Netgear Orbi rbk50

You will need a  modem no matter what...  You currently have a modem/router combination.

Here are two options for you.

1.  Call your ISP and ask them if they can swap that modem/router for just a modem since you have your own wireless solution.

This is easiest and least cluttered approach.  Orbi would plug into back of modem without any fuss

2.  If they say NO, then your next best -- and cleanest -- option is to put their router into what is known as bridge (or passthrough) mode.  This turns off all router and wifi functions and lets your router (Orbi) do all those functions.

Here is the centurylink page to put it into bridge mode.  You want transparent bridging.  They say in here you still have to call them.

https://www.centurylink.com/home/help/internet/modems-and-routers/zyxel-c2100z/access-advanced-setup/wan-settings.html

Recommend you give them a quick call and see if they can swap.  If not, tell them you want to bridge -- also let us know and we can help with the Orbi side.

Here is your product sheet:

https://www.centurylink.com/asset/home/help/downloads/internet/c2100z-datasheet.pdf

This would be a double NAT condition which isn't recommended. Couple of options,
1. Configure the modem for transparent bridge mode. Then use the Orbi router in router mode. You'll need to contact the ISP for help and information in regards to the modem being bridged correctly.
2. If you can't bridge the modem, disable ALL wifi radios on the modem, configure the modems DMZ for the IP address the Orbi router gets from the modem. Then you can use the Orbi router in Router mode.
3. Or disable all wifi radios on the modem and connect the Orbi router to the modem, configure AP mode on the Orbi router. https://kb.netgear.com/31218/How-do-I-configure-my-Orbi-router-to-act-as-an-access-point and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7LOcJ8GdDo&app=desktop

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murfjr3 wrote:

ok please bear with me ..

i have centurylink fiber (GPON) with a gig service

 i dont have a large house but im useing centurylinks modem/router  c2100z and my  wifi signal sucks  (hopeing orbi will help) 

i am looking into getting a orbi rbk50  but can i just get rid of my centurylink modem   and plug right into orbi  

i only have a ethernet cable  going from the ont to there modem      i am not  super good with all this new stuff but hopeing someone can help me  

thank you in advance 

 

 

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With GPON fiber service you do not need a modem. You can plug your router directly into the ONT. 

This forum isn't the best place to ask how to do it.  Try dslreports.com

You might try a different wifi channel. Ideally, on your phone or computer, look at which channel(s) your neighbor(s) is/are using and pick one that isn't in use. It could just be that you're getting a lot of interference from your beighbors and you don't need a new router.

You can also just keep your C2100Z, turn off its WiFi radios, and use Orbi in Access Point mode. That's the simplest thing to do.