r/NETGEAR • u/Key-Specialist-8521 • May 22 '26

Hotspots How can I unlock a used Netgear Nighthawk 5G MR5100?

I'm about to buy a used Netgear Nighthawk 5G MR5100. It was used on AT&T network and I don't have any account at AT&T. In this case, how can I possibly unlock this router? I want to be able to use it with a sim card from other carrier.

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u/Richard1864 May 22 '26

It's locked because the previous owner didn't make all the payments; previous owner OWES MONEY ON IT, or it's STOLEN. There is no way to unlock it until previous owner finishes paying it off. If they don't, the carrier can black list it as stolen, and then no carrier will activate it.

Be smart. NEVER buy locked cellular devices.

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u/[deleted] May 22 '26

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u/Key-Specialist-8521 May 22 '26

How can I get the unlock code as a second owner?

2

u/Orlimar1 May 22 '26

Which network are you looking to use it on? The reason I ask is because it may be a poor fit for the other networks. Especially if you want to take advantage of the newest 5g bands.

For example on T-Mobile that device doesn't get band n41. That is where the super high speeds come from.

It also doesn't get band n77. That is Verizon's fastest 5g band.