Wi-Fi Cutting Out

what on 07/05/2015 - 23:50
Last edited 10/05/2015 - 20:50

Hello all

We are currently having issues at home with our WiFi cutting in and out.

I have already checked with our internet service provider to ensure that the problem is not at their end.

We changed our channel settings to see if that makes a difference.

If that doesn't work, we may need to purchase a WiFi range extender.

Just wondering if anyone has any recommendations.

Our modem is a Netgear D6200 WiFi Modem Router.

Thanks.

EDIT: I need to update my post so you all know what I have found whilst trying to fix the initial WiFi issues. I have discovered that we have an intruder using our WiFi. So much of my later comments refer to ensuring that I secure my modem sufficiently to stop the intruder.

Thank you all for all your assistance.

Computing

Comments

  • dylanando on 08/05/2015 - 00:12

    funny this, few hours ago had horrible horrible internet problems, kept cutting out and eventually just stopped altogether. Ended up resetting the whole route, Works great now.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 00:34

      I have turned the modem on and off a few times too. It fixes the problem for a little while but the problem occurs again.

      • thirtysixd on 08/05/2015 - 19:09

        budget dyi signal booster = wrap the back of the router with tin foil

  • 7412547854 on 08/05/2015 - 00:22
    +3

    Does it occur at the same time someone uses the microwave? It happens to me sometimes as the microwaves produced sends the Wifi signal into whack. I would suggest using a more physical means of extending your wifi (like through the mains power) rather than using wifi range extenders. They are only as good as the original signal. Nonetheless I solved my issue by buying a new microwave.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 00:37

      I don't have a microwave near the modem.

      I am not too savvy with modems and WiFi issues. Can you please explain what you mean by physical means (mains power).

      Thanks.

      • scrimshaw on 08/05/2015 - 01:04
        +5

        • I agree with 74's statement on wifi range extenders. The budget ones don't fair very well, and extenders are not an efficient way of re-broadcasing your wifi signals — the main reason is that will cut your wireless speeds by almost half and second they won't actually solve your problem — if your network is patchy, that means you need to eliminate the source of the interference. This could be EM/RF noise coming from a house appliance, such as a fluorecent light, a motorised appliance like a fan, blender or air conditioning, or just dodgy house wiring.

        • By a physical connection we simply mean the old humble Ethernet cable. You simply connect your PC to your router via wires directly to your modem.

        • When the above isn't possible because it makes your house look messy or if you can't run cables across rooms, you can turn to using an Ethernet over Power adapter.

        • How EOP works is this — your house has electrical wiring which carries AC (alternating current) power @ 230v, 50hz. Obviously this energy provides power to your electrical appliances.. however this voltage is not actually constant, but fluctuates slightly and rapidly in time, but its close enough to deliver a relatively constant power source to most devices.

        • What an EOP adapter does is that it turns your power lines into a networking cable. An EOP powerline adapter is plugged into a wall socket, and with it your modem/router is connected to it via a LAN cable. The powerline adapter then injects a 128-bit encrypted signal into your house's power lines, from then on you typically install the other powerline adapter into another socket where the signal is received, and decrypted, and passed onto another device (say, a computer or another router).

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 01:25

          Thank you for this information.

          I just had a quick look at a youtube video about EOP. It looks very easy to set up.

          How would someone get this system to work with a mobile phone. My son uses his mobile phone so much and he has a lot of drop out issues.

        • Wibbleman on 08/05/2015 - 19:45

          @what:
          Assuming you aren't talking about wifi.
          Mobile phone is with your mobile carrier. If you can't get good coverage, change provider.
          Rarely it could be the phone that causes the issue- try another mobile on the same network

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 20:26

          @Wibbleman:

          Thank you.

          The problem only happens when my son is connected to our home wifi. He hasn't mentioned any issue when he is connected to the internet via his carrier.

        • birdmaster on 09/05/2015 - 07:53

          I have an EOP in use and i can confirm EOP stops working the moment you start using Microwave, i was in same situation my Telli was in Living room and Modem in Bedroom couldn't use Ethernet Cables so using EOP but it doesn't works when microwave is in use. Because Microwave uses so much power it makes your Electricity destabilise.

          But i can confirm Nothing Happens to My Wifi or devices Connected with Ethernet with them Internet is as usual.

