NETGEAR Router Settings

NETGEAR routers usually use 192.168.1.1 or the web address routerlogin.net. Default login is often admin / password. See Router Passwords for your model.

How to Log In

Connect to the NETGEAR WiFi or with an Ethernet cable.
Open a browser and go to http://192.168.1.1 or http://routerlogin.net.
Enter username admin and password password (or the password you set).
Change the admin password in Settings if you haven’t already.

Nighthawk and Genie

Many NETGEAR routers use the Nighthawk or Genie interface. From the dashboard you can change WiFi name and password, run a speed test, update firmware, and set up guest networks.

Change WiFi Name and Password

Go to Wireless or WiFi settings. Update the SSID (network name) and WiFi password (WPA2). Save and reconnect your devices.

DNS on NETGEAR

Under Advanced → Internet or WAN, find DNS settings. Enter primary and secondary DNS (e.g. 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). See DNS Settings.

Reset NETGEAR Router

Use the reset button (small hole) on the router. Hold for about 7–10 seconds until the power LED blinks. Release and wait for the router to reboot. Default login is again admin / password. You will need to set up internet and WiFi again. Full steps: Reset NETGEAR Router.

Port Forwarding and Guest Network

For port forwarding, go to Advanced → Advanced Setup → Port Forwarding / Port Triggering. Add a custom service: name, external and internal port range, internal IP address, and protocol. Save. Many Nighthawk models also support a Guest Network under Wireless or WiFi settings—enable it and set a separate SSID and password so visitors don’t use your main network. Guest networks are typically isolated from your LAN.

Blocking a Device on NETGEAR

To block a specific device, go to Advanced → Security → Access Control. Turn on Access Control and add the device’s MAC address to the block list, or choose “Block” for a device already listed. See How to Blacklist a WiFi User for finding the MAC address and step-by-step instructions.