Performing a factory default reset of devices is a common practice in the networking realm. Since it erases everything from the memory of the device, people are reluctant about doing it. Thankfully! Netgear users do not need to think twice before resetting it. The reason being, Netgear allows its extender users to back up WiFi extender’s configuration that includes the customized SSID, network key, admin password, WiFi security protocols and much more. After you perform a Netgear WiFi extender reset, you can restore the extender’s previous settings again.
Everything will be discussed step-by-step in this write-up. But, first of all, let us tell what backup means in relation to a Netgear range extender. Generally, creating a backup means creating a copy of physical or virtual files in case equipment failure occurs. Backup is a mandatory thing to a successful recovery plan in case the extender resets.
How to Back Up Netgear Extender Configuration?
We are hopeful that you have understood the concept of backup and now know why it is important to create a backup file containing Netgear range extender settings. In light of the same fact, we are now heading toward the instructions that will reveal how you can generate a backup file containing several extender settings (WiFi settings, admin info, Access Schedule) and save it on your computer. Yes, a computer or a laptop will be needed for the backup process. Thus, be sure to arrange one. Know that the steps given here are written with respect to the Netgear extender. You can apply them according to the product you own. The menus as well as the default values will change. Like; you will have to use your extender’s IP in place of 192.168.1.250. Here’s what you need to do in order to back up the settings of your WiFi range extender.
- Ensure that your Netgear range extender is connected to the router properly.
- Switch on the extender if you haven’t done it yet.
- The next step is to hardwire a PC to the extender.
- Once done, load the default web browser.
- Input mywifiext.net address into the address field and hit Enter.
- If prompted to enter the Username and Password, enter the valid details.
- In case the extender is working on default login values, use admin as Username and password as Password.
- Choose Log In.
- You will see the Netgear Genie page now.
- Select Settings > Other.
- The Other Settings page will show up.
- Now, you have to locate the BACKUP button and click it.
- You will be asked to choose the location at which you want to save the backup file.
- Select the location and save the file.
This is how you can back up the settings of a Netgear WiFi extender. This is to inform you that you can also connect your PC to the Netgear extender wirelessly. For this, you need to connect to the customized SSID of the extender. Also, if the backup process is being done via a Mac, you need to use the mywifiext.local address instead of mywifiext.net.
Reset the Extender Now!
Since you have successfully back up the settings of your range extender, you can reset it without any worries. Most WiFi extenders can be reset with the help of the Reset button located on their hardware units that is supposed to be pressed and held for at least 15 seconds so that the extender can return to the factory default values.
How to Reload the Backup File?
After the factory default reset process is completed, you will have to configure your range extender once again. But, this time, not from scratch. You just need to upload the backup file. Have a look at the steps given below to know what exactly needs to be done:
- Connect your computer to the WiFi network named Netgear_ext.
- Access the extender’s web-based management panel again via the login URL.
- You again need to navigate to the Other Settings page via the path; Settings > Other.
- This time, locate the Restore section and hit the Browse button.
- This action will let you choose the backup file.
- Select the extender’s backup file.
- Hit Restore.
- Select Yes when the web GUI asks you whether you’re sure about restoring the extender’s settings.
- The backup will be uploaded and the extender will reboot.
- Your extender will now flaunt the settings on which it was running just before the reset process.
In Conclusion
Backup files are boon to the networking realm. They come as a savior mostly in the case of an equipment failure that left the user with no option other than a factory default reset. We are hopeful that the above-given instructions have made it very clear that how to back up WiFi extender’s configuration. Now, you can reset your extender and restore the backup file easily in case it falls a victim to some serious issue.