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This article provides some information about your Netgear 3800/4300 router as well as the answers to common questions and troubleshooting information.
Definition of Dual Band
"Dual Band" means that your router broadcasts two signals, which operate on different frequencies: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. You can distinguish between the two networks because one of your networks ends in "-5G". The 3800 broadcasts both networks at the same time, so you don’t have to choose which one is broadcasting at any given time.
Frequency |
Benefits |
Drawbacks |
|
2.4GHz
|
- Nearly all wireless devices connect to 2.4
- The signal reaches farther as you move away from your router
|
- Since most devices that broadcast a wireless signal operate on the 2.4 band, there can be more interference which may negatively impact your wireless performance on any one device
|
|
5HGz
|
- Fewer wireless devices broadcast on this frequency, so you don’t have to compete with as many devices for a good wireless signal
|
- Not all devices can connect to the 5GHz band
- The signal level drops faster the farther away you are from your router
|
Network Name & Password
This wireless router is pre-set with WPA2 encryption with a unique Network Name (SSID) and Password. The default SSID and Password are uniquely generated for every device (like a serial number) to protect and maximize your wireless security. This information is located on a label on the side of your router for easy reference when you need it to connect a device to your network:
- Network Name (SSID)
- Network Key (WiFi Password)
You will see one network name, which is the 2.4GHz network (Ex. NETGEAR37). Your 5GHz network is named the same plus "-5G" on the end (Ex. NETGEAR37-5G). The Network Key printed on the side of your router is THE SAME FOR BOTH NETWORKS.
We recommend that you do not change these settings.
Changing or disabling encryption will make your network less secure, and without any security your neighbors would be able to connect to your network and use your bandwidth. Also, if you change your Network Name and Passcode, the information on the side of the router will no longer be valid.
Connecting Wireless Devices
- Open the software that manages your wireless connections on the wireless device (laptop computer, gaming device, iPhone) that you want to connect to your router. This software scans for all wireless networks in your area.
- Look for your network and select it. Your network name (also called SSID) is located on the product label on the bottom of the router.
- Enter the router password and click Connect. Your password is located on the product label on the bottom of the router.
- Repeat steps 1-3 to add other wireless devices.
For full documentation about your router, click here.
Troubleshooting
If you are experiencing slow or intermittent speed issues, click here.
For other issues with your wireless network, click here.
Should you need further technical support, please call Netgear at 1-888-638-4327.