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Forum Discussion
Orbi router RBR40 question
I have an Orbi router RBR40 and it came with (3) RBS20 satellites. I added (1) RBS50 satellite.
I know my router is too old to do a firmware update on the router. At this point I can't really afford to replace everything I have. I know there are newer and better options and at some point maybe I can replace them.
My question's are:
- Can I buy a newer router that will work with the satellites that I have? If so which one?
- Can I add another satellite to the set up that I have. I don't know if there is a max limit to the number of satellites I can have. Again if I can add another which one? Newer than the RBS50?
- If I can't add another satellite can I buy a Wi-Fi extender to add to the set up? I have an area that I need better Wi-Fi reception. If I have to go with a Wi-Fi extender which one?
Thanks!!
2 Replies
No. All WiFi5 Orbi components are compatible with each other, but they are not compatible with "newer" products (WiFi6, WiFi6E, WiFi7)
Yes, you can add another WiFi5 satellite
Yes, a WiFi extender (from any manufacturer) can be used to extend WiFi coverage to a new area. The only consideration is that satellites allow mobile device to roam seamlessly between Orbi units. WiFi extenders create separate networks (even if the WiFi credentials are exactly the same - SSID/password). Thus, WiFi extenders are best suited for devices that are not mobile.
I've seen a few people on here with quite a few satellites. You can add more. Plus the older 20/40/50 series are pretty cheap. You might even find a used RBK53 set so you can switch to the 50 series with the wider backhaul. plus then you have extra's. On my local face page marketplace, they're running $25-50
