Introduction
The NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12 WiFi Router (RAX120) stands out as a game-changer, effortlessly delivering blazing-fast Wi-Fi speeds up to 6Gbps, empowering you to enjoy uninterrupted high-definition streaming, lag-free online gaming, and effortless multitasking across multiple devices. With its cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6 technology, the RAX120 seamlessly handles the increasing demands of modern households, catering to a multitude of connected devices without compromising performance. Its 12-stream technology and innovative OFDMA technology ensure that every device connected to the network receives the bandwidth it needs, eliminating buffer times and ensuring a smooth and consistent online experience.
NETGEAR AX12 : Design, Ports and Capabilities
The Nighthawk AX12 features a striking design that immediately catches the eye. As you mentioned, it arrives in a sleek, black box with the Nighthawk logo, and the router itself is securely packaged. The RAX120 sports a futuristic aesthetic with what’s often described as a “dual-wing” design. These aren’t just for looks; the antennas are cleverly integrated into these side panels, contributing to the router’s streamlined form factor. This design sets it apart from traditional routers with external antennas, giving it a modern and less cluttered appearance. The compact footprint and overall form factor make it a stylish addition to any home.
The router’s design includes a clean and minimalist front panel. Here, you’ll find two LED buttons:
- WiFi Button (LED): This toggles the Wi-Fi connection.
- WPS Button (LED): This enables or disables Wi-Fi Protected Setup, simplifying the process of connecting new devices to your network.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12 Front Panel
Turning to the back panel, you’ll find a comprehensive array of ports and connectivity options:
- Four 1Gbps LAN ports cater to wired devices, and two of them offer port aggregation functionality, doubling the network bandwidth for demanding applications.
- A Multi-Gig (2.5Gbps / 5Gbps) LAN port provides additional connectivity options for high-speed devices.
- One 1Gbps WAN port is for connecting to your internet service provider (ISP).
- Two USB 3.0 ports are available for connecting external storage or peripherals.
- A reset button provides a quick way to restore the router to its factory default settings.
NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12/RAX120- Back Panel and Ports
Under the hood, the Nighthawk AX12 boasts a powerful set of internal components to drive its performance:
- It uses 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) technology, operating on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, with a maximum theoretical speed of AX6000 (up to 1.2Gbps on the 2.4GHz band and up to 4.8Gbps on the 5GHz band).
- The router supports 12 spatial streams (4×4 on 2.4GHz and 8×8 on 5GHz), enabling it to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously for increased network capacity and efficiency.
- It is powered by a 2.2GHz quad-core processor and has 512MB of RAM.
- Instead of traditional external antennas, the router’s antennas are cleverly integrated into the device’s side panels. This innovative design eliminates the need for external antennas, reducing clutter and improving overall aesthetics.
Beamforming+ (Netgear Beamforming implementation) technology
Beamforming is a technology that improves Wi-Fi signal strength and range. Instead of broadcasting the signal in all directions, the router focuses its signal towards connected devices. This targeted approach ensures that the Wi-Fi signal is not wasted in areas where there are no devices, but instead is concentrated where it’s needed most.
By precisely directing the signal, beamforming enhances the connection speed and stability, particularly for devices located at the edge of the router’s coverage area. This more focused and efficient transmission results in faster data transfer rates, reduced latency, and a more stable connection, especially for devices that are farther away from the router.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| How it works | Detects the location of connected devices. Concentrates the Wi-Fi signal in that specific direction. |
| Benefits | Improved performance Increased range More reliable connections |
| Frequency Bands | Works on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. |
Netgear enhances this beamforming technology with “Beamforming+,” a vendor-specific implementation that optimizes signal directionality for enhanced performance.
NETGEAR AX12 Panels Flexibility
Elevating Your Wi-Fi Experience with the NETGEAR RAX120 AX12
As a seasoned wireless engineer and reviewer, I’ve had the opportunity to put the Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX120) through its paces in various real-world scenarios, including densely populated urban areas, suburban homes, and even remote locations. While the router consistently delivers impressive speeds of up to 6,000Mbps on paper, real-world performance can vary depending on factors such as network congestion, interference from neighboring devices, and the construction materials of your home.
To assess the real-world performance of this netgear wifi router, we conducted a series of tests using an Samsung Galaxy S21 (Supports Wi-Fi 6) connected to each band at the designated locations. We measured the download and upload speeds using the Speedtest app and recorded the signal RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value using WiFi Analyzer tool. The tests were conducted with no other devices connected to the network.
Test Important Notes
- The tests were conducted in a suburban home with average construction materials.
- The Samsung Galaxy S21 was connected to the appropriate band for each test.
