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Forum Discussion
How to extend Orbi Mesh System?
Question: What is the best way to extend an Orbi Mesh Network? The Details: I have installed a NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System (RBK853) and it is working GREAT!. However, I nee...
ammy53 wrote:
I think all I need is something that can "attach" to the main router via the 5Ghz wireless backhaul (or similar) and send out a 2.4Ghz wireless signal that hopefully extends the existing network, not create a whole new one.
Any thoughts / ideas are appreciated.
Almost correct. What is required is a device that can broadcast a 2.4G WiFi signal that covers the back yard and is strong enough for those light bulbs to make a good connection.
If the requirement had been to create a seamless roaming environment that extends to the back yard, then another RBS850 satellite mounted in a weatherproof case would be the (expensive) solution. Only a true satellite will enable mobile devices to roam seamlessly between Orbi units. These bulbs are not mobile, and cannot "roam".
Just personally, I would first try an inexpensive WiFi Extender such as a TP-Link RE220 ($20US on Amazon) and place it against the outside wall (or in a window). Create a WiFi network with a different name (SSID) so that these bulbs seek to connect only to the extender. There are extenders that are outdoor rated, or the RE220 could be placed inside a weatherproof enclosure.