Will modem work with my RBR50 & 2 satellites?

[mrstucci1972]

Hi I have a RBR50 (I am not sure if it's the 2200 or the 3000) and 2 satellites-one plugs into the wall and the other sits on our dresser. 

I just found out about the modem that Orbi has now and I was wondering if my system will work the new modem. Also, if it will work with it can I just buy the modem? It seems like it I would have to buy a new router?? 

I currently had a Comcast modem. Thank you for any help in making a decision. 

[FURRYe38 · Accepted solution]

Modem Combo Units:
Couple of options,
1. Configure the modem for transparent bridge 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 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

[CrimpOn]

Every customer has to have a device to convert from the cable system (Comcast) to ethernet, i.e. a "modem".  Because customers have the option to purchase their own modem (and avoid paying monthly fees to their provider), Netgear has introduced an Orbi model which has a built in modem, the CBK40 https://www.netgear.com/orbi/cbk40.aspx

This Orbi is a "2200", which is not as capable as the RBR59 ( a "3300").  Since you already have an RBR50, it would be an expense and a "step backward" to purchase the CBK40.  Of course, you would have one fewer component, but also a surplus RBR50 to dispose of.  Generally, the time to decide on an Orbi with built in modem is before purchasing an Orbi.

[michaelkenward]

As @CrimpOn says, if you have an Orbi router there is no point in buying an Orbi modem/router.

Experienced users also like to have separate modems. They prefer to use modem-only devices that are not also routers.

The most important reason for this is that router makers put more effort into keeping their firmware up to date. Modem-routers sit at the back of the queue.

Using a modem-router in front of another router is also complicated because you don't want two routers in your network. You'll probably have to disable the router bit of one of them.

The good news is that modem-only devices are pretty cheap.

Out of interest, what is the Comcast modem? Do you own it, or is it rented? Is its DSL, cable, something else?

[mrstucci1972]

Thank you  for the reply. You are correct in that I don't want a modem/router combo.  

I am renting the Comcast modem-it looks like this. It's a cable modem. Thanks again for the reply! Judy

@CrimpOn

[FURRYe38 · Accepted solution]

Modem Combo Units:
Couple of options,
1. Configure the modem for transparent bridge 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 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