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Forum Discussion
AmitR
Mar 23, 2018NETGEAR Employee Retired
Orbi MR 2.1 Update 3/23/18
Our teams are still working through the issues, but I wanted to provide a quick update on OrbiOS 2.1. We usually wait to release our software until it's available across all Orbi product lines, but in a departure from our normal processes, we’re going to the release BETA software for our products in a staggered manner. The first wave to be released are only for the RBR50 and RBS50, which is used in the RBK50 and RBK53 (Costco) kits. If you have a kit that includes a different hardware product (including RBK52W, RBK40 series or RBK30 series) or a RBK50 or RBK53 with an add-on satellite (RBS40, RBW30), please hang tight. We’re not quite done with it yet, but will update this thread when it’s ready.
Edit for clarity: This release supports both Circle & Ethernet backhaul
Edit2: Updated with the 2nd wave of firmware for RBR40, RBS40, RBR20 and RBS20. This supports the following SKUs: RBK40, RBK43, RBK44, RBK20, RBK22, RBK23.
Edit3: Updated for RBW30, to support RBK30, RBK33, RBK52W, and others
We’re not yet going to push this release this for auto-firmware upgrade, and will let you know before we do. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Support.
Rel Notes:
- Fixes issues where Internet access is not available on some devices, but available on others.
- Fixes an issue where Satellites get disconnected from Router
- Provides protection for the MDNS packet flood issue
- Addresses an issue where websites set to unmanaged are unreachable
- Multiple other connectivity & RF improvements
BETA MR 2.1.3 software can be found here:
RBR50: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=rFfsb14M2q
RBS50: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=0UBXh9aus6
RBR40: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=dnNl6nqBSj
RBS40: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=FEaFlGNCuW
RBW30: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=x990UeDEdo
RBR20: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=IOMUioMSLU
RBS20: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=S5JDrBEG2f
How to do a manual firmware upgrade: https://kb.netgear.com/31573/How-do-I-manually-upgrade-firmware-on-my-Orbi-Satellite
Orbi Product Team
761 Replies
- turns2stoneApprentice
What are the chances that an upcoming 2.2.x firmware will improve wired backhaul? Because I cannot get this to work, unless the satellites are directly connected to the Orbi router. And my switch/cabling in between the router/satellites has never caused any problems in the past 5 years.
Maybe an even more important question: how much improvement have you guys seen going from RBR50->RBS50 Wi-Fi backhaul performance to wired? My Orbis are max 40 feet from each other. Most of my iPhones/iPads/laptops have up to 866Mbps antennas/performance. I can easily get 300-500Mbps (I do have 1Gbps internet service). Going from the 1733Mbps (real world 800Mbps throughput max?) backhaul, to wired Cat6, is it realistic to expect 400-600Mbps Wi-Fi performance on devices that support 866Mbps?
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
Not really, you maybe already hitting the limits of your wifi devices. Just because they can connect at 866Mb doesn't mean the data can flow that fast as well. Doesn't work like that. Connection rates differ from data flow rates. The Connection rates are just connection rate speeds between the devices and wireless AP/router only. Mfrs have different designes and depending on chips used and implemented, data rates will differ and some are limited by the chips they use or implement. Honestly, is 866Mb data rate really needed on a phone, stop and think, what are you doing one thing at a time on ap phone that would need that kind of bandwidth? FB? text? voice? Nothing on a phone needs that kind of data rate. Streaming compressed video even doesn't need that kind of data rate. Theres many connection however on phones, apps and browsers and all this combine needs some bandwidth. That were the connection rate comes in. Wider connetion rate, more app, video and browser data can share the pipe.
My current v2.1.3.x FW has working wired back haul. Zero issues so far.
turns2stone wrote:What are the chances that an upcoming 2.2.x firmware will improve wired backhaul? Because I cannot get this to work, unless the satellites are directly connected to the Orbi router. And my switch/cabling in between the router/satellites has never caused any problems in the past 5 years.
Maybe an even more important question: how much improvement have you guys seen going from RBR50->RBS50 Wi-Fi backhaul performance to wired? My Orbis are max 40 feet from each other. Most of my iPhones/iPads/laptops have up to 866Mbps antennas/performance. I can easily get 300-500Mbps (I do have 1Gbps internet service). Going from the 1733Mbps (real world 800Mbps throughput max?) backhaul, to wired Cat6, is it realistic to expect 400-600Mbps Wi-Fi performance on devices that support 866Mbps?
