To manage or set up a Netgear router, no method can be as convenient as using the Nighthawk mobile application. FYI, the app was previously known as the Netgear Genie app that got revamped as the Nighthawk app. This post will address the situation where the user is unable to make the most of the router because it denies connecting to the app. Just in case your Netgear router also won’t connect to app, you can start the troubleshooting process right away by referring to the information given below.
Upgrade the Nighthawk App Before All Else
A very small proportion of users is concerned about the version of the mobile application they use and end up facing problems while using the app. Perhaps, the version of the Nighthawk app you are using is not the latest one due to which your router is facing problems while establishing a connection.
To fix the problem, we advise you to go to the app store of your mobile phone depending upon the OS on which they are operating. After reaching there, check if an update is available for the Netgear router application. If yes, then the app is supposed to get updated as soon as possible. Do not try to disturb the installation process. Once it gets updated, check if the router connects or not. If not, then you can take the help of the tips mentioned ahead.
Fixed: Nighthawk Router Won’t Connect to App
1. Connect to the Correct Network
In case the mobile phone on which you are trying to use the Nighthawk app is connected to some random WiFi network, the rise of the problem in the discussion is inevitable. This is to inform you that the WiFi router is only manageable on other networks if you’ve enabled the remote management feature. Otherwise, it is strictly advised to connect the mobile phone to the Netgear router WiFi network. Just in case you are using the Nighthawk application for the installation of your router, consider referring to the label of the product to know about the correct network name and WiFi password.
2. Get in the Range of Router
To successfully connect the app to the router, your mobile phone needs to be present within the range of the WiFi signals emitted by the router. If you are trying to use the WiFi network outside its signal range, then you are doing it wrong. So, come a little closer to the WiFi router and refresh the network list. Disconnect your mobile phone from the router’s network and reconnect it. If nothing happens, forget the network and re-establish the connection. Also, disable the mobile network as the app will try to drift toward the one offering higher WiFi speed.
Note: Try upgrading the software version of the mobile phone or tablet you are using. It is because the outdated OS of the device can also mess with the functioning of various applications on different occasions.
3. Clear the App’s Cache
Sometimes, it is the app’s cache that does not allow the router to connect to the app. Chances are that the app has cached the previous Netgear Genie login details. Therefore, you are suggested to erase the application’s cache as soon as possible. For this, you need to access the Settings of your mobile phone or tablet. After reaching there, select the Nighthawk app and hit Clear Cache. In a few moments, the cache from the app will get erased and you will be able to use it again. Now, see if the router connects to the app. If not, then you should uninstall the app and re-install it.
Uninstall the App and Re-install It
Chances are that the app has not been installed properly on your device. Therefore, you need to install it once again. For this, you need to long press the app icon and wait for a few options to float on the screen. Once done, tap the Uninstall option. After that, consider visiting the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to install the app again.
Final Thoughts
Although after giving a shot at the techniques mentioned above, you will be able to fix the connectivity issue between the app and the router, in case you don’t, try to access 192.168.1.1 on a web browser. Any luck in reaching the admin page of the router? If not, then there are chances that your router needs a reset.
Therefore, wait for nothing and locate the hole named Reset on the router’s hardware. You need to press a button present inside it with the help of a paper clip or another sharp object. Hold the button for a few seconds. When you release it, your WiFi router will start running in the default factory mode. You are now free to set it up again. So, either do it via the web-based management portal of the router or the Nighthawk app. The choice is all yours.
