Netgear R6850 Router Review: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly Of This Wi-Fi Router

The NETGEAR R6850 router is a high-performance Wi-Fi router that has become increasingly popular for its impressive range and signal strength. This article will provide an in-depth review of the good, the bad, and the ugly of this particular model. By analyzing the features and performance capabilities of this router, readers will be able to make an informed decision regarding whether or not it is suitable for their particular needs.

The NETGEAR R6850 is equipped with advanced technologies such as dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi technology, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, and a single USB 2.0 port. These capabilities allow users to connect multiple devices simultaneously while providing them with reliable internet access.

Additionally, this router also includes several other features such as parental controls, guest networks, and support for Alexa voice commands that increase user convenience.

In conclusion, this article will provide readers with an extensive overview of the NETGEAR R6850 router’s various features and performance capabilities in order to help them determine if it is the right option for their needs. The review will cover topics such as the device’s design, setup process, performance results, security measures taken by the manufacturer, and more.

Overview

The Netgear R6850 is a dual-band wireless router that offers speeds of up to 1750 Mbps. It features four Gigabit Ethernet ports, one WAN port, and one USB 2.0 port for connecting printers, hard drives, and other devices. The router also features advanced security features such as an SPI firewall and parental control settings. Additionally, the device is compatible with both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks.

In terms of performance, the R6850 has been found to be reliable in providing consistent speeds across multiple devices. Its range is also impressive, allowing for good coverage throughout most homes or offices. Furthermore, the router is easy to set up and configure thanks to its intuitive user interface and simple setup wizard.

Overall, the Netgear R6850 is a powerful wireless router that provides good performance at an affordable price point. It offers reliable speeds across multiple devices and its range allows for great coverage in larger spaces. The device is also easy to set up and configure due to its user-friendly interface and setup wizard.

Design And Setup

Moving on to the Design and Setup of the Netgear R6850 Router, this router has a modern aesthetic that features a sleek black design. It is a dual-band router with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, offering speeds up to 1200 Mbps. The antennas are internal and non-adjustable, allowing for optimal coverage throughout the home or office.

On the side of the router are four Gigabit Ethernet ports and one USB 3.0 port for connecting wired devices such as printers or external hard drives. Additionally, it has two USB 2.0 ports for connecting mobile devices like smartphones or tablets.

The setup process is simple and straightforward on both MacOS and Windows devices. Using a web browser, users can access the router’s setup page where they can create a secure username and password to protect their network from unauthorized access.

Once logged in, users can customize their security settings, change their SSID (network name), adjust wireless settings, configure parental controls, review connection logs and more. This can all be done within minutes with minimal effort required from the user.

The Netgear R6850 Router offers reliable performance at an affordable price point, making it a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their existing home or office wireless network without breaking the bank. Its modern design, fast speeds, easy setup process and advanced security features make it an ideal choice for users looking for an effective home network solution that won’t require hours of tinkering or constant maintenance.

Performance

The Netgear R6850 router offers impressive performance for its price point. Its dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi system allows up to 867 Mbps of wireless speed on the 5GHz band and 300 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band. Furthermore, four gigabit Ethernet ports provide a maximum transfer rate of 1,000 Mbps, allowing users to enjoy fast wired connections as well.

This makes it a great choice for streaming 4K HD videos or playing online games without experiencing any buffering issues.

Additionally, this device is equipped with MU-MIMO technology which helps optimize network traffic and reduce latency, providing an improved user experience when multiple devices are connected at once. Moreover, this router also features beamforming+ technology which helps concentrate the Wi-Fi signal in order to minimize interference from nearby networks and maximize coverage area.

All these features make this device a great option for demanding home networking applications.

Connectivity

The Netgear R6850 router is designed to provide a reliable connection to users with its wireless dual-band Wi-Fi feature. It supports dual-band speeds of up to 1,733 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 800 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, which makes it suitable for streaming high-definition videos and large file transfers.

Moreover, the router supports MU-MIMO technology that allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously without sacrificing performance. Additionally, it is equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting wired devices such as gaming consoles or smart TVs.