- turns2stoneApprentice
FURRYe38 wrote:Not really, you maybe already hitting the limits of your wifi devices. Just because they can connect at 866Mb doesn't mean the data can flow that fast as well. Doesn't work like that. Connection rates differ from data flow rates. The Connection rates are just connection rate speeds between the devices and wireless AP/router only. Mfrs have different designes and depending on chips used and implemented, data rates will differ and some are limited by the chips they use or implement. Honestly, is 866Mb data rate really needed on a phone, stop and think, what are you doing one thing at a time on ap phone that would need that kind of bandwidth? FB? text? voice? Nothing on a phone needs that kind of data rate. Streaming compressed video even doesn't need that kind of data rate. Theres many connection however on phones, apps and browsers and all this combine needs some bandwidth. That were the connection rate comes in. Wider connetion rate, more app, video and browser data can share the pipe.
My current v2.1.3.x FW has working wired back haul. Zero issues so far.
All fair points and I understand about theoretical maximums and other factors. I guess I'm more interested in getting wired backhaul to work because I spend a fair amount of effort putting an Ethernet drop to my satellite locations. Also, I'm just trying to achieve the most consistent performance possible, which I assume Ethernet backhaul would provide.
Considering that I can get a satellite to connect via Ethernet backhaul when directly connected to the LAN ports on the RBR50, do you have any final tips for getting it to work before I give up for a while? I've tried establishing the connection directly to the RBR50, then powering off the RBS50 and moving to its real home, but no luck. I've tried (I think) every combination of power cycling the RBS50 with/without the Ethernet cable plugged in.
I am having issues with connecting to a VPN. I usually connect to my work VPN using CISCO AnyConnect - I have been able to do it, but I think it was prior to the update. THoughts?
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
What is the Mfr and model# of the ISP modem?
If you updated FW v2.1.3.4, was a factory reset and set up performed? if not, please do this and set up from scratch.
wegunterjr wrote:I am having issues with connecting to a VPN. I usually connect to my work VPN using CISCO AnyConnect - I have been able to do it, but I think it was prior to the update. THoughts?
- JustMakeItWorkApprentice
Didn't have any issues with AnyConnect VPN on a Mac when connecting to a corporate network.
AmitR wrote:
BETA MR 2.1.3 software can be found here:
RBR40: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=NWHSwvM06n
That link does not work, or no longer works, whichever.
2.1.2.18 + 2.1.2.2 (RBW30) has been a nightmare.. is there a newer version I can try somewhere, or should I look for an older version?
- b1ggjoeApprentice
Hey Everyone,
I have a RBK50 system that has been performing flawlessly since the day I installed it. I'm using the following Firmware: V2.1.2.18.
Does this Firmware support Ethernet-Backhaul? I haven't tried it yet, so just wanted to ask before I do.
Thanks!
BJ
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
V2.1.3.4 supported ethernet back how. Works well. Its recommended after you update to this verions of FW, do a factory reset on both router and satellite(s) then setup from scratch. Some major changes in this version so it needs a clean slate.
b1ggjoe wrote:Hey Everyone,
I have a RBK50 system that has been performing flawlessly since the day I installed it. I'm using the following Firmware: V2.1.2.18.
Does this Firmware support Ethernet-Backhaul? I haven't tried it yet, so just wanted to ask before I do.
Thanks!
BJ
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
It was here however the file was removed:
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi/Orbi-MR-2-1-Update-3-23-18/m-p/1533584/highlight/true#M26234
Your mest option would be to contact NG support or PM one of the Moderators and ask for v2.1.3.x version for the 40 series model.
UnhappyOrbiUser wrote:AmitR wrote:
BETA MR 2.1.3 software can be found here:
RBR40: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=NWHSwvM06n
That link does not work, or no longer works, whichever.
2.1.2.18 + 2.1.2.2 (RBW30) has been a nightmare.. is there a newer version I can try somewhere, or should I look for an older version?
- OutGolfnGuideWanted to note in this main thread the many issues with Apple HomeKit currently on V 2.1.3.4 and it’s very very bad with iHome Smart plugs. They are constantly switching from unavailable every few minutes.
I know another user Bill started a separate thread and hopefully Netgear has this Apple HomeKit issue fixed/addresses in the next update.
