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Forum Discussion
EntropyDF
Jun 22, 2025Aspirant
Firewalla Gold Pro & RBE771/770
Hello all, thank you in advance for any wisdom you may have.
I have an Orbi RBE771 with 2 RBE770 satellites (wired backhaul, latest firmware) that have been working great. I want to make a significant modification to my network by adding a Firewall Gold PRO device as a router (for Dual ISP, VPNs, etc.) and running the Orbi in Access Point (AP) mode.
My question is on the design. Ideally, I would like the Firewalla to handle DHCP and routing for the entire network (both wired and wireless), while continuing to use the Orbi in AP mode and with wired backup. I want to avoid double NAT, of course, if possible.
In a simple diagram, this is what I am thinking:
My question is, can I get away with this okay? Can the 771 and its satellites be plugged into a standard switch with other wired devices (PCs, TV, etc) and still communicate via wired backhaul?
I could create a dedicated VLAN for the three Orbi devices, but that would require relocating the 771 to a less desirable location (i.e., a basement). Or I could go for wireless backhaul as the devices are in good range for that option.
Thoughts, comments, and advice welcome.
3 Replies
Requirements for Ethernet connected RBS, router or AP mode: https://kb.netgear.com/000051205/What-is-Ethernet-backhaul-and-how-do-I-set-it-up-on-my-Orbi-WiFi-System 📡 ‌‌🛰️
- EntropyDFAspirant
I probably would have used the WAN port on the main RBE771. So in AP mode the WAN port is not really used.
Thank you!
WAN port on the RBR IS required for AP mode.