Nighthawk Extender Extremely Slow with Optimum Internet?

March 29, 2024 Annie Mitchell

Optimum provides its gateways to which a person can connect a WiFi router or a range extender to improve the internet coverage. A lot of people prefer doing Netgear Nighthawk extender setup with Optimum internet gateways because of majestic outcomes. Things can become awry if the result is not favorable. In other words, the entire internet experience gets ruined if the Nighthawk extender extremely slow with Optimum internet issue shows up.
First of all, don’t be in a hurry to get the issue resolved. Perhaps, it has shown up because of a temporary glitch. There is also a possibility that a pending firmware update is making the internet slow. But, let’s not jump up to conclusions. Who knows what the actual reason might be? With that said, let us now focus on hit and trial methods that can help you fix the problem. Before we make you aware of other reasons and solutions, let us tell you what you can do to get rid of a temporary glitch and a pending firmware update. Keep reading the blog!

Tip 1: Restart the Extender to Kick Off Glitches

If temporary glitches are the reason why the Nighthawk extender is extremely slow with the Optimum, then you should definitely go for the easiest hack. It is a hit-and-trial method though! But, it will cause no harm to your extender. You just need to disconnect it from the Optimum gateway and power it down. The power down or the rest mode period should range from 10-15 minutes. This will provide enough time to revive the extender’s performance. Lastly, you should switch on the extender and connect it to the gateway.

Tip 2: Update the Firmware

You should update the firmware of your Nighthawk extender using the Nighthawk mobile app or the web login URL. It is because a firmware update helps in fixing bugs and errors that a reboot can’t resolve. It also helps a networking device like extender to stay safe from security threats. Thus, a firmware update is a sword and shield both. However, if you opt to do firmware update manually, we recommend you check the model number of the extender first. You must avoid making the mistake of uploading the firmware file that does not match the model number of the Nighthawk extender you own.

Fix: Nighthawk Extender Extremely Slow with Optimum Internet

If a reboot and a firmware update via Nighthawk login URL have failed to help you out, you are suggested to pay attention to other solutions that can be opted for. We are continuing with the Tip 3.

Tip 3: Check the Ethernet Cable

How is the health of the Ethernet cable connecting your Netgear Nighthawk extender and the main gateway (Optimum)? No, we aren’t asking you to take it to a doctor. You just need to scan it with your eyes. Is it damaged? If yes, then there is no wonder why Nighthawk extender extremely slow with Optimum internet. Thus, you must get the cable replaced as soon as possible.

Quick Tip: Replacing the Ethernet cable won’t bear any positive outcome if the cable isn’t connected to the ports properly. Thus, be very sure about creating a strong connection. You can also try connecting the cable to another LAN port of your Optimum gateway.

Tip 4: Eliminate WiFi Interference

Have a good look at the surroundings of your Nighthawk extender. Do you find it surrounded by appliances like microwave ovens, televisions, refrigerators, treadmills, baby monitors, etc? If yes, then you must change the location of the extender before you start facing no internet issue instead of slow internet. Such objects or devices tend to affect the signal propagation capability of the extender by messing up with them. You should also keep your Nighthawk extender away from objects containing a large amount or water and reflexive surfaces.

Tip 5: Check the Network Traffic

At times, heavy network traffic on the range extender can cause problems. This is because when the incoming traffic is more, the extender has to do more work. On the off-chance, it exceeds the pre-set value, you can expect the outcome similar to the one you are already facing. Therefore, we suggest you disconnect some devices from the extender’s WiFi network and see if there is some improvement. You should check for WiFi bandits too. Block if any exists!

The Final Words

We are now putting a full stop to the post that revealed what to do to fix the Nighthawk extender extremely slow with Optimum internet issue? Hopefully, you won’t face any-related issue in the future. Just in case the problem is still making you uncomfortable, you are suggested to perform a factory default reset of the extender by pressing the Reset button. It must be pushed using the paper clip or a pin. Once done, you are suggested to set up the range extender from scratch to enjoy internet access once again.