        • rain on 09/05/2015 - 10:44

          That sounds perfect for my needs. So if I am understanding right I would be able to use this for my router to my pc that in my shed at the back (has connected power lines)?

    • elpresidente on 08/05/2015 - 09:27
      -8

      Sorry, but despite anyone's aneccotes, your household appliances will not be affecting your wifi signal. RF generated by household appliances would have to be in the exact frequency band as WiFi to have an effect. If there is any interference it is actually most likely to come from cheap wireless mice and keyboards which sometimes use the same band. Your microwave operates under strict RF regulations and should not leak hardly any energy at all.

      • scrimshaw on 08/05/2015 - 09:58
        +4

        Your microwave operates under strict RF regulations and should not leak hardly any energy at all.

        Microwaves operate at the 2.4ghz frequency.

        All it takes is a tiny amount of leakage to cause network connectivity issues. a high powered microwave works at 1000 watts, which is many times more than a wireless router. As to why they cause wireless interference, you can read about it here

        If you do a google search "microwave oven wireless disconnect" you'll see a fairly positive correlation.

        There are also other devices which operate in or near the 2.4ghz frequency band, and Wikipedia has a specific entry for it.

        http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_interference_at…

        • scrimshaw on 08/05/2015 - 10:07
          +4

          And also read one of the Wifi Myths at Cisco:

          Myth #11: "Wi-Fi interference doesn't happen very often."
          There is a growing body of evidence that points to the fact that Wi-Fi interference is an extremely common and troublesome issue. Here are a few recent examples:

          • The technical support engineers at a major Wi-Fi infrastructure vendor reported to Cisco that in a recent service call to a major customer they found almost 20 sources of interference, contributing to over 50 percent of the problems on the customer's Wi-Fi network.

          • The manager of a large group of outsourced wireless service representatives stated to Cisco that "one out of every three Wi-Fi problems our service technicians get called out for is related to interference."

          • In a recent survey of 300 of their customers, a major Wi-Fi tools provider reported that "troubleshooting interference won `top honors' as the biggest challenge in managing a Wi-Fi network."

          • Jupiter Research reports 67 percent of all residential Wi-Fi problems are linked to interfering devices, such as cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens.
          Summary: There's no point burying your head in the sand: Wi-Fi interference happens.

      • [Deactivated] on 08/05/2015 - 12:14

        I had persistent problems with my wi-fi being interfered with. Two things were identified.
        1. My mobile phone being left too near the router
        2. My Samsung fridge compressor switching on and off.

        My phone now lives in the hallway and I exercise the legs every time it rings-double bonus.
        The fridge is plugged into some kind of filter device that prevents the interference, apparently.

  • Findo on 08/05/2015 - 00:56
    +1

    Have you tried using another router?

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 01:07

      No. I haven't done that. I don't have a spare one to use.

      • scrimshaw on 08/05/2015 - 01:12
        +2

        I recommend testing with a cheap router first. If you experience no dropouts, then it's best to assume your Netgear is faulty.

        Another thing you need to check is if the Netgear has new firmware updates.

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 01:27

          Thank you.

          I haven't checked that yet. Will do.

        • MondaySleeper on 09/05/2015 - 19:09

          @what: I had dropout problem with Netgear modem + Linksys Router combination. It was a problem with netgear and replacing it corrected the problem. Give it a try.

    • grog on 10/05/2015 - 18:51

      Yes good idea… One of the first things to try another modem router combination if you have a spare.

      Maybe borrow one or pick up a cheap unit as a spare etc?

      Also some of the power supplies they supply for modems etc nowdays are absolute junk and can develop obscure faults.

      let us all know how you go.

  • spackbace on 08/05/2015 - 01:24

    Baby monitor?
    Landline phones in the house not plugged into splitters?

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 01:28

      Thank you. We do have a cordless landline phone plugged into the splitter. I will try to find another location for it.

      • spackbace on 08/05/2015 - 01:49

        It's fine if it's plugged into the splitter.

        I'd say it's most likely a modem/router in need of an upgrade!

        If it is, the tp link w8980 is a good upgrade for 5ghz on a budget :)

        • scrimshaw on 08/05/2015 - 09:00

          Um, his modem router was only released 2013-2014 and is better. that TP-LINK would be a downgrade from his wireless AC modem.

