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Forum Discussion
Orbi and EX8000
I recently replaced my R6400 and EX8000 extender with an Orbi RBK40 and one satellite. However, I need an ethernet port in the room where the etender was previously located so I tried to get the EX8...
Most EX extenders are not fully compatible with Orbi systems. I recommend that you ether return the Orbi and find a R series router that the EX will connect to. The R8000 would be the best match for the EX8000. Or keep the Orbi and return the EX and find a RBS to connect to the Orbi system if you need more wifi coverage.
Well, I am just very confused. Some time back there was an extensive discussion about the Netgear EX3700. I bought one from Amazon and confirmed that, "yes", it did in fact connect to my Orbi RBR50/RBS50 system.
The Product Data Sheet for the EX8000 says the requirement is " 2.4 and/or 5GHz 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac WiFi router or gateway". Does not mention Nighthawk, or even Netgear. Seems to be brand agnostic. I'm not willing to spend over $200 to satisfy my curiosity (the EX3700 was MUCH less expensive).
I want to be very clear that in no way would I expect a "WiFi Extender" to integrate into an Orbi WiFi network. But, "extend"? I do not see why not.
It was mentioned that some EX needed some FW from NG support to make the EX work. I asked about this since I have two EX7700s which would not connect to Orbi. They gave me a beta FE to try and this helped the EX7700s connect. There in a Orbi mode. Stock EXs don't seem to have this compatbility unless FW is changed. I haven't checked to see if this beta FW works with non Orbi Wifi. Not sure if this was included in recent stock FW or not. Possible NG may have made some changes in Orbi FW as well, but not included the EX8000 either. I presume one can ask NG support about the EX8000 and see if something can be done. I also remember posts asking about the EX3700 which did NOT work on stock FW. Someone said they contacted NG support and got FW to make that model work with Orbi. That was a while ago.
I' still waiting to hear back from ticket I opened up via email with NG support. Will let you know if they mention a Beta FW update -- thx.