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Forum Discussion
Solved
Optimal Network Architecture+Load Balancer+Router+Switch+Orbi+VPNRouter
Good Day, I understand this topic may have been discussed previously, however I have a couple clarifications needed on my specific set up for peace of mind. Anyones assistance will be greatly ap...
Priyesh12 wrote:
When you refer to two VPN capable devices, I assume you mean the Night Hawk and Orbi.
No. The TP-LINK - ER605 Load Balancer is capable of acting as an OpenVPN Client. See page 133 of the user manual:
https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2022/202208/20220830/1910013241_ER605(UN)2.0_UG.pdf
Here's a description of the process:
https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/3135/
If all devices are connected to the Orbi and the plan is to have all devices use the VPN connection, then it doesn't matter whether the Orbi is in router or access point mode. There are certain applications which will be difficult to support when there are two routers (search for "Double NAT") and the general preference on the forum is to avoid a Double NAT.
It is not clear why there are two VPN capable devices in series.
SSID Broadcast "off" does not eliminate the actual WiFi signal. WiFi from the three ISPs and R7000P will probably not penetrate the concrete walls, but may affect the room where all the equipment is located.
Yes, most users would connect the switch to the 850 router so that all user devices are on the same LAN.
I have seen reports of WiFi issues on the 850 product, but do not have one myself and thus have not paid much attention (sorry).
CrimpOn Thank you very much for the response.
Just to clarify, you agree that the current architecture is correct in terms of product connections and paths.
When you refer to two VPN capable devices, I assume you mean the Night Hawk and Orbi. If so, I use Express VPN and I have not been able to figure out how to operate it on the Obri. I bought the NightHawk simply because ExpressVPN supplies a downloadable firmware for that model and they say the Obri is not compatible. Please do provide insight on this.
Should I use the Orbi in router mode or AP? If I keep the NightHawk as my router or continue the way
I have taken note of completely turning off the wifi on the other devices and will provide an update thereafter.
Thanks
Found one of your previous discussions over Express VPN on the Orbi, and you clarified that the Orbi will not be able to set up a VPN client, only host it for remote access.
Therefore I will need to keep the NightHawk in line. So I need to know whether I should use the Orbi in AP mode or router.
1. ISP 1,2,3 Modem/Routers (WIFI Off) ----> Load Balancer ---> NightHawk R7000P (For VPN Across Devices - WIFI Off) ---> Netgear Orbi (Back Haul Connection in Router Mode OR AP??) ---> Network Switch (All TV's - Receivers - Blu Ray Player - Playstation - Media Devices)
Priyesh12 wrote:
When you refer to two VPN capable devices, I assume you mean the Night Hawk and Orbi.
No. The TP-LINK - ER605 Load Balancer is capable of acting as an OpenVPN Client. See page 133 of the user manual:
https://static.tp-link.com/upload/manual/2022/202208/20220830/1910013241_ER605(UN)2.0_UG.pdf
Here's a description of the process:
https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/3135/
If all devices are connected to the Orbi and the plan is to have all devices use the VPN connection, then it doesn't matter whether the Orbi is in router or access point mode. There are certain applications which will be difficult to support when there are two routers (search for "Double NAT") and the general preference on the forum is to avoid a Double NAT.
Great,
Thank you very much for the clarifications and assistance.
I have placed the VPN on the Load Balancer and removed the Night Hawk from the line. Kept the Orbi in Router mode and have the switch connected to the Orbi and all devices wired into the switch.
I appreciate the help.
Cheers
Multiple ISP connections and a Double NAT may create challenges for specific applications. Or, you may decide that some devices do not benefit from using the VPN. Those would be reasons to change the Orbi to Access Point mode.
I have no idea how this Load Balancer combines multiple ISP with VPN.
Glad you have it worked out.