Netgear Orbi is one of the hot WiFi Mesh Systems right now. It is reliable, super fast, very flexible and provides great WiFi coverage for various types of homes (one floor, two floor, large homes etc).
A lot of people, however, have several questions about this product before deciding if its right for them or not.
In this article we have identified the most frequently asked questions about Orbi and we’ll try to answer them below.
For a more detailed presentation of the capabilities and features of Netgear Orbi, have a look at this comparison between orbi and velop. Also, we have compared orbi with eero 2nd generation which is another popular choice of WiFi mesh system in home networks.
The video in this article shows a quick overview of Orbi with some recommendations of the suggested models (in our opinion) for different home environments.
Is Netgear Orbi a Modem or a Router?
The Netgear Orbi is technically a set of two or more wifi routers that can connect to your existing modem or router (provided by your ISP) to help blanket your home or apartment in Wi-Fi. There are also several Orbi models that include three wifi units to increase the coverage area.
One exception is the Orbi CBK40 model which includes an embedded Cable Modem (in addition to the WiFi Router) so that you can remove your existing ISP cable modem (and save on rental cost) and use the CBK40 model instead.
All Orbi models should work with most existing modems or routers supplied by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
In every Orbi kit, there is always a central WiFi Router unit which must be connected to your existing ISP modem or router (with an ethernet cable). In addition to that, there are one or more extra Satellite WiFi units which are connected with the central Router unit either via the high-speed wireless backhaul or via ethernet cable.
Here are some of the most popular Orbi Models:
- RBK50 (AC3000): 1 x Router + 1 x Satellite (3000 Mbps combined wireless speed from the 3 bands). This is the most powerful and popular model.
- RBK53 (AC3000): 1 x Router + 2 x Satellites (3000 Mbps combined wireless speed from the 3 bands).
- RBK40 (AC2200): 1 x Router + 1 x Satellites (2200 Mbps combined wireless speed from the 3 bands).
- RBK43 (AC2200): 1 x Router + 2 x Satellites (2200 Mbps combined wireless speed from the 3 bands).
Have a look at the official website to see all possible combinations and kits of the product.
How to Add a Satellite to Netgear Orbi
If you have bought a new Orbi kit or if you have reset the Orbi to its default settings you will need to add the satellites and sync them to the mesh network.
The process below shows the cases when you are setting up the Orbi system for the first time or when you add a satellite to an existing system.
Let’s see the step by step instructions:
1) Setting up Satellites for the First Time
- The easiest way to setup the Orbi for the first time is to download the Orbi app for your smartphone device (from Android or Apple stores).
- Connect both the Router and Satellites to power sources without turning on.
- Start the Orbi app and create an account.
- The app will request access to your camera so that to scan the QR code on the back of your router unit.
- After you scan the QR code, the app will continue with instructions.
- First connect your ISP modem to the Orbi router unit (yellow port) and power-on the router unit.
- Now power-on the satellite device and wait for it to auto-sync to the router unit. The LED color on the satellite should be Solid Blue if the sync is successful.
- Now your mobile app will ask you to connect to the WiFi network.
- Follow the app instructions to finish the installation.
2) Adding an add-on satellite to an existing mesh Orbi system.
- Connect with the Orbi app on your smartphone to the existing Orbi system and log-in with your username/password.
- In the Menu (top left) tap on ADD SATELLITE
- Follow the screen instructions to add the unit
How to Reset Netgear Orbi to Factory Defaults
Sometimes the only way to bring your Orbi router back to an operational state is to reset the device to factory default settings.
However, you should keep in mind that resetting your Orbi means that you will lose all personalized settings such as SSID name, WiFi password etc.
Moreover, this operation will break the synchronization between the router and satellite units so you will need to run the setup from scratch again.
Having said that, let us see how to reset an Orbi router:
- Make sure the Orbi router unit is connected to its power source and turned ON.
- As shown on the image above, get a paper clip and push the tiny reset button.
- Keep the Reset button pressed until the Power LED blinks amber.
- Your Orbi device is now reset to default factory settings.
Does Orbi Work with Verizon Fios?
YES. The Orbi does work with the Verizon Fios service. This service bundles phone, internet, and television into one package delivered across fiber-optic networks. The Orbi system will work with the Fios service if you follow the setup instructions.
One option is for the Orbi to be set as an access point through the advanced setup menu. You then need to switch the system to AP mode. The Fios router then assigns an IP address to the Orbi router. Also, you can switch off the WiFi on the FIOS router and have the Orbi working in normal router mode thus assigning IP addresses to wireless clients (this is the best option in my opinion).
Is Orbi a Mesh Network?
The Orbi is a type of mesh network, as it is using more than one router to increase the Wi-Fi coverage in your home. A typical mesh network would consist of a central router that connects to the modem, along with several satellite routers positioned throughout the property.
Initially, the product was considered a Hub-and-Spoke topology (one central hub unit and several satellite spoke units). With a new firmware update, the satellites can now connect with other satellites in the network (daisy-chain) thus forming a type of mesh network.
The Orbi creates a home mesh network using two or three routers, depending on the system that you purchase. However, these systems are easy to set up, even with limited technical experience.
Is Orbi Compatible with Comcast?
YES. Comcast customers are provided with a standard gateway device that serves as both a modem and a router. The Orbi system does work with these devices.
To connect the systems, you need to turn off both devices and connect the Orbi to the Comcast modem. Log into the Orbi menu and set AP mode through the advanced setup menu. You can then reboot the Orbi and allow the Comcast device to assign an IP address to the Orbi.
Moreover, the CBK40 model can replace the cable modem provided by Comcast thus connecting directly to the ISP (cost savings).
Does Orbi Need a Modem?
The Orbi system is designed to work with your existing modem or router. However, it is recommended that you turn off the Wi-Fi on the existing ISP modem or router (if it has wifi) to improve the performance of the Orbi.
If the modem has router functionality, the Orbi needs to be set to AP mode. If the modem does not have router functionality, the Orbi can be set to router mode.
If you want to replace the provided modem with the Orbi, you will need the Orbi Cable Wi-Fi system (CBK40). This version of the device can connect to the cable outlet and works as a modem and a router.
Does Orbi Work with Xfinity?
The Orbi is compatible with the Xfinity cable internet services. Users can connect the device to the Xfinity modem.
If the modem is set to bridge mode, the Orbi should be set to router mode. This allows the Orbi to assign IP addresses and handle wireless connections to home users and devices. When using the modem in router mode, the AP mode should be used on the Orbi.
Does Orbi Work with DSL?
Yes, you can connect an Orbi to your DSL router or modem. However, the Orbi cannot replace the DSL modem. Most DSL internet service providers rent customers a DSL modem with router functionality. This allows Orbi users to connect the device to the DSL modem and use either AP or router mode.
