password is printed on the router label.WPA2 provides a secure connection but some older WiFi devices do not detect WPA2 and support only WPA. If your network includes such older devices, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES] security.

WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES]. This type of security enables WiFi devices

•

that support either WPA or WPA2 to join the router’s WiFi network. However, WPA-PSK [TKIP] is less secure than WPA2-PSK [AES] and limits the speed of WiFi devices to 54 Mbps.

WPA/WPA2 Enterprise. This type of security requires that your WiFi network

•

can access a RADIUS server.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Set up a guest WiFi network

A guest network allows visitors to use the Internet without using your WiFi security password or with a different WiFi password. By default, the guest WiFi network is disabled. You can enable and configure the guest WiFi network for each WiFi band. The router simultaneously supports the 2.4 GHz band for 802.11n, 802.11g, and 802.11b devices and the 5 GHz band for 802.11ac, 802.11n, and 802.11a devices.

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The WiFi mode of the guest WiFi network depends on the WiFi mode of the main WiFi network. For example, if you configure the WiFi mode for the main WiFi network as Up to 54 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band, the guest WiFi network also functions in the Up to 54 Mbps mode in the 2.4 GHz band. The channel also depends on the channel selection of the main WiFi network.

The router provides two default guest networks with the following names (SSIDs):

2.4 GHz guest WiFi network SSID. NETGEAR_Guest

•

5 GHz guest WiFi network SSID. NETGEAR-5G_Guest

•

By default, these networks are configured as open networks without security but are disabled. You can enable one or both networks. You can also change the SSIDs for these networks.

To set up a guest network:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Guest Network. The Guest Network Settings page displays.

Configure the following settings to set up a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network:

Enable Guest Network. By default, the guest WiFi network is disabled. To enable

•

the guest WiFi network for the

2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi band, select the Enable Guest Network check box.

Enable SSID Broadcast. By default, the router broadcasts the SSID of the WiFi

•

band so that WiFi stations can detect the WiFi name (SSID) in their scanned network lists. To turn off the SSID broadcast for the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network, clear the Enable SSID Broadcast check box.

Allow guests to see each other and access my local network. By default, WiFi

•

clients that are connected to the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network cannot access WiFi devices or Ethernet devices that are connected to the main WiFi network. To allow access to the main WiFi network, select the Allow guests to see each other and access my local network check box.

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Guest Wireless Network Name (SSID). The SSID is the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest

•

WiFi network name. The default 2.4 GHz SSID is NETGEAR_Guest. The default 5 GHz SSID NETGEAR-5G_Guest. To change the SSID, enter a 32-character (maximum), case-sensitive name in this field.

Select a WiFi security option for the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network:

None. An open WiFi network that does not provide any security. Any WiFi device

•

can join the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network. This is the default setting for the guest WiFi network.

WPA2-PSK [AES]. WPA2 provides a secure and fast connection but some older

•

WiFi devices do not detect WPA2 and support only WPA. Select WPA2-PSK [AES] security to allow 802.11n devices to connect to the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network at the fastest speed. If your network includes older devices that do not support WPA2, select WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES] security. To use WPA2 security, in the Password (Network Key) field, enter a phrase of 8 to 63 characters. To join the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network, a user must enter this password.

WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES]. This type of security enables WiFi devices

•

that support either WPA or WPA2 to join the 2.4 GHz band of the guest WiFi network. However, WPA-PSK [TKIP] is less secure than WPA2-PSK [AES] and limits the speed of WiFi devices to 54 Mbps. To use WPA + WPA2 security, in the Password (Network Key) field, enter a phrase of 8 to 63 characters. To join the

2.4 GHz or 5 GHz guest WiFi network, a user must enter this password.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

8. Make sure that you can reconnect over WiFi to the network with its new security settings.

If you cannot connect over WiFi, check the following:

If your computer or mobile device is already connected to another WiFi network

•

in your area, disconnect it from that WiFi network and connect it to the WiFi network that the router provides. Some WiFi devices automatically connect to the first open network without WiFi security that they discover.

Does your computer or mobile device display as an attached device?

•

If it does, it is connected to the network.

Are you using the correct network name (SSID) and password?

•

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Control the WiFi radios

The router’s internal WiFi radios broadcast signals in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz ranges. By default, they are on so that you can connect over WiFi to the router. When the WiFi radios are off, you can still use an Ethernet cable for a LAN connection to the router.

You can turn the WiFi radios on and off with the WiFi On/Off button on the router, or you can log in to the router and enable or disable the WiFi radios. If you are close to the router, it might be easier to press its WiFi On/Off button. If you are away from the router or already logged in, it might be easier to enable or disable them.

Use the WiFi On/Off button

To turn the WiFi radios off and on with the WiFi On/Off button:

Press the WiFi On/Off button on the top of the router for two seconds. If you turned off the WiFi radios, the WiFi On/Off LED and the WPS LED turn off. If

you turned on the WiFi radios, the WiFi On/Off LED and the WPS LED light.

Enable or disable the WiFi radios

If you used the WiFi On/Off button to turn off the WiFi radios, you can’t log in to the router to turn them back on. You must press the WiFi On/Off button again for two seconds to turn the WiFi radios back on.

To enable or disable the WiFi radios:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Wireless Settings. The Wireless Settings page displays.

Do one of the following for your router’s WiFi networks:

Turn off the WiFi radio. Clear the Enable Wireless Router Radio check box.

•

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Turn on the WiFi radio. Select the Enable Wireless Router Radio check box.

•

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Set up a WiFi schedule

You can turn off the WiFi signal from your router at times when you do not need a WiFi connection. For example, you might turn it off for the weekend if you leave town.

