NETGEAR R7900 - User Manual

Do More
Nighthawk X6
AC3000 Tri-Band WiFi Router
Model R7900

Summary

NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi Setup and Login

Locate Preassigned WiFi Credentials

Describes finding the WiFi network name (SSID) and password on the router's label.

Record WiFi Network Settings

Provides space to write down the SSID and password for easy reference.

Default Router Login Information

Details the default login URL, username, and password for accessing router settings.

Connect to Your WiFi Network

Join WiFi Using WPS Button

Explains using the WPS button on the router and device for a quick and easy connection.

Connect to WiFi Using Network Settings

Manual WiFi Connection Steps

Guides on connecting by selecting the network name (SSID) and entering the password.

Access and Manage Router Settings

Logging Into the Router Interface

Details the process to access router settings via a web browser using default credentials.

Change WiFi Network Name and Password

Modify WiFi SSID and Passphrase

Guides on changing the network name (SSID) and password for enhanced security.

Secure Your Router: Change Admin Password

Update Administrator Login Credentials

Explains how to change the router's administrator password and enable recovery options.

Recover Lost Router Admin Password

Retrieve Forgotten Administrator Password

Details steps to recover the admin password using security questions and the router's serial number.

Access Connected USB Storage Devices

Access USB Drive from Windows PCs

Guides on accessing a connected USB drive on the network using Windows computers via \\readyshare.

Optimize Network Performance with QoS

Enable and Configure Dynamic QoS

Explains how to enable and configure Dynamic Quality of Service for better traffic management.

Remote Router Management with genie App

Setup Remote Access on Windows Computers

Guides on setting up remote access using the NETGEAR genie app for Windows computers.

Automate Data Backup with ReadySHARE Vault

Back Up Windows Computers Automatically

Details how to back up Windows computers using ReadySHARE Vault software for data safety.

Share USB Printers Wirelessly

Setup ReadySHARE Printer for Wireless Printing

Explains how to connect and set up a USB printer for wireless printing.

Explore Advanced Router Features

Utilize iTunes Server Functionality

Explains using the iTunes Server feature for media streaming from USB storage.

Secure Remote Access with VPN Service

Configure VPN for Remote Network Access

Describes how VPN service allows secure remote access to the home network and its resources.

Set Up a Personal FTP Server

Enable FTP for Remote Network Access

Explains setting up a personal FTP server for remote network access via a custom URL.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

This document describes the NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3000 Tri-Band WiFi Router, Model R7900, focusing on its functions, usage, and maintenance features.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 AC3000 Tri-Band WiFi Router is designed to provide robust and secure WiFi connectivity for your home network, enabling users to "Do More" with their internet connection. It offers a range of features for easy setup, network management, and enhanced functionality, catering to both basic and advanced networking needs.

Function Description

The primary function of the Nighthawk X6 router is to establish and manage a WiFi network, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet wirelessly. It operates as a tri-band WiFi router, which means it broadcasts on three separate WiFi bands, typically one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands. This tri-band capability helps in distributing network traffic more efficiently, reducing congestion, and providing faster speeds for a larger number of connected devices, especially in environments with many WiFi-enabled gadgets, streaming, and gaming activities.

The router comes with preassigned WiFi network names (SSIDs) and passwords (network keys) that are unique to each device, similar to a serial number. This preassignment ensures that the router automatically uses WiFi security from the moment it's set up, eliminating the need for manual security configuration during initial installation. These default WiFi settings are conveniently located on a label on the router itself, making them easily accessible for connecting devices.

Beyond basic WiFi connectivity, the Nighthawk X6 offers several advanced features to enhance network performance and utility:

• Dynamic Quality of Service (QoS): This feature is designed to resolve internet traffic congestion by intelligently identifying applications and devices, allocating bandwidth, and prioritizing traffic. It's particularly beneficial for users who engage in bandwidth-intensive activities like online gaming and streaming high-definition videos, ensuring a smoother and more responsive experience.
• ReadySHARE: This suite of features extends the router's functionality to include file sharing and printer sharing.
  • ReadySHARE USB Access: Allows users to connect a USB storage device (like a hard disk drive) to the router's USB ports and access its contents from any computer on the network. This creates a centralized storage solution for sharing files among multiple devices.
  • ReadySHARE Printer: Enables users to connect a USB printer to the router's USB port, transforming it into a network printer. This allows multiple computers on the network to print wirelessly to the shared printer.
  • ReadySHARE Vault: Provides free backup software for Windows computers, allowing users to connect a USB hard disk drive to the router for centralized, continuous, and automatic backups of their Windows machines.
• iTunes Server: This feature allows users to play music from a USB storage device connected to the router using iTunes on Windows or Mac computers, or with the Apple Remote app on iPhones or iPads. It also supports playing music on AirPlay devices like Apple TV or AirPlay-supported receivers.
• VPN Service: The router supports setting up a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) service connection to your home network. This enables remote access to the router's USB drive, media, and internet service at home, providing a secure way to connect to your network from outside.
• Personal FTP Server: Users can create a personal FTP server with a customized free URL, allowing them to access their network files remotely when they are away from home, utilizing Dynamic DNS.

