How to Setup Orbi WiFi Extender: Outdoor Satellite
Netgear Orbi is a mesh system that helps you get an internet connection throughout the home. The mesh system by Netgear comprises two or more devices. One is the main Orbi router that connects to modem and other devices are Orbi satellites that connect to the main router.
Many users ask if Orbi can be used as an extender. We have covered the entire information that you seek in this post. Reading this blog post will be helpful to know how to setup Orbi WiFi extender.
How to Setup Orbi WiFi Extender?
Let us tell you that the Orbi is a mesh system. But if you want to use Orbi satellite as an extender, then you need to connect it to a non-Orbi router. To be more precise, the Orbi satellite can be used in two modes:
Orbi Mode – The Orbi satellite runs on the Orbi mode by default. But it should be connected to the Orbi router when running in this mode.
Extender Mode – If you want to use your Orbi satellite in extender mode, then you need to change the operating mode. Also, it should be connected to a non-Orbi router.
Let us now tell you how to set up Orbi WiFi extender.
Let’s Set Up Orbi Outdoor Satellite in Extender Mode
When you set up the satellite in Extender mode, it simply extends the existing network of the main router that it is connected to. If you own a router that’s not Orbi, and you want to use Orbi satellite to extend its signals, then use the steps presented next.
1st Step: The Placement of the Devices
Initiate the setup process by placing the Orbi outdoor satellite next to the main router. Power down the router for some time. During the connection process, the placement of the devices in close proximity is essential. After you’re done configuring the satellite, you can move it anywhere you want to have the extended signals. So, place the satellite somewhere near the router. We recommend choosing a neat and dry place.
2nd Step: Supplying Power to Router
Powering up the router is the second step during setup.Plug it into a well working power outlet. Examine the outlet thoroughly. It should be able to supply a consistent power supply to the router. Power on the router and let it boot up completely.
3rd Step: Turning on Orbi Satellite
Plug the Orbi satellite into a power source but do not toggle its Power button yet. If it is on, then turn it off. Push and hold the Sync button on the satellite now. While still holding the Sync button, toggle the Power button to turn the Orbi on. Keep holding the button. Release the Sync button when the bottom light on the satellite pulses in white and blue. Observe LED behavior:
1. Pulsing Blue – This implies the satellite is powering on and is changing the mode from Orbi to Extender. It continues to blink for a few minutes.
2. Solid Blue – As soon as the LED changes to solid blue, know that it is in the Extender mode. It is ready to be connected to the non-Orbi router.
4th Step: Access Extender Setup Page
Connect your computer to the Orbi satellite’s WiFi. Since the satellite is running in the extender mode, the default SSID will be Netgear_ext. When you set up Orbi in Orbi mode, you access the Orbi login page. However, as you are setting it up in the Extender mode, you need to use mywifiext.net. Visit the URL and you’ll be navigated to the Netgear installation assistant.
5th Step: Set Up Orbi Satellite
On the Netgear installation assistant, you will see prompts appearing. Keep on executing them to carry out the setup and complete the connection between the devices. Check the bottom light on the satellite to know the connection status:
1. Magenta – This means the connection between the satellite and router failed. Bring the satellite closer to the router and try connecting them again.
2. Amber – The connection between the two devices is fair. Get the satellite closer to the router and the amber lights should blink for about 3 minutes and turn off.
3. Blue – A blue light indicates a good connection. The devices are synced successfully. The light will turn off after 3 minutes.
Let’s Wrap it Up
This is all about how to setup Orbi WiFi extender. After the satellite is connected to the router, you can shift it to a new location where you want to enjoy the extended network. Make sure that it still sits within the range of the router so that it can get input signals easily.