To set up the WiFi schedule:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Wireless Settings. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. Click the Add a new period button. The page adjusts.

6. Use the menus, radio buttons, and check boxes to set up a period during which you want to turn off the WiFi signal.

7. Click the Apply button. The Wireless Settings page displays.

Select the Turn off wireless signal by schedule check box to activate the schedule.

9. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

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Specify WPS settings

Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) lets you join the WiFi network without typing the WiFi password.

To specify WPS settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Wireless Settings. The Wireless Settings page displays.

The Router’s PIN field displays the fixed PIN that you can use to configure the router’s WiFi settings from another device through WPS.

5. (Optional) Select or clear the Enable Router’s PIN check box. The PIN function might temporarily be disabled when the router detects suspicious

attempts to break into the router’s WiFi settings by using the router’s PIN through WPS. You can manually enable the PIN function by selecting the Enable Router’s PIN check box.

6. (Optional) Select or clear the Keep Existing Wireless Settings check box. By default, the Keep Existing Wireless Settings check box is selected. We

recommend that you leave this check box selected.

If you clear this check box, the next time a new WiFi client uses WPS to connect to the router, the router WiFi settings change to an automatically generated random SSID and security key.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

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Enable or disable implicit beamforming

Implicit beamforming means that the router can use information from WiFi clients that support beamforming to improve the WiFi signal.

To enable or disable implicit beamforming:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Wireless Settings. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. Scroll down below the WPS Settings section and select or clear the Enable Implicit BEAMFORMING check box.

Selecting this check box enables implicit beamforming. Clearing this check box disables implicit beamforming.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

If you connected over WiFi to the network, you are disconnected from the network and must reconnect.

Enable or disable airtime fairness

Airtime fairness ensures that all WiFi clients receive equal time on the network. Network resources are divided by time, so if you have five WiFi clients, they each get one-fifth of the network time. The advantage of this feature is that your slowest WiFi clients don’t control network responsiveness. This feature is enabled by default, but you can disable it.

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To enable or disable airtime fairness:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Wireless Settings. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. Scroll down below the WPS Settings section and select or clear the Enable AIRTIME FAIRNESS check box.

Selecting this check box enables airtime fairness. Clearing this check box disables airtime fairness.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

If you connected over WiFi to the network, you are disconnected from the network and must reconnect.

Ethernet Port Aggregation

Ethernet aggregation lets aggregate two Ethernet ports on your router to improve the aggregated file transfer speed.

To set up Ethernet port aggregation, connect a device that supports Ethernet port aggregation and 802.3ad to Ethernet aggregate ports 4 and 5 on your router. Note that Ethernet port aggregation is also referred to as link aggregation, teaming port, and port trunking.

WARNING: To avoid causing broadcast looping, which can shut down your network,

do not connect an unmanaged switch to Ethernet ports 4 and 5 on your router.

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Figure 5. Ethernet port aggregation

Set Up Ethernet Port Aggregation

If you are connecting a switch, make sure that your switch supports 802.3ad LACP.

To set up Ethernet port aggregation:

Set up Ethernet port aggregation on your device before connecting it to your router.

Note: If your device supports a static link aggregation group (LAG) only, you must enable static mode before you connect your device to Ethernet ports 4 and 5 on the router. See Step 3 for more information about how to enable static mode on your router.

For information about how to set up Ethernet port aggregation on your router or computer, see the documentation that came with your router or computer.

2. Connect your device to Ethernet ports 4 and 5 on the router.

3. Log in to your router and enable Ethernet port aggregation: a.

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

c. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive. The BASIC Home page displays.

d. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Ethernet Port Aggregation.

The Ethernet Port Aggregation page displays.

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e. Select an Ethernet port aggregation mode (note that Ethernet port aggregation

is disabled by default):

Enable (LACP-IEEE 803.3ad). The router communicates with the device

• connected to Ethernet ports 4 and 5 on your router, and checks to see if

Ethernet port aggregation is supported on the device. If Ethernet port aggregation is supported, the router automatically trunks Ethernet ports 4 and 5. If not, Ethernet ports 4 and 5 work as independent Ethernet ports. We recommend that you select this mode unless your NAS or switch can support static LAG only.

Static. If your device supports a static link aggregation group (LAG) only,

• select this mode. Otherwise, we recommend that you to select the Enable

(LACP-IEE 803.3ad) radio button instead.

Note: You must enable static mode before you connect your device to

Ethernet ports 4 and 5 on the router.

Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

View or Change the Modem Router Ethernet Port Aggregation Mode

To view or change your modem router's Ethernet port aggregation mode:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Ethernet Port Aggregation.

The Ethernet Port Aggregation page displays.

5. Select an Ethernet port aggregation mode:

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•

Disable. This mode is selected by default. This mode disables Ethernet port

aggregation on your router. Ethernet ports 4 and 5 can be used as independent Ethernet ports.

• Enable (LACP-IEEE 803.3ad). The router communicates with the device connected

to Ethernet ports 4 and 5 on your router, and checks to see if Ethernet port aggregation is supported on the device. If Ethernet port aggregation is supported, the router automatically trunks Ethernet ports 4 and 5. If not, Ethernet ports 4 and 5 work as independent Ethernet ports. We recommend that you select this mode unless your NAS or switch can support static LAG only.

•

Static. If your device supports a static link aggregation group (LAG) only, select this mode. Otherwise, we recommend that you to select the Enable (LACP-IEE

803.3ad) radio button instead.

Note: You must enable static mode before you connect your device to Ethernet

ports 4 and 5 on the router.

Get Multi-Gig Internet With Internet Port Aggregation

To get multi-gig Internet with your router, set up Internet port aggregation by aggregating the Internet port and Ethernet port 1 on the router.

