NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE300 (AXE7800) WiFi Router Review

Introduction

Wi-Fi technology is constantly evolving to keep pace with our growing demand for data and speed. We now use more devices than ever, and those devices require more bandwidth for activities like 4K streaming, online gaming, and virtual reality. The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE300 (AXE7800) WiFi router represents a significant step forward in wireless technology. It’s designed to provide the speed, capacity, and reliability needed to handle the complexities of modern internet usage.

NETGEAR RAXE300: Design and Specifications

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE300 isn’t just about performance; it also has a distinctive design and a range of features. Let’s break down what it looks like and what it offers.

When you first get the RAXE300, it comes in a stylish black box with the Nighthawk logo. Inside, the router is held safely in place by foam. Along with the router, you’ll find everything you need to get started.

The RAXE300 has a unique look. Instead of the usual antennas sticking straight up, it has what some reviewers call “folding wings”. These wings aren’t just for looks; inside these bending panels on either side are six pre-optimized antennas that help spread the Wi-Fi signal. This design gives the router a sleek and modern appearance, a bit like a small, fast spaceship. The router is mostly black with curved edges. The overall look is sleek and modern. However, keep in mind that this design makes the router fairly large, so you’ll need enough space to set it up.

On the front of the router, there are two LED buttons:

• One button turns the Wi-Fi on and off.
• The other button is for WPS, which helps you quickly connect devices to your Wi-Fi.

If you turn the router around, you’ll see all the ports you can use to connect devices. These include:

• Four standard 1Gbps LAN ports for wired connections. Two of these ports can be combined using “port aggregation” to provide double the speed (2Gbps) for devices that need it.
• One 2.5Gbps port, This is a faster Ethernet port that can be used for either your internet connection (WAN) or a wired device on your network (LAN).
• One USB-C port for connecting external storage devices.
• A reset button to return the router to its original settings.

The NETGEAR RAXE300 router’s rear panel provides a comprehensive selection of ports.

Wi-Fi Enhancement Technologies

Modern Wi-Fi routers, like the NETGEAR RAXE300, employ several advanced technologies to boost speed, range, and efficiency, especially in homes and offices with many connected devices. These Wi-Fi enhancement technologies include MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and beamforming, each playing a crucial role in optimizing your wireless network.

MU-MIMO and OFDMA: Improving Wi-Fi Efficiency

Traditional Wi-Fi routers send data to only one device at a time, creating bottlenecks as more devices compete for bandwidth. MU-MIMO and OFDMA solve this problem by enabling the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously.

• MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output):
  • Think of a delivery truck that can only deliver to one house at a time. MU-MIMO is like a super-efficient truck delivering to multiple houses on the same street at once.
  • Technically, MU-MIMO allows the router to send and receive data to multiple devices concurrently, significantly increasing network capacity and efficiency. This is especially beneficial when streaming, gaming, and browsing occur at the same time on different devices.
• OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access):
  • OFDMA further refines this process by dividing the Wi-Fi channel into smaller sub-channels, similar to the delivery truck carrying different packages for each house in a single trip.
  • This enables the router to handle various types of traffic (voice, video, data) more effectively and reduces latency (delay), which is critical for online gaming.

In essence, MU-MIMO and OFDMA work in tandem to optimize Wi-Fi performance and provide a smoother, faster experience for all connected devices.

Beamforming: Focusing the Wi-Fi Signal

Instead of broadcasting Wi-Fi signals in all directions like a lightbulb, beamforming technology focuses the signal towards specific devices, enhancing both range and signal strength.

What is Beamforming?

Traditional routers transmit Wi-Fi signals uniformly, which can waste energy and weaken the signal for distant devices. Beamforming concentrates the Wi-Fi signal into a directed beam, similar to a flashlight, targeting the intended device.

Beamforming provides stronger, more directional Wi-Fi than ordinary routers

How Beamforming Works

Smart antennas in the router analyze signal reflections and interference to determine the optimal path for Wi-Fi transmission. By focusing the signal, beamforming achieves:

• Increased data speeds
• Extended Wi-Fi rangeReduced dead spots
• More reliable connections

Types of Beamforming

• Explicit Beamforming: Requires support from both the router and client devices and is generally more effective.
• Implicit Beamforming: Does not require client support and is used for older devices.

What does this mean for you? The NETGEAR RAXE300’s beamforming technology works behind the scenes to provide a more consistent and enjoyable Wi-Fi experience, whether you’re streaming, gaming, or just browsing.

