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cdsatpb's avatar
cdsatpb
Aspirant
Jun 27, 2025

Initial set up

A very basic question:  does the router in an Orbi mesh system connect to the ISP router, or does it replace the ISP router?  (I have a Utility Warehouse router which is currently plugged into the fibre (FTTP) terminal).  If it plugs into the ISP router, are devices connected over the mesh network on a separate network from devices plugged into the ethernet port on the ISP router?

not listed

4 Replies

  • FURRYe38's avatar
    FURRYe38
    Guru
    Jun 27, 2025

    Could possible do both. Someting you'll need to ask your ISP about as some ISPs may differ on there requirements on what can be connected to there main debarcation terminal for there services to your home. 

     

    IF there is a router at the ISP point,  This would be a double NAT (two router) condition which isn't recommended. https://kb.netgear.com/30186/What-is-Double-NAT
    https://kb.netgear.com/30187/How-to-fix-issues-with-Double-NAT
    Couple of options,
    1. Configure the modem for transparent bridge or modem only mode. Then use the Orbi router in router mode. You'll need to contact the ISP for help and information in regards to the modem being bridged correctly.
    2. If you can't bridge the modem, 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.
    3. Or disable all wifi radios on the modem and connect the Orbi router to the modem, configure AP mode on the Orbi router.
    New: https://community.netgear.com/kb/en-orbi-knowledge-sharing/static-ip-address-configuration-for-ap-mode/2456256
    https://community.netgear.com/t5/Orbi-WIFI-6-AX-AND-Wi-Fi-6E-AXE/Procedure-for-Factory-reset-of-RBS850/m-p/2367505/highlight/true#M53985
    https://kb.netgear.com/31218/How-do-I-configure-my-Orbi-router-to-act-as-an-access-point and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7LOcJ8GdDo&app=desktop 
    Try option #2 first...
    https://kb.netgear.com/000061277/Which-features-are-disabled-on-my-Orbi-router-when-it-is-set-to-AP-Mode

     

    If you deploy a orbi system then you would want all your devices connected to the orbi system so all devices can get connected on same system and communicate with each other with out interuptions. 

     

  • michaelkenward's avatar
    michaelkenward
    Guru
    Jun 27, 2025
    cdsatpb wrote:

    A very basic question: does the router in an Orbi mesh system connect to the ISP router, or does it replace the ISP router?

     

    There's no single answer to that.

     

    You can use it either way. You don't say what Utility Warehouse router or which Orbi system you have. 

     

    Unless it does things that the Orbi can't manage, the easiest and least complicated option, is to get rid of the other router. Then just connect the Orbi to the FTTP terminal.

     

    If you do need the other router for some reason, you then have to avoid the "two routers" issue.


    What is Double NAT? | Answer | NETGEAR Support

     

    One way to avoid that is to put the Orbi router into access point (AP) mode.

     

    How do I configure my Orbi router to act as an access point? - NETGEAR Support

     

    but then you hit this:

     

    Disabled Features on the Router when set to AP Mode | Answer | NETGEAR Support

     

    You'll have to work out if that blocks things that are important to you.

     

    I'd start leaving the Utility Warehouse router gathering dust on a shelf somewhere.

     

     

    Just another user with time on their hands.