It was not an issue on any of the previous firmwares but V 2.1.3.4 has triggered it for many people with Apple HomeKit in their homes!- turns2stoneApprentice
OutGolfn wrote:
Wanted to note in this main thread the many issues with Apple HomeKit currently on V 2.1.3.4 and it’s very very bad with iHome Smart plugs. They are constantly switching from unavailable every few minutes.
I know another user Bill started a separate thread and hopefully Netgear has this Apple HomeKit issue fixed/addresses in the next update.
It was not an issue on any of the previous firmwares but V 2.1.3.4 has triggered it for many people with Apple HomeKit in their homes!I have several HomeKit devices, including 3 outside, that would have a hard time staying connected. Then I got the RBS50Y, and now no more issues. I think these HomeKit devices just need a super-strong signal. If they lose Wi-Fi for even a second, it's like impossible for them to reconnect. So try moving a satellite closer?
- GelissenAspirant
The link on the first page of this topic for the RBS40 BETA MR 2.1.3 firmware doesn't work.
RBS40: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=SoxDgoIHIg
Does anyone have the right link?
Thanks!
2.1.4.10 available through automatic update.
- Sdiver2489Apprentice
wifi_en wrote:2.1.4.10 available through automatic update.
I don't see anything yet when I go to the firmware update page. Figures too because I just rolled back to 2.1.2.18 yesterday
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
The 40 series files were removed for unknown reasons. You might contact NG support and ask for the v2.1.3.6 beta files if they will give them to you.
Gelissen wrote:The link on the first page of this topic for the RBS40 BETA MR 2.1.3 firmware doesn't work.
RBS40: http://files.netgear-support.com/go/?a=d&i=SoxDgoIHIg
Does anyone have the right link?
Thanks!
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
- adang2InitiateCould someone reupload the RBR40 and RBS40 firmware?
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
- DarrenMSr. NETGEAR Moderator
I have fixed the links for the RBR40 and S.
DarrenM
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi/Orbi-MR-2-1-Update-3-23-18/m-p/1558132/highlight/true#M29157
adang2 wrote:
Could someone reupload the RBR40 and RBS40 firmware?
This is driving me nuts. After spending many hours trying to find out why several of my home automation products(lifx lights, ring camera) suddenly stopped working...that is, stop connecting to the internet and after trying to reconnect them many times, without success, I have finally realized that this router updated itself(without my knowledge) to this new update. They were all connecting just fine for many months and now, realizing this update went in around the time they stopped connecting, I suspect this update as something to do with it. Has anyone else had this problem? I have v2.1.4.10. Can I reload the previous version? How can I do that? I used to have a full head of hair. Now...not so much!
Ken
khudsn7 wrote:
This is driving me nuts. After spending many hours trying to find out why several of my home automation products(lifx lights, ring camera) suddenly stopped working...that is, stop connecting to the internet and after trying to reconnect them many times, without success, I have finally realized that this router updated itself(without my knowledge) to this new update. They were all connecting just fine for many months and now, realizing this update went in around the time they stopped connecting, I suspect this update as something to do with it. Has anyone else had this problem? I have v2.1.4.10. Can I reload the previous version? How can I do that? I used to have a full head of hair. Now...not so much!
Ken
Hello,
Last week my Orbi system (RBK53 = RBR50 + 2x RBS50) after working without any major issue on v2.1.3.4 for a few weeks started to drop connections or Internet access. I was not sure what was happening, I rebooted the system many times and without any improvement. Then I realized that the Orbi was auto-updated to v2.1.4.10.
What it worked for me, and has been a week now, was to run off all the Orbis (not reboot, not factory reset, just turn them off) and turn them back on one by one, I waited until the RBR50 was up and connected to Internet, then the first RBS50, again I waited until it showed connected to the RBR50 and then the last RBS50.
All my devices (~50 that include switches, lights, cameras, and other automation stuff) has worked fine for a week now.
I hope this helps.
- ORBICALIAspirant
Purchased the RBIK50 w/Sat. On installation Orbi updated firmware. Otherwise ok. Starteeg getting the dropouts over the next few days. Checked firmware ver on both Main and Sat. Interface said both had the latest firmware but the St also said "wait for a minute" or somthing similar in the interface. Checked multiple times wiith the same outcome. Key (I think) ... I also could not login to the Sat, only the Main unit. I did a factory reset of the Sat and reconnected it to the Main. Thus far, no dropouts and I can login to the Sat. Good luck.