The router also features an advanced QoS (Quality of Service) setting that helps prioritize network traffic so that important activities like gaming or streaming video are given preference over less critical tasks like downloading files. Furthermore, the router has a powerful beamforming feature that helps improve coverage in larger homes by focusing the signal strength towards connected devices.

The Netgear R6850 router offers good connectivity options for home users looking for reliable wireless connections and fast speeds. It supports multiple simultaneous connections with MU-MIMO technology and can prioritize network traffic using advanced QoS settings. Additionally, its beamforming feature helps boost signal strength within larger homes for improved coverage.

Security Features

The Netgear R6850 is a Wi-Fi router designed to provide security from the growing number of cyber threats. It offers several layers of protection, including firewalls and encryption protocols. The first layer of security is the router’s built-in firewall, which helps protect against external threats like malware and viruses. The firewall also allows for secure remote access, protecting any data that is transferred over the network.

The second layer of security is WPA3 encryption technology, which provides strong encryption and authentication protocols to protect data sent over the network. This ensures the highest level of privacy while connected to the internet. The router also has parental controls, allowing users to set up restrictions on certain types of content or websites depending on user preferences.

The Netgear R6850 offers an impressive array of security features that make it an ideal choice for those looking for a secure internet connection at home or in a small business setting. Its firewalls and encryption technologies provide robust protection from external threats while its parental controls offer added control over what can be accessed online.

Range And Coverage

The Netgear R6850 Wi-Fi router offers an impressive range and coverage. It has a signal that can reach up to 1,200 square feet with two antennas and four internal antennas. With this range, it is able to support multiple devices at once and connect quickly and easily. Additionally, the router can stream content across multiple devices simultaneously.

The benefits of the Netgear R6850 include:

• Simultaneous streaming on multiple devices
• Up to 1200 square feet of coverage
• Two external antennas for reliable connection
• Four internal antennas for enhanced performance

The Netgear R6850 is a great choice for those who need a reliable connection and wide coverage area in their home or office. It offers strong signal strength, fast speeds, and seamless streaming capabilities for multiple devices. Its impressive range and coverage make it an ideal choice for those looking for high performance in their wireless network.

Bandwidth Management

In terms of bandwidth management, the Netgear R6850 router offers a range of options that are both user-friendly and effective. The router utilizes Quality of Service (QoS) technology to prioritize traffic and ensure that applications with high network demands get the resources they need. This makes it easy for users to manage their home network in order to maximize performance.

Feature	Rating
Easy Setup	4/5
QoS Technology	5/5
Bandwidth Management Features	5/5

The router also has an intuitive dashboard that allows users to easily adjust settings and customize their network experience. The dashboard contains options for setting up parental controls, as well as creating guest networks for visitors. Additionally, there are tools for managing bandwidth usage, such as setting limits on downloads and uploads. All these features make it easy for users to customize their network according to their needs.

Overall, the Netgear R6850 is well equipped to handle bandwidth management tasks. It provides a wide range of features that allow users to customize their networks and prioritize traffic in order to maximize performance. The interface is easy to use and provides a variety of options that make it possible for even novice users to set up an optimal home network without any difficulty.

Pros And Cons

The Netgear R6850 Router has several advantages that make it a desirable choice for users. First, its dual-band technology allows the router to run on two different frequencies simultaneously, allowing for faster data transmission and better coverage. Secondly, it also supports beamforming technology which helps to improve signal strength and reduce interference from other devices in the network.

Furthermore, this router is equipped with an advanced security system which includes WPA2/WPA3 encryption and parental control features.

In terms of drawbacks, the Netgear R6850 Router does have some limitations. Firstly, its range is somewhat limited compared to other routers on the market due to its small size and single antenna design. Additionally, this router does not support MU-MIMO or mesh networking technologies which could improve performance in larger networks.

Finally, the parental control settings are quite basic and may not be sufficient for more advanced users who require more customization options.

Overall, the Netgear R6850 Router offers good performance and advanced features at an affordable price point. It is suitable for both home and business users looking to expand their wireless network coverage without breaking the bank.

