I bought this router to use as an additional access point to our already existing AT&T Uverse WiFi network in our home. The NETGEAR unit was hard wired to our existing Uverse WiFi router. The unit was set up in the basement to provide a solid WiFi signal, provide streaming capabilities to a flat screen and WiFi coverage to an adjacent patio area. The wired signal from the "mother" router would be passed through the NETGEAR unit and sent to another computer upstairs. Instructions are apparently something NOBODY includes with anything ...especially tech devices. Rather than having something to read purchasers are forced to use the "handy" user-friendly app ...which is neither. There is no way to access this router's settings using the traditional web address ...you have to use the app ...which is a serious pain. Try as I might I could not get the app to set up the router as I wanted and wasted about an hour in my efforts. To be truthful, if you're using the router in a conventional manner, the app will probably work just fine but I wasn't. I needed to set this router up as a portal ...an additional access point to our existing WiFi network ...and had to make specific changes to it's default settings. Eventually I was able to configure the router to my use, but only after downloading and printing the .pdf for the full manual off the NETGEAR site. There is a wealth of usable and clear information in the manual; it is substantial. Once I had the manual I found the section on how to set it up for my use; it was quite simple. The frustration with using the app made setting the router up even more maddening once I got the info I needed and how *easy* it was to configure. The router has been up and running fine for the past five months; it works great. Signal strength and speeds are good throughout the basement and adjacent patio. The data rate is robust enough allowing clean streaming via the wireless Roku on the flat screen. Overall this is a nice router hobbled by an app that for some users is useless and frustrating to use. While I understand the "ease" of using this app for non-techies, the option to easily access, via web address, the internal settings of the router should still be offered for folks who know what they're doing.

Had a premature failure and had to return unit. It failed on a software update, Replacement was slow and tedious. Bought a new unit immediately. Took weeks to get the failed unit replaced. Lucky the unit is relatively inexpensive. Netgear support needs improvement. However when it works the router is great even if their support sucks.. I hate infant mortality.

My 7 year old Cisco router died and this Netgear model was the best option as a replacement. It was simple to install and runs very fast. I also feel the design is durable and thoughtful. Plenty of connections and control features. It reaches every corner of my 2000 square ft ranch house (including the basement).

I purchased the NETGEAR - Smart AC1600 router and am very pleased with the overall performance in terms of speed, range, and bandwidth. Very easy to set up and includes two bands so that you can optimize for your device. I think this is the best compromise between performance and affordability.

I purchased this for my first home rather than using the cable/internet company’s rental router to save some money. I’m so happy I did! It has a very simple set up and I like the phone app feature. On the app you can troubleshoot and test any connection issues, change your WiFi name or password in an instant, and turn on the “Guest” feature without making any changes to your own regular home network. There’s only 2 of us in the house but we both have our cell phones, a laptop, and a smart TV constantly running on it and have had no problems in the 5 months I’ve owned it. Also, it’s easy to hide on a shelf with decor! Don’t let the cable/internet companies scare you into thinking you absolutely have to use their router or your connection won’t work. That’s false. As long as you buy one strong enough to handle your internet requirements/usage you will be fine. The amount you’ll spend renting a router for 1 year is far more costly than purchasing this Netgear router for the 1 one time price.