        • spackbace on 08/05/2015 - 09:07
          -1

          @scrimshaw:

          Whoops my bad didn't look :/

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 10:23

          Thank you for your response. The phone is plugged into the splitter. My modem/router is quite new. Only hand it for about 6 months.

      • speedyjonzalas on 09/05/2015 - 21:23

        Some dect phones will kill your wireless even with a splitter.

        • what on 09/05/2015 - 21:26

          I will be moving my cordless landline. But I have just discovered an intruder connected to my modem. Check my message at the bottom. It may be that which has caused my issues.

  • Ramrunner on 08/05/2015 - 08:01
    +4

    Please only try a range extender as a VERY LAST RESORT. First of all it is NOT going to repeat a signal it doesn't have (if your original signal drops off then there's nothing to repeat) and even if it somehow does work it will HALVE your signal speed to all your devices in all likelihood.. Range extenders should be un-invented in my opinion. Google it if you do not believe me they're a waste of time.

    Better off getting a better wireless router OR setting up another wired access point in the house if you must.

  • ramshead on 08/05/2015 - 08:54

    I have similar problems and I believe it is due to a virus on my computer. I'm with TPG and when I ring their help line they can always tell me how to fix it , but the problem will reoccur. I think there is a virus which is mucking around with the wireless settings.
    Anyone got a good place for getting a new computer, just the box. Only need basic one, no gaming or video other than youtube.

    • scrimshaw on 08/05/2015 - 09:03

      It's not a virus or malware that's causing OP's wireless issues. This is a problem with his wireless router itself, because the dropouts are being experienced on all devices.

      Also - please start a new thread if you need help, don't hijack other people's threads.

    • EnALup on 10/05/2015 - 11:07

      Check local MSY or good see if there are any deals at shoppingexpress. If I remember they had 20% off on HP and ASUS, but cannot remember exactly.

  • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 10:04

    so it is just the wifi that cuts out, internet is still ok when you connect to the modem via a cable?
    Do all devices cut out, phones, computers, tablets etc? What devices do you have?

    How far away from the router are you, how many walls are in between?

    first review I read in this model was…
    Netgear D6200 Router review: Netgear's 802.11ac DSL router includes an integrated modem but has one big flaw. Below par 802.11ac speeds and woeful 802.11n 2.4GHz performance.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 10:37

      Thank you for your response.

      I have no devices connected via cable.

      Yes, when it happens, it seems to happen to all devices and mainly at night. I use my laptop most of the day and I do not seem to experience any problems. If I do, it is on the rare occasion. At the end of the day, when my son gets home from work and starts using his mobile phone playing games, it starts to happen. Last night we rebooted the modem 3 times. I called my service provided who confirmed that we did have constant service except when we turned our modem off.

      We are not too far from the modem/router. I am in the next room but have no door between modem/router and my location.

      My sons room is different, he has two walls between him and the modem/router.

      The netgear has a 5GHz option. My husbands lapatop is connected to that, but his laptop was disconnected last night too.

      • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 10:51
        +1

        I know Netgears have problems with the Cable modems and wifi, NAT tables are small and the modem gets "overloaded". Happens especially when lots of devices are connected, especially gaming and bittorrent running.
        A fix would be to buy a wifi router and just use yours as a modem (bridge) but I am guessing you paid $200 or so for the router, you would hope it would do what it is designed to do.

        I bought a Netgear years ago and it just never worked well, after a few weeks I returned it to Office works. Maybe call Netgear and say what the problem is.

        You can download wifi analyser app for your phone , run it and it will show what channel is best to use. Use it at night and you may see you have just moved channels to one that is worse.

        Go over to Whirlpool forums and ask there, the experts there will give you step be step on what to do. I suggest having a device connected by cable for a night and see if that has problems, my guess is it will be fine and only the wifi connected will be in trouble.

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 13:41

          Thank you.

          I have a windows phone. We have an iphone in the family and a samsung galaxy. Might try to download wifi analyser on both of these.

          I will try the cable to check the connection but I think that it is the Wifi that has the issue.

          I will check the Whirlpool forum as well.

          Thanks again.

        • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 13:48

          @what:
          you only need it on one phone, wifi analiyser is on my sony phone, I assume windows and iphone would have a similar app. Free, dont pay for one.

          edit - just did a search, Apple blocks these apps, so you wont find one for your iphone.

          http://www.howtogeek.com/197268/how-to-find-the-best-wi-fi-c…

      • trex on 08/05/2015 - 13:28

        The problem occurring mainly at night could be a clue and should be checked out. It could help narrow down the issue. Things that come to mind:-

        • Could there be an activity/app/device that occurs only at night that may be hogging up all of the bandwidth? (eg torrenting can cause slowless in the whole network).
        • Interference from something that is only used at night?
        • Faulty router where night time is the only time that multiple devices are connected and the router can't cope?
        • Could there be an intruder to your wifi who only uses it at night?

        In your shoes, I would also attempt a hard reset of the router. Change the wifi password and update the password for each device one by one and in doing so, check each device to see if any device is causing wifi issues.

        You mentioned that you have tried changing channels. Have you tested all channels? or just a few?

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 13:47

          Thank you for your response.

          You have given me a few things to to look out for.

          I certainly did not think of an intruder. Will check that out tonight.

          The channel was on auto and I have now changed to channel 6 to see how that goes.

        • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 13:54

          @what:
          I have noticed the lower channels around me are the busiest, try channel 10-11.

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 14:00

          @PVA:

          OK sounds good. My service provide did suggest either 1, 6 or 11.

        • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 21:24

          @what:
          so that would mean all their customers are on those channels, other isps might say the same so choose something that is that different 10. but look at wifi analyser and see whats the best.

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 21:38

          @PVA:

          I didn't think of that. You are right. I should use a different one.

          Does inssider do the same job as wifi analyser.

        • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 21:53

          @what:

          yes, inssider is a pc based software. the app is good 'cos you could move the phone to different rooms and see what the signal is like. i guess you can in a laptop though.

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 22:08

          @PVA:

          Just installed it but have no idea what it means.

          It shows all my neighbours wifi and both my 2.4 and 5 ghz available channels

          Should I just choose a channel that has no peaks above it.

          EDIT Just noticed that I seem to be the only user that is on the 5 ghz channels. Should I just use one of those.

        • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 22:16

          @what:
          can all your devices go on 5ghz, mine can't at home.

          choose a 2,4 channel that no-one is using (or the signal level of the others is really low).

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 22:33

          @PVA:

          Yes, both the laptops can. Not sure about the samsung though.

        • spackbace on 08/05/2015 - 22:51

          @what:

          Rename a 5ghz channel to be like 'what50' and the 2.4 to be 'what24'. This way you can see which devices see which frequency and connect to the better 5ghz frequency

          And yes, use the 5ghz wherever possible. Less congestion, doesn't get affected by microwaves and other stupid things :)

        • what on 08/05/2015 - 23:06

          @Spackbace:

          OK.

  • pjetson on 08/05/2015 - 10:55
    +5

    Do you have an Android phone? There is a great free tool called WiFi Analyzer that you could use to see and monitor what your signal levels are, and what other access points are around on the same channels.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 13:48

      Thank you.

      I don't have android but my son has one which we can use to download the app suggested.

      • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 13:54

        thats the one to use.

  • lolinternet on 08/05/2015 - 12:26
    +7

    Herro,

    WiFi issues can be caused by a RANGE of problems.

    1) Device interference as indicated above, this pertains things that broadcast on a 2.4GHZ or 5GHZ band that may cause overlapping interference with your wireless device. These include but are not limited to baby monitors, microwaves, cordless phones, wireless speakers, etc

    To test if this is the cause, simply turn off the device and transfer a file or download a large file and see if the issues still exist, if the device has been identified smash it with a hammer, smash it good.

    2) Channels, often this is a great easy way to fix allot of issues with wireless drop outs. The important thing to understand is that its not about finding a channel that has no the least amount of devices its about finding one that has no overlapping devices. If you got the app indciated above "WiFi Analyzer" or another you can see the channels ( 13 for 2.4GHZ and like 50 for 5GHZ ).

    WiFI works best when everyone jumps on channels 1, 6, 11 and noone sits on 2, 3, 4 & 8,9 as those that sit on the edge cause drop outs. If you find someone who does use a channel other than 1 6 or 11, find them, hit them with a hammer until problem fixed.

