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Orbi WiFi 7 RBE973
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Re: Existing wifi router setup with orbi

AndySNZ
Aspirant

Existing wifi router setup with orbi

Orbi newbie here - just set up AC2200 3 pack - works fine but I’m plugging into existing modem/wifi router and still seeing “old” wifi as well as new one. 1 is that a problem and have I set it up wrong and 2. Could I improve the system by upgrading modem/router as well?
Message 1 of 5
CrimpOn
Guru

Re: Existing wifi router setup with orbi

Most people choose to (a) give the new Orbi exactly the same WiFi name (SSID) and password as the old WiFi router so that devices do not have to be reconfigured, and (b) log into the old router and turn off the WiFi.  If they ever want to unplug the Orbi, they can simply restore the WiFi on the old router, and everything will reconnect to it.

 

Also, it is generally felt that having two "routers" is not a good idea:

https://kb.netgear.com/30186/What-is-Double-NAT 

 

Message 2 of 5
AndySNZ
Aspirant

Re: Existing wifi router setup with orbi

Much appreciated - double NAT - at least I know it has a name 🙂 I’ll see if my ISP can get the modem/ router to “bridge mode” - I need to keep the original device because it has a VOIP phone running of it as there is no cell service here....
Message 3 of 5
FURRYe38
Guru

Re: Existing wifi router setup with orbi

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

Message 4 of 5
timch
Luminary

Re: Existing wifi router setup with orbi

Given the VOIP service I think your easiest way home is use option 3 above. You lose some of Orbi's functionality but you allow it to do what it does best in my opinion, provide seamless WiFi. 

Message 5 of 5
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