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dsmith611's avatar
dsmith611
Aspirant
Apr 06, 2020

Orbi Installation with rented Spectrum Modem/Router

Hi - 

I currently have a rented modem/router from Spectrum (Los Angeles - 90026).   Technicolor (TC8715D).   I also use Apple Airport's.  (all dated I know).  I want to purchase an Orbi Wifi Mesh Network system.  A few questions, as I'm not that savvy here.

 

A)  Do I still need a router/modem after I buy the Orbi AC3000 (RBK50).   

- If yes - do you recommend I stop renting mine from Spectrum and purchase a new one?  

- If yes - any recommendations on what I need to complete my set up? 

 

My hosue is 3 stories.  is the 2 pack enough? 

 

I greatly appreciate all your support & information.  I've seen a lot of great answers.  

5 Replies


  • dsmith611 wrote:

    .......

    A)  Do I still need a router/modem after I buy the Orbi AC3000 (RBK50).   

    - If yes - do you recommend I stop renting mine from Spectrum and purchase a new one?  

    - If yes - any recommendations on what I need to complete my set up? 

    ........  


    You still need a modem that has a coax cable interface that your ISP provides. The existing router will do, but if there is a simpler modem with no routing nor wifi capabilities that will be even better.

     


    dsmith611 wrote:

    ........

    My hosue is 3 stories.  is the 2 pack enough? 

    ........  


    It depends on the area of the floors, the building material and if you have dead spots in the house. Generally 2-pack AC3000 nodes will be enough up to 4500 sq ft. If you have large floors and metal/cement building material then I would recommend one unit per floor.

  • FURRYe38's avatar
    FURRYe38
    Guru - Experienced User

    30 feet is recommended in between RBR and RBS to begin with depending upon building materials when wirelessly connected. https://kb.netgear.com/000036466/How-far-should-I-place-my-Orbi-satellite-from-my-Orbi-router

     

    Check to see if your ISP supports NGs CM1000 or CM1100 modems. These do not have any built in router.


    dsmith611 wrote:

    Hi - 

    I currently have a rented modem/router from Spectrum (Los Angeles - 90026).   Technicolor (TC8715D).   I also use Apple Airport's.  (all dated I know).  I want to purchase an Orbi Wifi Mesh Network system.  A few questions, as I'm not that savvy here.

     

    A)  Do I still need a router/modem after I buy the Orbi AC3000 (RBK50).   

    - If yes - do you recommend I stop renting mine from Spectrum and purchase a new one?  

    - If yes - any recommendations on what I need to complete my set up? 

     

    My hosue is 3 stories.  is the 2 pack enough? 

     

    I greatly appreciate all your support & information.  I've seen a lot of great answers.