To set up Internet port aggregation, you need the following:

A service provider that offers an Internet speed that's over 1 Gbps.

•

A modem that supports an Internet speed that's over 1 Gbps and Internet port

• aggregation.

To set up Internet port aggregation:

1. Set up Internet port aggregation on your modem. For information about how to set up Internet port aggregation on your modem, see

the documentation that came with your modem.

2. Log in to your router and enable Internet port aggregation: a.

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

c. Enter the router admin user name and password.

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The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive. The BASIC Home page displays.

d. Select Internet.

The Internet Setup page displays.

In the WAN Preference section, select the WAN aggregation (1 Gbps + 1 Gbps) radio button.

Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

3. Connect the Internet port and Ethernet port 1on your router to two Ethernet ports on your modem.

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Manage Your Router

This chapter describes the router settings for administering and maintaining your router and home network.

The chapter contains the following sections:

• Update the router firmware

• Change the admin password

• Enable admin password recovery

• Recover the admin password

• View information about the router and the Internet and WiFi settings

• Display the statistics of the Internet port

• Check the Internet connection status

• View and manage logs of router activity

• View devices currently on the network

• Monitor Internet traffic

• Manage the router configuration file

• Remote access

• Remotely access your router using the Nighthawk app

• Disable LED blinking or turn off LEDs

• Set your time zone

• Set the NTP Server

• Specify ReadyDLNA media server settings

• Return the router to its factory default settings

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Update the router firmware

You can log in to the router and check if new firmware is available, or you can manually load a specific firmware version to your router.

Check for new firmware and update the router

The router firmware (routing software) is stored in flash memory. You might see a message at the top of the router pages when new firmware is available. You can respond to that message to update the firmware or you can check to see if new firmware is available and update your product.

Note: We recommend that you connect a computer to the router using an Ethernet connection to update the firmware.

To check for new firmware and update your router:

Launch a web browser from a computer that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Router Update. The Router Update page displays.

5. Click the Check button. The router finds new firmware information if any is available and displays a message

asking if you want to download and install it.

6. Click the Yes button. The router locates and downloads the firmware and begins the update.

WARNING: To avoid the risk of corrupting the firmware, do not interrupt the update.

For example, do not close the browser, click a link, or load a new page. Do not turn off the router.

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When the upload is complete, your router restarts. The update process typically takes about one minute. Read the new firmware release notes to find out if you must reconfigure the router after updating.

Manually upload firmware to the router

If you want to upload a specific firmware version, or your router fails to update its firmware automatically, follow these instructions.

Note: We recommend that you connect a computer to the router using an Ethernet connection to upload the firmware.

To manually upload a firmware file to your router:

Download the firmware for your router from the NETGEAR Download Center, save it to your desktop, and unzip the file if needed.

Note: The correct firmware file uses an .img or .chk extension.

Launch a web browser from a computer that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

4. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

5. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Router Update. The Router Update page displays.

6. Click the Browse button.

Find and select the firmware file on your computer.

8. Click the Upload button. The router begins the upload.

Note: To avoid the risk of corrupting the firmware, do not interrupt the update. For example, do not close the browser, click a link, or load a new page. Do not turn off the router. Wait until the router finishes restarting. If your router does not reboot, check the Router Status page to confirm whether the new firmware version uploaded.

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Change the admin password

The admin password is the one you specified the first time you logged in. You can change this password.

Note: The ideal password contains no dictionary words from any language and contains uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It can be up to 30 characters.

To change the password for the admin user name:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Set Password. The Set Password page displays.

Type the old password in the Old Password field.

Type the new password in the Set Password and Repeat New Password fields.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Enable admin password recovery

The router admin password is used to log in to your router web interface. We recommend that you enable password recovery so that you can recover the password if it is forgotten. This recovery process is supported in Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Chrome browsers but not in the Safari browser.

To enable password recovery:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net.

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A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Set Password. The Set Password page displays.

5. Select the Enable Password Recovery check box.

6. Select two security questions and provide answers to them.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Recover the admin password

If you set up the password recovery feature, you can recover your router admin password.

To recover your router admin password:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Click the Cancel button. If password recovery is enabled, you are prompted to enter the serial number of the

router.

The serial number is on the router label.

Enter the serial number of the router.

5. Click the Continue button. A window opens requesting the answers to your security questions.

6. Enter the saved answers to your security questions.

7. Click the Continue button. A window opens and displays your recovered password.

8. Click the Login again button.

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A login window opens.

9. With your recovered password, log in to the router.

View information about the router and the Internet and WiFi settings

You can view router information, the Internet port status, and WiFi settings.

To view information about the router and the Internet, modem, and WiFi settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Click the ADVANCED tab. The ADVANCED Home page displays.

The information on this page uses the following color coding:

A green icon indicates that the Internet connection is fine and no problems exist.

•

For a WiFi network, the network is enabled and secured.

A red icon indicates that configuration problems exist for the Internet connection

•

or the connection is down. For a WiFi network, the network is disabled or down.

An amber icon indicates that the Internet port is configured but cannot get an

•

Internet connection (for example, because the cable is disconnected), that a WiFi network is enabled but unprotected, or that another situation that requires your attention occurred.

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Display the statistics of the Internet port

To display the statistics of the Internet port:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Click the ADVANCED tab. The ADVANCED Home page displays.

5. In the Internet Port pane, click the Show Statistics button. The Show Statistics window opens and displays following information:

System Up Time. The time elapsed since the router was last restarted.

•

Port. The statistics for the WAN (Internet) port, LAN (Ethernet) ports, and WLANs.

•

For each port, the window displays the following information:

Status. The link status of the port.

TxPkts. The number of packets transmitted on this port since the router was last started.