Usage Features

The Nighthawk X6 router is designed for ease of use, from initial setup to daily operation and advanced configuration.

Joining the WiFi Network: Users have two primary methods to connect their WiFi-enabled devices to the network:

• Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS): This method simplifies the connection process. Users can press the WPS button on the router for a few seconds, and then, within a two-minute window, press the WPS button on their WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device (or click an onscreen WPS button). The router's WPS LED indicates the connection status, lighting solid white upon successful connection. This process can be repeated for additional devices.
• Manual Connection using Router's WiFi Settings: Users can also manually select the router's WiFi network name (SSID) from their device's WiFi connection manager and enter the password (network key). Both the SSID and password are found on the router's label. This method is useful if WPS is not available or preferred.

Logging In and Managing Settings: After the initial setup, users can log in to the router's web-based interface to view or change its settings.

• Accessing the Router Interface: This is done by launching a web browser and navigating to www.routerlogin.net.
• Login Credentials: The default username is admin, and the default password is password. It is highly recommended to change these default credentials for security purposes.
• Connection Methods: Users can connect to the router either via a wired Ethernet connection (connecting an Ethernet port on the computer to an Ethernet port on the router) or wirelessly using the router's WiFi network name and password.

Changing WiFi Network Name and Password: Users can easily customize their WiFi network name (SSID) and password (network key) through the router's web interface. This involves navigating to the "Wireless" section, entering the new desired name and password, and applying the changes.

Changing the Admin Password: For enhanced security, the router allows users to change the default admin password. This is done by accessing the "ADVANCED > Administration > Set Password" section in the web interface. Users are prompted to enter their old password and then the new password twice.

Accessing USB Devices:

• Windows Computers: To access a USB storage device connected to the router, users can open the "Run" dialog on their Windows computer, type \\readyshare, and click OK. A window will display the files and folders on the device.
• Mac Computers: Mac users can launch Finder, select "Go > Connect to Server," and enter smb://readyshare in the Server Address field. They can then connect as a Guest or as a Registered User if access control is set up.

Enabling Dynamic QoS: To enable Dynamic QoS, users log in to the router's web interface, select "Dynamic QoS," and check the "Enable Dynamic QoS" box. They can then specify their internet bandwidth, either by using the built-in Speedtest feature or by manually entering the values.

Remote Access with Genie App: The NETGEAR genie app allows users to remotely access their router and modify key settings from Windows computers, iOS mobile devices, and Android mobile devices. To set this up, users download the genie app, connect to the router's network, launch the app, select "Router Settings," choose "Remote Access" from the "Login as" menu, and sign up for a remote access genie account.

Maintenance Features

The Nighthawk X6 router incorporates features and recommendations to ensure its smooth operation and security over time.

Password Recovery: The router includes a password recovery feature for the admin password. If the admin password has been changed and password recovery was enabled, users can retrieve a forgotten password by visiting www.routerlogin.net, clicking "Cancel" on the login window, and then entering the router's serial number (found on the label) and answering security questions that were set up during the password change process. Enabling password recovery is recommended.

Firmware Updates: While not explicitly detailed in the provided excerpts, NETGEAR routers typically offer firmware update capabilities through the web interface. Regular firmware updates are crucial for maintaining security, improving performance, and adding new features. Users are usually notified of available updates or can manually check for them.

Documentation and Support: NETGEAR provides comprehensive support resources:

• Online Support: Users can visit www.netgear.com/support to register their product, get help, access the latest downloads and user manuals, and join the community. It is recommended to use only official NETGEAR support resources.
• User Manuals: Detailed user manuals are available online at downloadcenter.netgear.com or through links within the router's user interface, providing in-depth information on all features and configurations.
• Regulatory Compliance: Information regarding EU Declaration of Conformity and other regulatory compliance details can be found on the NETGEAR website, ensuring the device meets necessary standards.

Physical Maintenance: Although not explicitly mentioned, general maintenance practices for electronic devices apply:

• Proper Placement: Placing the router in an open area, away from obstructions and other electronic devices that might cause interference, helps optimize WiFi performance.
• Ventilation: Ensuring adequate ventilation prevents overheating, which can impact performance and longevity.
• Cleaning: Periodically cleaning dust from the router's vents and surfaces can help maintain optimal operating temperatures.

By leveraging these functions, usage, and maintenance features, users can effectively manage their home network, enhance their internet experience, and ensure the long-term reliability of their NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 router.

NETGEAR R7900 Specifications