Netgear Not Compatible With Alexa? How to Connect Them

How to Solve Netgear and Alexa Compatibility Issues

Connecting your Netgear router or other devices to Amazon Alexa allows for convenient voice control over your network and smart home. However, the process can sometimes fail, with Alexa unable to discover your device or the Netgear skill refusing to link. These problems usually stem from using the wrong skill, network configuration issues, or firmware that needs updating.

This guide will help you troubleshoot the common reasons why your Netgear device might not be working with Alexa and how to establish a successful connection.

## Understanding Netgear and Alexa Skills

A common point of confusion is the separation of Netgear's product lines. There are different Alexa skills for different products.

• NETGEAR Skill: This is the primary skill for managing modern Netgear routers, such as the Nighthawk and Orbi series. It allows you to use voice commands like, "Alexa, ask NETGEAR to enable Guest Wi-Fi," or "Alexa, ask NETGEAR to reboot my router."
• Arlo Skill: Arlo was once owned by Netgear, but it is now a separate company. If you have Arlo security cameras, you must use the Arlo skill, not the Netgear skill, even if your cameras have Netgear branding from before the split.

Using the wrong skill is a guaranteed way for the connection to fail.

## Troubleshooting Steps for Netgear Routers (Nighthawk/Orbi)

If you are having trouble connecting your router to Alexa, follow these steps.

### 1. Enable the Correct NETGEAR Skill

1. Open the Amazon Alexa app on your smartphone.
2. Go to More > Skills & Games.
3. Search for "NETGEAR".
4. Select the skill and tap "Enable To Use".
5. You will be prompted to link your Netgear account. Log in with the same credentials you use for the Nighthawk or Orbi app.

### 2. Update Router Firmware

Alexa compatibility often requires the latest router firmware to function correctly.

1. Log in to your router's web interface (usually at routerlogin.net or 192.168.1.1) or use the Nighthawk/Orbi mobile app.
2. Navigate to the Administration or Advanced section.
3. Look for a Firmware Update or Router Update option.
4. Check for new firmware and install it if available. The router will reboot as part of this process.

### 3. Enable Remote Access

For the Alexa skill to communicate with your router via the cloud, remote access must be enabled. This feature is usually on by default but may have been disabled.

1. Log in to your router's web interface.
2. Go to the Advanced settings.
3. Find an option for "Remote Management" or "Anywhere Access."
4. Ensure this feature is turned ON.

### 4. Check Network and Device Status

• Same Network: Your Alexa-enabled device (e.g., an Echo Dot) must be connected to the same network that the Netgear router is managing.
• Reboot Everything: Sometimes a simple restart is all that is needed. Unplug your router and your Alexa device, wait for a minute, and plug them back in.
• Disable and Re-enable Skill: In the Alexa app, try disabling the NETGEAR skill, and then go through the process of enabling and linking your account again. This can often resolve token or authentication issues.

## For Arlo Camera Users

If you are trying to connect Arlo cameras, do not use the NETGEAR skill.

1. In the Alexa app, search for and enable the "Arlo" skill.
2. Link your Arlo account, not your Netgear account.
3. Once linked, ask Alexa to discover devices. Your cameras should appear, allowing you to say things like, "Alexa, show me the front door camera."