Discussing Orbi RBR50 Router and AP mode comparisons
Discussing Orbi RBR50 Router and AP mode comparisons
Hi everyone, I'm generally comfortable with similar setups but face quite a few challenges with my Orbi devices. To begin, I manage a big network powered by a BT Business Hub that handles DNS and DHCP for roughly 50 devices—laptops, tablets, CCTV, etc. Since it's a restaurant, I want free Wi-Fi for guests but need to cover all areas with one or two wireless APs. The main problem is that when a device is set to AP mode, anyone on the network—including customers—can see other devices. Most are secured, but my Sonos system has been taken over a few times. I tried using Netgear Orbi models (RBR50 & RBS50), setting the RBR50 in Router Mode and connecting its WAN port to my existing network. My goal was to isolate the guest Wi-Fi from the main business subnet, so IPs would be managed separately. Unfortunately, the setup isn’t working as expected. In Router mode, the RBR50 seems functional—DHCP works and IPs are assigned—but it doesn’t show any internet connection. Would it make sense to have two DHCP servers since they’re on opposite sides of a router? Any suggestions? Cheers, Chris
Hi there, the Orbi supports a guest network that can be created on a distinct SSID, which you can configure to block peer-to-peer connections. The main challenge is that your current router isn’t providing a proper IP address for the Orbi WAN port. Both the primary and guest networks are assigning IPs to clients without issues. I’ll test another network to determine if the issue lies with the cabling or the BT Business Hub itself.