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Forum Discussion
Guidance on Home Network Setup with Orbi (RBR850 and 3x RBK850)
Hi,
I’m looking for help from you experts!
I recently bought a Netgear Orbi router (RBR850) along with 3 satellites (RBS850) because the Zyxel VMG router provided by my ISP doesn't deliver sufficient Wi-Fi coverage throughout my home.
Additionally, I have 2 patch boxes (Telesafe cat6) with 8 outputs each.
Here’s what I’m planning: I want to set the Zyxel router to AP mode and use my Orbi router as the main router. I’m also considering setting up the satellites with Ethernet backhaul — I can connect 2 of the satellites with Ethernet.
Since I haven’t used many of the Ethernet ports until now, I haven’t needed a switch. However, I assume I’ll need one if I want to enable Ethernet backhaul for the satellites. Is that correct?
Could you recommend any reliable network switches that would work well with my Orbi system?
Lastly, does my overall setup plan sound reasonable? Are there any potential improvements or tips you would suggest?
I’m open to ALL suggestions and would appreciate any help you can offer.
Thanks in advance!
8 Replies
What is the size of your home? Sq Ft?
What is the distance between the router 📡 and satellite(s)🛰️? 30 feet or more is recommended in between RBR 📡 and RBS 🛰️ to begin with depending upon building materials when wired or wirelessly connected.
https://kb.netgear.com/31029/Where-should-I-place-my-Orbi-satellite 🛰For ethernet connected RBS, please review this:
Since the RBR has limited LAN ports and if you choose to connect all 3 RBS to the RBR, then you'd only have one lan port left over. So adding a non managed 1Gb LAN switch would be recommended. NGs GS105 or 108 or GS305 or 308. Model numbers with out any characters after the model number (GS###E) are non managed switches.
Is the Zyxel router just a router or it it a ISP modem as well?
What is the Mfr and model# of the Internet Service Providers modem/ONT the NG router is connected too?
Be sure your using a good quality LAN cable between the modem and router. CAT6A STP is recommended.If you use the Orbi system as your host router and wifi system, the Zyxel won't be needed.
Thank you for your response.
My house is approximately 3,000 sq ft, and the distance between the router and the satellites varies between 30 and 40 ft.The Zyxel router functions as the ISP modem. It's an older model, the 'VMG8825' (which only supports Wi-Fi 5). Does this matter as long as it's in AP mode?
I have the option to replace the Zyxel router with a newer model (EX5601) through my ISP.
Unfortunately, I don't think I can remove the Zyxel router since it provides both TV and internet signals.
Thank you for the advice regarding network switches. Does NG offer a similar switch but with more ports?
Thank you very much!
For that size of home, the RBR and just 1 RBS would be enough. Maybe two with the power turned down to 25%.
I have a 5k sq ft home and can get away with 1 RBS however run two RBS and keep the power to 25%. Plenty of coverage.
- Is this switch (D-Link DGS-1024D) compatible with my system?
I think that is a managed switch. Make sure the any IGMP and Green Ethernet protocols are disabled on that switch if seen if you are going to try and ethernet connect the RBS to the RBR using the switch.
This article describes how to put many Zyxel VMG routers into Bridge or Pass-Through mode.
My first thought is "Do you need to keep the Zyxel?"
- Do you get phone service from the ISP through the Zyxe?
- Does the ISP provide internet through a DSL line or from a cable modem or fiber ONT that outputs an Ethernet cable?
I would probably start with a call to the ISP tech support. This is a common topic and they might be able to provide useful advice.
I have fiber internet, and I receive both TV and internet signals through this unit. I've considered canceling the TV service, which might make it possible to remove the unit?
Thank you for your reply!
