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Forum Discussion
How to connect two Orbi (RBK44) routers to cover large area
I need Wi-Fi coverage over a large area (Home, Pool, Shed, & Pier). I have 200 feet outside space between my house a shed and another 300 feet to the end of my pier. I would like to feed the shed and...
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I believe I understand what hardware I’ll need. I just need to understand if its possible and how to connect the two Orbi routers to my Verizon FiOS Router (FiOS Quantum Gateway).
Assumptions: Both will need to be in Access Point Mode (AP mode). The two networks will not be meshed. Speed will be compromised.
Proposed Connections
- Connect Orbi Router #1 with ethernet cable (short cable) to the Verizon FiOS Router
- Complete Setup of Router #1’s two Satellites (one inside & one outdoor) per installation instructions.
- Connect Orbi Router #2’s with ethernet cable (~190 foot) to the Verizon FiOS Router
- Complete Setup of Router #2 Satellites (two outdoor) per installation instructions.
So questions are: Can two Orbi routers be connected to my Verizon FiOS Router? What setup changes (Orbi router or Verizon FiOS Router) do I need to make?
JesseJG wrote:So questions are: Can two Orbi routers be connected to my Verizon FiOS Router? What setup changes (Orbi router or Verizon FiOS Router) do I need to make?
Yes, as many Orbi routers can be connected to FIOS as there are ethernet ports (or, if a switch is connected to FIOS, as many as there are ports on the switch). In AP mode, every device connected gets an IP address from the FIOS. They will all be separate WiFi networks, so the "mesh" benefits will be lost.
So, the end result would be two separate mesh network, correct?
With the limitation of the 3 satellites and the area I need to cover, I don’t believe I have any other option.
JesseJG wrote:With the limitation of the 3 satellites and the area I need to cover, I don’t believe I have any other option.
Just to be clear, there is no "3 satellite limitation" with Orbi. Some users report having six or more satellites attached to one router.
The problem is that individual statellites can be difficult to purchase, or actually be more expensive than purchasing another "package" deal.
I just searched on Amazon, and the only RBS40 units are "used" at $171. I tried the Netgear web site, and every retailer they list shows the RBS40 as "unavailable."
Any Orbi satellite will work with any Orbi router, although it obviously would be unusual to add a "50" model satellite to a base unit that doesn't support the higher speed backhaul.