To use the Orbi in router mode, the DSL router’s WiFi should be turned off and have the Orbi router assign IP addresses to clients. This option is not always available on DSL gateway devices. If the router does not allow this option, the Orbi can be used in AP mode which means that the DSL router will assign IP addresses and the Orbi will just provide WiFi connectivity.
Is Orbi Good for Gaming?
Internet gaming often requires high speed internet connections, especially with massive multiplayer online games and first-person shooters. The performance of the Orbi depends on the speeds available through your internet service provider and connected modem.
The latest Orbi systems can transmit up to 1,733 Mbps between the router and the satellite devices. Most games recommend 5 to 6 Mbps internet connections for optimal gaming performance. This means that the Orbi should handle gaming pretty well if you have fast enough internet service.
Keep in mind that there are dedicated routers in the market that are more suitable for high-demanding gaming.
What Is Orbi Fast Roaming?
With the Orbi system, you have one or more satellite routers in your home plus the central unit. Your phone or tablet connects to the closest device. When you walk across the house, your Wi-Fi enabled device may disconnect from one unit and connect to another.
The latest Orbi system updates include Fast Roaming, which is a method of improving the efficiency of switching from one access point to another.
This option can be enabled or disabled accordingly. If you notice that your wifi clients connect back and forth between router and satellites too much, then you can disable this feature.
Does Orbi Work with Spectrum?
Yes, you can connect your Orbi to a Spectrum modem/router. You have two options for connecting the device. The Spectrum modem can be set to bridge mode, which disables the Spectrum router while still allowing the modem to function. The Orbi in this case will be working in normal router mode.
You can also choose to set the Orbi to AP mode. The Spectrum modem/router still handles the wireless connections while the Orbi simply serves as an access point. You may also purchase the Orbi Cable Wi-Fi system to replace the Spectrum modem.
Does Orbi Work with Alexa?
The Orbi is compatible with Amazon Alexa. Users can enable the Netgear skill on their Alexa devices, allowing users to interact with the Orbi system using voice commands. You will also need to enable remote management on your Orbi system. This option is accessed through the Orbi menu.
You can access most router settings through Alexa after enabling the features. For example, you can ask the device to tell you the Wi-Fi password, Wi-Fi settings, and internet speed. You can also change settings and options via voice commands.
Does Orbi Work with ATT Uverse?
You can use your Orbi with ATT Uverse. ATT provides customers with a gateway modem/router. You cannot set this device to bridge mode, which disables the ability to use the Orbi in router mode.
However, in newer ATT Uverse gateway devices you can set the gateway to “IP Passthrough” mode and connect the Orbi Internet port (yellow port) to the ATT gateway (LAN port). This basically forwards all incoming/outgoing traffic from/to the Internet towards the Orbi which can work as a router.
If you want another simpler way to connect the Orbi to the ATT gateway device, you need to turn off both wireless bands on the ATT router. The Orbi system then needs to be set to Access Point (AP) mode and will serve as the WiFi “provider” in the house. See the section below about Router vs AP mode for more information.
Which Orbi model is right for me?
With so many different models available, many people get confused and want to know the best kit for their home.
There are many factors that one must consider to select the best wifi system for them according to their needs. Factors like how big the home is, materials of the walls, how the wifi will be used (e.g just for internet access or also for heavy internal communication), all contribute to different needs for different people.
Roughly though, here are some general guidelines:
- If your Internet connection is 150Mbps or more and if you want to transfer large files locally (or you have some heavy local traffic within the home), then go with an AC3000 model (RBK50, RBK53).
- If your Internet connection is less than 150Mbps and you don’t have much internal traffic (i.e between devices within the home or office) then go with an AC2200 system (RBK40, RBK43).
Orbi Access Point (AP) Mode vs Router Mode
Netgear Orbi supports different modes of operation such as access point, router mode etc.
The Router Mode is the most popular one (and actually is the default mode of operation) and is used when you already have a standalone modem from the ISP (e.g a cable modem or DSL modem) and thus you connect the Orbi router’s Internet (WAN) port to the modem. In this setup, the Orbi should be working as WiFi router mode in order to assign IP addresses to home network clients and also route their traffic towards the modem and then towards the ISP and Internet.
The Access Point Mode is used when you already have a router gateway device (e.g combo modem+router) connected to the ISP and thus you want to connect the Orbi behind this existing router. In AP mode, not all features of Orbi work. e.g parental control does not work in AP mode.
See the diagram below for more details:
As shown from above, if you already have an existing modem gateway device (3) which already has router and WiFi capabilities, then you should connect the Orbi Internet port to a LAN port of the existing gateway. Then, you should disable the WiFi functionality of the existing gateway router and set the Orbi in AP mode (under ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Router/AP Mode.)
So, to summarize, the difference between Orbi router mode vs AP mode is the following:
- If you have a standalone modem (without WiFi) connected to the ISP (e.g cable provider) then setup the Orbi in Router Mode (the default).
- If you have a combo modem+router gateway (i.e with WiFi) connected to the ISP, then setup the Orbi in AP mode but make sure to disable the WiFi on the combo gateway device.
How many Satellites can you connect to the Orbi Router?
Orbi kits come with one or two satellites (such as the RBK23 and RBK53 which have 2 satellites). However, you can connect many more satellite units and people have reported up to 5 satellites working fine as described here. You can also mix and match between wired and wireless backhaul connections between satellites and router nodes.
Keep in mind that if all of the satellites are connected via wireless backhaul, then the link is shared among all satellites therefore the total WiFi backhaul bandwidth will be reduced if you have many satellites. This does not happen if you connect them via wired backhaul though.
Does Orbit work with Netgear ProSafe firewall?
Yes it should work. You can place the Orbi behind the firewall and have it working as access point to provide wireless connectivity.
Does a satellite work better with an ethernet cable connection to the main Orbi router?
Ken, yes if you have the option of ethernet connection between satellite and main router, this is the best. It’s going to help a lot in cases where the satellite is too far away and has a lot of obstacles from the main router.
I have a Uverse dsl modem set up in one room (office) Ethernet wired connected to a router in the tv room. This was done due to WiFi signal loss throughout the house and which means hard connect to tv.
Question. I have a 2 unit Orbi and want to know if I can connect one of the Orbi’s to the router in the tv room and the other Orbi to a bedroom (WiFi only) in the back of the house to expand range.
I think I can do this by making Orbi access points.
Yes you can do this by enabling “access point” mode on Orbi. You can connect the Orbi router unit to the tv room router and the satellite unit to the bedroom.
However, why don’t you get rid of the existing tv-room router and connect the Orbi to its place?
Thank you. Good suggestions.
You are welcome Paul
Do i need any wifi. Connection or van i just have orbi
Sorry I didn’t get exactly your question. Orbi provides both WiFi connections and LAN wired connections. If you have Orbi you also have WiFi.
