Setup two WAX625 APs as mesh network without NETGEAR Insight Cloud Portal or Insight app

Question

I recently purchased two WAX625 APs in order to replace my current setup using Orbi RBK762S. But realized that they require NETGEAR Insight Cloud Portal or Insight app in order to setup them as Mesh network.

As I have already missed my return window for returning WAX625, I am trying to figure-out if I am able to use them anyway.

So would I be able to achieve seamless WiFi-clients roaming using kind of manual setup of "mesh" network without NETGEAR Insight Cloud Portal and Insight app?

As I understood WAX625 provide all the required functionality:

I can enable 802.11 k/v;
I don't see setting to enable 802.11r (Fast Roaming), but maybe it works/enabled out-of-the-box, as I see it is mentioned in the WAX625 Firmware v10.2.6.8?

So all what I will need to do - is to manually configure WIFI AP settings on both APs, what is fine. Also both APs connected to the same network via Ethernet.

Thus, my question, considering the listed above actions - would WiFi-clients roam seamlessly, like they roam now using setup with Orbi RBK762S?

Thanks!

AndreGr · Answer

Okay, so far - decided to go with Insight subscription...

But one of the reasons I don't like remote management (additionally to privacy considerations) - is because it may simply fail like that 😫😵😡

Pramendra · Answer

Hi,
&nbsp;
The WAX625 needs to be managed by the Insight Cloud Portal to enable MESH and Fast Roaming support. Since the WAX625 comes with a one-year free Insight subscription, you can use Insight to manage these devices.
&nbsp;
While WDS can be configured manually when not in Insight mode, please note that clients will undergo full authentication while roaming from one AP to another.
&nbsp;
Best regards,PramendraNETGEAR NFB Wireless

BrianL · Answer

Hi AndreGr,
&nbsp;
You may want to try other web browser/s and check if your network (firewall) blocks/restricts access to the NETGEAR Insight Portal.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Kind regards,
&nbsp;
BrianL

schumaku · Answer

Just a curiosity question: Are you operating an all wireless infrastructure, or are these WAX625 opertated from an Ethernet switch (ideally with PoE++)?
&nbsp;
Reson asking: On a pure wired AP infrastucture, there is -no- reason to configure this consumer-style "Mesh".&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;
AndreGr&nbsp;

AndreGr · Answer

schumaku, yes, these WAX625 operated from an Ethernet switch (with PoE++, Netgear GS308EP specifically).&nbsp;Agree, no need to use or activate "Mesh".&nbsp;What is desired to be activated - is 802.11r (Fast Roaming), and unfortunately this feature is not available for activation without cloud management. Thus anyway, already using and configured everything with Insight app.&nbsp;Thanks!

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Setup two WAX625 APs as mesh network without NETGEAR Insight Cloud Portal or Insight app

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