What is AP Mode in Orbi?

AP mode, or Access Point mode, in Orbi transforms your Orbi router into a sophisticated Wi-Fi extender rather than a primary network router. In this configuration, your Orbi system focuses solely on broadcasting a robust Wi-Fi signal, using the routing capabilities of an existing modem or router. This is particularly useful when you already have a router (e.g., provided by your Internet Service Provider) but wish to leverage Orbi's superior Wi-Fi coverage and performance.

Understanding Orbi AP Mode

When an Orbi system operates in AP mode, it does not perform typical router functions such as:

• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): It does not assign IP addresses to devices on your network. Your existing router handles this.
• NAT (Network Address Translation): It does not manage traffic between your local network and the internet.
• Firewall: While it may have basic security features, the primary firewall functions are handled by your main router.

Instead, the Orbi system acts as a high-performance Wi-Fi access point, extending your existing network's wireless reach and often providing better speed and stability for your devices.

Why Use Orbi in AP Mode?

There are several compelling reasons to configure your Orbi system in AP mode:

• Avoid Double NAT: When you have two routers each performing NAT, it can lead to performance issues, conflicts with online gaming, VPN connections, or accessing network resources. AP mode eliminates this by allowing only one device (your existing router) to manage routing functions.
• Leverage Existing Network Infrastructure: If you're satisfied with your current router's wired capabilities or it's integrated with other services (like VoIP or TV), AP mode allows you to keep it as the network's core while upgrading your Wi-Fi experience with Orbi.
• Enhanced Wi-Fi Coverage: Orbi systems are designed to provide expansive and seamless Wi-Fi coverage. In AP mode, they simply extend the reach of your existing network's Wi-Fi, eliminating dead zones and providing strong signals throughout your home or office.
• Simplified Network Management: Your existing router remains the central point for network management, while Orbi focuses on delivering high-quality wireless connectivity.

How to Configure Orbi for AP Mode

Setting up your Orbi router as an access point involves a straightforward physical connection and a software configuration change.

1. Physical Connection:

   • Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to a LAN port on your existing modem or gateway (the device providing internet access).
   • Connect the other end of that same Ethernet cable to the Internet port (often labeled WAN) of your Orbi router. This connection allows the Orbi to receive its network configuration and internet access from your main router.

2. Software Configuration:

   • Access your Orbi router's settings, typically through the Orbi app on your smartphone or by logging into the router's web interface (e.g., orbilogin.com or orbilogin.net).
   • Navigate to the Advanced settings section.
   • Look for an option called Router/AP Mode, Operation Mode, or similar.
   • Select AP Mode (Access Point Mode) and apply the changes. Your Orbi system will reboot in the new mode.

Once configured, your Orbi router's Wi-Fi will replace or supplement the Wi-Fi from your existing router, providing a superior wireless experience without the complexities of running two routers in parallel.

Router Mode vs. AP Mode

Understanding the difference between the two primary operating modes for your Orbi is crucial:

By choosing AP mode, you allow your Orbi system to shine where it excels most: delivering outstanding, wide-reaching Wi-Fi.