Alternatives

When looking for an alternative to the Netgear R6850 Router, there are a few factors to consider, such as:

• Price:
• Mid-range routers, such as TP-Link’s Archer A7 or ASUS’s RT-AC5300.
• High end routers, like Google WiFi or the Linksys WRT3200ACM.
• Budget options, like the NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1750 Smart WiFi Router.
• Performance:
• Dual band routers with MU-MIMO technology.
• Tri-band routers with beam forming capabilities.
• Gaming routers with advanced QoS settings.
• Features:
• Mesh networking solutions for larger homes and offices.
• Built-in VPN servers for added security and privacy protection.
• Smart home integration for voice command capabilities.

It is important to compare these different models to make sure that they meet your specific needs and budget before investing in a new router. Furthermore, be sure to read product reviews and user experiences before making a purchase decision in order to get an accurate assessment of the functionality and performance of each device.

Final Verdict

The Netgear R6850 is a powerful and reliable router that offers good speeds and coverage. Its setup process is straightforward and user-friendly, while its security features are comprehensive. The device also comes with a variety of options for customization and management, allowing users to tailor it to their needs. However, the lack of support for 5 GHz networks can be an issue if you need faster speeds over longer distances.

The price point of the Netgear R6850 is also quite reasonable, making it an attractive option for those looking for a quality router at an affordable price. Furthermore, the two-year warranty offered by Netgear provides added peace of mind in case any issues arise with the router.

Overall, the Netgear R6850 is a great choice for those looking for a reliable wireless router without breaking the bank. It offers good speeds, coverage, security features and plenty of options for customization and management. As such, it’s well worth considering if you’re in the market for a new router.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does The Netgear R6850 Router Cost?

The Netgear R6850 Router is a popular Wi-Fi router, but what is the cost? This question requires some investigation in order to answer. The first step is to look at the average retail price of the R6850 Router. According to research conducted by third-party sources, the average retail price of the router is approximately $139.99 USD. This price can be found on many major online retailers and may vary slightly depending on where it is purchased.

In addition to researching the average retail price, it may also be beneficial to consider other factors such as discounts, sales, and bundle deals that are available for this product. Various online retailers offer discounts or sales throughout the year and sometimes offer bundle deals with other products for an even lower total cost.

For example, Amazon often offers discounts for certain models of routers including the Netgear R6850 Router when purchased through their website.

Overall, it appears that the Netgear R6850 Router has an average retail price of around $139.99 USD and can sometimes be found at a discounted rate depending on where it is purchased from. When taking advantage of special offers or bundle deals from online retailers, it is possible to get a better deal on this product than its regular price tag suggests.

Is The Netgear R6850 Router Compatible With Other Wi-Fi Routers?

The Netgear R6850 Router is a popular product that offers users a wide range of features and capabilities. The question arises as to whether the device is compatible with other wi-fi routers.

In order to answer this question, it is important to look at the technical specifications of the product. The R6850 has dual band technology, allowing it to connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi networks. It also has Beamforming+ technology which helps create stronger connections between devices and the router itself.

Furthermore, it supports 802.11ac technology, which means it can provide speeds up to 1.9Gbps for uninterrupted streaming and gaming experience.

Additionally, the device is able to work together with other routers that support Wi-Fi networking standards such as 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, WPA2-PSK or WPA3-PSK security protocols and more recent technologies like MU-MIMO or OFDMA for faster data transmission on multiple devices simultaneously in larger households or business networks.

Overall, it appears that the Netgear R6850 Router is compatible with many other wi-fi routers currently available on the market due to its advanced technological features and compatibility with existing standards and protocols. This makes the R6850 an ideal choice for those wanting a reliable connection without sacrificing speed or performance when connecting multiple devices simultaneously in larger households or business networks.

Can I Use The Netgear R6850 Router To Connect To 5ghz Networks?

The Netgear R6850 router is a wireless router designed for home use. It has the capability to connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable connection with excellent speeds and range. In order to answer the current H2, it is important to understand the difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks.

