How to Fix a Netgear Nighthawk EX7000 WiFi Repeater

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

In This Guide

You'll Learn How To:

Resolve basic problems you may encounter with your Netgear EX7000 Range Extender.

Before We Begin:

Be near your Range Extender.
Be prepared to test both your connection to your home's Wi-Fi network and your Range Extender's network.

2. Check Devices Off Range Extender

Before checking your range extender at all, it's best to make sure the rest of your home network is functioning properly.

Test your connection using a computer, smartphone, or tablet that is not connected to the range extender. Preferably, it's best to test using a device that is directly connected to your router via Ethernet cable. If this is not possible, use a device that's connected wirelessly to your home's Wi-Fi network.

A home computer that is hard-wired to your router via Ethernet is ideal for this test. Otherwise, make sure the wireless device you're testing with isn't connected to the range extender's Wi-Fi network (this usually contains "_EXT" in the network name).

3. My Internet Doesn't Work

Show Me HowClicking this button will open a new guide that will provide you with steps to resolve your issue.

4. Problem Check

Depending on the problem you're having, different steps may need to be taken to help solve them.

Can't Browse

You can connect your device(s) to your range extender, but you're unable to bring up a web page, email, or other services on the Internet.

Slow Connection

You're able to connect your device(s) to your Range Extender, and you're able to bring up web pages, email, and other services, but the connection seems slow.

No Connection

You're unable to find your Range Extender's Wi-Fi network to connect your device(s) to.

Poor Connection Between Range Extender and Router

The connection between your Range Extender and your wireless router has weak or poor signal, making the connection slow.

Won't Turn On

The Range Extender won't turn on at all.

5. Reduce Wireless Interference

Wireless signal interference can cause performance issues such as slow or intermittent connections and even complete disconnects. This type of interference can be caused by the presence of:

Electromagnetic fields created by other electronic devices such as: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capable devices, cordless phones, baby monitors, remote controlled toys, microwave ovens, seasonal lighting, or even garage door openers.
Structural materials in walls, floors, furnishings or other large objects. The potential for structural materials in your home to absorb wireless signal and cause signal loss or undesirable behavior is as follows:

Interference PotentialType of MaterialLowSynthetic material, wood, glassMediumBrick, marble, waterHighConcrete, plasterVery HighMetal

To Reduce Wireless Signal Interference Caused by Other Electronic Devices:

Temporarily turn off or power down any of the devices listed above, and test your connection.
If the issue persists, try physically moving the device having connection problems away from any device(s) that could cause interference, and re-test.

To Reduce Wireless Signal Interference Caused by Other Objects or Structures:

Relocate the device having connection problems away from any obstacles, and test the connection.
If your range extender or the device having connection problems is set up inside of a cabinet, closet, or other type of enclosure, consider relocating them.

Range extenders are designed to be relocated easily. For this reason, finding and testing alternative locations in your home that may provide better and more reliable signal coverage and be less prone to wireless interference may be the best option.

6. Location

Finding the most optimal location for your Range Extender in your home is important for both maximizing your signal range and wireless coverage. Your Range Extender has a spot finder during the setup process to help you locate the best location for your device.

You can move your Range Extender from outlet to outlet using the spot finder as a guide for selecting locations that will provide the best wireless performance in your home.

You can also look at the light on the front of the range extender to get a quick idea if it is currently positioned well:

Netgear EX7000 Range Extender with primary status lights highlighted.

5 GHz Green

The range extender has an optimal 5 GHz connection to your router.

5 GHz Amber

The range extender has a good 5 GHz connection to your router.

5 GHz Red

The range extender has a weak 5 GHz connection to your router. It should be placed closer to your router.

5 GHz Off

The range extender does not have a 5 GHz connection to your router.

2.4 GHz Green

The range extender has an optimal 2.4 GHz connection to your router..

2.4 GHz Amber

The range extender has a good 2.4 GHz connection to your router.

2.4 GHz Red

The range extender has a weak 2.4 GHz connection to your router. It should be placed closer to your router.

2.4 GHz Off

The range extender does not have a 2.4 GHz connection to your router.

In general, you want your Range Extender at least six feet away from your router. At most, you want it half-way between where your router is, and where you want the signal to reach. Finding and testing multiple locations may be necessary if wireless interference is a factor within your home.

7. Power Cycle

Push the power button on the back of your Range Extender. It will 'pop out', and the Netgear logo on top will turn off.

Wait ten seconds.

Turn the power back on, and make sure the power light goes on.

Wait one minute for the Range extender to start back up fully.

Make sure your smartphone, computer, or other device has re-connected to your Range Extender's Wi-Fi Network.

8. Factory Reset Check

The next step in the troubleshooting process is to fully factory reset your Range Extender, and set it back up to ensure correct and proper configuration.

9. How to Factory Reset Your Netgear EX7000 AC1900 Nighthawk Wi-Fi Range Extender

Show Me How

Clicking this button will open a new guide that will provide you with steps to resolve your issue.

10. What's next?

11. Power Check

Make sure the power cable is plugged in to the back of the Range Extender and the wall.

Range Extender with Power adapter highlighted.

Make sure the power button is pushed in.

Make sure the Netgear logo is lit up.

12. What's next?

13. Power Check

Make sure the power cable is plugged in to the back of the Range Extender and the wall.

Make sure the power button is pushed in.

Make sure the Netgear logo is lit up.

14. Check Devices On Range Extender

Test your Internet connection using a device that's connected to your Range Extender's Wi-Fi network. Try bringing up a webpage, checking your email, or streaming music or video.

15. Factory Reset Check