Netgear WGR614v6 suddenly not wireless!

John_LG

Hi guys,
I've spent a couple of hours reading other wireless issues, but now is the time to ask for help. The netgear site isn't any good, I've been waiting for an online support response, and know MSE forum will help!

Router has been wireless for a year, no problems, suddenly stopped working - i.e. can't see signal! Borrowed a wireless laptop and that also can't see signal, so it;s not PC settings/spyware/new software installs.

If I connect (wired) it seems much slower than I'd expect, but does work (I'm using it now).

Power and wireless lights are on, on the router. I've tried different channels, taken WEP off and on again, updated firmware... everything that netgear and forums I've read, have suggested.

Strangely though, every once in a while, suddenly the wireless will be detected (and it recognises our ssid) but as soon as I click connect, it either disappears, or if I'm lucky enough to get it (at full strength) I can only get the first part of a web page before it fails (a few bytes of data only).

Any further suggestions?

My feeling is that the router has failed/burnt out/been attacked by my exploring one year old! But as I don't have a replacement to test, I'd rather save money, and ask you all first.

Thanks, in advance,

John

star1_2

Sounds like the unit has failed !! - (I install and assist various clients with Network related kit) - large and small.

Try a total reset of the unit - normally acheived by holding in the reset unit at the back or on the base of the unit with a pen, while you apply the power for 10 seconds or so. Check the manual for details. You should be able to take a known working wireless device to attempt to "see" the router in its default state. If no signinal or SSID visiable - it's broken !! Next step would be to "thrash" the bandswidth - many good on-line bandswidth/speed testing utilities such as Dan Ewell's utility will a basic job ! - and see if the throughput affects the units performance. (The alternative of using bandwidth loading tools/devices are costly).

** After a total reset - you will of course need to config/setup and apply your own settings (including wireless security)

Regarding Netgear support - it's chronic !! - it's taken me 6 weeks to get a turn around on a faulty product under warantee !! From my experience of a large cross section of network component suppliers - Netgear must be the worse !! my money would go on Linksys !!

Good luck !

cledor

Can you check the aerial, is it firmly screwed on, may even be worth unscrewing it and putting it back on, but switch off the router first.

Otherwise maybe a hard reset using the recessed button at the back would cure it. Backup the settings before you do so.

John_LG

Thanks. I forgot to say that I had tried a full/hard reset, and have reconfigured to my settings tonight - but no signal currently. It still confuses me though that it does, just for a moment, seem to find our ssid and then instantly fail again. I think the time has come for a replacement, but it is literally days over the year old. I must check the warranty - but I guess it's a year.
All this, and I've been so happy with it (and other netgear products before) - I've heard funny things about their CS, but I thought I'd bought a quality product? I still think it's an adventurous, exploring, techno-mad 1 yr old child at fault here!

J

cledor

My Netgear came with a 3 year warranty, check your paperwork.

MrsTinks

I had a very similar problem with my linksys... a firmware update fixed it Worth trying...

John_LG

Already updated firmware, but thanks, tine.

Cledor - looked at paperwork, seems this router is covered for 2 year for defects and poor workmanship (or something liek that) - might have to consider an RMA, unless any one else has some inspiration. My laziness would have assumed 1 year - thanks!

I just knew that some of you helpful ppl would be at your 'puters tonight!

star1_2

To rule out any aerial, or channel related issue - make sure the wireless PC you're using to test is sitting very close to the router - this is simple way of ruleing out interferance from other WiFi Lans or devices.

Also bear in mind there are various devices that use the 2.4 frequency - these include :-

- Bluetooth devices
- Other WiFi LAN's devices
- Some Wireless Alarm systems
- Some Car Keyfobs
- Video Senders
- DECT phones
- Some walkie Talkies
- Some types of Wireless doorbells
- Some types of wireless keyboard's / mice

They all compete with 13 availaible frequencys in the 2.4 waveband, and dependant upon the brand and how well they are made/work, they may well "spread" to more than the nominated frequency they are working on.

If you're after a neat WiFi LAN scanning tool that lets you see the channel numbers in your area Eeye have a free download that lets you do this (rather more sophisticated than the Windows wifi scanning interface).

:cool:

John_LG

albertross wrote:

aerial screwed in firmly? oops someone else said that already.

Does netstumbler see it? Has a neighbour just installed one on the same channel? Or a video sender? channels overlap up to 5 channels away.


Is the ssid being broadcast?

http://www.netstumbler.com/downloads/

I've used netstumbler before (from a previous post of yours :beer: ), I'll check when I get home - thanks.

Not sure the ssid is being broadcast (properly) - it seems the answer is no, but just every 15 mins or so, the wireless laptop I borrowed finds it (but then fails to connect). Very curious.

Thanks star1 - it is true that some new wireless signals have appeared in the area, this laptop I borrowed is picking them up. Oh, and it is sitting right next to the router, so I could connect via ethernet cable, but still doesn't find wireless signal.

I guess if no ssid is broadcast then it is likely to be fatal... still no reply from Netgear...