September 6, 2023 / Maggie Wilson

Why is My Orbi RBR40 Not Connecting to the Modem?

Netgear Orbi system helps to get internet access in all the nooks and crannies of the home. Orbi’s primary device or the router needs to be connected to the modem. But if the connection between these two devices is not happening then neither will you be able to complete the setup of the Orbi nor you can enjoy its internet. What you can do to fix this problem and get the devices connected? Find the information on the same in this post. Here we will discuss how you can connect Netgear Orbi RBR40 with the modem. You will also get to know how to do away with the router-modem connectivity issues. Thus read on.

How to Connect Orbi RBR40 Router to Modem?

Before moving to the troubleshooting part, we suggest you check the process that you can use to connect the router to the modem. Perhaps you are committing a mistake while getting the devices connected and hence facing issues. So, confirm the same by using the instructions given below:

Wired Connection

1. Power down the modem first.
2. Place the Netgear Orbi RBR40 router near the modem.
3. Use an Ethernet cable and connect the two devices.
4. Power up the modem now.
5. Next, switch on the router.

The two devices will get connected. You can go ahead with the setup process.

Wireless Connection

1. The router and the modem need to be placed in the same room.
2. Power up the modem first and then the router.
3. The devices will get connected while you are executing the setup instructions.

How to Fix Orbi RBR40 Router & Modem Connection Issues?

If by using the correct steps as given above, you are not able to get the devices connected then use the troubleshooting hacks given below:

1. Use a Good Ethernet Cable

If you are connecting the Orbi router to the modem using an Ethernet cable then make sure that the cable in use is a good one. It shouldn’t be damaged or worn out. Replacing the cable with a new one will be the best option in such a case. The connection has to be very firm and secure. So make sure the cable is not inserted loosely.

2. Use the Right Ports

While making the connection between the Netgear Orbi router and the modem, you should make certain that the right ports are put to use. You ought to use the LAN port on the modem and the Internet port on the Orbi router to insert the Ethernet cable.

Also, check that the ports are not damaged or full of dirt. Clean the ports using a soft brush and then reconnect the devices. Be careful while inserting the cable for you might damage the ports if you are too harsh during the process.

3. Reduce the Distance

In case the devices are connected wirelessly, then you need to check that the distance between both devices is not more than necessary. In simple words, the modem should be kept within the network range of the modem. Otherwise, it becomes difficult for the devices to have smooth communication.

While we are suggesting you bring the devices closer to each other, we also want you to be careful of the fact that placing the devices very close to each other is also a point of concern. Why because the signals of the two devices will clash this way. So, the distance should be an appropriate one, neither too far nor too close.

4. Power Cycle the Devices

Sometimes a simple power cycling process helps to resolve the connectivity issues. The devices are not getting connected to each other can be due to some technical glitches with any of the devices.

Thus, without giving it a second thought, power down the router and the modem. Next, unplug their power cables from the respective electrical sockets. Moreover, disconnect the Ethernet cable for now. You need to wait for some time now. After waiting for some 5-10 minutes, join the devices using the cable. Then plug the power adapters. Switch on the modem first and then the router.

The Final Note

We are anticipating that the Orbi RBR40 router and modem will get connected without any hassle now. You can carry out the setup process using a computer that is connected to the Orbi’s network. As soon as you have completed the setup process, you can begin enjoying the internet connection from your Orbi in different parts of the home.