Shield Your Home Network with Netgear Armor

A key job for modern routers is keeping our networks safe. As we connect more devices (computers, phones, smart home gadgets), the risk of cyber attacks grows. Routers must protect us from threats like malware, phishing, ransomware, and hacking. Because of this, many router makers are adding security features directly into their products.

Router Security Solutions: A Comprehensive Overview

Different manufacturers offer varying approaches to router security. These solutions often include a combination of features:

• Firewall: A fundamental component that acts as a barrier between your network and the internet, controlling incoming and outgoing traffic.
• Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Actively monitors network traffic for malicious patterns and automatically blocks attacks.
• Malware Protection: Scans network traffic and connected devices to detect and block viruses, worms, and other malicious software.
• Phishing Protection: Blocks access to known phishing websites that attempt to steal your login credentials and personal information.
• Vulnerability Scanning: Assesses the router’s settings and firmware to identify potential security weaknesses.
• Parental Controls: Features that allow you to manage your family’s internet access, including website filtering, time limits, and activity monitoring.

Some manufacturers, like ASUS, provide these features as a built-in, lifetime solution (e.g., ASUS AiProtection Pro, powered by Trend Micro). Others, like NETGEAR, offer a subscription-based model, providing advanced security through services like NETGEAR Armor.

NETGEAR Armor: Enhanced Network Protection

The NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE300 incorporates NETGEAR Armor to provide a strong layer of defense for your network. This comprehensive cybersecurity solution is powered by (Bitdefender), a well-regarded name in the security industry.

It’s important to note that many devices within a network, such as security cameras, smart thermostats, sensors, and other IoT devices, lack the ability to install traditional antivirus software. Furthermore, most antivirus programs installed on personal computers are designed primarily as antivirus solutions and may not fully address broader internet security threats like ransomware, phishing, and hacking. NETGEAR Armor is designed to address these vulnerabilities by providing network-level/router-level security that protects these devices.

How NETGEAR Armor Works:

• Armor works at the router level, meaning it protects all devices connected to your network, including those that cannot install traditional antivirus software (like smart home devices).
• It uses AI-powered threat detection to continuously monitor your network for suspicious activity, malicious files, and vulnerabilities.

NETGEAR Armor Screenshot: The Network Security Status

Key Security Features of NETGEAR Armor

NETGEAR Armor provides a suite of security features designed to safeguard your network and devices:

• Comprehensive Protection:
  • Armor protects all connected devices on your network.
  • This includes vulnerable IoT devices like smart TVs, security cameras, and thermostats, which are often targeted by cyberattacks.
• Advanced Threat Detection:
  • Armor employs AI-powered threat detection to identify and neutralize various cyber threats.
  • These threats include viruses, malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and intrusions by hackers.
• Continuous Monitoring:
  • Armor provides 24/7 monitoring of your network for suspicious activity.
  • It actively scans for malicious files and potential security breaches, offering proactive protection against emerging threats.
• Secure Browsing:
  • Armor enhances your online safety by blocking access to malicious websites.
  • It also filters suspicious links, helping to prevent phishing attacks and the downloading of malware.
• Content Filtering:
  • Armor offers content filtering capabilities, allowing you to manage access to websites and applications.
  • This feature enables you to restrict access to content that you consider inappropriate or harmful, providing an additional layer of security, especially for families.

By providing these robust security features, NETGEAR Armor aims to create a safer online environment for you and your family. Read More: Who is Connected to My WiFi? and How to Secure WiFi Network.

Security Testing: NETGEAR Armor Evaluation

To evaluate the effectiveness of NETGEAR Armor’s “Advanced Threat Detection” and “Secure Browsing” features, I conducted a series of simulated real-world tests. These tests aimed to mimic common cyber threats that home and office networks face, providing insights into Armor’s ability to identify and neutralize these attacks.

• Test Environment: A dedicated test network was created for these tests. This network was completely isolated from the main network to eliminate any risk to real devices or data during the testing process.
• Simulated Attacks: To mimic real-world threats, controlled tools and techniques were employed. These tools and techniques were used to simulate both malware activity and phishing attempts.
• NETGEAR Armor Configuration: During the tests, NETGEAR Armor was enabled. It was configured to use its default settings, representing a typical user’s setup.
• Monitoring and Logging: Throughout the testing process, the router’s logs were closely monitored. In addition, Armor’s reporting features were utilized to record all detected threats and the actions taken by Armor in response.

Test Details and Results

Here’s a breakdown of the specific tests and the results observed:

Malware Simulation:

To simulate a malware attack, a test file that mimics malware behavior was used. The test involved attempting to download this file from an internal server, simulating a user downloading a file from the internet.