    3) Position of the router itself, some people put their router on their floor, or behind a cudboard, or in the fridge. They do this because most routers are ugly and people very vain. In the event this happens move the router to the highest most centrol point. WiFi does not broadcast in a direct line… It broadcasts in like a sphere around the device. So the most central point would best… If you want to make it directional google "beer can + wifi router"

    4) How good is your router? Some comapnies take shortcuts to save money (shock horror!) so there are different quality of wireless routers. What is the best? Well.. WRT54G-L is the best router ever made but its like 8 years old.. I use a netgear nighthawk its pretty good google reviews is always a good way to go.

    5) Got an IT degree? Custom firmware will be the greatest thing you have never heard of, advanced tomato is the best dd-wrt is also very good. This can allow you to unlock the true power of your router… Do not attempt if you think computers are evil or scary or made of magic.

    6) Congestion, if I have 20 devices all using 1MB/s and my WiFi router has a 54mbps broadcast then I am going to need an almost perfect connection to use all my devices. If I have a router that has 1200mbps capacity then it can support more devices with a crappier signal.. This is not a perfect rule more one I made up just now that sounds legit, there is some truth to it. Reality is don't overload a cheap router.

    7) Signal boosters, using a wired connection to another access point or extender would work well, using wirless to extend wireless can and often sucks. For the simple reason of if your signal sucks, then sharing that signal would be problematic. Lets say I had a bucket of water and parkinsons, every time I attempted to share that water I would lose some due to my condition. The water may go further and travel longer distances but there will often be a drop in quality.

    8) Use channel 14, not legal in australia and you need a japanese router. Police dont check it, federal police might… Doubt anyone would care.

    9) WiFi is often considered a black art, in a sense, there is a logical reason to it with so many factors most people just press settings and not the differences, I know sys admins or have issues with it. You can set it up perfectly and it will work between 9-5 but at 6pm someone turns on a baby monitor next door and there goes your signal. It can be a frustrating and arduous journey but can be resolved with some patience and just taking the time to think about it.

    If I am trying to send a signal, I want the clearest sender (best router) with no minimal physical obstructions (fridges / walls) and minimal signal interference (minimize other devices or get ones that do not interfere) and to make sure not to overload it with too many devices. IF I need more power / better signal run a cable to another part of your house / condo / trailer / nsa sponsored safe house and connect an access point.

    For the record not that it matters but I get 20MB/s on my WiFi and I live in the CBD.. Its possible, just not easy, I spent about $1000+ on different routers over hte past year or two… I smashed many a thing in frustration, good luck and hopefully this was helpful in some capacity.

    Yes, I made an account to post this, why? My job is boring and I love ozbargain!

    • [Deactivated] on 08/05/2015 - 12:45

      NSA safe-houses don't have internet or mobile access as it compromises security protocols.

      • lolinternet on 08/05/2015 - 12:54

        Fine! Ukranian-NSA safe houses, where their security protocols are not as good.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 14:01

      Thank you.

      Your message is very informative and you made me laugh.

      • muncan on 09/05/2015 - 00:45

        Nominated for most informative first comment award.

  • lucashearne on 08/05/2015 - 13:13
    +1

    I had internet problems for a few of years. I could always fix my internet by restarting the modem, or changing wifi channels, or re stating the computer.

    Eventually I suspected the problem was my wifi, and I found it was just the wifi.

    After trying a few things, I ended up buying a 20 meter Ethernet cable / CAT6 cable and plugged my computer into the modem (u can use Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cable).

    The cable cost about $20 from Centercom. I also bought some cable tidy clips, to attach the cable to the skirting boards http://www.bunnings.com.au/smart-small-cord-tab-6-pack_p4430…

    Since using an Ethernet cable, I haven't had any internet problem. I wish I had started using an Ethernet earlier. So much internet hassle, so easily solved with a $20 cable !

    I also found my speed increased from 10 to 11 mbps, when I use the Ethernet cable vs wifi.

    • PVA on 08/05/2015 - 13:46

      but it's hard to plug your phones and tablets into the router on ethernet.

