Smart Hub and Netgear Orbi

[bighardyfamily]

So i want to install the netgear Orbi router with a few satellite units to make wifi amazing in the home. Is this possible with the EE Smart Hub ? had a quick look around and cant see anything in the EE Smarthub that allows bridging mode, but noticed i can turn off Wifi and also DHCP can be turned off. So my question is, what is my best method to get the Orbi up and running ? 

[Mustrum]

Hi @bighardyfamily  as you say, you can't set the Smart Hub in bridge mode, but you have options depending on what you are trying to do.

1. Easiest option is set the Orbi as an access point.

2. replace the Hub with a suitable modem.

3. Connect the Orbi to a Lan port as it is, switch Wifi off on the Hubleave DHCP as is, you may get double NAT depending on applications used.

[bighardyfamily]

What is the downside of using the Orbi as an access point ? guessing i still get all the cool features like multiple SSID's etc ... and the ability to use satellite units ? 

If i go for option 2 any recommendations for a modem that will allow the bridge mode ? 

[Mustrum]

You may be better asking Netgear those questions.

In access mode you wont have the Orbi routing options.

As you have mentioned a Smart Hub, I presume you are on VDSL and not full fibre, so any VDSL modem will do, from an old Openreach one to a Draytek 130 or a router you can put to bridge mode.

[bighardyfamily]

Looks like the best bet is a vigor 130, although they are low on stock, any other netgear ones that would work ? 

[bighardyfamily]

or Vigor 

[bighardyfamily]

Also my broadband type says "fibre" would this work with the Vigor ? 

[Mustrum]

OK, lets take a step back.

Is your Smart Hub connected to your telephone socket? Or to an Openreach ONT?

Also, bear in mind if you fit your own equipment EE will not be able to support you.

Netgear used to do a modem, but the don't seem to be available any more.

[bighardyfamily]

OK, so the Smart Hub connects to the telephone line 

Don't mind looking after it myself - guessing i can get the username from the current smarthub along with all the settings required for the Vigor, password i may need to speak to EE ? 

Found a Vigor. 

[Mustrum]

OK, seems modems are hard to find at the moment, I did find this site, most are routers, many can be put in bridge mode.

https://gadgets-reviews.com/uk/review/2256-best-dsl-modems.html 

The cheapest being No9. 

Username and password are easy enough, CS will let you know if you ask, or log into the router and it is in the broadband settings - maybe advances - the password is the username minus PRODUCTION