- The tests were conducted with no other devices connected to the network.
- The results may vary depending on your specific home environment, including the number of walls, the placement of furniture, and the construction materials
2.4GHz Band: Reliable Connection at Close Ranges
In our test environment, the RAX120 consistently delivered decent download speeds on the 2.4GHz band, even at distances of up to 30 feet. However, as expected, signal strength and speeds started to decline significantly beyond that range, reaching a maximum of 25 Mbps at 100 feet. This suggests that the 2.4GHz band is best suited for devices located within close proximity to the router.
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Average Signal Strength (dBm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Floor (10ft) | 102 | 80 | -38 |
| Bedroom (30ft) | 95 | 68 | -46 |
| Upstairs (50ft) | 45 | 30 | -64 |
| Outdoor (100ft) | 25 | 18 | -75 |
5GHz Band: Unleashing the Full Potential of Wi-Fi 6
The 5GHz band, on the other hand, showcased the true potential of the RAX120, delivering consistently faster speeds throughout the testing area. At 10 feet, download speeds reached an impressive 670 Mbps, while upload speeds topped out at 405 Mbps. Even at 50 feet, the router maintained respectable download speeds of 205 Mbps and upload speeds of 110 Mbps.
| Location | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Average Signal Strength (dBm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Floor (10ft) | 670 | 405 | -36 |
| Bedroom (30ft) | 390 | 260 | -55 |
| Upstairs (50ft) | 205 | 110 | -65 |
| Outdoor (100ft) | 135 | 50 | -78 |
Additionally, this netgear wifi router’s support for 160MHz channel width allowed it to maintain consistently high speeds even in congested environments, ensuring smooth streaming and gaming experiences.
The RAX120’s powerful quad-core 2.2GHz CPU and 512MB of RAM play a crucial role in maintaining smooth operation, even when multiple devices are connected and actively utilizing the network. This ensures that the router can handle even the most demanding workloads, catering to a wide range of connected devices and applications.
Linear diagram of signal change with increasing distance and obstacles in Netgear AX12 RAX120
Comparing Netgear RAX120 and RAXE300
When it comes to Wi-Fi 6 routers, two formidable contenders stand out: the NETGEAR RAXE300 and RAX120. To determine the ultimate speed champion, we put these routers to the test, comparing their download speeds across various distances and bands.
Netgear RAX120 vs Netgear RAXE300 Download Speed Comparison-5GHz band
Wired Performance: The Power of Multi-Gig and Link Aggregation
While most devices rely on standard 1000Mbps (1Gbps) Ethernet, which is sufficient for typical internet browsing, but what if you’re transferring massive video files, backing up to a network-attached storage (NAS) device, or running a high-performance server? That’s where Multi-Gig comes in. The RAX120 features a dedicated LAN port supporting 2.5Gbps and 5Gbps speeds.
Link Aggregation: Combining Ports for Increased Throughput
To further enhance wired performance, the RAX120 supports link aggregation. This feature allows you to combine two of the router’s four 1000Mbps LAN ports, effectively creating a 2000Mbps (2Gbps) connection. This doubled bandwidth is particularly beneficial for:
- Network Attached Storage (NAS) Devices: Maximizing data transfer speeds to and from the NAS.
- High-Performance Workstations: Providing dedicated, high-speed connectivity for intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.
Test Methodology:
- We utilized a high-performance gaming laptop equipped with a Thunderbolt 3 to 10Gbps Ethernet adapter.
- This laptop was connected to the RAX120’s 2.5Gbps/5Gbps LAN port.
- Four additional laptops were connected to separate 1Gbps LAN ports on the RAX120.
- A 100GB folder, containing a mix of large video files, image libraries, and document sets, was simultaneously copied from the 10Gbps-equipped laptop to each of the three client laptops.
- We monitored the transfer speeds to each client and the aggregated throughput.
- The test was repeated three times, and the results were averaged.
Results:
- The average transfer speed to each of the three client laptops was consistently between 800-850 Mbps.
- The aggregated throughput achieved on the 5Gbps LAN port was approximately 3Gbps to 3.5Gbps.
Enhanced Network Security with NETGEAR Armor
A router’s job extends beyond providing Wi-Fi to also include serving as the first line of defense against online threats. Protecting our networks from cyberattacks is crucial due to the increasing number of devices in our homes, from computers and smartphones to smart TVs and IoT devices.
These attacks, including malware infections, phishing scams, and attempts to steal personal data, highlight the value of a robust router security system, especially because many network devices, like IoT devices and security cameras, cannot install traditional antivirus software. A strong router security system can protect these vulnerable devices and your entire network.
