Netgear NightHawk Firmware: R7000 Router Has Remote Data Collection Feature
Netgear's most recent firmware update for its popular Nighthawk R7000 router has just added the collection and uploading of user data to its features.
The company explained that technical data about the functioning and use of their routers and WiFi networks will help Netgear troubleshoot general technical issues more quickly and easily. It will also enable them to think of ways to improve on the router's features, performance, functionality and usability.
Netgear has told CP: "On May 15th, 2017, as customers were informed through a terms update, NETGEAR has updated its firmware to allow collection of certain technical data from the AC1900 Nighthawk R7000 router for analytics purposes. This program of reporting router data back to NETGEAR is voluntary and is designed to improve the experience with NETGEAR products."
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Although the said feature is currently only available on the Nighthawk R7000 router, technology enthusiasts can expect the data collection tool to be included in the updates for other Netgear router models in the future.
On its support page, Netgear says that the data it will collect consists of: "information regarding the router's running status; number of devices connected to the router; types of connections; LAN/WAN status; WiFi bands and channels; IP address, MAC address, serial number; similar technical data about the functioning and use of the router and its WiFi network."
What data may be collected?
The information does not include information such as browser history or sites visited. Rather, the data collected includes:
• information regarding the router's running status,
• number of devices connected to the router,
• types of connections,
• LAN/WAN status,
• WiFi bands and channels,
• IP address, MAC address, serial number,
• similar technical data about the functioning and use of the router and its WiFi network.
Netgear has told CP: "NETGEAR does not track or collect the websites you visit or collect the content of any traffic on your network."
Previously, the Broadband Consumer Privacy Rules in the United States were repealed, resulting in internet service providers being allowed to gather data without getting the permission of the user. The Investigatory Powers Bill in the United Kingdom also now permits government organizations to go through a citizen's browsing history without the need for a warrant.
Netgear does allow the disabling of its data collection feature. "After opting in, customers may opt out at any time by logging into their router's GUI via a web browser at routerlogin.net while connected to it," Netgear told CP.
