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There is a known connectivity issue with Nighthawk 5G M7 mobile hotspots on the Verizon network running firmware versions 01.19 and 01.26.

This issue prevents the device from recovering via cellular data. To fix this issue you must perform a factory reset and update its firmware via WiFi. Once the device is updated to firmware version 2.12 or later, the issue is resolved.

Requirements for the fix:

  • NETGEAR App installed on your iOS or Android device
    Download the app from ntgrapp.netgear.com
  • WiFi network access
  • A SIM release tool (packaged with the device) or a straightened paper clip

You must complete both of the following procedures to fix the issue. 

To perform a factory reset on your M7 mobile hotspot: 

  1. Press and hold the Power/Navigation button to power on your M7. 
    The device powers on and the Welcome screen displays.
  2. Gently insert the packaged SIM release tool or a straightened paper clip into the small hole on the SIM card tray on the right side of the device.
    The SIM card tray ejects.
  3. Remove the SIM card from the SIM card tray and then reinsert the SIM card tray into the device. 
  4. Gently press and hold the Reset button on the left side of the device with the SIM release tool or paper clip until a reset message displays on the screen.
  5. Wait for the device to finish restarting.
    A QR code displays on the device screen.

Your M7 mobile hotspot is reset.

To update your M7 hotspot's firmware via WiFi:

  1. Launch the NETGEAR App on your mobile device.
  2. Swipe left on the Nighthawk 5G M7 in your device list.
    A confirmation pop-up displays.
  3. Tap Delete.
  4. Tap the Add New Device button or the Add  button.
    The Scan QR Code page displays.
  5. Tap Allow access and Scan or Continue to Scan.
  6. Scan the QR code displayed on your M7's screen.
    The Connect to your hotspot's Wi-Fi page displays.
  7. Tap Detect my device.
  8. If your device does not automatically connect:
    1. Tap Open Wi-Fi Settings.
    2. Select the WiFi Network name displayed below the QR code on your M7's screen, then return to the NETGEAR App.
    3. Tap Detect my device.
      You might need to scroll up to see this button.
  9. Tap OK.
    The Admin Password page displays.
  10. Take note of this password. The admin password is used to access your M7's settings.
  11. Tap Continue.
    The Ways to get your hotspot online page displays.
  12. Tap Connect to Wi-Fi Network.
    The Wi-Fi Offload page displays.
  13. Select your local WiFi network name from the list.
  14. Enter your WiFi network password and tap Save or Connect.
  15. Tap the Back button.
        The Nighthawk 5G M7 home page displays. 
  16. Tap the Settings  button at the bottom right. 
  17. Tap Router > Software Update.
  18. Tap the Check for Updates button if it displays.
  19. Tap Install now.
    Your M7 updates and restarts.
  20. Once the device restarts, reconnect to the M7.
  21. Check the current firmware version:
    1.  Tap the Settings  button at the bottom right.
    2. Select Router > Router information.
    3. The Firmware Version should be XXXXXX_12.00.65.00 or newer.
    4. The Software Version should be 02.16 or newer.
       
  22. Place the SIM card into the SIM card tray and insert it into the M7.

The connectivity issue is fixed.

Now that the cellular connection is established, you can turn off WiFi Offloading to use your cellular data.

To turn off WiFi Offloading:

  1. In the NETGEAR App, tap the Nighthawk 5G M7 on the homepage.
  2. Tap the Wi-Fi Offload toggle.
    Gray means Wi-Fi Offloading is off.
    For more information about Wi-Fi Offloading, see Enabling or disabling WiFi offloading in the NETGEAR app or web interface

If the issue persists, contact NETGEAR Support.

Last Updated:05/26/2026 | Article ID: 000070780

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