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Use Existing Config File To Setup A New Router
I hope someone can clear this up for me. I have an older Netgear WINR2000 N300 router. I am wanting to upgrade to a newer model with gigabit speed (wired), I was eyeing the WINDR4300 N750. It looks like it would suit my needs. Anyway, me real question is this. Can I export all my settings from my existing NetGear router, then use that file to configure a new one, saving me from having to re-enter all my static IP addresses, port settings, and other settings that I have made over the years?
I have been told "Yes" as well as "No", I even got a "Maybe" and a couple of "Probablies".
It is a lazy man's solution, I know. I just would like the quickest way. It seems like an obvious workable solution, but we all know how that sort of logic plays out in the real world.
Also, I would love t see some reccemendations for what model router I should choose. I am not too price sensitive, but I don't need business class for home, even though I am using an HP Pro Curve 2810 24G Switch. Wireless is for a couple of tablets and smart phones, a laptop or two. Most devices are using wired connections.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
The answer is no to config files. The structure can vary from one model to the next, even if some of the variables stored within it have the same name.
Even using config files from one firmware version to another for the same router can cause problems, so it definitely isn't advisable across different models.
With regards to a new router, what type of connection do you have? Do you have enough tech in the house so that they fight with each other for bandwidth? If so you may wish to purchase a router that supports QoS
Do you have deadspots in the house where Wifi doesn't work? Then maybe Wifi coverage is a priority. Do you stream a lot of HD content, or IPTV ?
There are so many variables its hard to second guess your needs, but these are the kind of things to consider if you're upgrading.
5 Replies
- Not by using the saved config file there isn't. Unless you want to cause possible conflict
The answer is no to config files. The structure can vary from one model to the next, even if some of the variables stored within it have the same name.
Even using config files from one firmware version to another for the same router can cause problems, so it definitely isn't advisable across different models.
With regards to a new router, what type of connection do you have? Do you have enough tech in the house so that they fight with each other for bandwidth? If so you may wish to purchase a router that supports QoS
Do you have deadspots in the house where Wifi doesn't work? Then maybe Wifi coverage is a priority. Do you stream a lot of HD content, or IPTV ?
There are so many variables its hard to second guess your needs, but these are the kind of things to consider if you're upgrading.
Thank you for setting me straight. I guess I will need to document all of my settings before I buy a new one. As I mentioned, I was looking for the lazy way, and that just isn't an option.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question and show me the folly.
Dal
To add to the "No" chorus, it isn't even advisable to restore settings to the same hardware after a firmware flash.
It can work, bit as soon as you see problems, you may have to set to factory settings.
So, before you go through all the effort of setting up a new device, check that it has the latest firmware before you start the task.
Alt+Print Screen grabs are a good way of remembering settings.
No there is way of just copying the settings of one router into newer router. The choice of router is your's on which router you get newer devices support the ac standard while the n standard still has life in it and the size of the house to cover.