RxPkts. The number of packets received on this port since the router was last started.

Collisions. The number of collisions on this port since the router was last started.

Tx B/s. The current transmission (outbound) bandwidth used on the WAN and LAN ports.

Rx B/s. The current reception (inbound) bandwidth used on the WAN and LAN ports.

- Up Time. The time elapsed since this port acquired the link.

- Poll Interval. The interval at which the statistics are updated on this page.

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To change the polling frequency, enter a time in seconds in the Poll Interval field and click the Set Interval button.

To stop the polling entirely, click the Stop button.

Check the Internet connection status

To check the Internet connection status:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Click the ADVANCED tab. The ADVANCED Home page displays.

5. In the Internet Port pane, click the Connection Status button. The Connection Status window opens. The information that displays depends on

the type of Internet connection.

For example, if your Internet connection does not require a login and the router receives an IP address automatically, the window displays the following information:

IP Address. The IP address that is assigned to the router.

•

Subnet Mask. The subnet mask that is assigned to the router.

•

Default Gateway. The IP address for the default gateway that the router

•

communicates with.

DHCP Server. The IP address for the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server

•

that provides the TCP/IP configuration for all the computers that are connected to the router.

DNS Server. The IP address of the Domain Name Service server that provides

•

translation of network names to IP addresses.

Lease Obtained. The date and time when the lease was obtained.

•

Lease Expires. The date and time that the lease expires.

•

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6. To release (stop) the Internet connection, click the Release button.

7. To renew (restart) the Internet connection, click the Renew button.

8. To exit the screen, click the Close Window button.

View and manage logs of router activity

The logs are a detailed record of the websites you accessed or attempted to access and many other router actions. Up to 256 entries are stored in the log.

To view and manage logs:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Logs. The Logs page displays and shows information such as the following:

Action. The action that occurred, such as whether Internet access was blocked

•

or allowed.

Source IP. The IP address of the initiating device for the log entry.

•

Target address. The name or IP address of the website or news group visited or

•

to which access was attempted.

Date and time. The date and time the log entry was recorded.

•

Other information might be displayed.

5. To customize the logs, scroll down and clear or select the check boxes in the Include in Log section.

To refresh the log screen, click the Refresh button.

7. To clear the log entries, click the Clear Log button.

8. To email the log immediately, click the Send Log button.

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You must set up email notifications in order to receive the logs. The router to emails the logs to the address that you specified when you set up email notifications. For more information, see Set up security event email notifications on page 37.

9. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

View devices currently on the network

You can view all computers and devices that are currently connected to your network.

To view devices on the network:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select Attached Devices. The following information is displayed:

•

Connection Type. Wired or the WiFi band for the connection.

•

Device Name. If the device name is known, it is shown here.

• IP Address. The IP address that the router assigned to this device when it joined

the network. This address can change if a device is disconnected and rejoins the network.

•

MAC Address. The unique MAC address for each device does not change. The

MAC address is typically shown on the product label of the device.

To update this page, click the Refresh button.

Monitor Internet traffic

Traffic metering allows you to monitor the volume of Internet traffic that passes through the router Internet port. You can set limits for traffic volume.

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To monitor Internet traffic:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Traffic Meter. The Traffic Meter page displays.

Select the Enable Traffic Meter check box.

To control the volume of Internet traffic, use either the traffic volume control feature or the connection time control feature:

•

Select the Traffic volume control by radio button and then select one of the following options:

No Limit. No restriction is applied when the traffic limit is reached.

•

Download only. The restriction is applied to incoming traffic only.

•

Both Directions. The restriction is applied to both incoming and outgoing

• traffic.

• Select the Connection time control radio button and enter the allowed hours in the Monthly limit field.

If your ISP charges for extra data volume when you make a new connection, enter the extra data volume in MB in the Round up data volume for each connection by field.

In the Traffic Counter section, set the traffic counter to begin at a specific time and date.

To start the traffic counter immediately, click the Restart Counter Now button.

In the Traffic Control section, specify whether the router should issue a warning message before the monthly limit of Mbytes or hours is reached.

By default, the value is 0 and no warning message is issued. You can select one of the following to occur when the limit is attained:

• The Online LED blinks white or amber.

• The Internet connection is disconnected and disabled.

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10. Click the Apply button.

The Internet Traffic Statistics section helps you to monitor the data traffic.

11.

To update the Traffic Statistics section, click the Refresh button.

12.

To display more information about the data traffic on your router and to change the poll interval, click the Traffic Status button.

Manage the router configuration file

The configuration settings of the router are stored within the router in a configuration file. You can back up (save) this file to your computer, restore it, or reset it to the factory default settings.

Back up the settings

To back up the router’s configuration settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Backup Settings.

The Backup Settings page displays.

5. Click the Back Up button.

Follow the direction of your browser to save the file. A copy of the current settings is saved in the location that you specified.

Erase the settings

CAUTION: This process erases all settings that you configured in the router.

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To erase the settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Backup Settings.

The Backup Settings page displays.

5. Click the Erase button.

The configuration is reset to factory default settings. When the reset is complete, the router restarts. This process takes about two minutes.

WARNING: To avoid the risk of corrupting the firmware, do not interrupt the reset.

For example, do not close the browser, click a link, or load a new page. Do not turn off the router. Wait until the router finishes restarting.

Restore the settings

To restore configuration settings that you backed up:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Backup Settings.

The Backup Settings page displays.

Click the Browse button to find and select the .cfg file.

6. Click the Restore button.

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The file is uploaded to the router and the router restarts.

WARNING: Do not interrupt the restoration process.

Remote access

You can access your router over the Internet to view or change its settings. You must know the router’s WAN IP address to use this feature.

