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DonGregory's avatar
DonGregory
Follower
Aug 11, 2025

upside/downside to having both?

Hi all ... I recently set up an Orbi3 Wifi7 system (w/1 satellite).

I have an existing NetGear RS3000v2 moden/router.

 

I followed the instruction to setup the Orbi that I got by selecting the QR code on the Orbi router and everything went smoothly, and it's up & running, hurray! 

 

However, in looking for some information (I forget what) I came across a google result that talked about (first) logging into my NetGear router, and switching it to 'modem only' mode.

 

I never did that.  Both systems (my old modem/router and the new Orbi router/satellite) seem to be working fine ... I seem to be able to log into either one.

 

So my question is ... what is the upside/downside to leaving it like this? Or is it important to put my old modem/router (the RS3000v2) into "modem only" mode?

 

thanks in advance!

rbe372

1 Reply

  • CrimpOn's avatar
    CrimpOn
    Guru - Experienced User
    Aug 11, 2025

    Alas, there appears to be no Netgear product with this number (RS3000v2).  - perhaps a "typo"?

     

    Yes, it is generally accepted that placing a combination modem/router into "modem only" mode is preferred.

     

    • When both the modem/router and the Orbi router are in "router mode", this creates what is called a "Double NAT" situation and can interfere with specific applications, such as
      o sharing files on the internet
      o certain types of internet gaming
      o using VPN to connect to the local network when away from home
    • When the modem/router is in "modem only" mode, then there is only one 'router' and the Double NAT does not exist.

    My opinion (and it is only my opinion) is that thousands of customers do this every day and never have a problem.  (because they have no interest in those applications).  If they do become aware of a problem, investigation quickly leads to a solution.

     

    So, yes. The general advice is to put it into 'modem only' mode, but the consequences of not doing so are not all that great.