Netgear Access Point Setup

A wireless access point helps create a wireless network by connecting it to a wired network. On this page, we will guide you through how to perform a Netgear Access Point setup with an existing LAN network. Let’s start.

access point

How to Set Up Netgear Access Point?

Step 1: Discover IP Subnet of LAN

  • Connect to the existing LAN network on a computer or laptop.
  • Run the Command Prompt.
  • Type ipconfig and press Enter.
  • Copy down the Subnet Mask and Default Gateway.

Step 2: Set Static IP on PC

The computer that you are using during setup process should have the IP in the same subnet as the default IP address of the access point. Therefore, set it to static IP.
For Windows 11:

  • Click Start.
  • Type Settings and open them.
  • Click Network & Internet.
  • Select Ethernet and choose the Ethernet network that you have connected the PC to.
  • Select Edit next to the IP assignment.
  • Select Automatic (DHCP) or Manual under Edit IP Settings.
  • In the IP address field, insert the default IP address of the access point and in the subnet mask, enter the access point’s subnet mask value.

Expert Tip: Check the User manual or the sticker below the access point to determine the default IP address and subnet mask.

Step 3: Connect PC to AP

With the help of an Ethernet cable, connect your computer to the access point. You should ensure that the connection is well intact.

Step 4: Log in to Access Point

Just like your Netgear WiFi extender uses 192.168.1.250 as default IP, a Netgear access point also has its default IP address. The IP takes you to the login page. You can find the IP on the label or in the user manual.

  • Load up an internet browser on your computer now.
  • In its address field, put in the default IP address of your access point and hit enter.
  • The login window will come to display.
  • Insert admin in the username field and password in the Password field. These are the default credentials for a Netgear access point.

Step 5: Change Access Point IP Address

  • Click IP Settings or Configurations > IP.
  • To get the IP address automatically from the DHCP server, select Enable on DHCP Client.
  • Click Apply.
  • To manually set a static IP, select an IP address that’s not on in use currently. It must also be outside the range of any DHCP server on your network.
  • Set the IP and Subnet according to your network.
  • Enter the default IP of your network in the Default Gateway field. You can leave it blank too.
  • In the DNS server enter the DNS address for your network or let it stay unfilled.

Step 6: Connect Access Point to Existing Network

  • The Ethernet cable that connects your AP to the PC needs to be removed now.
  • Use the same cable to join the AP to the existing LAN.

You should now be able to open the access point configurations on other computers using its default IP address.

That’s it! You have successfully completed the Netgear Access point setup.

You can now set back your computer’s IP settings as earlier. You also have the option to set it to Obtain an IP address automatically.

How to Update Firmware on Netgear Access Point?

  • Download the firmware file for the respective access point model that you own. Use only the official Netgear page to download the firmware.
  • You ought to connect your computer to the access point using an Ethernet cable. Avoid making wireless connections.
  • Log in to your access point on a browser using its default IP address and login credentials.
  • Under the main menu Management section, choose Update Firmware.
  • Click on the Browse button.
  • Get to the firmware file saved on your PC and select it.
  • Click on the Upload button on the page. This initiates the firmware installation process.
  • Avoid interrupting the process by any means.
  • The access point restarts as the firmware update is completed.

How to Reset Netgear Access Point?

A Netgear access point can be reset to factory values using the Reset button located on it. The reset process may be needed if you wish to start over from scratch with your access point. Resetting deletes all the customized settings. Here are the steps:

  • Look for the Reset button on the access point first.
  • Hold the button until the LEDs blink twice. It might take 5 to 10 seconds.
  • Release the button and your wireless access point is reset.

You should now use the default login password to log in and complete the Netgear access point setup. Use the instructions that we have discussed above on this page. We suggest you register your Netgear product. You need to create a MyNetgear account for registration. You will begin receiving updates and notifications related to your access point.