Note: Be sure to change the password for the user name admin to a secure password. The ideal password contains no dictionary words from any language and contains uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It can be up to 30 characters. See Change the admin password on page 68.

Set up remote management

To set up remote management:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Remote Management.

The Remote Management page displays.

5. Select the Turn Remote Management On check box.

In the Allow Remote Access By section, specify the external IP addresses to be allowed to access the router’s remote management.

Note: For enhanced security, restrict access to as few external IP addresses as practical.

Select one of the following:

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•

Only This Computer. Allow access from a single IP address on the Internet. Enter

the IP address to be allowed access.

•

IP Address Range. Allow access from a range of IP addresses on the Internet.

Enter a beginning IP address and an ending IP address to define the allowed range.

•

Everyone. Allow access from any IP address on the Internet.

Specify the port number for accessing the router web interface. Normal web browser access uses the standard HTTP service port 80. For greater

security, enter a custom port number for the remote router web interface. Choose a number from 1024 to 65535, but do not use the number of any common service port. The default is 8443, which is a common alternate for HTTP.

8. Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

Use remote access

To use remote access:

1. Launch a web browser on a computer that is not on your home network.

Type your router’s WAN IP address into your browser’s address or location field followed by a colon (:) and the custom port number.

For example, if your external address is 134.177.0.123 and you use port number 8443, enter http://134.177.0.123:8443 in your browser.

Remotely access your router using the Nighthawk app

You can use the Nighthawk app to remotely access your router and change its settings. Before you can use remote access with the Nighthawk app, you must update your router’s firmware and download the latest Nighthawk app for your mobile device.

For more information about how to update your router’s firmware, see Check for new firmware and update the router on page 66.

To download the latest Nighthawk app for your mobile device, visit https://www.netgear.com/home/apps-services/nighthawk-app/.

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Disable LED blinking or turn off LEDs

The LEDs on the top panel of the router indicate activities and behavior. You can disable LED blinking for network communications, or turn off all LEDs except the Power LED.

To disable LED blinking or turn off the LEDs:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > LED Control Settings.

The LED Control Settings page displays.

5. To disable blinking, select the Disable blinking on Online LED, LAN LED, Wireless LED and USB LED when data traffic is detected radio button.

To turn off all LEDs except the Power LED, select the Turn off all LEDs except Power LED radio button.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Set your time zone

To set your time zone:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

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4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > NTP Settings. The NTP Settings page displays.

Select your time zone from the menu.

If you live in a region that observes daylight saving time, select the Automatically adjust for daylight savings time check box.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Set the NTP Server

By default, the router uses the NETGEAR NTP server to sync the network time. You can change the NTP server to your preferred NTP server.

To set the NTP server:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > NTP Settings. The NTP Settings page displays.

5. Select an NTP server radio button:

Use the default NETGEAR NTP server

•

Set your preferred NTP server

•

If you selected the Set your preferred NTP server radio button, enter the NTP server domain name or IP address in the Primary NTP server field.

7. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

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Specify ReadyDLNA media server settings

By default, the router acts as a ReadyDLNA media server, which lets you view movies and photos on DLNA/UPnP AV-compliant media players, such as Xbox360, Playstation, and NETGEAR media players.

To specify media server settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage > Media Server. The Media Server (Settings) page displays.

Specify the settings:

Enable DLNA Media Server. Select this check box to enable this device to act

•

as a media server.

Rescan media files. The router automatically scans for media files whenever new

•

files are added to your ReadySHARE USB storage device. Only a shared folder with All – no password in Read Access can be scanned for media files. To scan for new media files immediately, click the Rescan media files button.

Media Server Name. Click the Click here to change the Device name link to

•

change the router's media server name.

Note: If you change the media server name, you can also change the ReadySHARE storage folder access path to the new name or keep the access path as \\readyshare .

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

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Return the router to its factory default settings

Under some circumstances (for example, if you lost track of the changes that you made to the router settings or you move the router to a different network), you might want to erase the configuration and reset the router to factory default settings.

To reset the router to factory default settings, you can use either the Reset button on the back of the router or the Erase function.

After you reset the router to factory default settings, the user name is admin, the password is password, the LAN IP address is 192.168.1.1 (which is the same as www.routerlogin.net), and the DHCP server is enabled.

Tip: If the router is in access point mode or bridge mode and you do not know the IP address that is assigned to it, first try to use an IP scanner application to detect the IP address. (IP scanner applications are available online free of charge.) If you can detect the IP address, you don’t need to reset the router to factory default settings.

Use the Reset button

CAUTION: This process erases all settings that you configured in the router.

To reset the router to factory default settings:

On the back of the router, locate the Reset button.

Using a straightened paper clip, press and hold the Reset button for at least five seconds.

3. Release the Reset button. The Power LED starts blinking. When the reset is complete, the router restarts. This

process takes about two minutes.

WARNING: To avoid the risk of corrupting the firmware, do not interrupt the reset.

For example, if you are connected to the router web interface, do not close the browser, click a link, or load a new page. Do not turn off the router. Wait until the router finishes restarting.

Erase the settings

CAUTION: This process erases all settings that you configured in the router.

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To erase the settings:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Administration > Backup Settings. The Backup Settings page displays.

5. Click the Erase button. The configuration is reset to factory default settings. When the reset is complete,

the router restarts. This process takes about two minutes.

WARNING: To avoid the risk of corrupting the firmware, do not interrupt the reset.

For example, do not close the browser, click a link, or load a new page. Do not turn off the router. Wait until the router finishes restarting.

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Share USB Storage Devices Attached to the Router

This chapter describes how to access and manage storage devices attached to your router. ReadySHARE lets you access and share USB storage devices connected to the router. (If your storage device uses special drivers, it is not compatible.)

