This document provides comprehensive information regarding the NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router Firmware version 1.0.45. This firmware update includes new features, addresses known issues, and outlines the necessary steps for a successful upgrade. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure optimal router performance and stability.
Important Precaution:
Before proceeding with the firmware upgrade, it is strongly recommended to use a wired Ethernet connection. Upgrading the firmware wirelessly can lead to interruptions and potential corruption of the firmware, rendering the router unusable. Also, a factory reset is required after the firmware upgrade to ensure proper functioning.
New Features Introduced in Firmware 1.0.45:
This firmware update introduces several key enhancements to the NetGear WNDR3300 router:
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Improved WPA/WPA2-PSK Mixed Mode: When the router operates in WPA/WPA2-PSK mixed mode, this firmware update ensures that Wireless Protected Setup (WPS) guides client devices to utilize the more secure WPA2-PSK protocol. This enhancement prioritizes stronger encryption and enhances overall network security.
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WEP with Auto Authentication WPS Support: This update adds WPS support when the router’s security mode is configured for WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) with Auto authentication. This simplifies the process of connecting devices to the network using WPS, even with the older WEP security protocol. However, it is strongly advised to migrate to WPA2-PSK for enhanced security.
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Vista Premium Logo Certification: This firmware version has passed the Vista Premium logo certification, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with Windows Vista operating systems.
Known Issues and Workarounds:
While this firmware update provides improvements, it’s essential to be aware of a known issue affecting specific wireless clients:
- Intermittent Disconnects with Intel 4965ABGN Wireless Clients: Users with Intel 4965ABGN wireless adapters (commonly found in older laptops) or using MAC devices might experience temporary wireless disconnections and reconnections every 30 to 60 minutes.
Workarounds for Intel 4965ABGN Wireless Client Disconnects:
Two workarounds are available to mitigate this issue:
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Recommended: Use WPA2-ONLY Security: The most effective solution is to configure the router to use "WPA2-ONLY security" instead of the "WPA+WPA2 mix mode" in the router’s web interface. This prevents the client from attempting to use the less secure WPA (TKIP) protocol, which can trigger a MIC (Message Integrity Check) failure and lead to disconnections. Using WPA2-ONLY also provides a more secure wireless environment.
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Update Intel 4965ABGN Driver and Use Microsoft WZC: Ensure that you have the latest drivers for your Intel 4965ABGN wireless adapter installed. Avoid using third-party wireless management utilities that might be pre-installed on your laptop. It is recommended to use the default Microsoft Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC) service for managing your wireless connections.
Firmware Upgrade Procedure for the NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router:
Follow these steps carefully to upgrade the firmware on your NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router:
Preparation:
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Record Existing Settings: Before starting the upgrade, meticulously record all the custom settings you have configured on your router, such as SSID, password, port forwarding rules, and any other personalized configurations. This will allow you to quickly restore your settings after the upgrade.
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Download Firmware: Download the NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router Firmware 1.0.45 from a reliable source. You can download it from: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/12654/
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Establish Wired Connection: Connect your computer to the router using an Ethernet cable. Ensure that the connection is stable and uninterrupted throughout the upgrade process. Do not perform the upgrade over a wireless connection.
Upgrade Steps:
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Access Router Web Interface: Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge) and enter the router’s IP address in the address bar. The default IP address is usually
https://192.168.1.1. If you have changed the router’s IP address, use the customized address. -
Login to Router: Enter your router’s username and password to access the web interface. The default username is typically "admin," and the default password is "password" (or blank).
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Navigate to Firmware Upgrade Section: Locate the "Maintenance" section in the router’s web interface, and then click on "Router Upgrade." The specific location might vary slightly depending on the router’s interface version.
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Browse and Select Firmware File: Click the "Browse" button to locate the firmware file you downloaded in step 2. Select the file and click "Open."
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Upload Firmware: Click the "Upload" button to begin the firmware upgrade process. Do not interrupt the upgrade process. The router will upload the firmware, verify its integrity, and then begin the flashing process. The router will automatically reboot once the upgrade is complete. This process may take several minutes.
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Post-Upgrade Login: After the router reboots, log back into the router’s web interface using the same IP address, username, and password as before.
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Factory Reset is Mandatory: After successfully logging in, you MUST reset the router to its factory default settings. This step is crucial to ensure that the new firmware functions correctly and to avoid potential conflicts with old settings.
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Perform Factory Reset: Navigate to the "Maintenance" section again and click on "Backup Settings." Then click on "Erase" or "Factory Defaults". The router will reboot after the factory reset is complete.
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Verify Firmware Version: After the router reboots and the factory reset is complete, log back into the router’s web interface one more time. Check the firmware version to confirm that the upgrade was successful. The firmware version should now be 1.0.45.
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Reconfigure Router Settings: Reconfigure your router with the settings you recorded in step 1. This includes your SSID, password, wireless security settings, port forwarding rules, and any other custom configurations. Alternatively, you can use the Smart Wizard configuration assistant on the CD-ROM that came with the router (if available) to reconfigure the router.
Alternative Download Links for NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router Firmware 1.0.45:
Due to the age of this device, finding direct downloads can be challenging. Exercise caution and verify the integrity of any downloaded files from unofficial sources. Here are some potential alternative sources:
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DriverGuide: (Requires Registration and potentially contains outdated or incorrect files – use with extreme caution) Search on DriverGuide.
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Archive.org (Wayback Machine): Check if Netgear’s official website was archived and the firmware is available.
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Third-Party Driver Sites: (Use with caution, verify file integrity) Be very careful when downloading from third-party sites and always scan the file with a reputable antivirus program before running it.
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Netgear Support Forums: Search the Netgear support forums. Another user might have uploaded the file to a shared drive, although this is unlikely.
This comprehensive guide provides the necessary information and instructions to successfully upgrade the firmware on your NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router. The NetGear WNDR3300 is an older model, so ensure you’re downloading from a reputable source. Remember to always prioritize a wired connection during the upgrade process and to perform a factory reset afterward. The NetGear WNDR3300 firmware update offers security and feature enhancements. Carefully following these instructions will help you maintain the security and functionality of your NetGear WNDR3300 RangeMax Dual Band Wireless-N Router.