| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 18, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 18, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | NETGEAR, INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001122904 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 000-50350 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 77-0419172 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 350 East Plumeria Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Jose |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 95134 |
| City Area Code | (408) |
| Local Phone Number | 907-8000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | NTGR |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