Note: You can use a USB port on the router to connect a USB storage device like a flash drive or hard drive. Do not connect a computer, USB modem, CD drive, or DVD drive to a USB port on the router.

The chapter contains the following sections:

• USB device requirements

• Connect a USB storage device to the router

• Access a storage device connected to the router from a Windows-based computer

• Map a USB device to a Windows network drive

• Access a storage device that is connected to the router from a Mac

• Back up Windows-based computers with ReadySHARE Vault

• Back up Mac computers with Time Machine

• Enable FTP access within your network

• View network folders on a storage device

• Add a network folder on a USB storage device

• Edit a network folder on a USB storage device

• Safely remove a USB storage device

For more information about ReadySHARE features, visit netgear.com/readyshare.

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USB device requirements

The router works with most USB-compliant external flash and hard drives. For the most up-to-date list of USB devices that the router supports, visit kb.netgear.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/18985/~/readyshare-usb-drives-compatibility-list.

Some USB external hard drives and flash drives require you to load the drivers onto the computer before the computer can access the USB storage device. Such USB storage devices do not work with the router.

The router supports the following file system types for full read/write access:

FAT16

•

FAT32

•

NTFS

•

NTFS with compression format enabled

•

Ext2

•

Ext3

•

Ext4

•

HFS

•

HFS+

•

Connect a USB storage device to the router

ReadySHARE lets you access and share USB storage devices that are connected to a USB port on the router. (If your USB storage device uses special drivers, it is not compatible.)

To connect a USB device:

1. Insert your USB storage device into a USB port on the router.

If your USB storage device uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB storage device to the

router.

When you connect the USB storage device to the router USB port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB storage device is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).

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Access a storage device connected to the router from a Windows-based computer

To access the USB storage device from a Windows-based computer:

1. Connect a USB storage device to a USB port on your router.

If your USB storage device uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB storage device to the

router.

When you connect the USB storage device to the router’s port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB storage device is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).

3. Select Start > Run.

Enter \\readyshare in the dialog box.

5. Click the OK button. A window automatically opens and displays the files and folders on the USB storage

device.

Map a USB device to a Windows network drive

To map the USB storage device to a Windows network drive:

1. Connect a USB storage device to a USB port on your router.

If your USB storage device uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB storage device to the

router.

3. Select Start > Run.

Enter \\readyshare in the dialog box.

5. Click the OK button. A window automatically opens and displays the USB storage device.

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6. Right-click the USB device and select Map network drive. The Map Network Drive window opens.

Select the drive letter to map to the new network folder.

8. Click the Finish button. The USB storage device is mapped to the drive letter that you specified.

To connect to the USB storage device as a different user, select the Connect using different credentials check box, click the Finish button, and do the following:

a. Type the user name and password.

b. Click the OK button.

Access a storage device that is connected to the router from a Mac

From a computer or device on the network, you can access a storage device that is connected to the router.

To access the device from a Mac:

1. Connect a USB storage device to a USB port on your router.

If your USB storage device uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB storage device to the

router.

3. On a Mac that is connected to the network, select Go > Connect to Server. The Connect to Server window opens.

In the Server Address field, enter smb://readyshare.

5. When prompted, select the Guest radio button. If you set up access control on the router and you allowed your Mac to access the

network, select the Registered User radio button and enter admin for the name and router admin password for the password. For more information about access control, see Enable access control to allow or block access to the Internet on page

30.

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6. Click the Connect button. A window automatically opens and displays the files and folders on the USB storage

device.

Back up Windows-based computers with ReadySHARE Vault

Your router comes with free backup software for all the Windows-based computers in your home. Connect a USB hard disk drive (HDD) to the router for centralized, continuous, and automatic backup.

The following operating systems support ReadySHARE Vault:

Windows 10

•

Windows 8.1

•

Windows 8

•

Windows 7

•

To back up your Windows-based computer:

1. Connect a USB HDD storage device to a USB port on the router.

If your USB storage device uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB storage device to the

router.

When you connect the USB storage device to the router’s USB port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB storage device is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).

Download ReadySHARE Vault from netgear.com/readyshare and install it on each Windows-based computer.

4. Launch ReadySHARE Vault.

5. Use the dashboard or the Backup tab to set up and run your backup.

Back up Mac computers with Time Machine

You can use Time Machine to back up your Mac computers onto a USB hard drive that is connected to one of the router’s USB ports. You can access the connected storage device from your Mac with a wired or WiFi connection to your router.

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Note: The following instructions might be different depending on the macOS your

computer is using. For more instructions about backing up your computer with Time Machine, see the Apple support site.

Set up a USB hard drive on a Mac

We recommend that you use a new USB HDD or format your old USB HDD to do the Time Machine backup for the first time. Use a blank partition to prevent some issues during backup using Time Machine. The router supports GUID or MBR partitions.

To format your USB hard disk drive and specify partitions:

1. Physically connect the USB HDD to your router.

If your USB HDD uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB HDD to the router.

When you connect the USB HDD to the router’s port, it might take up to two minutes before it is ready for sharing. By default, the USB HDD is available to all computers on your local area network (LAN).

On your Mac, go to Spotlight (or the magnifying glass) at the top right of the page and search for Disk Utility.

4. Open the Disk Utility, select your USB HDD, click the Erase tab, and click the Erase button.

5. Click the Partition tab.

In the Partition Layout menu, set the number of partitions that you want to use.

7. Click the Options button. The Partition schemes display.

8. Select the GUID Partition Table or Master Boot Record radio button.

9. In the Format menu, select Mac OS Extended (Journaled).

10. Click the OK button.

11. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

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Prepare to back up a large amount of data

Before you back up a large amount of data with Time Machine, we recommend that you follow this procedure.

