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

Forum Discussion

chrisbrummel's avatar
Oct 27, 2019

VLAN on US RBR20?

I'm interested in removing my ISP's modem/router and setting up my Orbi RBR20 to directly connect. I attempted this once with no luck, but I've heard that it won't work without setting up VLAN. Searching the forums and the internet, I see that there are Orbis with a "VLAN" section on the sidebar of "Advanced Setup", but I don't see it on mine. 

 

Is there a way to set up VLAN on my RBR20?

 

Thanks!

 

v2.3.5.26

10 Replies

  • CrimpOn's avatar
    CrimpOn
    Guru - Experienced User

    There may be some confusion.  Every WiFi router (including Netgear's Orbi) has to connect to a device that converts the internet supplier media (cable, fiber, satellite, etc.) to ethernet.  This can be a modem, a modem/router combiination, or a modem/router/WiFi combination. Usually, that device is supplied by the ISP.  (Some customers find they can purchase their own modem and the monthly savings will pay for the modem in about one year.  Of course, then the customer is totally responsible for the modem.)

     

    So, the ISP's modem/router can be removed, but then you need a replacement modem.  No modem, no internet.

     

    There are numerous posts in the forum about the consequences of having an ISP modem/router/WiFi combination.  The advice is generally, "this is a bad idea", and there are two basic recommendations:

    • Place the ISP device into "bridge" or "passthru" mode, which disables the router and WiFi functions, or
    • Place the Orbi in Access Point (AP) mode, but still disable the WiFi on the ISP device.

    (There is a third choice, which is less desirable.)

     

    So, there must be a modem.

     

    VLAN has nothing to do with this issue.  VLAN on the Orbi is intended to deal with specific situations where the ISP provides TV across the internet and needs a VLAN set up for that.  If this is the case, they always tell the customer how to set it up.

     

    • chrisbrummel's avatar
      chrisbrummel
      Guide

      Thanks for the detailed response.

       

      I currently have it set up in your first scenario with the ISP modem in bridge mode, but I'm running into a problem with a device and I've received advice that removing the ISP device could simplify the network and help. I take it that the RBR20 can't act as a modem/router combo, and only as a router.

       

      Thanks!

      -Chris

      • CrimpOn's avatar
        CrimpOn
        Guru - Experienced User

        Netgear made one model of Orbi with a built-in DOCSIS 3.0 modem.  Some users on the forum have it and are happy with it.  I doubt that they sold very many.

         

        The ISP device in bridge mode is the "best it gets" as far as Orbi is concerned.  If you identify the device and the problem, people on the forum have found ways to make almost everything work.

  • FURRYe38's avatar
    FURRYe38
    Guru - Experienced User

    What is this device that isn't working? Some ISP supplied devices for TV or media services require the user of the ISP supplied modem/router for use with there streaming service devices. 

     

    The any orbi RBR only works as a router and needs to have a ISP supplied Modem or ONT or some forum ISP supplied services to the WAN side othe RBR router at all times for internet access. 

     

    Can try this option:

    Configure the modem back to router mode, disable ALL wifi radios on the modem, configure the modems DMZ/ExposedHost or IP Pass-Through for the IP address the Orbi router gets from the modem. Then you can use the Orbi router in Router mode. See if this helps with the one particular device to connect to the modem for it's services, while the rest of your devices connect to the Orbi system. 


    chrisbrummel wrote:

    I'm interested in removing my ISP's modem/router and setting up my Orbi RBR20 to directly connect. I attempted this once with no luck, but I've heard that it won't work without setting up VLAN. Searching the forums and the internet, I see that there are Orbis with a "VLAN" section on the sidebar of "Advanced Setup", but I don't see it on mine. 

     

    Is there a way to set up VLAN on my RBR20?

     

    Thanks!

     

    v2.3.5.26


     

    • chrisbrummel's avatar
      chrisbrummel
      Guide

      I have a Raspberry Pi running Home Assistant. It used to support the "hassio.local" URL, but now only works with the IP. Also, it's ability to play nice with HomeKit is very intermittent. Sometimes it works, but often my devices are in a "no response" state, which didn't happen prior to using the Orbi.

      • CrimpOn's avatar
        CrimpOn
        Guru - Experienced User

        chrisbrummel wrote:

        I have a Raspberry Pi running Home Assistant. It used to support the "hassio.local" URL, but now only works with the IP. Also, it's ability to play nice with HomeKit is very intermittent. Sometimes it works, but often my devices are in a "no response" state, which didn't happen prior to using the Orbi.


        I have two Pi's, one running Pi-Hole for ad blocking and the other for "fun".  Both seem happy with Orbi.  I will install Home Assistant and give it a try.  Unfortunately, no "Apple World" here.  In fact, I may have to dig out some gizmos to control with Home Assistant.

         

        Since this is "new to me", what is "hassio.local"?