NETGEAR is aware of a growing number of phone and online scams. To learn how to stay safe click here.

Forum Discussion

Uma_S510's avatar
Uma_S510
Aspirant
Feb 14, 2021
Solved

Orbi not compatable with netgear message ?

Hello All   We have Netgear C7000v2 and Orbi  RBR50v2.   I get the message 'Orbi app does not support  your router model.'   So what to do?   Please advise.   Thanks in advance.    
CrimpOn's avatar
CrimpOn
Guru - Experienced User
Feb 14, 2021
Uma_S510 wrote:

Thanks for your response CrimpOn.

 We need Orbi Mesh is our 3000 sq feet home and  with a teenager in the home, need to apply internet access controls.

I am not a tech person, so rephrase you suggestion, you are recommending to not use the Netgear wifi and use only Orbi Wifi?

 

 

 

I agree. A 3,000 sq. ft. house will need more than one WiFi access point, and a "mesh" system such as Netgear Orbi offers seamless coverage.  On the question of Parental Controls, both products claim to provide that:

C7000v2: https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/networking/CableModems/C7000.pdf (page 4)

Orbi: https://www.netgear.com/images/datasheet/orbi/RBR50v2.pdf (page 1 and footnote on page 4)

 

My own preference would be to install the NIghthawk and use the Nighthawk app to place the Nighthawk router in "bridge mode". After you do that, there is a button on the front of the Nighthawk to turn off the WiFi signal. (This can be done at any time, so there is no hurry).

Then connect the Orbi yellow (WAN) jack to port 1 on the Nighthawk. (you will not use any of the other Nighthawk ports). Power up the Orbi until the Ring Light at the top turns BLUE. (takes 3-5 minutes).  Then, connect the smartphone with the Orbi app to the Orbi WiFi signal (not the Nighthawk).  Open the Orbi app and set up the system.

 

Teenagers are a LOT more computer savvy than adults.  I have no confidence that any "Parental Controls" are foolproof.

It might be a good idea to check out the Netgear community forum for Parental Controls and see if anybody mentions the specific product that you get when signing up today (for years it was Disney Circle, but now it might be something else).

before turning off the Nighthawk WiFi, I would definitely change the password to something really complex.  A simple push of the button restores a WiFi signal that completely bypasses the Orbi system.  Any teenager can figure that out.

Being paranoid, I might even consider buying three ethernet RG45 jack "locks" to keep him from plugging something directly into the Nighthawk.

 

Hope this helps.