RBS50 vs RBK50

gdavis
Tutor
Oct 13, 2018
CrimpOn wrote:

"R" means "router". "S" means "Satellite". If you want to add another satellite, it MUST be the RBS50 ("S" for "Satellite").

Thanks CrimpOn,

That makes sense. The fact that Netgear sells RBK50's in a package of two with one that can be a satellite was confusing. One would assume you just get another of the same.

Thanks for clearing this up.
- CrimpOn
  Guru - Experienced User
  Oct 14, 2018
  Sorry, I typed before thinking. The ORBI RBK50 kit includes one RBR50 (router) and one RBS50 (satellite). R for router. S for satellite. The design is for one router and one OR MORE satellites. Never two routers. If you want to keep your existing router, but want additional WiFi coverage, you need to purchase another satellite. AND.... you need to be aware of the complications inherent in your design. i.e. having one router connected to another router is redundant and often leads to unwanted behavior. If each router is attempting to assign DHCP addresses, for example, they have to be in different IP ranges. Most users who want to keep their existing router do two things: (1) they turn off the WiFi in their existing router. (2) they put the ORBI in access point mode. Their existing router does all the DHCP assignments and the ORBI handles all the WiFi.
  
  If you read the forum, there seem to be a lot of people who sincerely believe that the ORBI does not function well as a router and the ONLY way to get things to work is to use it as an AP. Others, such as myself, use it as their only router and have no problems.
  
  Sorry if I wandered off topic. I fixated on your specific question (RBR vs. RBS). I have only one satellite and have nothing to offer about having more than one.
  - gdavis
    Tutor
    Oct 14, 2018
    Thanks CrimpOn,
    
    I had no idea! I do indeed have an RBR50 and RBS50 and must not have noted the difference at the time due to the hassle of setting up the wired backhaul (Current firmware seems to handle it ok).
    
    I probably could have kept my previous router and turned off the wifi. My modem, switch and panel is in the basement. So for my setup I have Cat6 from the modem in the basement to the RBR upstairs on the mainfloor then Cat6 back down to the basement to the switch and then back up via cat6 to the RBS on the top floor.
    
    My intention is to put another cat6 connected RBS on the top floor as there must be some combination of pipes and chimney that is blocking the signal between rooms.
    
    I really appreciated the help from you and FURRYe38

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