Netgear problems with the router and packet loss :(
Netgear problems with the router and packet loss :(
Hey there. I’m dealing with some problems with the router I bought about two months ago. It’s a Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 (link provided). It costs roughly 250 AUD. I’ve noticed frequent ping swings and packet loss. My connection speed is usually between 1-2 MB/s download and around 100 KB/s upload, which isn’t too bad since I don’t stream much. I haven’t experienced this much before. I ran some speed tests and the results are visible in the attached photo. Our area is set to get an NBN upgrade soon, so it’s not uncommon. A quick note for Aussies: NBN refers to Australia’s fiber-to-the-node upgrade, which can be slow. We expect it in March. My friend just a kilometer away seems fine, so I suspect the issue isn’t local. The router keeps shutting down repeatedly—usually at least once a day—and I have to restart it. It’s getting frustrating. All lights stay on but nothing loads on connected devices. Remote access via browser is blocked until it restarts. I also see big ping spikes in games like League of Legends and Overwatch, usually around 35 ping or higher. If it doesn’t stabilize, noticeable packet loss appears. I ran a ping test to www.google.com and the numbers match what’s shown. QoS is enabled, but it doesn’t help. My guess is either an ISP problem or my unit is faulty. Some people say this model drops connections often. So… what do you think? If you’re considering a replacement, what would you recommend? I’m aiming for a reliable brand and want to avoid these issues. Budget around 300-350 AUD would be ideal. Thanks for reading!
Check if your router handles a modem DSL or cable modem properly. Make sure it isn’t overheating. If your provider has filters, verify they’re functioning correctly.
It needs to link with another device? Or do you receive Ethernet from the outside? How do you actually set it up? ADSL, cable, or something else? The issues you mention remind me of Chromecast challenges some routers faced. I think the R7000 might be involved, and they have a fix available: https://kb.netgear.com/000053870/R7000-F...26-Hot-Fix
Are you connected via WiFi or a wired connection? Have you adjusted the router to its original factory configuration?
When the router frequently disconnects, you may need to restart either the router or the modem depending on the issue.
Additionally, I didn’t adjust many options. I kept things simple—just the wireless network name, password, and the LAN range from 192.168.0.X to 10.1.1.X. It’s much easier to recall and enter. I did this with an older Netgear router I borrowed from a friend; it performed well and didn’t have any issues.
Typically the lights on the router remain active even when it seems fine, such as with DSL or ISP connections. Yet my PC shows a 'No Internet Access' warning at the bottom and nothing appears to load. All wireless gadgets appear connected, displaying the network logo, but they still can't access anything. I have to repeatedly power off the router and wait a short time before turning it back on, which sometimes restores functionality.
Yes, you have both a router and a modem. If rebooting the router doesn't fix the problem, consider resetting it to factory settings. If that doesn't work, consult your ISP about switching the modem to bridge mode, as the issue may relate to DHCP. For a modem/router setup, check with your ISP whether the DSL connection is syncing properly.