To prepare to back up a large amount of data:

Upgrade the operating system of the Mac computer.

Verify and repair the backup disk and the local disk.

Verify and repair the permissions on the local disk.

4. Set Energy Saver: a.

From the Apple menu, select System Preferences. The System Preferences page displays.

b. Select Energy Saver.

The Energy Saver page displays.

c. Click the Power Adapter tab.

Select the Wake for Wi-Fi network access check box.

e. Click the back arrow to save the changes and exit the page.

Modify your security settings: a.

On the System Preferences page, select Security & Privacy. The Security & Privacy page displays.

Click the Advanced button at the bottom of the page. If the Advanced button is grayed out, click the lock icon so that you can change the settings.

Clear the Log out after minutes of inactivity check box.

d. Click the OK button.

Your settings are saved.

Use Time Machine to back up onto a USB hard disk

You can use Time Machine to back up your Mac computers onto a USB hard disk drive (HDD) that is connected to one of the router’s USB ports.

To back up your Mac onto a USB hard disk drive:

Prepare your USB device with a compatible format and partitions. For more information, see Set up a USB hard drive on a Mac on page 90.

If you plan to back up a large amount of data, see Prepare to back up a large amount of data on page 91.

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If your USB HDD uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB HDD to the router.

4. On a Mac computer that is connected to the network, launch Finder and select Go > Connect to Server.

The Connect to Server window opens.

Type smb://routerlogin.net and click the Connect button.

6. When prompted, select the Registered User radio button.

Enter admin for the name and the router admin password for the password and click the Connect button.

A list of USB devices connected to your router displays.

From the Apple menu, select System Preferences. The System Preferences window displays.

9. Select Time Machine. The Time Machine window displays.

10.

Click the Select Backup Disk button and select your USB HDD from the list.

11. Click the Use Disk button.

Note: If you do not see the USB partition that you want in the Time Machine disk list, go to Mac Finder and click that USB partition. It displays in the Time Machine list.

12. When prompted, select the Registered User radio button.

13.

Enter admin for the name and the router admin password for the password and click the Connect button.

When the setup is complete, the Mac automatically schedules a full backup. You can back up immediately.

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Enable FTP access within your network

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) lets you download (receive) and upload (send) large files faster.

To enable FTP access within your network:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage. The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) page displays.

5. Select the FTP check box.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

View network folders on a storage device

You can view network folders on a storage device that is connected to the router.

To view network folders:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage.

User Manual93Share USB Storage Devices

Attached to the Router

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) page displays.

Scroll down to the Available Networks Folder section to view the following settings:

Share Name. If only one USB device is connected, the default share name is

•

USB_Storage. You can click the name or you can type it in the address field of your web browser. If Not Shared is shown, the default share was deleted and no other share for the root folder exists.

Read Access and Write Access. The permissions and access controls on the

•

network folder. All–no password (the default) allows all users to access the network folder. The password for admin is the same one that you use to log in to the router.

Folder Name. The full path of the network folder.

•

Volume Name. The volume name from the storage device.

•

Total Space and Free Space. The current utilization of the storage device.

•

Add a network folder on a USB storage device

You can add network folders on a USB storage device connected to a router USB port.

To add a network folder:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage. The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) page displays.

5. In the Available Network Folders section, select the USB storage device. If a single device is attached to the USB port, the radio button is selected

automatically.

Attached to the Router

User Manual94Share USB Storage Devices

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

6. Click the Create Network Folder button. The Add Folder window opens.

If this window does not open, your web browser might be blocking pop-ups. If it is, change the browser settings to allow pop-ups.

7. From the USB Device menu, select the USB drive.

Note: We recommend that you do not attach more than one drive to one USB port (for example, through a USB hub).

Click the Browse button and in the Folder field, select the folder.

In the Share Name field, type the name of the share.

10. From the Read Access menu and the Write Access menu, select the settings that you want.

All–no password (the default) allows all users to access the network folder. The other option is that only the admin user is allowed access to the network folder. The password for admin is the same one that you use to log in to the router.

11. Click the Apply button. The folder is added on the USB storage device.

12. Click the Close Window button. The window closes.

Edit a network folder on a USB storage device

You can edit network folders on a USB storage devices connected to a router USB port.

To edit a network folder:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

User Manual95Share USB Storage Devices

Attached to the Router

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage. The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) page displays.

5. In the Available Network Folders section, select the USB storage device.

6. Click the Edit button. The Edit Network Folder window opens.

Change the settings in the fields as needed.

8. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

Safely remove a USB storage device

Before you physically disconnect a USB storage device from the router USB port, log in to the router and take the USB storage device offline.

To remove a USB storage device safely:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage. The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) page displays.

5. In the Available Network Folders sections, select the USB storage device.

Click the Safely Remove USB Device button. This takes the device offline.

7. Physically disconnect the USB storage device.

Attached to the Router

User Manual96Share USB Storage Devices

Use Dynamic DNS to Access USB Storage Devices Through the Internet

With Dynamic DNS, you can use the Internet to access USB devices attached to the router’s USB ports when you’re not home.

This chapter contains the following sections:

• Set up and manage Dynamic DNS

• Set up FTP access through the Internet

• Your personal FTP server

• Access USB storage devices through the Internet

• Remotely access a USB device using ReadyCLOUD

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

Set up and manage Dynamic DNS

Internet service providers (ISPs) assign numbers called IP addresses to identify each Internet account. Most ISPs use dynamically assigned IP addresses. This means that the IP address can change at any time. You can use the IP address to access your network remotely, but most people don’t know what their IP addresses are or when this number changes.