      If you just have one pc and is convenient to use ethernet cable then thats best, not suitable for our family (ps3 and Foxtel are on ethernet though, everything else is wifi)

      • lucashearne on 14/05/2015 - 00:12

        Actually I now connect 2 PCs using a 15 meter and also a 20 meter Ethernet cable. I neatly run the Ethernet cables along the skirting boards (using cable clips).

        I also connect 2 mobile phones, 1 Apple laptop and 1 Lenovo laptop, using wifi.

        The phones and the laptops don't seem to have the same problems, compared to the PCs which were using USB wifi dongles. My guess is the USB dongles aren't very good, regardless of brand.

        Anyhow, my advice is always use an Ethernet cable where possible and wifi where its not possible or convenient.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 16:59
      +1

      Thank you for your response.

      I am glad that you were able to resolve your WiFi issues.

      I am going to try using a cable with my laptop. This won't help with the phone though.

  • ahly92 on 08/05/2015 - 15:05

    May I ask which survive provider that is…the service provider is the one that is supposed to fix the issue and purchase any new equipment that is needed.
    I, for example have had issues with the optus internet reviving slow speed of 10-12mb they said the issue was from my end. They sent out a technician who installed a new modum and the prib was fixed (60-80mb)

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 15:15

      I supplied my own modem/router. The service provider is happy to assist. They have advised that I change the channel on my modem. Others here have said the same thing.

      I have been given many ideas from the responses here, which I will action over the next few days and hopefully the issue can be rectified.

  • spackbace on 08/05/2015 - 15:46

    If you can get access to a laptop, download 'inssider' to better have a look at the local wifi channels as well

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 16:54

      Thank you. That works for me. I have a laptop.

  • [Deactivated] on 08/05/2015 - 17:40

    I had a similalr problem a few years back. Turned out it was the router. The one I was using got pretty hot, and I think it cooked itself. Changed to a new router and it works perfectly now. I think I was using a netgear router as well. This was after TPG told me to change the ADSL filters, unplug my phones, etc, etc. This is obviously a very non technical answer - just telling my experience.

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 18:02

      Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope that this is not my problem.

      (I just got up to check my modem/router and it doesn't seem to be cooking itself.)

  • andyken on 08/05/2015 - 19:13

    perhaps change your modem

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 19:26

      Thank you for your response.

      It is only 6 months old. Will play around with the channels and follow some of the hints that have been posted here and see how I go.

      If, in the end, I have no success, I will have to return it under warranty.

  • 2Poor4Ozb on 08/05/2015 - 19:32

    there 2 main things that can cause it
    1-router
    2 laptop/pc wireless.
    i doubt it is an error with your router but your device wireless.
    router channel best way is to download wifi scanner.
    and pick a channel that not used much
    What is you device wireless model?

    • what on 08/05/2015 - 20:11

      Thank you for responding.

      The modem/router is a D6200.

  • ITveteran on 09/05/2015 - 00:31
    -1

    Stay away from Netgear and you can probably get rid of the problem. Netgear wireless products have been notorious with quality. Even Dlink is far better.

    • gimli on 09/05/2015 - 14:12

      you mean da stink

  • 2Poor4Ozb on 09/05/2015 - 07:38

    sorry not your router model.
    like I said it probably the laptop/pc wireless.
    is it a laptop u r using? if it is try connecting it to a friends internet.
    nothing wrong with netgear…..noT the Best but above average…kinda expensive for the quality.
    wireless channel- make sure it different to wireless phone!!!! even if phone is far away from router. but 1st thing test ur pc/laptop wireless as that is the first error,as ur router only 6months old.dont worry about firmware

  • 2Poor4Ozb on 09/05/2015 - 07:59

    what with all the netgear haters?
    got nighthawk,my laptop n router been downloading non stop for over 4 months not even a restart. it warm but not hot.got 2 mobile 2 pad 3 laptop 1 tv 1 wd media player connected.
    Only problem is when too many device connecting to 1 5g bandwith it kick out other device

  • Sweetnsour on 09/05/2015 - 08:07

    Personally I had an N wifi/router, always dropped out devices. Had 6 devices connected and usually one or two dropped out.

    Upgraded to an AC router after getting a new laptop with AC wifi. It was expensive but havent had any dropouts. The triple band router has options to switch bands and extend range through walls and downstairs.