2.4GHz networks are typically better suited for slower speeds, while 5GHz networks are better suited for faster speeds. The Netgear R6850 router is capable of connecting to both types of networks, allowing users to enjoy fast speeds on both bands simultaneously. Additionally, the router supports Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption which ensures that your network is secure from unauthorized access.

In terms of compatibility, the Netgear R6850 router can be used in combination with other Wi-Fi routers provided they support either 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequencies. Furthermore, its dual-band technology allows users to switch between both bands as needed in order to maximize performance and speed.

As such, this makes it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable connection with fast speeds and range no matter what type of network they are using.

The Netgear R6850 router is an ideal solution for anyone looking for a reliable connection with excellent performance and features at an affordable price point. With its dual-band support and WPA encryption capabilities, users can be sure that their network will remain secure while also enjoying fast speeds on both bands simultaneously when connected to either 2.4GHz or 5GHz networks.

Does The Netgear R6850 Router Have Parental Control Features?

The Netgear R6850 Router is a Wi-Fi router that supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, making it suitable for a variety of internet connection speeds. It also offers parental control features, allowing users to manage their children’s online activities. In this article, we will discuss the various parental control features available on the Netgear R6850 Router.

The Netgear R6850 Router offers several parental control features:

1. Setting up a whitelist or blacklist of websites that can be blocked or allowed with a single click.
2. Scheduling access times for certain devices or services, such as limiting video streaming during school hours.
3. Creating separate guest networks with different levels of access for each family member or guest user.

These parental control features are designed to help parents manage their children’s online activities in an effective and secure manner. With the ability to set up whitelists and blacklists, parents can quickly block unwanted sites while allowing access to educational or entertainment websites they want their children to visit safely.

Additionally, by setting access times for certain devices or services, parents can ensure that their children are not spending too much time on certain activities. Finally, by creating separate guest networks with different levels of access for each family member or guest user, parents can make sure that only authorized people have access to the network resources shared by all users in the home network environment.

In summary, the Netgear R6850 Router offers multiple options when it comes to managing how your family members use the internet securely and effectively. By setting up whitelists and blacklists of websites, scheduling access times for certain devices or services and creating separate guest networks with different levels of access for each family member or guest user, parents can easily monitor and manage their children’s online activities without sacrificing security or convenience.

Does The Netgear R6850 Router Support External Antennas?

The Netgear R6850 router is a Wi-Fi router that has been on the market for some time. One of the features that many users look for when considering this type of router is the ability to support external antennas. This feature can be beneficial if additional range and coverage are needed in certain areas of the home or office.

In order to determine whether or not this router supports external antennas, it is important to look at the specifications of the device. The Netgear R6850 router has two external antenna ports, as well as two internal antennas. This indicates that it does indeed support external antennas, allowing users to increase their signal strength and coverage area when necessary.

When using external antennas with this particular model, it is important to ensure that they are compatible with the device’s operating system and wireless standards. Additionally, any additional hardware or software required must also be considered in order for the setup to work properly. With these considerations in mind, users should be able to get increased performance from their Netgear R6850 router by utilizing its support for external antennas.

Conclusion

The NETGEAR R6850 Router is an excellent choice for a Wi-Fi router. It is affordably priced and compatible with other routers, allowing users to connect to 5Ghz networks and take advantage of parental control features. Additionally, the NETGEAR R6850 Router supports external antennas, which can greatly improve the range of coverage. These features make the NETGEAR R6850 Router a great option for both home and business use.

In terms of performance, the NETGEAR R6850 Router offers reliable speeds and good range. Its dual-band system ensures that devices connected to it receive optimal performance. Moreover, its easy setup makes it ideal for users who are not very tech savvy and want a hassle-free experience when setting up their router.

Overall, the NETGEAR R6850 Router is a great option for those looking for an affordable Wi-Fi router with reliable performance and good range. Its compatibility with other routers makes it suitable for home or business use and its parental control features make it an attractive option for families with children. With its easy setup and support for external antennas, the NETGEAR R6850 Router offers great value at an affordable price.