R6400 v2 no 5Ghz channel

Question

I know this is a commonly addressed problem, but I am here because I think I have attempted all available options to fix the 5ghz unavailability on my wi-fi. Recently upgraded to R6400v2, from a legacy Netgear router, to help improve streaming in house with lots of newer devices.

I have 10-15 devices currently connected to the 2.4 band, and I have begun to notice a decrease in performance. Before problems began I had a 50-50 split between both channels and things were working swimmingly. Obviously I am frustrated with the troubleshooting and I'll replace the device if I have to, but I want to explore all options before I do so.

So here are the details:

model: R6400 v2 (purchased in April 2020)

firmware: V1.0.4.102_10.0.75 (manually installed)

5ghz Channel: 149 + 153 (P) + 157 + 161 (factory default)

Wireless AP: On

Mode: Up to 1300mbps

SSID Broadcast is enabled

region: North America

Cable internet provider: Cox (arris surfboard SB6190 cable modem)

Light is active on the front of the device, all other systems are functional.

1. The 5ghz band disappeared off my available wi-fi connections about two weeks ago. When I factory reset my device, I can get for short periods of time availability on my two mac computers but on no other devices and for very short distances. All my other 5ghz band capable devices including my iPhone 11 won't pick it up.

3. I went back to an earlier firmware, from when I purchased and updated the device in the spring, and to no avail, the 5ghz still was either limited or generally unavailable.

4. I reduced the 5gh Channel from the factory default of 153, to something in the mid-40's and to no avail, no device outside my two computers (including a legacy iMac) would pick it up.

5. I have removed all known obstructions that would reduce availability, but I have limited ability to move it throughout my due to access to cable internet.

Any other ideas or suggestions would be of great help. Thanks in advance. I think I have included all the necessary information, will be more than happy to provide more if needed.

Thanks.

plemans · Answer

the only other thing I'd try doing is manually install version 1.0.3.66 of the firmware. Then do a factory reset and clean install (not from backup). Then disable auto updates after install.

If that doesn't help, I'd contact support since you should still be within warranty if purchased new.

Grizfan24 · Answer

Plemans,&nbsp;Thank you for the help. Unfortunately for me, it doesn't appear to have been successful. I downloaded the firmware that you suggested, uploaded it manually, and then did a factory reset and clean installed the modem once again.&nbsp;The status is the same, only visible on my two Mac's with limited strength and limited connectivity.&nbsp;Unless there is another miracle mix, I'll likely begin the process of getting netgear to replace the the router.&nbsp;Thanks again.&nbsp;

Grizfan24 · Answer

I don't want to pick a fight here, but anyone have any experience dealing with Netgear over the phone on this issue?

Just got off the phone after twenty minutes of them performing hardware check and expecting them to replace the device through warranty. However, after the full conversation where I never got the 5ghz to work for longer than 5 seconds, he tells me that their technicians can fix the problem.... for a fee. Ugh.

I didn't have a reason to purchase an extended warranty at the time of purchase as I have had five different netgear devices and never had a problem, and they want me to spend 50 bucks minimum to fix the 5GHZ reception issue on a device that I have had less that 8 months.

I'm mildly annoyed to say the least. Any insight would be wonderful. Just feeling a bit aggravated at the moment and looking for suggestions as what else to try.

Apollo5 · Answer

This exact same scenario happened to me, my 5G randomly stopped broadcasting and I didn't notice it until last week when my ISP came over to fix an issue.&nbsp; I called Tech Support and they advised that I would have to purchase a 3 or 6 month plan to have their technicians address the problem.&nbsp; They ask if the lights that correspond with the bands are displaying lit up.&nbsp; Once they have determiend that the broadcasting is "working" they try and sell you a package.&nbsp; My router is still under warranty and I'm thinking of calling in to the tech support again to see if we can't have them send me another model.&nbsp; You might check with the retailer you purchased the router from and see if they can get you a new one.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I've been searching forums upon forums to find a solution to this problem and it does seem to be a common one.&nbsp; I have reset, reflashed, switched channels, tried to change regions, and nothing seems to fix this problem once it occurs.&nbsp; Good luck.&nbsp;

wcalifas · Answer

You could always try dd-wrt (third party firmware) I see it as a model that is supported with dd-wrt. You have to read instructions on how to do it. I'd do it as a last case scenario. Plus dd-wrt allows you to boost wifi transmitting power in its firmware.

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R6400 v2 no 5Ghz channel

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