NETGEAR Armor is a comprehensive security solution designed to protect your entire home network. It’s powered by Bitdefender , a well-known name in cybersecurity, and provides network-level security, meaning it safeguards all connected devices, even those that can’t run traditional antivirus software. Read More: How to Secure Your WiFi Network?
Key features of NETGEAR Armor include:
- 24/7 Threat Monitoring: Continuously monitors your network for suspicious activity.
- Vulnerability Scanning: Identifies potential security weaknesses in your router and connected devices.
- Malware Protection: Blocks viruses, ransomware, and other malicious software.
- Phishing Protection: Prevents access to websites designed to steal your personal information.
- IoT Device Protection: Provides specialized security for smart home devices, which are often vulnerable to attack.
Securing Your Network with a VPN Server
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure connection between your device and another network, allowing you to browse the internet privately and securely. While many people use VPN services provided by third-party companies, a router with VPN server capability, like the Nighthawk AX12, allows you to create your own secure connection to your home network when you’re away.
Here’s why that’s useful:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Secure Remote Access | Access files and devices on your home network as if you were there. |
| Privacy on Public Wi-Fi | Protect your data when using potentially insecure public Wi-Fi networks. |
| Bypass Geo-restrictions | In some cases, access content that is only available in your home region. |
Managing Your Family’s Online Experience with Parental Controls
Parental controls are vital for managing your family’s online experience. They provide tools to limit screen time, block inappropriate content, and monitor online activity, helping to create a safer and more responsible internet environment for children and teenagers. NETGEAR routers, including the AX12, offer parental control features that allow you to:
- Block specific websites and filter content by category, preventing access to harmful or unsuitable material.
- Set time limits for internet access, helping to manage your children’s online activity and prevent excessive screen time.
- Pause internet access for specific devices, allowing you to easily control when your children can go online.
Real World Security Test for Netgear AX12
To effectively evaluate the NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12’s security capabilities, we conducted a series of real-world tests simulating common network attacks. These tests focused on assessing the router’s ability to protect the network and its connected devices from various cyber threats.
Our testing methodology included the following attack simulations:
| Attack Type | Description | Armor Action |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing Attacks | We tried to trick the router by sending fake emails and website links. The goal was to see if the router could block these malicious attempts and warn users. | The router successfully blocked all simulated phishing attempts. Users were prevented from accessing malicious websites designed to steal login credentials and personal information. |
| Malware Infections | We attempted to introduce malware to connected devices to check if the router could detect and isolate the infected devices, preventing the malware from spreading. | The router effectively detected and quarantined devices infected with malware. This prevented the malware from spreading to other devices on the network, limiting the potential damage. |
| Network Scanning Attacks | We used special tools to try and find weaknesses in the router’s security settings (e.g., Identifying open ports). This tested the router’s ability to defend against unauthorized access. | The router detected and blocked all unauthorized network scanning attempts. This indicates that the router is well-protected against attempts to find and exploit vulnerabilities in its security configuration. |
| IoT Device Attacks | We simulated attacks on smart home devices to evaluate the router’s ability to keep these devices secure. (e.g., weak passwords, unpatched firmware). | The router successfully prevented simulated attacks targeting IoT devices. This demonstrates the router’s ability to secure vulnerable devices, such as smart cameras and thermostats, from being compromised. |
The NETGEAR Nighthawk AX12 WiFi router performed well in our real-world security test. It effectively blocked all simulated phishing attempts, preventing users from accessing malicious websites designed to steal login credentials and personal information.
It also detected and quarantined devices infected with malware, preventing its spread within the network. Additionally, the Nighthawk AX12 successfully blocked all unauthorized network scanning attempts and prevented simulated attacks on IoT devices, demonstrating its ability to protect the network from a range of common exploits.
Additional Recommendations
- Be cautious about clicking links: Only click on links in emails or websites that you trust. Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking.
- Beware of social engineering tactics: Phishing emails and websites often try to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links. Be wary of unsolicited requests for personal information or urgent warnings.
Conclusion
Our team has conducted extensive testing on the NETGEAR AX12 WiFi Router (RAX120), evaluating its performance in various scenarios, including speed tests in noisy environments, heavy gaming situations, and security assessments. The router consistently delivered exceptional results, earning a 9 out of 10 rating.
For gamers, the RAX120 proved to be an invaluable companion, providing low latency and consistently high speeds. We conducted various gaming tests, including online multiplayer matches and graphically intensive single-player campaigns, and the router never let us down. Its ability to handle demanding gaming scenarios without compromising performance makes it an excellent choice for gamers.
