If you have even wondered what the lights on your Netgear router mean we have to say that they are there to tell you whether everything works properly. So, whenever you notice that there is something wrong with your network or internet connection, be sure that the router LED lights will give you a signal. They will either change their normal color and behavior. They can become red or orange or they will start blinking.
One such signal is the Netgear N900 Power light blinking. Now, let’s see whether this is normal behavior and what we can do to fix the problem.
CONTENTS
Is it normal for the power light to blink?
Normally, when we power on the router the power LED light will be orange for 20 seconds and then it should change its color into white or green depending on the model. However, if it doesn’t change the color or it starts blinking it is a definite sign that there is a problem somewhere.
The good thing here is that you can do something about it without the need to get in touch with the Netgear tech support.
How to fix the Netgear N900 Power Light Blinking?
Are you using the right power adapter?
One of the first things to check if the Power light is blinking on your Netgear N900 is the power adapter. Are you using the one supplied with the router or an alternative one? Also, in case you are using a surge protector, try connecting the router directly to the power outlet or try another power outlet in your home. A defective power outlet can be the reason behind the power light blinking. Hopefully, this will fix the problem.
Check whether the power adapter is firmly connected
Checking whether the power adapter is connected firmly to the power outlet is also recommended. At the same time check the part of the cable that goes into the router and confirm that it isn’t loose.
Is the firmware corrupted?
It is not that rare that the power goes off or we accidentally turn off the router while it is upgrading the firmware automatically. It is highly recommended not to interrupt the router firmware upgrade or it may result in serious damage. At the same time, if the router has upgraded the router firmware and detected that it’s corrupted you will see the Power LED light blinking.
To fix this try to update the firmware manually. You can get the latest firmware for your Netgear router at the Download Center. Just enter the Product Name/Model Number and download the firmware for your router.
Since you most probably won’t be able to login to your Netgear router at this point here is a detailed tutorial from the Netgear Knowledge base on how to upload firmware using TFTP client.
Important: If you are not confident you can follow the steps in this guide properly or you just don’t fully understand what to do it is highly recommended to get in touch with the NETGEAR tech support.
Is your router defective?
There are chances that the Power light on your Netgear N900 is blinking because the router is malfunctioning. In case you have another router connect it instead of the one you are currently using. If everything works properly you have found the reason for the blinking light. However, if you don’t have a spare router, then you can get the network Ethernet cable and plug it into the laptop or computer. If you get a working internet connection, the router is causing the problem.
Reset the router to factory settings
While the factory reset is a nice solution for many problems you might have with your router, it is important to know that it takes the router back to the default factory settings. This practically means that you will have to set up the router again. The network name and wireless password will get back to their defaults, just as any other change you have made to the router configuration.
Now when you know this you can proceed with the factory reset or skip to the next solution.
In order to properly reset your Netgear router to factory settings, pay attention to the following steps:
1. Make sure the router is powered on.
2. Check the back of your router and find the Reset button. It is usually hidden in order to prevent accidental factory resets.
3. Take a paper clip or a pen or something similar and press and hold the Reset button for 7-10 seconds.
4. Release the button.
5. The router will reset. Wait a little until it boots up completely.
Hopefully, this will fix the Netgear N900 Power light blinking. You can also visit this Netgear page for a Guided Assistance.
Contact the NETGEAR tech support
Netgear offers comprehensive technical support and customer service for your router, modem, or other home networking products. Having this in mind feel free to contact their tech support to help you troubleshoot and fix the problem.
Final Thoughts
As you can see there are different reasons why your Power light is blinking and also several different solutions to this problem. We hope that one of the steps has helped you get rid of the Netgear N900 Power light blinking before contacting the tech support.
Hey, I’m David. I’ve been working as a wireless network engineer and a network administrator for 15 years. During my studies, I also worked as an ISP field technician – that’s when I met Jeremy.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in network engineering and a master’s degree in computer science and engineering. I’m also a Cisco-certified service provider.
In my professional career, I worked for router/modem manufacturers and internet providers. I like to think that I’m good at explaining network-related issues in simple terms. That’s exactly what I’m doing on this website – I’m making simple and easy-to-follow guides on how to install, set up, and troubleshoot your networking hardware. I also review new network equipment – modems, gateways, switches, routers, extenders, mesh systems, cables, etc.
My goal is to help regular users with their everyday network issues, educate them, and make them less scared of their equipment. In my articles, you can find tips on what to look for when buying new networking hardware, and how to adjust your network settings to get the most out of your wi-fi.
Since my work is closely related to computers, servers, and other network equipment, I like to spend most of my spare time outdoors. When I want to blow off some steam, I like to ride my bike. I also love hiking and swimming. When I need to calm down and clear my mind, my go-to activity is fishing.