- HeliixGuide
I did not pay $525 for a WiFi system to be NETGEARS beta testers!!!!
Give us the ability to disable auto upates..
2 updates 2 bricks..
please stop by to sign the petition to give us the abiltiy to disable auto updates
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi/Petition-to-disable-auto-updates/m-p/1561982#M29828
- tagteamVirtuoso
- b1ggjoeApprentice
Hello there! LOL so I was planning on doing a manual firmware upgrade to the latest firmware earlier this evening. Then I just found out that somehow, the Orbi Router and Satellites were automatically upgraded to the latest Firmware V2.1.4.10.
Keep in mind that I was previously on Firmware V2.1.2.18 and had NO PROBLEMS whatsoever. Non at all.
That said, the Release Notes do not show a whole lot of bug fixes.
1. - So my first question is: Is there more to this new Firmware than what is listed on the Release Notes?
2. - Also, at the time of this writing, I am not experiencing any issues at all. Should I go ahead and do a 'Factory Reset' any way? Or should I wait until I start seeing issues. If the latter, what issues should I look out for?
Thanks!
BJ- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
You can look at release notes from v2.1.3.4 as well as this would be included in v2.1.4.10.
No, let the system run. If your not experiencing any issues.
If you seem to, try and power off the Orbi system for 1 minute then back on and check.
b1ggjoe wrote:
Hello there! LOL so I was planning on doing a manual firmware upgrade to the latest firmware earlier this evening. Then I just found out that somehow, the Orbi Router and Satellites were automatically upgraded to the latest Firmware V2.1.4.10.
Keep in mind that I was previously on Firmware V2.1.2.18 and had NO PROBLEMS whatsoever. Non at all.
That said, the Release Notes do not show a whole lot of bug fixes.
1. - So my first question is: Is there more to this new Firmware than what is listed on the Release Notes?
2. - Also, at the time of this writing, I am not experiencing any issues at all. Should I go ahead and do a 'Factory Reset' any way? Or should I wait until I start seeing issues. If the latter, what issues should I look out for?
Thanks!
BJ My system got auto-updated from v2.1.2.18 to v2.1.4.10 and I've been experiencing stability issues ever since. It would just drop wifi connection every few minutes. I tried resetting to factory default and that didn't help. I've also downgraded to 2.1.2.18 which was more stable but it has since auto-upgraded back to v2.1.4.10 although I turned off the auto-update feature via telnet.
Since I work from home, I need stable connection and this is driving me crazy! I previously used an ASUS Nighthawk R7000 and while it worked well I didn't have coverage in some areas of my two-story home (3000+ sq ft). Before the firmware updates, I was happy. Now I'm pretty close to ditching Orbi and trying Google Wifi or something else.
P.S. This is the second time I've had issues with firmware updates causing stability issues.
- FURRYe38Guru - Experienced User
Try this.
I would do a factory reset on the entire system and set up from scratch as well since your was updated from older FW.
leightonn wrote:
My system got auto-updated from v2.1.2.18 to v2.1.4.10 and I've been experiencing stability issues ever since. It would just drop wifi connection every few minutes. I tried resetting to factory default and that didn't help. I've also downgraded to 2.1.2.18 which was more stable but it has since auto-upgraded back to v2.1.4.10 although I turned off the auto-update feature via telnet.
Since I work from home, I need stable connection and this is driving me crazy! I previously used an ASUS Nighthawk R7000 and while it worked well I didn't have coverage in some areas of my two-story home (3000+ sq ft). Before the firmware updates, I was happy. Now I'm pretty close to ditching Orbi and trying Google Wifi or something else.
P.S. This is the second time I've had issues with firmware updates causing stability issues.
leightonn wrote:
My system got auto-updated from v2.1.2.18 to v2.1.4.10 and I've been experiencing stability issues ever since. It would just drop wifi connection every few minutes. I tried resetting to factory default and that didn't help. I've also downgraded to 2.1.2.18 which was more stable but it has since auto-upgraded back to v2.1.4.10 although I turned off the auto-update feature via telnet.
Since I work from home, I need stable connection and this is driving me crazy! I previously used an ASUS Nighthawk R7000 and while it worked well I didn't have coverage in some areas of my two-story home (3000+ sq ft). Before the firmware updates, I was happy. Now I'm pretty close to ditching Orbi and trying Google Wifi or something else.
P.S. This is the second time I've had issues with firmware updates causing stability issues.