installing orbi in a 4-story, 12,000 square foot house

[jcfax1]

For a 4-story, 12,000 square foot old house (lots of hidden metal), how many Orbi repeaters should I install?  One per floor?

[Donnnn · Accepted solution]

Since Orbi is not currently a mesh network, be sure that the router (main unit) can be placed fairly centrally. Orbi is "hub and spoke". Also, when possible hard wire fixed devices to the router or satallites.  Since you house is four stories you will need fewer satellites. 

One advantage of Orbi is the ability to use fewer satellites in a large house due to the good range of these units.

[andykerslake]

As with all wifi this is quite difficult to answer. 

The satellites communicate directly with the router, so the router must be able to "see" the satellites.Their ability to network will be directly affected by wall materials, floor construction etc. 

If you can I would first try the 2 box kit and position the main router in the middle (as far as possible) then try the satellite in its expected locations and see if it works.

I have done many wifi installations and the only way to check is to use survey techniques to position access points.

You may find that it does not work as needed and the units will have to be returned.

[jcfax1]

Thank you -- that makes sense.  

[Donnnn · Accepted solution]

Since Orbi is not currently a mesh network, be sure that the router (main unit) can be placed fairly centrally. Orbi is "hub and spoke". Also, when possible hard wire fixed devices to the router or satallites.  Since you house is four stories you will need fewer satellites. 

One advantage of Orbi is the ability to use fewer satellites in a large house due to the good range of these units.