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virghilts's avatar
virghilts
Aspirant
Oct 29, 2016

Orbi and Cable Modem/Wifi Router

I'm interested in purchasing the Orbi System but have a couple of questions. My ISP provides a Modem/Wifi Router. I use it as a single gateway to hardwire devices and use the two bands, 5G and 2G for wireless signals. When using the Orbi system should the Wifi on the ISP Modem be disabled? If not disabled, will broadcasting the networks degrade signal for the Orbi. If I have multiple devices hardwired to the Modem is it best to hardwire into the Orbi vs the Modem/Wifi Router? Sorry a newbie a this so trying to learn which may be basics.

 

Thanks

Before You Buy
cable modem
Modem Router Combo
Orbi
wifi modem

4 Replies

  • peteytesting's avatar
    peteytesting
    Hero
    Oct 30, 2016
    virghilts wrote:

    . When using the Orbi system should the Wifi on the ISP Modem be disabled

     

    th simple answer is yes , that is if you intend to use the modem as the router as well and set the orbi system to AP mode which in most cases is the best course of action atm

     

    if you ran the routers wifi as well it may confuse the way the obri works as far as band steering and ap steering

     

    pete

     

     

    • virghilts's avatar
      virghilts
      Aspirant
      Oct 30, 2016

      Thanks PeteyTesting, so i understand, best practice sounds liek using the modem, strictly as the modem, connect the Orbi as my Wi-fi and hardwired router. If I use the modem as teh router for hardwired devices the Orbi needs to be set in Access Point mode. Is there any signal loss with AP mode?

      • NETthisGEAR's avatar
        NETthisGEAR
        Apprentice
        Apr 07, 2017

        I recommend using the CM1000 with the Orbi if you are going to spend all that money(to anyone thinking of purchasing one). You will want to turn off the WiFi if you did indeed get a modem/router. No big deal though.

         

        For those of you that are trying to decide what to get and have a bigger hom. You can also look at the R9000 Nighthawk Router which can cover a 4000sqft home - assuming there aren't too many walls and obstructions of course. You will want the Orbi for sure if your house is over 4000Sqft,