Configuring IOT devices

Many IOT devices, such as Wi-Fi Outlets, Door Bell Cameras, etc., need you phone to be connected to the 2.4GHZ band of your router in order for the device's app to perform initial device configuration. The ORBI routers use the same SSID for both the 2.4GHZ and the 5GHZ bands. This can be an issue because most phones will connect to the 5GHZ band.

There is another post, (https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi/How-to-set-a-separate-SSID-for-the-5-GHz-network-on-your-Orbi/td-p/1396594 }, that describes how to assign seperate SSIDs to the two bands. Unfortunately, this does not work with the CBR40 cable modem router and it is not officially supported by Netgear.

I solved this issue by opening the ORBI configuration web page (orbilogin.net), then going into the Advanced configuration tab, selecting Advanced Setup, then Wireless Settings. In the 5GHZ section, change the "Transmit Power Control" setting to the lowest setting (25%). Then click on the blue APPLY button at the top of the page.

Once the setting has been saved, go as far away from your routers as you can, closing any doors in between, then turn Wi-Fi off and back on on your phone. Check your connection and hopefully it is now connected to the 2.4GHZ band.

Set up your devices, reset the 5GHZ power back to 100% and you are good to go!