I have a modem and router located in a boathouse. I have just purchased a Netgear Orbi RBK50 to install in the cottage located 70-feet apart. Can I bridge the Orbi to the router in the boathouse wirelessly? Or could the Orbi be located in the boathouse connected to the modem Nd the satellite in the cottage?
Vic,
The answer to the first question is No, you can’t bridge the Orbi to the router in the boathouse.
The correct setup is to connect the Orbi RBK50 router unit to the modem and the satellite unit must be “paired” with the router unit (yes the satellite can be placed in the cottage theoretically but I don’t know what obstacles are in between etc). Also, placing the satellite at 70-feet apart from the router unit is on the limit of the distance suggested by Netgear.
I replaced my Xfinity modem and router with the Orbi and have one satellite and an outside satellite. My problem is now my home phone that used to plug into Xfinity modem. Where do I plug it in on Orbi?
Rich,
The Orbi does not support voice ports (phones). The original Xfinity modem is a specialized model to support voice as well in addition to Internet access. I recommend to keep the Xfinity modem and switch off its wifi signal (maybe Comcast can help you). Then connect the Orbi router in a LAN port of the Xfinity device (WAN of Orbi connected to LAN of Xfinity).
Can I connect CBK40 to it’s satellite with an Ethernet cable to save on WiFi signal loss? Is there a procedure? Thank you in advance!
James,
Yes sure, you can do that. This is called wired Ethernet backhaul. Have a look here: https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi/How-do-you-set-up-an-Orbi-Satellite-via-Ethernet/m-p/1556831
https://kb.netgear.com/000051205/What-is-Ethernet-backhaul-and-how-do-I-set-it-up-on-my-Orbi-WiFi-System
Hello – Sorry for this long post. I have Verizon FIOS Quantum Gateway and the ORBI RBK50. It works well with everything EXCEPT, my new REMO BELL-S video doorbell.
Doorbell requires 2.4gHz. Had a horrible time setting it up to my wifi. Cell phone had to be on the 2.4gHz band in order to sync up with the bell and the app for the bell on my phone. Netgear support walked me through reducing the power on my 5 gHz band and setting the specific channel 1 for the 2.4 so it wasn’t dynamic. It was able to sync to the bell after about 30 unsuccessful previous tries.
In order to get the 5gHz benefit, I set my Orbi router back to 100% power on this band. Now a BIG reason I got the Orbi was to strengthen the 2.4 gHz connection for the bell since it was weak. I also have add’l cameras that will only use the 2.4.
Can the ORBI transmit in both 2.4 & 5 simultaneously? How do I do this? The satellite is only about 15 feet from the bell.
I’ve been reading the support pages and here’s what I’ve done:
I’ve configured the Orbi to be an access point. I’ve disabled the 5g on the Verizon gateway, but left the 2.4gHz open for the bell. I understand this gives me the “double NAT” issue. How do I deal with this? I see where my wifi on the Orbi says “no internet” and in some cases sites are getting blocked.
I read I should bridge the gateway, is that necessary? Do I even need the Verizon Gateway at all if I plug the ethernet directly into the Orbi router?
So bottom line, I’d like to configure my setup so that it can handle multiple devices with multiple bands and get the best signal strength I can.
Hi Zoe.
The first thing I suggest you to do is separate the 2.4GHZ and 5GHz SSID names so that you can connect to each SSID manually from each of your devices. This is what I do as well. It gives you more control and better handling of problems like the one you have. Here is a video how to create two separate SSID (WiFi names): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEgVG8rR5o8
Now, if you don’t have TV service from Verizon but only Internet, then you can disconnect the FIOS Quantum Gateway and plug the Orbi router (Internet port) directly to the Verizon Ethernet cable. I describe this situation here: https://www.tech21century.com/best-verizon-fios-compatible-routers/
You might need to call Verizon to release the old IP address and assign a new IP to Orbi. Therefore, you will avoid double NAT.
Let me know if you have other questions.
Harris
Hi I have ATT Uverse and an extra Orbi RBS20 Satellite- is it possible to connect the Orbi satellite to the ATT Uverse router directly without using an Orbi Router?
@RC
Unfortunately no, you can’t connect a satellite unit directly to the Uverse. You must connect an Orbi router to the Uverse because its the only unit that can do routing (via its WAN/internet port) towards the Internet.
Harris
Hello! I have a Netgear Nighthawk R-7000 that is set up as a VPN router. Previously I had this working behind an Apple AirPort Extreme so that I could choose which wifi I wanted to use, either my VPN or the normal wifi.
I purchased the Orbi 50 mesh wifi and have it working correctly. I then plugged my Nighthawk behind the Orbi and my VPN will not connect to the internet. What can I do to get this to work?
Current
ISP>ORBI>Nighthawk VPN
How can I get my VPN network to work with the ORBI?
Thanks in advance.
It could be so many reasons. Is it just the VPN that doesn’t work? If you disable VPN on nighthawk, does it connect to the Internet? Can you check the Nighthawk if it receives an IP address from the Orbi? Does the Nighthawk work as DHCP on its WAN interface?
Yes Hi I want to cancel my at&t internet to use orbi is that how it works I’m confused because I really want to get it
Orbi does not replace your Internet subscription. You will need to keep your at&t internet, but you can replace their router if you want (if the Internet connection is using ethernet on the WAN).
Hi, i have a NETGEAR Nighthawk X6 Smart Wifi Router (R8000) connected to a separate DrayTek Vigor 130 ADSL/VDSL Ethernet Modem. Should I ditch the Nighthawk and connect the Orbi to the modem in router mode or keep the Nighthawk and connect the Orbi to the Nighthawk and use AP mode, disabling the Nighthawk’s wireless? I want to try and get the best coverage with the kit I have.
AK,
You don’t specify which Orbi kit you have but I will assume you have the minimum which is one Orbi router unit and one satellite unit. In your case I would remove the Nighthawk and connect the Orbi router to the ADSL modem and then use the satellite in another place in the house. This will provide the best coverage.
Just to follow up on our conversation. I discovered that because both of these were Netgear products they have the same login IP address. Once I changed the Nighthawk IP address and rebooted everything worked great!
I already have an RBK50 Orbi Router and Satellite, can I purchase the CBK40 Orbi Cable Modem and use my original Router as another satellite?
Hi,
I have Spectrum internet with a Hitron modem and a router. I recently bought the Orbi RBK23. Went through the Orbi setup process by taking out the Spectrum router but leaving the modem…. The Orbi router wouldn’t connect to the internet and I kept getting a ‘no internet’ error.
It sounds like I need to put the modem in bridge mode and continue using the Spectrum router in addition to the Orbi (set in AP mode?), however, I can’t figure how to log into the modem to change it to bridge. In searching the modem model I got from Spectrum (E31n2v1) it looks like there is no user interface. Thoughts? Any info you can provide would be super helpful.
Greg, No you can’t connect a router-to-router in Orbi (I mean via the WiFi backhaul connection). However you can turn the RBK50 router into an Access Point and connect it to the CBK40 with Ethernet cable.
Debbie, some times the ISP “fixes” their own cable modem and router on the specific cable line. I recommend to call Spectrum and tell them what you want to do (i.e replace their router with a new one) and will be able to help you. They can also put the modem into bridge mode if you ask them.
Hello,
I just recently installed AT&T FIber 300 in my house. Previously I had xfinity. Can you please let me know if I can get rid of the at&t u-verse modem/router box and use my NETGEAR Gigabit Cable Modem (32×8) DOCSIS 3.1 CM1000-1AZNAS with my Orbi RBR20 router instead? If so, how do I set it up? Please show me steps by steps!!! thank you so much
You can not use the NETGEAR CM1000 cable modem with the AT&T Fiber service. The CM1000 is ONLY for cable services, not for fiber services.
It seems that AT&T for now does not allow to completely replace their Uverse modem/router. However, you can ask AT&T to configure the Uverse in to bypass mode and then connect your own router device (such as the RBR20) to the AT&T modem. Check out this article here: https://community.ui.com/questions/INSTRUCTIONS-Bypass-ATT-Fiber-Residential-Gateway-with-a-USG/2d8b1559-4623-40bb-9aae-af0348dd39a8
Above they are talking about using a USG behind the ATT modem but the same concept applies with any other brand.
Thank you, I guess the only way is to use my router in AP mode behind At&t Uverse router/modem. Thank you for your reply.
Yes , that should work fine.
Have a nice day.
Question regarding the WiFi 6 System (RBK852) system:
I currently have the NETGEAR – Orbi AC2200 Tri-Band Mesh Wi-Fi System (4-pack). The current setup I have requires 1 router, 3 satellites, which is why I use the 4-pack.
Would it be possible to buy (2) of these and use 1 of the routers as a satellite?
If not, is there a variant of the wifi 6 (RBK852) that would have 1 router and 3 satellites? Is there a way to only buy satellites?
Please advise
Grant,
The RBK852 is very new and is not available yet (only on pre-order) at the time being (from what I know).
I’m pretty sure it will follow the same concept and architecture as the normal WiFi 5 Orbi routers. This means that you can’t use a router unit as satellite. So, you can’t buy 2x RBK852 kits and use one of the routers as satellite. What you can do however is use the second router in AP mode (connected via wire to the first router) and also assign the second satellite to the first router.
I have Att Uverse fiber for our internet as well as our cable with a couple of wireless tv receivers. We have a router connected to the att modem because the wireless signal put out by the att modem isn’t great. I would like to replace our current router with the Orbi RBK44 to increase coverage to the far corners of our home. At the moment, we have a wireless signal from the att modem as well as a signal from the router. I keep reading about turning off the wireless signal from the modem when using Orbi. Why would this be necessary? Would this mess up our wireless tv receivers? Thanks for any help. We have always just plugged the router into the modem and had 2 wireless signals.
Kristi,
What you have read about turning off the wifi on att is correct. Usually these wifi devices operate at the same wireless channel and thus create interference between each other. The TV receivers will not be affected by that.
I suggest the following:
I hope that helps.
I just purchased an Orbi Router RBR 20 with 2 satellites. Have it connected directly to DSL modem via Ethernet cable. Cannot get Internet service. I unplugged my Netgear Router but that did not help. Any suggestions would be really appreciated.
If the DSL modem assigns IP address dynamically, check to see if the IP address range assigned by the DSL modem is the same as the IP address range assigned by the Orbi router. The Orbi assigns IP addresses in the range 192.168.1.2 up to .254. If that range is the same as the DSL then it will have a problem. You will need to change the range of either DSL or Orbi (e.g make one of them 192.168.10.x )
I have Fios gigabit phone and internet (no TV) with the Quantum Gateway. It have both Ethernet and coax plugged in. I also have The Orbi RBR50 with 3 satellites. I only have the RBR50 plugged in to the Quantum gateway. Everything else is plugged in to the Orbis. I have the wifi turned off on the Quantum gateway. The Orbi is configured in router mode. I tried to re configure in AP mode but the satellites would not sync. It seems to work well in this configuration. I do have a great deal of wifi fluctuation in my lower level with sometimes poor reception (3 level home) so I was thinking of adding one more satellite. I already have one but the last time I tried the whole network became unstable. There have been a number of software updates to the ORBI since then. Any suggestions would be appreciated
Alex,
You don’t mention this info but I guess the router unit is far away from the lower level satellite?
Have you tried turning on daisy-chain mode so that satellites can connect to other satellites instead of router? This might help with the lower level satellite if it has another satellite closer to it instead of the main router. Another option in to use wired backhaul for the lower level unit.
The router is not that far but there are floors and walls between. Daisy chain mode is on automatically (i think) because another satellite is chaining off of that one. The other strange thing is that it is showing that satellite is wired to the ORBI router and its not as far as I know. Backhaul status shows good on all the satellites. When I switch to AP they dont.
I have a 3 story house, 3,000 sq ft. I also have 2 ring doorbells in both front & back of my house. I would like to cut my cable and try streaming to my TV’s on all 3 floors. My current router doesn’t give a good signal to my 2nd floor, let alone my 3rd floor, and I’m using a wifi extender to reach the front doorbell. Confused on which system to use…Netgear x6s or better, OR the ORBI mesh system with 1 or 2 satellites. Can you please advise? Thank you
Joyce,
For 3-story houses I always advise to get a 3-unit mesh system such as the Orbi RBK53 (most powerful and most expensive) or the Orbi RBK23 (cheaper and very good choice).
With 3 wifi units you can place each one to its own floor and also you can cascade satellites (it’s called “daisy chain”). For example, the satellite at 3rd floor can be connected to the satellite at 2nd floor which is then connected to the router unit at 1st floor.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Harris
Harris, thank you so much for your advice. I just ordered my 3-unit mesh Netgear Orbing RBK53s and a 3 year protection plan, mainly for 24/7 customer service help as I am not a techie like many others on this thread. In my effort to try to cut the cable cord I realize those big companies still have us needing their internet. However, I purchased the latest ROKU and the newest antenna in hopes to take my cable bill from $210 to $125 mn, one step at a time right? Any more advice would be welcomed!
JOYCE B
I have a 3 story house, 3,000 sq ft. I also have 2 ring doorbells in both front & back of my house. I would like to cut my cable and try streaming to my TV’s on all 3 floors. My current router doesn’t give a good signal to my 2nd floor, let alone my 3rd floor, and I’m using a wifi extender to reach the front doorbell. Confused on which system to use…Netgear x6s or better, OR the ORBI mesh system with 1 or 2 satellites. Can you please advise? Thank you
Joyce, the RBK53 is an excellent choice. So you will need to cancel the TV subscription of your cable company and use ROKU to stream TV over the Internet (using the Orbi devices for WiFi connectivity of ROKU). That is what millions of other people are doing so you will be just fine.
I have a netflix Night Hawk 3000 extender. Can I connect it to the Orbi Router?
Susan I’m not sure which extender model you actually mean but the answer is that yes, usually these extender devices can be used with the Orbi to extend the range (however, the best option is to use an Orbi satellite for this case).
I currently have 2 Orbi systems, one for each house on the property. Each house has its own cable internet drop from Spectrum/Roadrunner. I want to combine the two networks with only one Spectrum account (400Mbs download – 20Mbs upload). One Orbi system is the newer AC3000 while the other runs the AC2200. Can I use a wired connection to the older AC2200 from the AC3000 Orbi and designate the AC2200 as an AP (Access Point) for the other house? There is “some” overlap of the wifi signals, but very little.
On another point, when connection is wired directly to the Orbi, I am getting about 140-150 Mbs dowload, while wireless usually runs at about 390-420Mbs. Why is wired running at 1/2 the speed of the wireless connections?
Loren,
Yes sure. You can use a wired connection between the new and old Orbi systems and configure the old Orbi in AP mode. You can even configure the old Orbi in router mode and connect its Internet port to a LAN port of the new Orbi (however this is a more complicated setup).
About the wired running at 1/2 the speed of the wireless, this is very weird. It shouldn’t be like that. Test it again with a different wired client (laptop, PC etc).
Thanks! Is there an advantage in setting the AC2200 as a router as apposed to an AP? The devices connected to the AC2200 don’t transfer data between themselves (usually), so not critical it be set as a router.
Regarding the wired connection speed, I have run this test on 3 different machines with the same results. One is a Dell Precision 7530 with a Gig network card – Intel(R) Ethernet Connection (7) I219-LM – where the wireless connection gets between 350-400Mbs consistently. The others were an HP z440 with a Gig card (no wireless card) and a MAC Book with a Gig card (wireless connection gets the expected 350-400Mbs). I have tried this several ways – Auto Negotiate vs. 1.0 Gbps Full Duplex hard set (on the Dell laptop). It does not appear to make any difference. I have even switched the cables used – Cat7, Cat6A, Cat5e. The Dell and MAC get the same wired speed on both the AC3000 and the AC2200 when directly plugged into the router(s) (harder to move the Z440 – connects to the AC3000 Orbi). I thought it might just be the cards but all 3 machines do the same thing, so really don’t understand. I’ve upgraded both routers to the latest updates. Any idea what else I can do to test this out or improve the wired connection speed?
The only advantage of setting the AC2200 as a router is if you wanted to create a separate network with different IP addresses etc (like a different network zone). Other than that, setting it as AP is much simpler.
Unfortunately I have no idea what’s going on with the wired connections. Seems like an Orbi problem. Can’t help on that one, sorry…
I just purchased the NETGEAR Orbi All-in-One Cable Modem + Whole Home Mesh-Ready WiFi Router to replace my Optimum moden and wireless router. After disconnecting my optimum modem and router, I realized the Orbi does not have a phone line jack. Is there anything out there that can fix this problem or is the Orbi model I bought not for me?
Fernando, the Orbi cable model will not work in your case.
You will need to call your provider and ask them what modem/router combo devices they support. This modem/router combo must include also voice ports such as the NETGEAR C7100V, MOTOROLA MT7711 etc.
Two questions for the group:
I have cable and internet from a company called TDS, it’s DSL and all the cable boxes are wireless and according to tech will only connect to the provided router. Can I have 2 networks? Essentially 1 network for the wireless set top boxes connected to provided DSL router and all my personal devices on Orbi network?
Also, can an IP phone be plugged in to an Orbi satellite for wife’s work phone? (Router has to be in living room for main set top box but phone needs to be in office)
Jay,
Yes you can have two different networks as you described with the Orbi accommodating your personal devices. The Orbi can be connected to the DSL router (WAN to LAN) but you will have two different SSIDs (one on the DSL router and one on the Orbi) so you will be manually connecting to the Orbi router.
I have a Orbi RBK53, with RBR50 (AP mode) wired to my Mikrotik router port 2 (ether2) and with both my RBS50 wired to the same Mikrotik router on port 3 (ether3) and port 4 (ether4) respectively. The RBS50 is not connecting to the RBR50, and both satellite is not shown on either orbi app or orbi web setup page. Both satellite is able to connect to the RBR50 wirelessly. I believe others have able set it up, am I missing something?
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi/ethernet-backhaul-for-ORBI-in-AP-mode/td-p/1707668
Any help will be appreciated.
Chin,
Make sure that the ports on the Mikrotik router (port 2 up to 4) are working as pure Layer 2 switch ports and not routed ports. If these ports are working as a pure ethernet switch, then your setup should work.
Another option would be to connect the two RBS satellites to the LAN ports of RBR50 unit.
I currently have a r7000 router and having 23 devices including 8 security wifi cameras, Dropping video on cameras numerous times….with buffering occasional on smart tvs second floor….installed a Orbi Outdoor satellite and put in Extender mode but signal strength seems the same on cameras…Should i update the Router to a Orbi or a AX4s,AX10 etc? I have a two story 2300sf house with a detached garage 80ft away…
Gordon,
If I were you I would prefer to install an Orbi system (preferably RBK50 or RBK23) to cover as much area as possible. Devices will be able to connect to the closest unit to them (either a satellite or the router unit) thus signal drops and buffering will be minimized.
Thanks for sharing useful information, Keep it up always.
You are welcome Tim. I’m glad you found my articles helpful.
Harris
i have rbk22 model .how can turn my motorola mg7550 modem router to just modem. what do i need to do in setting of both systems to get best results. how do tvs 5g and others that require 2.4h like cameras
I have the RBK50 one satellite and one wall unit Orbi system. Is there a way to separate the traffic in my network with in the system or would it be best to get a separate firewall device?
John, you can create a guest network with different name and wifi password. Is that what you want?
I am considering an Orbi mesh system but I have 2 U-verse wireless stb and I read that there is a conflict that causes the wireless to freeze when trying to use mesh with U-verse.
If this is the case, is there a workaround so that I can get the benefit of the mesh coverage ?
Bill, yes there can be a conflict when you have different wifi routers emitting signals in the house (especially if they work on the same channels).
What I suggest is to disable the WiFi radio on U-verse gateway and have only the Orbi working as WiFi router in the house. You must connect the Orbi to the U-verse LAN port and all wireless devices will be getting signal from the Orbi.
I just purchased the orbi modem/router unit (cbk40)… due to issues I was having with old arris modem/router…and I already have the ac3000 router and two satellite combo. What is the best way to set up to take advantage of the more powerful ac3000 system? Or am I only going to get up to specs in the cbk40 system. Can I hook up the ac 3000 system router to the cbk40 modem/router?
Thanks for your advise?
Wendy,
Since you already have the AC3000 I recommend to disable the WiFi on the CBK40 (turn it into bridge mode: https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi-with-Built-in-Cable-Modem/How-to-turn-off-WiFi-radios-on-CBR40/m-p/1673343#M401) and use the WiFi on the ac3000 units. You will need to connect the ac3000 router to the cbr40 router
I have 6 Ethernet wired devices connected to a Linksys router where my modem is located. I want to eliminate the Linksys Router. Can I connect an 8 port unmanaged switch to the Orbi router? Do I just connect the switch to one of the Ethernet ports on the back of the Orbi router?
Thanks for the help.
Jim,
Yes this will work.
Connect the Orbi router to your modem and then connect an unmanaged switch to one of the LAN ports of Orbi router unit.
Harris
Planning on purchasing RBK53 or Rbk53S. Does NetGear Armor provide VPN services? If not, Can the Orbi router run VPN LIKE Nord, Norton VPN or other VPN software?
Thanks for the help. This blog is great info!
James,
The Netgear Armor does not provide VPN services. However, the Orbi software already has a VPN service (OpenVPN) which you can enable (as explained here).
Also, it does not support one of the mentioned commercial VPN products (NordVPN etc) though.
In regards to the info below, how do I discover if my modem is set to bridge mode. How do I set my Orbi to router mode?
“If the modem is set to bridge mode, the Orbi should be set to router mode. This allows the Orbi to assign IP addresses and handle wireless connections to home users and devices. When using the modem in router mode, the AP mode should be used on the Orbi.”
Beverly,
The Orbi is in router mode by default (out of the box). About the modem, it depends on the model, brand etc. You usually set it to bridge mode via its Graphical management interface or maybe your ISP can do it for you.
I just installed an RBK53S IN MY 3200 sf single story home and have Comcast Internet. The speed test between router and modem using Orbi app is 540 mps.
One bedroom in one corner of the house gets only 4 mps according to Vizio tv speed test.
How effective will be a EX3700 NETGEAR range extender be vs. another Orbi satellite placed in that bedroom? I already own the EX3700 and would prefer not to spend $100 for another satellite.
In looking at the device manager I see wireless Devices connected to the router when a satellite is somewhat closer. Is it better to have connected to the router or satellite?
If satellite, is there a way to force connection to satellite?
Thank you for your help.
Jim,
About the extender, it will most probably increase the speed in the bedroom above 4 mps so its worth trying the EX3700 and see how it goes. If it doesn’t work well, you can always get a cheaper satellite (like RBS20) which will be better than the extender.
Devices connect automatically to the best node available (router or satellite) so I wound’t try to force change anything. Connecting to the router is better anyway.
Can someone please help me understand why my Orbi router is not allowing me to connect to websites and it keeps asking for my serial number? I have it connected to my modem that is not Wi-Fi.
I just purchased the orbi rbk50 that came with one router and one satellite. I have att uverse internet only with the arris nvg599 modem/router combo unit. Do you have specific instruction on how to set this up because my wifi signal was dropping constantly. Do I need to setup IP Passthrough mode for the nvg599?
Andrew,
The simplest scenario is the following:
1) First turn-off the WiFi on the nvg599
2) Connect the Internet port of Orbi router unit to the LAN port of nvg599. By default the nvg599 will assign an IP address to the Orbi.
3) Connect the satellite to the Orbi router via Wireless.
4) You will be using only the Orbi WiFi from now on. There will be a new SSID in the house (the one you have set on the Orbi)
Hi, I have a Orbi Tri-Band Mesh WiFi Router (RBR20) connected to my Arris Surfboard SB6121 modem. Can I take my Orbi Wifi router to my Moms home in another State and use it on her ISP (Spectrum) router? OR, must I take both my Wifi Router and my modem and use it on my mothers service?
Jim
Jim,
Yes you can take just the Orbi mesh router to your Moms home and use it there as well. The Orbi is independent of ISPs.
You will need to connect the Orbi router to the other cable modem that is already there.
I currently have an RBR50 set up. Can I add an RBK853 system as a separate network to the same modem?
Yes, provided that the modem has extra LAN ports (or maybe you have a switch).
Have Orbi RBR50
Can I just use 1 of the satellites ?
If so what do I do when it says “ 1 of 2 satellites found” and the only options are try again or set up later?
Thanks
Select “set up later”
I’m trying to setup my Arlo Camera system to my new Orbi. Why won’t it connect? I can see that the base is up but all the cameras say offline.
I recently upgraded my Uverse service to AT&T fiber and in the process AT&T replaced my gateway/router with an Arris BGW-210. My landline, internet and TV come through the gateway. I have an AT&T WAP attached for two TVs connected wirelessly, one of which loses connection constantly. My new service is, of course, extremely fast compared to what I had before (it’s now 1,000 mbps vs. 18 mbps) which is great. However, the one annoying thing is that the router randomly disconnects devices. For example, now that I’m working from home, I’m using my desktop to remote into my office on a daily basis. At least once a day my desktop loses internet access. I then have to manually disconnect my desktop from my home network and reconnect which then restores internet access. It happens with other devices too but not at the same time. Since it did not happen before I’m blaming the gateway/router.
Because of these issues (along with the need for better coverage throughout my home) I purchased the RBK-43 Netgear package. I wish I would have read your article before as I might have gone with the AC-3000 model. Regardless, I’ve been researching how to configure this with my Uverse system. Apparently, I have two choices. The AT&T router cannot be configured as a bridge but does have what they call a “passthrough mode” which allows the Orbi to act as the router. The alternative is the method you’ve mentioned, which is to configure the Orbi as an access point and continue to use the Uverse device to assign IP addresses. Do you know what the advantages and disadvantages are of these two options?
I have been looking at videos and other articles related to the Orbi and yours, especially when combined with the information is the comments section, has been the most helpful. Thank you.
Hello, here is a helpful article that talks about the same setup as yours (ATT BGW210 and Orbi): https://forums.att.com/conversations/att-internet-equipment/connecting-orbi-router-to-a-bgw210/5defc9b2bad5f2f6065e48b7
The simplest thing to do (with the lowest possible conflicts and changes in the network) is to switch-off the WiFi on the BGW210 gateway and connect the Orbi as Access Point (see the comments on the article above as well). The only disadvantage of this setup is that some functionality on Orbi will not work (such as parental controls etc). If you are mostly interested in better WiFi coverage then this setup will be the most straight forward.
Thanks for the quick reply.
Wifi coverage is the added benefit I was hoping to get. My main issue is that my devices keep either dropping from the network or will show that they are connected to the network but won’t have internet access until I manually disconnect them from the network and reconnect them. I’m very much a novice at networking but I’ve been assuming it’s an issue with the router since this did not start until AT&T gave me this router. My only concern with putting the Orbi in AP mode and letting the Arris continue operating as the router is that these issues will continue. That said, I guess can start out configured that way and switch to passthrough later if these issues persist.
I turned off wifi on the Arris box and have my Orbi network up and running. But the Orbi is still in router mode. Is there a way to switch it to AP mode using the Orbi app? The only computer I have with an ethernet port is a big desktop.
I’ve only briefly had the Orbi up and running. The coverage does seem impressive.
One more question, once in AP mode. Does it make a difference if I assign a static IP address to the Orbi or just let it get a dynamic one from the router?
Thanks again.
Open a browser on your smartphone (should be connected to the Orbi wifi network) and visit orbilogin.com . Enter the admin username/password and then go to “ADVANCED > Advanced Setup > Router/AP Mode” and select AP mode. Just leave the IP in dynamic setting.
I have an RBR 50 Orbi (AC 3000) with one RBS50Y running off of Spectrum 400 MB connection. My home is 5600 sq ft and 2 stories. It was built last year and has that tin foil looking material under the roof sheets which I attribute to poor signal strength through out the house and outside.
1. Would I get better signal strength connecting Sat 1 and 2 straight to CAT 6 Ethernet? If yes, is there anything specific I need to do in the settings of the router?
2. What is the maximum number of RBS50Y’s that can I have?
3. What is the maximum number of Satellites I can have? If I can add another one, which satellite will be compatible with my existing ones?
1) Yes definitely. Each satellite will provide wifi coverage to its vicinity and backhaul access will be super fast via the Ethernet cable.
2) People have used up to 5 total satellites with no problems
3) see above. Try to use an AC3000 satellite so that you will keep the same wireless speed.
My home has a central router hub and has CAT6 ethernet connections run into every room. Previously, I used the router’s lan ports to send a wired signal to each room and then used unmanaged switches to provide wired connections to multiple devices in those rooms. it worked fine but my router speed wasn’t very strong. I just bought a new orbi system with 2 satellites from Costco. Can I use a switch after the ORBI satellites (My plan was to use a wired connection between the Orbi Satellite and Orbi Router leaving only 1 lan port)? Modem>Orbi Router>Orbi Satellite>switch> multiple devices.
Juan,
Yes sure. You can use an unmanaged switch connected to each satellite for connecting multiple devices. It will work fine.
I have FIOS internet and TV and I just installed the Orbi RBR750 (in AP mode with FIOS G1100 router as primary router) + i have 3 RBS750 satellites that connect wirelessly to the RBR750 router. Performs well – 200-250 Mbps off a Gigabit service from Verizon, and the STB boxes all maintain their data connection to the internet (guides/ DVR).
I recently tried to set up a wired MOCA backhaul using my existing COAX lines in the house; specifically:
– At each RBS750 satellite location, I installed a coax splitter to have 1 coax line going directly into the FIOS STB box, and a second coax line going into a GOCOAX MOCA 2.5 Adapter, which in turn connects via an Ethernet line into my Orbi750.
– In the RBR750 router location, I did a similar approach – I installed a coax splitter to have 1 coax line going directly back into the FIOS G1100 (so STBs can connect with internet) and a second coax line going into a GOCOAX MOCA 2.5 Adapter, which in turn connects to a LAN port on the RBR750 Router.
The above set up was good for WIFI (~350-400 Mbps), but my FIOS STBs consistently gave me “no data connection” errors when I reset them . It seems that either the Orbi backhaul activity is interfering with the STB communications with the internet; or perhaps the GOCOAX adapter is not compatible with FIOS?
Prior to above approach, I did try using the GOCOAX MOCA 2.5 Adapters to to 1) receive the COAX input in the “MOCA” Port, 2) Provide a COAX output to the STB box “TV” port and 3) Provide the Ethernet output to the RBS750 from the “LAN” port in each of the Satellite locations. Similar to above, I received “no data connectivity” errors, which is why I tried splitters to provide direct connections to the STB box without going through the GOCOAX adapter.
Sorry for long description – any ideas on what i am doing wrong? THANKS
Vince,
I suggest to troubleshoot the problem with STBs by isolating first the Orbi devices (i.e switch all Orbi off) and then check to see if STBs are connecting or not. I think the problem is that you are sharing a single coax cable with both high-speed data traffic (Orbi) and TV signals (for the STBs).
So, keep the connectivity like you described above but switch off all Orbi devices to see if STBs work or not. Try the same with the coax splitter and without it (i.e original scenario described above).
I have Spectrum phone/internet 400mbps and I am using a firestick for cable. My modum/router are in one section of my 2 bedroom apartment which is about 1200 sq.ft. I get some buffering or spotty viewings of live tv or movies. Can I use just the NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Mesh-Ready Wi-Fi Router only to eliminate the buffering and lagging or do I need both the router and satellite combo.
I see that they are sold separately or as a combo, which should I use for inside of my apartment complex where signal is weak due to trees and older buildings. I see on amazon has as low for $84.00
Cortez, since you have a phone/internet plan, you will need to keep the Spectrum modem/router (for having the phone functionality).
For a 2-bedroom apartment I’d recommend something cheaper (not a mesh system). Just get a normal WiFi router and connect it with ethernet cable to the existing Spectrum router. You must configure the new router as Access-Point mode.
Harris, thanks so much for the reply.
If i use the wired backhaul to my Cox modem, can I use the cox wireless for my family use (TV, ipads, etc) and connect only my work devices to the Orbi network for a dedicated work connection?
Dalton, yes you can connect the Orbi router unit to Cox modem with wire and use a different SSID on the Orbi than the one you have on Cox.
This means that you can connect to each WiFi SSID network independently (e.g select the Cox SSID for family use and the Orbi SSID for work connection).
Harris
I have a fibernet connection to my home and was using a dlink router with it. I purchased Orbi RBK50 with 1 satellite and was not able to connect to internet directly via the internet cable coming int my house whereas the dlink is directly connected to the internet cable. Is there any way I can connect Orbi directly to the internet cable?
Sarthak, I assume you connected the “Internet” port of Orbi router to the ethernet port of your internet cable box? If yes, then maybe you need to talk to your ISP and let them know that you connected a different device. Sometimes they put restrictions on MAC address.
If the router and the satellites are connected with ethernet, is the 1.7 mbps backhauö band available for use with other devices connecting to the satellites and the router?
Teppo, no this dedicated 1.7 mbps link is only for backhaul communication.
Hi, I currently have gigabit service with COX, using their Arris Modem Router – the Wifi Service is spotty and sometimes slow. Would you recommend using an Orbis Router/Modem to get the full potential of my service or would I still get increased performance speed by plugging the Orbis into the existing Modem? My other concern is that the Orbis Router/Modem states up to 40 Devices, does this expand with every additional satellite as I have over 80 devices split over 5ghz and 2.4ghz. Their website says that they will all handle upto 100 devices but i’m unsure?
