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Forum Discussion
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. Searc...
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.
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
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.