Orbi is a satellite system that can be used as an alternative to WiFi. It offers many benefits, including better speed, range, and reliability. However, one of the most common questions people ask is whether or not they can use Orbi as a satellite.
It’s very obvious to think to use the Orbi main router as a satellite extender to boost the speed and coverage throughout the home when additional existing satellites failed to cover the whole area.
But it’s not possible to use the Orbi main router as a satellite.
The Orbi main router must always be connected to the modem or gateway, and it cannot be used as a satellite. If you try to use it as a satellite, you will not be able to connect to the internet.
Orbi is designed to work as a system, with the main router and satellites working together to give you the best possible WiFi experience. You can have a better view if you look at the below where we have explained the functionality of a Core Router and a Satellite extender. Also, you will get to know the ultimate alternative solution to eliminate your dead zones.
Router VS Satellite: Difference Between Functionality
Below we have shown the difference between a router and a satellite and also how they function to let know why anyone can’t use their primary Orbi router as a satellite extender.
How Does A Router Work?
A router is a networking device that connects multiple devices or networks together. A router uses protocols, such as the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP), to send data between devices on a network.
Usually, a router forwards data packets between computers and other devices on the internet. When you type www.google.com into your web browser, your computer sends a request to a DNS server, which then forwards the request to a router. The router looks up the IP address of google.com, and then sends the request to Google’s servers. Google’s server then sends the requested data back to the router, which forwards it to the DNS server, which then forwards it to your computer.
How Does A Satellite Work?
A satellite is a device that connects to a modem or gateway and extends the WiFi signal to create or extend a home network. Orbi uses Tri-Band WiFi technology to create a dedicated wireless connection between the satellite and the Orbi router. This means that the Orbi router and satellite can work together to give you the best possible WiFi experience.
What is The Difference Between A Router And A Satellite?
The main difference between a router and a satellite is that a router connects to the internet directly, while a satellite needs to be connected to a modem or gateway. Routers also have more features than satellites, such as the ability to connect to printers and other devices. However, satellites are designed specifically for extending WiFi coverage, and they offer benefits that routers do not, such as better speed, range, and reliability.
Alternative Of Orbi: What To Use?
The ultimate alternative solution for dead zones would be either Powerline or MoCA network adapters. These are physical adapters that connect from the router to an outlet in order to send data over the electrical wiring in your home. Powerline and MoCA adapters are both very reliable and offer speeds that are comparable to Ethernet.
Another solution would be to purchase a second Orbi router and use it as an access point. To do this, you will need to disable the WiFi on the second Orbi router and connect it to the first Orbi router via Ethernet. Once it is connected, you can enable the WiFi on the second Orbi router and use it as an access point. This will extend your WiFi coverage and eliminate dead zones.
You can also purchase a range extender, which is a device that amplifies the WiFi signal from your router. Range extenders are less expensive than Powerline or MoCA adapters, but they are not as reliable.
Finally, you could purchase a mesh system, such as eero or Google WiFi. Mesh systems are very reliable and offer great speeds, but they can be expensive.
No matter which solution you choose, you will be able to eliminate dead zones and enjoy better WiFi coverage in your home.
Read More: