Introduction
Netgear Orbi is another whole home wifi system that can enable users to extend their current wireless network coverage all over their homes thus eradicating places with no signal. Thus, the Orbi employs a Mesh networking technology to provide a continuous and uninterrupted connection at any place in the house.
The Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender directly connects with the Orbi router at wireless ‘backhaul’ to help boost the range of the current WiFi network. This article gives a comprehensive guide on the usage of the Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender; where to buy it, its main features, the installation process, its performance, and answers to some of the most asked questions.
What is a Netgear Orbi wifi range Extender?
A Netgear Orbi wifi extender setup is a wireless access point or satellite device that works with the Netgear Orbi Router to expand the coverage area of an existing wireless network.
Some key things to know about the Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender:
- It uses Tri-Band Mesh WiFi technology which means it has 3 separate WiFi bands – one for connecting devices, one dedicated backhaul connection between the Router and Extender, and one additional band for added capacity.
- It creates a single seamless wireless network when used with the Orbi Router so devices roam between the Router and Extender without any interruptions.
- It has a built-in Ethernet port to connect wired devices like smart TVs, and gaming consoles directly to the Extender for a wired backhaul connection option.
- Placement is flexible as it can be mounted on a wall or rested on any surface within the range of the existing wireless network.
- Setup is easy using the Orbi app for initial configuration and managing the whole home WiFi system remotely.
Benefits of using a Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender
Some key benefits of using a Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender include:
Expanded WiFi Coverage
The main benefit is that the Extender expands the wireless coverage of an existing WiFi network into hard-to-reach areas where the router signal is weak. This ensures seamless WiFi is available throughout the entire home or small business.
Seamless Roaming
The Orbi Mesh technology allows devices to seamlessly connect to the strongest WiFi signal from either the Router or Extender without any dropped connections while moving between different areas of the home.
Eliminates Dead Zones
Dead zones where the WiFi signal is weak or non-existent are eliminated. Areas of the home that previously had no WiFi like the backyard, basement, or attic now get reliable high-speed connectivity.
One Unified Network
The Orbi system appears as a single network to all connected devices. Users do not have to manually connect to a new network when moving between different Orbi devices.
Simple Setup & Management
The Orbi WiFi system is easy to set up using the Orbi mobile app. The app allows remote monitoring and configuration of all Orbi devices on the home network from any location.
Fast & Reliable Connections
The dedicated wireless backhaul allows for strong connectivity between the Router and Extender at speeds up to 1.2Gbps for fast, reliable WiFi throughout the home.
Setting up the Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender
Setting up the Netgear Orbi outdoor wifi extender is an easy plug-and-play process:
1. Download the Orbi App
Download the free Netgear Orbi app from the App Store or Google Play on your smartphone.
2. Connect the Orby wifi Extender
Plug the Orbi Extender into a power outlet near the area you want to extend coverage to. Make sure it is in range of the Orbi router (at least a 30-feet line of sight is recommended).
3. Launch Orbi App
Open the Orbi app and select “Add Extender” to start the setup process.
4. Follow App Instructions
The app will guide you through connecting the extender to your Orbi router’s wireless network and complete the configuration process.
5. Place Extender
Once setup is complete, place the wifi extender orbi in the desired area like an upstairs bedroom to extend coverage there.
6. Enjoy Seamless WiFi
Connected devices will now seamlessly connect to either the router or extender to get a strong WiFi signal throughout the home.
The entire setup process takes about 5-10 minutes. No need for an Ethernet backhaul either.
Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender Placement
Proper placement of the Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender is important to maximize the coverage extension. Here are some placement tips:
- Place the extender at the midpoint between your router and the area needing coverage extension.
- Walls and floors can reduce signal strength. Place the extender on an open space like a table or shelf near the weak area.
- Avoid placing near other electronic equipment, large metal objects, or heavily congested WiFi areas which can interfere with wireless signals.
- An elevated location is better than placing on the ground level for better line-of-sight connectivity.
- Start with placement and then test the speeds in the extended coverage area. Adjust placement as needed for optimal results.
Proper placement is crucial to effectively extend the range of your existing WiFi network using the Orbi WiFi extender.
Netgear Orbi Extender Specifications
Here are some of the key specifications of the Netgear Orbi WiFi Extender:
- Model Number: EX7300
- Connection Method: Wireless/Ethernet
- Wireless Speeds:
- Up to 2.2Gbps total bandwidth
- 1.2Gbps backhaul between Router & Extender
- 867Mbps on the 2.4GHz band
- 1.2Gbps on the 5GHz band
- Memory: 256MB RAM, 128MB Flash
- Antenna: 3 external antennas with a maximum signal range of 2500 sq. ft. per unit
- Ports: 1 Gigabit Ethernet port, USB 2.0 port, Power port
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 3 inches
- Compatible with all Orbi AX, RBK, RBR, RBS routers
- Works on any internet connection type: Cable, Fiber, DSL, etc.
- Supports up to 25+ devices simultaneously
- Advanced security features: NAT firewall, IP address filtering
- Easy setup via Orbi app on iOS/Android
- 2-year limited warranty by Netgear
Comparing Orbi Extender Models
Netgear offers multiple Orbi WiFi Extender models to suit different home sizes. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Model | Max Coverage | Speed | Ports |
| EX7300 | 2500 sq ft | Up to 1.2 Gbps | 1 Ethernet + 1 USB |
| EX7300E | 2500 sq ft | Up to 1.2 Gbps | 1 Ethernet |
| EX7700 | 4000 sq ft | Up to 3 Gbps | 2 Ethernet + 1 USB |
The EX7300 and EX7300E are perfect for homes up to 2500 sq ft while the more powerful EX7700 can cover up to 4000 sq ft homes. All allow for multi-gigabit speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use multiple extenders with the Orbi router?
A. Yes, you can connect multiple Orbi satellite extenders to a single Orbi router to provide Whole Home WiFi coverage for large homes and properties over multiple floors or buildings. Up to 4 satellites are supported in one mesh network.
Q. Does the Orbi extender work as a standalone access point?
A. No, the Orbi extender requires an Orbi router to function. It does not work independently without being set up in a mesh network with an Orbi router.
Q. Can I use an old router as an Orbi extender?
A. No, only Netgear Orbi-branded extenders are officially supported. Third-party routers may cause compatibility issues or not support the seamless Tri-Band Orbi mesh networking.
Q. How far can the Orbi extender transmit WiFi signals?
A. The maximum reported outdoor/line-of-sight range for the Orbi extender is around 300 feet. Indoor range will be lower depending on construction materials like walls & floors that reduce signal strength.
Q. Can I use Ethernet backhaul between Orbi router & extender?
A. Yes, the Orbi extender has an Ethernet port which allows for a wired backhaul connection. This creates a stronger, more stable connection than wireless backhaul.
Conclusion
NETGEAR Orbi WiFi Extender is a powerful and simple solution for enhancing Whole Home WiFi and completing the coverage in the dead zones. Based on the said product feature, it is easy to install and manage through orbi app and the capacity to provide one comprehensive wireless network makes it apt for homes that desire to extend the wireless coverage areas without causing any inconvenience. Proper placement combined with the extended reach of multiple extenders in large homes ensures connectivity anywhere on the property. The dedicated Tri-Band mesh networking technology also results in fast, reliable connections throughout. For customers investing in a Netgear Orbi system, an additional WiFi extender makes for a worthwhile accessory.
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