Proper setup for RBR750 and 4 RBS750 satellites as Access Points

Access Point is an ambiguous term.

Any device that broadcasts a WiFi channel and accepts connections is (by definition) an "access point."  Thus, the Orbi router, Orbi satellites, and any WiFi extenders that may be connected are all "access points".

The wrinkle is that a device which broadcasts a WiFi channel but does not perform any router functions is also called an "access point".  Orbi satellites are a special type of access point in that they use software to form a mesh network which allows devices to roam seamlessly between the various units.

Every residential network requires at least one router to perform essential functions, such as:

• Creating a local area network (LAN) and assigning IP addresses to devices connected to that LAN.
• Informing those devices of the proper
  • IP subnet to use
  • Gateway IP to reach devices that are not on the LAN (i.e. the internet)
  • IP address to resolve domain names into IPs. (typically the router itself)
• Resolving domain names into IP addresses
• Concealing devices on the LAN behind Network Address Translation (NAT)
• and a host of other "router things".

If the Internet Service Provider (ISP) has installed a modem or Optical Network Termination (ONT) unit but has not installed a combination modem/router/wifi device (which they often do), then the Orbi RBR750 must be kept in router mode.

If the ISP has installed a combination unit, then the customer has several options:

• Leave the Orbi in router mode and be aware that specific applications cannot be done when there are two routers (search for Double NAT to see examples).
• Place the ISP device into "modem only" mode (sometimes called "bridge" or "passthrough" mode).
• Put the Orbi router into the ISP device DMZ.
• OR....... put the Orbi RBR750 into Access Point (AP) mode.

The problem described is almost certainly not what 'mode' the RBR750 is in.

Can you please explain in more detail:

• What ISP device is installed?
• What the Orbi web interface Attached Devices says about the (4) RBS750 satellites?