A firmware update on the Netgear range extender is meant to resolve multiple issues and enhance its performance. But instances occur when firmware updates begin giving trouble. Having that said, we do not mean firmware updates are not important. An issue may arise in the event of not updating the extender in the right way. For your information, this issue is very common, and lately, many Netgear extender users have reported Netgear extender red light issue post the firmware update. So we have penned down the measures that you need to follow to correctly perform the Netgear extender firmware update. However, if you already are stuck in the mess of the solid or blinking red light on the Netgear extender, then follow the troubleshooting hacks that are also discussed in this very blog.
Netgear Extender Red Light Causes
A Netgear WiFi range extender has various lights (LEDs) on it. Each LED shows the current status of the extender. By that we mean, if the LED shows unusual behavior then you can know your extender needs some repairing or troubleshooting.
A Netgear extender Device Link LED or Router LED can blink or show solid red light which implies an issue with the device. Whether it is the Device Link or Router LED showing a red light, both mean the same: a poor connection. Having a poor connection can be a consequence of various reasons. Excessive distance between the devices, WiFi interference, incorrect placement of the extender, obsolete firmware, power outages, etc. there are plenty of them. So, if you want to eliminate the Netgear extender red light issue, you may need to perform more than one troubleshooting hack.
The solution to the problem is not difficult though. You just need to be patient while performing the steps. Read the next section to learn various troubleshooting hacks that succeeded in resolving a similar issue with many Netgear users.
Netgear Extender Red Light After Firmware Update [Fixed]
Fix 1: Bring Extender Closer to Router
As we have mentioned earlier, the Netgear extender red light issue is due to poor connection. So we begin by fixing the poor connection between the Netgear extender and the router. The connection between them can be poor if they are placed far from each other. Thus reduce the distance separating them and bring them closer. However, you are not supposed to reduce the distance to such an extent that their signals begin clashing or interfering. Once the devices are able to smoothly communicate with each other, the Netgear WiFi extender red light should no more be troubling you. Try other hacks if the situation is otherwise.
Fix 2: Check Cables
Check all the cables that are connected to the Netgear extender. Commence the process by verifying the power cable. It should be plugged in correctly to the power socket and the extender. The power cable should also be damage-free. After this, check the Ethernet cable that is connecting the extender to the router. This cable should also be free of damage and inserted correctly into the respective ports on both devices.
Fix 3: Reboot the Extender
Rebooting is done to give the device some rest. Excessive usage is also responsible for device unresponsive behavior. Netgear extender red light can also be a consequence of extender over usage or heat up. Along with this, rebooting also fixes some temporary technical glitches which is yet another reason for the red light. Thus power off your extender and unplug it from the wall socket. After some time, when you feel it has had enough rest, plug it back into the socket and turn the power button on. Has this step worked to fix the issue?
Fix 4: Ditch Network Interference
There are plenty of devices or home appliances that radiate EM waves. These radiations can hamper the home WiFi. Thus it is highly recommended to keep networking devices like extenders, routers, etc away from them. Some examples are microwave ovens, Bluetooth speakers, baby monitors, etc.
Fix 5: Update Firmware Again
If you are facing the Netgear extender red light issue after a firmware update, then there are chances that you have not updated the firmware in the right manner. All you need to do is reset the extender and again configure it. After that, you need to update the firmware correctly. We suggest you follow this step only if other hacks mentioned above have not worked for you.
After you have reset and configured your Netgear range extender, access the extender web-based management utility using 192.168.1.250 and update the firmware. Here are some points that you need to consider before and while updating firmware on your extender:
- There ought to be a stable internet connection to the extender and the device that you are using to update the firmware.
- Ensure a non-fluctuating power supply during the entire firmware update process.
- Do not interrupt the Netgear firmware update process by any means. The firmware may get corrupted if you do so.
- Download the correct firmware file for the Netgear extender model that you own. Installing incorrect firmware file may render your device useless.
Need More Info?
This is all about how you can fix the Netgear extender red light issue. If you need additional information about how to reset the Netgear extender or how to set it up or how to update the firmware in the correct manner, then getting in touch with our expert team will be the best option.
