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need advice on pairing Xfinity router/modem XB6 with Netgear Nighthawk MK63 AX1800
Hi, I'm relatively new to addressing my own internet setup and frankly a bit overwhelmed by the idea of fudging the whole thing up. I've read some other discussions re bridging a Xfinity modem router with a Netgear setup and it gives me hope. So here I am. I've rented the Xfinity modems for years now because I had such a hard time years ago with setting it up myself. Some of that is just my own fear, but I want to get past that. With help. When it was time for a gateway upgrade (a few years ago), Xfinity sent a tech to install and I was glad for it.
I currently have Xfinity Gateway router/modem model CGM4140COM. Wireless range sucks. Yes, I can buy a Xfi pod to extend the range, but I would prefer to buy/install my own setup and not grease the greedy paws of this cable company I need but don't like. I've been doing some research on installing a Nighthawk MK63 AX1800 mesh system (which is on sale at Costco right now). Xfinity says their gateway and Netgear is compatible. Three mesh extenders are included, one of which is a router and the other two are satellites. I've seen conflicting info on how easy or difficult the act of bridging the Xfinity gateway is, so that I can add my own router and then pair to the satellites. At least one person in this community has indicated that (s)he was not able to do it. Yet Xfinity materals seem pretty straightforward as to the process. My questions are...has anyone tried this combo? Has it worked? Did you have issues on installation? Any tricks or advice I should know in advance before I try this?
Advice/help is truly appreciated. Thanks!
I'd actually look at getting rid of that xfinity gateway unless you use the xfinity security features.
I'd look at picking up a CM1000 when you get the MK system. That'd avoid having to pay the rental fees and would pay each other off quickly
4 Replies
Netgear has set up a community forum specifically for the NightHawk MESH products. Most of the people who watch that forum are more likely to have experience with NH MESH products and know how to work it better than those of us who follow this router forum. Might be more likely to find someone who has a solution if the question is posted there:
https://community.netgear.com/t5/Nighthawk-Mesh-System/bd-p/en-home-nighthawk-mesh-systemFor ISP modems with built in wifi and router, This would be a double NAT 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 NG 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 NG router gets from the modem.
3. Or disable all wifi radios on the modem and connect the NG router to the modem, LAN to LAN configure AP mode on the NG router.
Thank you.Fast response and thank you! I have already downloaded some instructions on assigning the gateway to bridge function. I had read somewhere about the double NAT issue, which is new to me (will have to learn more about that so to understand it). I will certainly move or dup my question to the mesh community. I appreciate your time! I get how frustrating it is to have folks ask questions without doing some prep work, so I'm trying my best to learn at least a bit before I ask....
I'd actually look at getting rid of that xfinity gateway unless you use the xfinity security features.
I'd look at picking up a CM1000 when you get the MK system. That'd avoid having to pay the rental fees and would pay each other off quickly