Aaron, to be honest with you, maybe the Orbi will not be a good choice if you have many smart or IoT devices that work better on 2.4GHz.
The newer Orbi firmware does not allow you to split the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands so you will have just a single SSID from the Orbi.
Hello, I recently switched to ATT fiber and now I’m having to use my Orbi RBK50 in AP mode utilizing ATT’s gateway router. Although the satellite is still connected to the main unit, does it still have mesh capabilities or is it simply behaving like a wifi extender?
Marc from what I know yes it will still have mesh capabilities (e.g single SSID, roaming etc).
Hello Harris, First of all, thank you for all the excellent info. I apologize if this question has been asked before. When I set my ORBI in AP mode, what is the downside of not turning off the my internet providers modems Wifi signal? Does it just create more interference that makes the ORBI signal not as strong? I am just wondering if its work the trouble of asking my internet provider to help me do this. Thank you for helping me understand
Raj,
If you don’t turn off the ISP router’s WiFi then you will have a second wifi name in your home (SSID) and also if it works on the same wifi channel as Orbi it will create interference.
Does the RBK852 support ethernet backhaul?
I have a Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L and very little service. Will the Orbi Mesh WiFi Add-on work to boost signal?
Kristie, the Verizon MiFi works with the cell network The Netgear Orbi works with WiFi in the house so it will not help to boost the signal of the Verizon device (different technologies).
I have an Orbi RBRE960 mesh wifi. I have a Logitech circle view camera that has a very weak wifi connection. Which Orbi Wifi extender would be best to use? Ax1600 or ax1800?
Tom, use the Ax1600 since the camera does not need a lot of bandwidth.
I have an Arris TG2472 from my cable company and have just purchased the Orbi RBK50. Will this work and what do I need to do to set it up. Thank you.
You need to connect the “Internet” port of the router unit of RBK50 to one of the 4 LAN ports on the Arris TG2472. Then you need to sync the satellite Orbi units with the router unit (please check Google for instructions).
Its better if you disable the WiFi on Arris (I don’t know if you can actually do this though).
Hello. We have a 2500 sqft home. I have the Orbi RBR750. Question is why are the satellites showing no devices found but the signal strength is still strong? Satellite 3 in the office isn’t showing computer or printer and that’s the room it’s in?? The 2 satellites used to show devices but since doing the last update some devices aren’t showing at all while the devices that are showing are only showing on the router. Are the satellites suppose to show devices it’s transmitting to? What about the devices that are running but not showing up at all? Is this normal operation for this system? If not, how do I fix this issue? I’ve already rebooted the system with no changes. Thank you for your time.
P.S. In case you need to know we have satellite internet provider.
Hi Al,
You should contact Netgear support for the specific problems you mention.
Maybe your devices are connected to the main router instead of the satellites.
Can an Orbi be used away from my home? Ex: to go camping?
Beth, the Orbi itself does not provide Internet access. You must have also a modem (like a cable modem or fiber optic device) that connects you to the Internet via an ISP (Internet Service Provider). You can have also a 4G/LTE modem which connects you to the Internet via the cell mobile network.
The Orbi is a WiFi device which connects your user devices (smartphones etc) to the WiFi LAN network.
Hello. I’ve had Spectrum internet at 200mbps with 2 linked Apple towers which was only borderline workable in my large house; so when I upgraded to 400mbps Spectrum sent an Arris TM1602A modem. This would not transmit an internet signal to the Apple towers; it worked with a Spectrum router they sent but the range was inadequate. So I purchased the Orbi RBK853 Mesh router. This also does not register an internet signal when set up with the Orbi app and properly plugged into the Ethernet output of the Arris modem. A Spectrum tech came and plugged the Orbi system into the Ethernet output of the Spectrum router and it connects with great coverage but with low speed (<100). When I then called Spectrum and told them of the problems with both routers running the internet they suggested the Arris may be incompatible with the Orbi system and that I should buy another modem. Should I do this? Or Should I switch to AP mode? I don’t want to do either. It seems I must be missing something as I can’t understand why the Orbi wouldn’t work with the Arris modem.
There is no such thing of Orbi not being compatible with the Arris modem. My guess is that the Apple towers connect to the Orbi using the 2.4 GHZ band which supports much lower speed than 5GHz. Make sure that the Apple towers support 5GHz.
Glad you are out there. This is not short.
Adding to my RBK50 (1 router 1 sat), I have added 3 more sats and 2 Orbi Voice units.
Sat 1 connects wifi to the Router; 1st Voice connects wireless to Sat 1 and has wifi and wired connections working beautifully.
Sat 2 is located 40 ft in the opposite direction from the Router (wireless to Router) and Sat 3 connects wirelessly to Sat2.
My issue is with the next two, Voice2 and Voice 3. They set up fine. [Re]-set to “Orbi” mode just to be sure, activated Alexa and all’s well, WHILE CONNECTED WIRELESSLY TO THE ROUTER. If I move them, they will not link thru Voice 1 or Sat 1, 2, or 3. ONLY the router.
Is a chain of two a hard maximum?
If I wired the connection between Sat 2 and Sat 3, would Sat 2 (or Sat3) then be available to Voice 2?
Alan I have not seen a similar situation before (i.e having multiple daisy-chain hops). I would say that it will be much better to avoid multiple chains because these introduce bottlenecks and reduced performance.
Now, regarding your Orbi Voice units, have you tried to set them up in “Extender Mode” ? See this link here: https://kb.netgear.com/000061088/How-do-I-set-up-my-Orbi-Voice-in-Extender-Mode
Maybe that is the problem.
Hello! I purchased the orbi mesh system with 3 devices. I tried to set up the router and one satellite. It shows all is good but it doesn’t work. Any help would be appreciated.
“Doesn’t work” could be for a million reasons.
Try to connect a laptop with ethernet cable directly to one of the LAN ports of the router unit. Check if it works from there. Maybe the Orbi router unit can’t connect to the Internet.
I’m looking thru your websites trying to put together an ORBI mesh system for my home. I’m specifically looking for wall plug satellites. The AC2200 seems to be what I’m looking for to set up behind a ORBI CBR750 modem/router. I’m sorry to take up some of your time but I’m not totally understanding the disclaimer as to whether or not the AC2200 satellites will actually work behind the CBR750 router/modem. A clarification would be much appreciated. Thank you for your time. Buddy Harris
@Buddy Harris, the AC2200 satellites work with a different WiFi technology (Called WiFi 5, or 802.11ac), but on the other hand the CBR750 works on the newest WiFi 6 technology standard. So, this does not guarantee full compatibility between the router and satellite units.