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Forum Discussion

Steve-AES's avatar
Steve-AES
Aspirant
Jan 23, 2026

Access Control Security Issue

Why has the Access control feature been removed from the security tab in the web interface?

I found this very useful in controlling who and what devices could connect to my Nighthawk WiFi 6 mesh setup?

Was very good for using the MAC Address filtering. 

Now it tells me to use the APP but unable to find where the Mac Address element in the App sits?

Now I find that any new devices don't need to be given access and can just with the password get access, is this not a security issue? unless I'm missing something somewhere in the app?

 

Any help why this Security Access has been removed and pushed onto the app will be appreciated.

 

Steve A 

 

mk6w

4 Replies

  • CrimpOn's avatar
    CrimpOn
    Guru - Experienced User
    Jan 24, 2026

    I often wonder "why?" about Netgear decisions.  Unless something is part of a marketing campaign, most companies provide no explanations and customers are left to speculate.

    Why do security cameras and televisions often come with 100Mbps Ethernet adapters rather than gigabit adapters? hmmm...

    • These devices require less than 100Mbps data rate, and
    • 100Mbps adapters probably cost less than gigabit adapters, so.....
    • But does the manufacturer print anything explaining why they made this decision.  Nope.

    My take is

    • There is a clear trend toward smartphone apps to manage everything.  Some companies do not include web interface in their WiFi routers at all.  Why spend money to modify/maintain the web interface when so many customers would prefer to use the app?
    • Netgear clearly wants customers to subscribe (i.e. pay every year) to Armor and Smart Parental Controls (SPC), so making those apps available only through the smartphone app is a way to push customers toward the app.

    But, Why?  No one outside Netgear knows.

     

    p.s. Checked an RBR750 (WiFi6)  Still present in the web interface.

  • plemans's avatar
    plemans
    Guru - Experienced User
    Jan 24, 2026

    What device do you have? 

    What firmware is on it? 

    I checked my RBK873, RBK973, and my RS600 and all still had the access control option.