  • Hiroko on 09/05/2015 - 08:32

    connect devices in close range of the router to the A/C band
    connect devices in further range of the router to G/N band
    this helped a lot in our home when we were using wireless.
    have since hardwired pcs, media servers and printers direct and it is absolutely flawless.
    a quick google of G/N band vs AC band will give you some more insight

  • oscall on 09/05/2015 - 11:58

    Have you asked the provider to check your telephone line to see whether any foreign voltage or earth problem. Someone recently had wifi issue. Change modem and adsl filter problem still persist, Asked to do a line test and found it to be the problem. If everything is okay try another modem and see if it fixes the problem. If still problem ask your provider to check it out for you.

  • garetz on 09/05/2015 - 13:49

    Its probably interference.

    • gimli on 09/05/2015 - 14:12

      for some reason x-files theme plays when i read your comment.

      • scrimshaw on 09/05/2015 - 18:32
        +1

        It's lupus.

  • Empharand on 09/05/2015 - 14:07

    I had a similar problem a few months ago, wifi kept cutting out. Worked out it was the Microwave cutting out the wifi anytime someone used it (Microwaves work on a similar frequency to 2.4ghz). Replace the microwave, problem still remained.
    Was told to move the microwave, unfortunately I couldn't do that so I ended up buying a TP-Link dual band router (Cost about $100) and haven't had a problem since touch wood

    OP, my suggestions would be to do the following:
    1) Check to see if other devices experience the same issue
    2) Update your firmware
    3) See if any other devices in proximity might be interfering with the router (ie. Microwave) and try moving your router to another room (if possible) or relocate the devices that may be causing the issue
    4) If all else fails, try another router (if possible)- Your router seems to be current tech, and is a pretty expensive router (If it was a cheap router, I'd say buy something better, but that's not the case

    You could also try going to Netgear themselves to see if they can provide any assistance; however there will likely just get you to change your channel, frequencies etc (That's what TP-Link told me to do)

  • what on 09/05/2015 - 15:17
    +4

    Thank you all for taking the time and effort to respond and try to assist with my wifi issue.

    There have been so many suggestions and helpful hints. Sorry I have not answered you all individually. I tried to, at first, but there are too many helpful ozbargainers out there, that I can't keep up.

    As suggested, I downloaded an app called insidder to my laptop. There is another app that was suggested that I could download to the samsung but I was not able to hijack my son's mobile.

    Anyway, I found that all of my neighbor are using the 2.4ghz frequency and nobody is using the 5ghz frequency. Given that the problem rarely occurs through the day but regularly happens at night, I think that the reason for the problem has been found.

    My modem uses the AC technology so all the new devices will hook up to that.

    Will now change over to the 5ghz frequency and see how that goes. Will also move any electrical items that may cause interference away from the modem.

    Again, thank you all for your helpful suggestions.

  • Buttsy on 09/05/2015 - 16:21

    Hi there - good router no need to change it. Per some of the other suggestions, I would upgrade the firmware first and then create a new SSID on the 5GHZ frequency. You can have two SSIDs on your particular router so just create a test one and connect one of the devices that usually disconnects frequently to see if it happens. The 5GHZ frequency unfortunately won't penetrate as far as the 2.4GHZ channel but is much cleaner without interference. You will find your wireless speeds much faster as well as the router is ac which means you can bond channels and for devices that support it achieve speeds to 1GB! :) Good luck.

  • what on 09/05/2015 - 19:22

    OK. Still having problems. More with the Samsung Galaxy than my laptop. It just keeps cutting him out. His phone keeps asking him to switch to mobile connection due to unstable connection. My laptop connection is more stable than the mobile phone connection, although, it does sometimes cut me out too. Could there be a setting in the modem that could be causing this.

  • what on 09/05/2015 - 19:32

    I have just discovered a device on my modem with no name. I do not know who or what it is. When my son used his gaming units, they come up with a name. How can I work out what device this could be.

    • scrimshaw on 09/05/2015 - 19:53
      +2

      Just kick everyone off the network.

      Completely reset your router (there is a reset switch usually on the back of the unit) and re-do the setup of the router again. Set a different SSID this time and make sure you use WPA2 encryption for the wifi and choose a strong password.