• NETGEAR Armor’s “Advanced Threat Detection” identified and blocked the download, and the router’s logs recorded the attempt.

Phishing Website Simulation

To simulate a phishing attack, a replica of a legitimate website’s login page was created. The test involved attempting to access this “phishing website,” simulating a user clicking a suspicious link.

• NETGEAR Armor’s “Secure Browsing” blocked access to the website, and the router’s logs recorded the blocked access attempt.

The results of these tests demonstrate NETGEAR Armor’s effectiveness. Armor successfully detected and prevented both the simulated malware download and access to the phishing website. This proactive approach provides a robust defense against common cyber threats, protecting devices and sensitive information.

Elevating Your Wi-Fi Experience with the NETGEAR RAXE300

As a seasoned wireless engineer and reviewer, I’ve had the opportunity to put the Netgear Nighthawk AXE7800 (RAXE300) 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 7,800Mbps 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.

Test Important Notes:

• The tests were conducted in a suburban home with average construction materials.
• The Samsung Galaxy S22+ was connected to the appropriate band for each test.
• Download and upload speeds were measured using the Speedtest app.
• Signal strength was recorded using the WiFi Analyzer tool.
• 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

2.4 GHz Band Test Results

The 2.4 GHz band is the most common Wi-Fi frequency and offers good range, making it suitable for general internet browsing and connecting devices that are farther from the router.

• As you can see, the Netgear AXE7800 (RAXE300) router delivers decent download speeds on the 2.4GHz band, even at distances of up to 30 feet. However, the signal strength and speeds start to drop off significantly at distances of 50 feet and beyond.

2.4GHz band Performance of NETGEAR RAXE300

The RAXE300 provides adequate 2.4 GHz performance for most home uses, especially at shorter distances. Its performance is generally in line with other routers in its class. Users needing high speeds for demanding applications may want to use the 5 GHz or 6 GHz bands, especially if they are close to the router.

5 GHz Band Test Results

The 5 GHz band offers significantly faster speeds than 2.4 GHz but has a shorter range. It’s ideal for activities that require more bandwidth, such as streaming and gaming.

• As you can see, the Netgear RAXE300 router delivers significantly faster download speeds on the 5GHz band compared to the 2.4GHz band. This is due to the fact that the 5GHz band has more available channels, which allows for less congestion and interference. However, the signal strength and speeds on the 5GHz band still start to drop off at distances of 50 feet and beyond.

5GHz band Performance of NETGEAR AXE7800 (RAXE300)

The RAXE300 is well-suited for users who prioritize speed and have devices that support 5 GHz. Its performance is competitive with other high-performance routers. For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use the 5 GHz band for bandwidth-intensive tasks and when devices are within a reasonable range of the router.

6 GHz Band Test Results

The 6 GHz band is the newest Wi-Fi frequency, available with Wi-Fi 6E. It offers the fastest speeds and least interference but has the shortest range.

• The RAXE300 delivered the highest download and upload speeds on the 6 GHz band, showcasing its Wi-Fi 6E capabilities. Speeds were exceptional at close range (10 feet). While speeds decreased with distance, the 6 GHz band still provided very high throughput compared to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

6GHz band Performance of NETGEAR RAXE300

The 6 GHz band on the RAXE300 is ideal for users with Wi-Fi 6E-compatible devices who demand the best possible performance. This band excels in providing low latency and high bandwidth for applications like VR gaming and 8K streaming. However, users should be aware of the 6 GHz band’s range limitations and ensure their devices are within a suitable distance for optimal performance.

Additional Performance Factors

Besides the frequency bands, other factors contribute to a router’s overall performance.

• 160MHz Channel Width:
  • The RAXE300 supports 160MHz channel width on both the 5GHz and 6GHz bands. This wider channel allows for more data to be transmitted simultaneously, increasing speed and reducing congestion.
• CPU and RAM:
  • The router’s quad-core 1.7GHz CPU and 512MB of RAM provide the processing power needed to handle network traffic efficiently, especially with multiple connected devices.

By considering all these performance aspects, users can make informed decisions about whether the NETGEAR RAXE300 meets their specific needs.

Conclusion

So, to sum it all up, the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE300 (AXE7800) WiFi 6E router is a seriously impressive piece of equipment. It gives you fantastic performance, really good security with Netgear Armor to keep your network safe, and it covers your whole home with strong Wi-Fi. Whether you’re into gaming, streaming, or just want reliable internet for everything, it handles it all with ease. We put it through our tests and were really impressed, giving it a solid 9 out of 10. If you’re looking for a top-tier router that can handle anything you throw at it, this is definitely one to consider.