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Forum Discussion
Connection sequence between wifi and router
When you first connect the Orbi router to your home wifi modem there is this confusing sequence of unplugging and plugging each device that includes rebooting the home modem. To add to the confusion the printed and online instructions differ. Can anyone clearly explain the logic behind this plugging and unplugging - what's happening? Also, is the Ethernet cable to the modem a special patch cable or can an ordinary Ethernet cable be used to move the router further from the modem?
4 Replies
I would follow the instructions in the User Manual. Enter the model number of the Orbi router (from the label on the bottom of the case) in the box on this page:
https://www.netgear.com/support/
If more than one product appears, use the Drop Down menu to select the appropriate model.
In a minute or so, a page will appear with Downloads and Documentation.
Select Documentation and then select User Manual.
The Ethernet cable can be any length that will support the modem to router bandwidth. i.e.
- If the router WAN port is a gigabit port, then Cat5e and Cat6 Ethernet cables will support gigabit up to a length of about 280 feet (of cable)
- If this is a new router with 2.5GB or 10GB WAN port, then an Ethernet cable rated to support the desired speed for the required distance.
Thanks. I just realised I'd put the extension cat6 cable in another port on the modem to the original one so now its working. I was just wondering why the modem needs to reboot at the start, does it not see the connected router and why isn't the router on when you reboot the modem. Trying to work out how they communicate with each other in the initial connection stage that requires all that rigmarole.
It is a very good idea to reboot the ISP Modem if you power cycle or reboot the router. Can help with any odd issues between the modem and router. Also when bring a new router in to the home, the ISP modem/ONT would need to be rebooted or power cycled to allow the new router MAC address to be seen by the modem/ONT.
When doing any reboot or power cycling, It's best to power ON the modem first, then give 15-30 seconds then power ON the NG router, then if any satellites are present, power them on about 30 seconds after the router. Give anywhere from 5 minutes to 10 minutes for the entire system to settle in.
Thanks. I just realised I'd put the extension cat6 cable in another port on the modem to the original one so now its working. I was just wondering why the modem needs to reboot at the start, does it not see the connected router and why isn't the router on when you reboot the modem. Trying to work out how they communicate with each other in the initial connection stage that requires all that rigmarole.
