RBR20/RBS20--Connecting with Spectrum WiFi6 Router

[adamber]

I recently upgraded to a Spectrum WiFi6 router but am still have connection issues (non-existent or buffering) with a TV on the other side of my house (one story--2000 sq. ft.) as well as a TV that's about 18' away.  I'm told the issue with the closer TV may be due to obstructions in nearby walls.  Regardless, I'm trying to "piggyback" my Orbi RBR20/RBS20 on my Spectrum router to increase coverage and signal strength.  Is this feasible and advisable? Also, how exactly would I do this (i.e., what attaches to what, in what order etc.)?   Note: I glaze over when I read about updating firmware, IP addresses and all that so thanks in advance to whoever can answer this in language I can understand.

[FURRYe38]

What Firmware version is currently loaded?
What is the Mfr and model# of the Internet Service Providers modem/ONT the NG router is connected too?

If your ISP Modem already has a built in router and Wi-Fi, This would be a double NAT (two router) 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 Orbi 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 Orbi router gets from the modem. Then you can use the Orbi router in Router mode.
3. Or disable all wifi radios on the modem and connect the Orbi router to the modem, configure AP mode on the Orbi router. https://kb.netgear.com/31218/How-do-I-configure-my-Orbi-router-to-act-as-an-access-point and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7LOcJ8GdDo&app=desktop

What is the distance between the router and 📡 satellite(s)? 30 feet or more is recommended in between RBR and RBS📡 to begin with depending upon building materials when wirelessly connected.
https://kb.netgear.com/31029/Where-should-I-place-my-Orbi-satellite 📡

[CrimpOn]

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@adamber wrote:

Regardless, I'm trying to "piggyback" my Orbi RBR20/RBS20 on my Spectrum router to increase coverage and signal strength.  Is this feasible and advisable? Also, how exactly would I do this (i.e., what attaches to what, in what order etc.)? 

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Yes.... and Maybe.

It would help to know what this Orbi RBR20/RBS20 was doing prior to the change in Spectrum equipment.

* Was it still in the box?

* Was it connected to the previous Spectrum router?

From the description, it appears that the situation right now is a Spectrum WiFi router which does not provide a strong enough signal to two TV's.  One about 18' away and the other farther away.

The Orbi RBR20 can be connected to the Spectrum router using an Ethernet cable.  Just turn it on.  The WiFi credentials are printed on the product label (on the bottom). You now have two WiFi routers located close to each other. Their WiFi radio signals will almost totally overlap.  i.e.

* No net gain in coverage, and

* Two radios competing with each other.

However, the RBS20 can be located 25-35 ft. away from the RBR20. (People advise to start at 30' apart, but the satellite has to have an electrical plug and there usually aren't plugs in the middle of rooms.)  This creates another WiFi radio that will cover more of the house.

At this point, must people would turn off the Spectrum WiFi signal.  It wll just confuse things going forward.

Also at this point, you get to decide if you want to change the WiFi 'name' and password of the Orbi system.

* One choice is to give it exactly the same credentials as the Spectrum router.  If you decide

   to remove the Orbi and use the Spectrum again, every device will automatically reconnect.

* Every time I replace my WiFi router, I give the new one exactly the same WiFi name and password as the

   one being replaced.

It's up to you.

Also at this point,

[adamber]

Hi Furrye38...don't know what the firmware version is and I can't plainly see what the mfr. is on the modem (it's separate from the router).  It's a Spectrum branded unit with a model # of EU2251.  It sounds like from what you say that the piggyback idea is not a good one and I should look for a different solution--either something Spectrum can provide (i.e. a "pod") or using the Orbi system alone (and taking back the Spectrum router), the latter of which was recommended by a Spectrum tech when I called.  The satellite would be placed about 30-35' away from the router if I go that route.  In any case, I'll look at the links you sent.  Thanks.