How do you expand a NETGEAR Orbi network?

Do you have a NETGEAR Orbi mesh system, but no strong WiFi signal in your entire house? You can easily expand the Orbi network with an extra station. This improves the coverage. In this article, we'll explain how to do so in 3 steps. We'll also tell you which extension is suitable for your system.

Choose the right extension
The right place
Choose a setup
Connect the extension

Get started with expanding your NETGEAR Orbi

Expanding your Orbi system is easy. Still, you have to keep some things in mind. We'll explain it to you in 3 steps.

Step 1. Choose the right extension
Step 2. Determine the location of your extra WiFi point
Step 3. Choose a star or ring network
Step 4. Connect the Orbi extension to your network

View all NETGEAR Orbi extensions

Step 1: make sure you have the right extension

With NETGEAR Orbi, you can't just connect any extension to your current system. The extension has to work on the same standard as the main station. If you now have WiFi 5, you can only connect WiFi 5 extenders to your Orbi network. If you have a WiFi 6 system, you can only connect those stations. Not sure? Check the type number of your system. If there are 2 numbers behind 'RBK', it's WiFi 5. If there are 3 numbers, it's WiFi 6.

Step 2: choose the right spot for your extension

The best spot for the extension of your Orbi network is close to where you want your WiFi. If you want WiFi in the attic, place the extension in the attic. Keep in mind that you need to receive at least 1 other WiFi point there. Don't you have any coverage in the attic? The extension won't work optimally. Place it on the landing, close to the stairs. This way, you still have coverage in the attic.

Step 3: choose a star or ring network

When you create a mesh network, you have 2 options. Set up all routers so they're connected to your most central router. With such a star network, the connection to each router is equally fast. this option is suitable for homes with fewer than 20 devices. Use a ring network in which every router is connected to the next router when you have more devices. This way, you distribute the load of the network.

Step 4: connect the Orbi extension to your network

Provide the extension with power and wait for the connection flashes light blue. Open the Orbi app and tap the 3 lines in the top left. Add the extra station here. You choose the location in the app and go through the steps. If the Orbi lights up in blue, the setup was successful. Does it light up in purple? The connection is weak and you need to choose a different spot.

Article by Daniel

WiFi Expert.