      Also here is the firmware for your router, Firmware Version 1.1.00.14. you should probably do this first— Please download and install it to your modem and then go ahead and completely re-set your router with the new Wifi SSID and (stronger) passwords.

      • what on 09/05/2015 - 20:22

        Thank you. Whilst intruder was on my network. I could not access the internet at all. When I turned modem off. They dropped off and I could access the internet again. I will do what you say. Thank you very much.

        • scrimshaw on 09/05/2015 - 20:25
          +1

          Well you need to keep the intruder off your network, better work on securing your device and change all of it's associated passwords, including it's default login password/ user name, and updating the firmware so that it is more secure.

          You may also want to disable "WPS" (Wifi Protected setup) — this option is usually found in the wireless settings category in your router config.

          It may not an unwanted intruder however that's causing your wifi to drop — i still suspect it's most likely a dodgy router that's causing you grief, hence my recommendation for you to test a different router.

          Also, are you absolutely sure that it is your Wifi that is disconnecting, and not your actual ADSL connection? If it is your ADSL that's disconnecting, your devices should still be able to talk to each other, but they won't connect to the internet. Do your devices actually report losing the wifi connection when the internet goes down?

        • what on 09/05/2015 - 21:30

          @scrimshaw:

          The security options are

          None
          WPA2-PSK [AES] (this is the one I have)
          WPA-PSK [TKIP] + WPA2-PSK [AES]
          WPA/WPA2 Enterprise

          I am pretty sure it is the Wifi but will check it out further.

        • what on 10/05/2015 - 02:22

          @scrimshaw:

          Have been playing with the modem settings and found the WPS. Have disabled.

          Am also in the process of setting up an access list.

    • PVA on 10/05/2015 - 18:28

      did you work out what it was? It wasnt a console, phone, tv, tablet, printer??

      • what on 18/05/2015 - 14:00

        Sorry, I missed your question. No. I never found out what it was.

        I reset my WiFi password and also my password to access the modem. I have also reset my modem.

        Have checked for intruder regularly and have not noticed anything lately.

        • PVA on 18/05/2015 - 16:27

          And no drop outs any more?

        • what on 18/05/2015 - 16:39

          @PVA:

          Unfortunately still having some problems, although seems a little less than before. Had 2 drop outs over the weekend. Called ISP who confirmed that I had continual service. Will have to wait a couple of days to see if the modem reset resolves the problems. If not, I may have to change my modem. If that doesn't help, perhaps changing over to cable will be the only solution.

  • 2Poor4Ozb on 10/05/2015 - 02:36

    most unknown id come from android device

  • 2Poor4Ozb on 10/05/2015 - 02:40

    even if you turn off wps doesn't mean they cant hack into ur router.
    take around 15-20mins to hack into ppl router. it not that hard.
    the best protection u can have is to
    1-hide ssid
    2-connect all device to router then authorized those ip only.
    3-ban any new ip from joining router.

    • what on 10/05/2015 - 02:52

      Thank you.

      I am in the process of authorizing the mac addresses of our devices on the modem access list.

      Do I need to do anything special to ban new ip from joining the router or is that just a matter of not putting them on the access list?

      I have also changed the generic password for the modem. How can they get in, if they do not know that password?

    • noz on 10/05/2015 - 08:29
      +1

      Sorry to say this, but your advice is inaccurate and also confusing to someone who is reading this that is not experienced with this stuff.

      • Hide SSID - this is not very effective. The SSID can be sniffed out.
      • Authorising / banning IPs - Not only is this administratively time consuming, if they have gotten to the IP stage then they have already bypassed the encryption.

      "take around 15-20mins to hack into ppl router. it not that hard." - very generalised statement, and FUD-inducing. Sure, if it is not set up properly, then it is easy to hack into, in fact you may not even need any password. But if set up correctly - e.g. WPA2-AES with a decent password - is not easy to crack and will take a lot, lot longer than 15-20 minutes to circumvent.

      To the OP, don't bother with MAC filtering (ie. the "access list" you mentioned). I would recommend that you use WPA2-AES and a strong password (say, 15+ characters with a mix of character types) and change it every couple of months.
      If someone were expert enough to get passed WPA2, then they would know how to bypass MAC filtering. So the latter is neither effective nor necessary.

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