How to Block new devices from connecting to Orbi (Not working)

Question

I want to use access control to block any new devices from connecting to my Orbi Router. This was done successfully in the past via access controls so that I can block devices that changed MAC addresses that tried to circumvent time access restrictions. This used to be in the Orbi web interface in Advanced Tab, Security Menu, Access Control with option to "Block all new devices from connecting." This has now been removed from the Orbi web interface with the message that I need to use the Orbi App instead. When I use the Orbi App there is no such feature anywhere to be found. This feature was very helpful in restricting access to devices that changed their MAC address.

I did try the Armor section in the Orbi app which allows restricted access to a device, but I am not sure if this could be circumvented by changing the MAC address of that device.

Please help.

Andy

Orbi AX4200 WiFi 6 High-Performance Router (RBR750)

Latest Firmware as of 11/7/2022

KevinLiT · Answer

Hello Andyt650,
&nbsp;
Welcome to the NETGEAR Community!
&nbsp;
You are receiving that message because SMART Parental Controls is activated on your device.
&nbsp;
Best,
Kevin
Community Team

Andyt650 · Answer

Hi Kevin,&nbsp;I've disabled SMART parental controls (toggle switch) from the Orbi app and I still get the same problem on the router where "Block all new devices from connecting"&nbsp; is not available. See attached image. Thanks.&nbsp;Andy

KevinLiT · Answer

Hi Andyt650,&nbsp;&nbsp;Thank you for this information!&nbsp;Please factory reset your Orbi router after you toggle off SPC.Best,KevinCommunity Team&nbsp;

Andyt650 · Answer

Kevin,You have asked me to reset my Oribi to factory settings. Are you basing this suggestion on your personal observation of your own Orbi router that the feature "Block new devices from connecting" is&nbsp; still present and available from the web interface, or is this a suggestion that this should work? There are Netgear support circles are indicating that this feature will be available only&nbsp; from the Orbi app (IOS/Android) and no longer from the web and this is a work in progress. I have a great deal of customization with lots of hosts connected to my Orbi matrix and resetting to factory settings is something that I do not take lightly without some indication that this may fix the problem. Your thoughts are appreciated on the factory reset. What about downgrading the firmware version?&nbsp;Andy&nbsp;

KevinLiT · Answer

Hello&nbsp;Andyt650&nbsp;,
&nbsp;
Thank you for your response!
&nbsp;
The photo you provided indicates that SMART Parental Controls is active on your router. In order to remove the SMART Parental Controls you will need to first disable it in the Orbi app by doing the following;
&nbsp;
HAMBURGER MENU &gt; SETTINGS &gt;&nbsp;&nbsp;PARENTAL CONTROLS &gt; toggle ENABLE SMART PARENTAL CONTROLS.
&nbsp;
After the system needs to be factory reset for this change to take effect. Once the change has taken effect you will be able to access Access Controls to block new devices from connecting to your network via MAC address.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Best,
Kevin
Community Team

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How to Block new devices from connecting to Orbi (Not working)

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