To make it easier to connect, you can get a free account with a Dynamic DNS service that lets you use a domain name to access your home network. To use this account, you must set up the router to use Dynamic DNS. Then the router notifies the Dynamic DNS service provider whenever its IP address changes. When you access your Dynamic DNS account, the service finds the current IP address of your home network and automatically connects you.

If your ISP assigns a private WAN IP address (such as 192.168.x.x or 10.x.x.x), the Dynamic DNS service does not work because private addresses are not routed on the Internet.

Set up FTP access through the Internet

To set up FTP access:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password. The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time

that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > USB Functions > ReadySHARE Storage. The USB Storage (Advanced Settings) page displays.

5. Select the FTP (via Internet) check box.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

7. To limit access to the admin user, select a device in the Available Network Folder's section.

If only one device is connected, it is automatically selected.

User Manual98Use Dynamic DNS to Access USB Storage Devices Through the Internet

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

8. Click the Edit button.

The Edit page displays.

9. In the Read Access menu, select admin.

10. In the Write Access menu, select admin.

11. Click the Apply button.

Your settings are saved.

Your personal FTP server

With your customized free URL, you can use FTP to access your network when you aren’t home through Dynamic DNS. To set up your FTP server, you must register for a NETGEAR Dynamic DNS (DDNS) service account and specify the account settings. See Set up a new Dynamic DNS account on page 100.

Note: The router supports only basic DDNS, and the login and password might not be secure. You can use DDNS with a VPN tunnel for a secure connection.

Set up your personal FTP server

To set up your personal account and use FTP:

1. Get your NETGEAR Dynamic DNS domain name.

For more information, see Set up a new Dynamic DNS account on page 100.

2. Make sure that your Internet connection is working.

Your router must use a direct Internet connection. It cannot connect to a different router to access the Internet.

3. Connect a storage device to the router.

If your USB storage device uses a power supply, connect it. You must use the power supply when you connect the USB storage device to the

router.

5. Set up FTP access in the router.

See Set up FTP access through the Internet on page 98.

Storage Devices Through the Internet

User Manual99Use Dynamic DNS to Access USB

Nighthawk AX6 AX2700 WiFI Cable Modem Router Model CAX30

6. On a remote computer with Internet access, you can use FTP to access your router

using ftp://yourname.mynetgear.com.

Set up a new Dynamic DNS account

To set up Dynamic DNS and register for a free NETGEAR account:

Launch a web browser from a computer or mobile device that is connected to the router network.

Enter http://www.routerlogin.net. A login window opens.

3. Enter the router admin user name and password.

The user name is admin. The password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The BASIC Home page displays.

4. Select ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Dynamic DNS.

The Dynamic DNS page displays.

5. Select the Use a Dynamic DNS Service check box.

6. From the Service Provider menu, select NETGEAR.

You can select another service provider.

7. Select the No radio button.

In the Host Name field, type the name that you want to use for your URL. The host name is sometimes called the domain name. Your free URL includes the

host name that you specify and ends with mynetgear.com. For example, specify MyName.mynetgear.com.

In the Email field, type the email address for your account.

10.

In the Password (6-32 characters) field, type the password for your account.

11. Click the Register button.

12.

Follow the onscreen instructions to register for your NETGEAR Dynamic DNS service.

Specify a DNS account that you already created

If you already created a Dynamic DNS account with NETGEAR, No-IP, or DynDNS, you can set up the router to use your account.

User Manual100Use Dynamic DNS to Access USB Storage Devices Through the Internet

NETGEAR CAX30 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Hardware Setup

Unpack Your Modem Router

Front panel LEDs and buttons

Rear Panel

Position Your Modem Router

Install and Activate Your Modem Router

Connect Your Modem Router to a Computer

Activate Your Internet Service

Perform a Speed Test

Specify Your Internet Settings

Specify the Cable Connection Starting Frequency

View Modem Router Initialization

Manually Set Up the Internet Connection

Change the MTU Size

Connect to the Network and Access the Modem Router

Connect to the Network

Wired Connection

Using WPS to Connect to the WiFi Network

Finding and Selecting the WiFi Network

Types of Logins

Log In to the Modem Router

Control Access to the Internet

Enable access control to allow or block access to the Internet

Use keywords to block Internet sites

Block services from the Internet

Delete keywords from the blocked list

Prevent blocking on a trusted computer

Manage network access control lists

Schedule when to block Internet sites and services

Set up security event email notifications

Manage Network Settings

View or change the WAN settings

Set up a default DMZ server

Change the Router’s Device Name

Change the LAN TCP/IP settings

Specify the IP addresses that the router assigns

Disable the DHCP server feature in the router

Manage reserved LAN IP addresses

Reserve an IP address

Edit a reserved IP address

Delete a reserved IP address entry

Use the WPS Wizard for WiFi connections

Specify Basic WiFi Settings

Change the WiFi Mode

Change the Transmission Power Control

Change the WiFi password or the WiFi security

Set up a guest WiFi network

Control the WiFi radios

Use the WiFi On/Off button

Enable or disable the WiFi radios

Set up a WiFi schedule

Specify WPS settings

Enable or disable implicit beamforming

Enable or disable airtime fairness

Ethernet Port Aggregation

Set Up Ethernet Port Aggregation

View or Change the Modem Router Ethernet Port Aggregation Mode

Get Multi-Gig Internet With Internet Port Aggregation

Manage Your Router

Update the router firmware

Check for new firmware and update the router

Manually upload firmware to the router

Change the admin password

Enable admin password recovery

Recover the admin password

View information about the router and the Internet and WiFi settings

Display the statistics of the Internet port

Check the Internet connection status

View and manage logs of router activity

View devices currently on the network

Monitor Internet traffic

Manage the router configuration file

Back up the settings

Erase the settings

Restore the settings