12 Nov, 2025

How To Setup Netgear Orbi With An Existing Router?

Are you also facing the problem of wifi dead zones, slow wifi speed and overall poor networking experience? If yes, then you must invest in the Netgear Orbi. It can serve the purpose of both the router and the wifi range extender. Now you might think that installation of the Orbi means replacing the existing router. But the fact is Netgear Orbi setup with existing router is possible and can be done easily. This blog post is the roadmap for the same.  We will focus on setting up your Orbi system in Access Point (AP) mode. Because this is the recommended configuration and also helps avoid the problem of double NAT. So with no further deferment let’s get into the details. 

Pre-Setup Checklist

Before you learn about the Netgear Orbi setup with existing router, you must know about the basic requirements for the same. So here’s everything that you need:

  • Your existing router and it must be working actively. 
  • Thereafter the Orbi router with its satellites and power adapters. 
  • Next in line is the ethernet wire. 
  • Then you require a smart device for accessing the Orbi App. 
  • Lastly, you must also know the details of the existing router’s network. 

Step-By-Step Setup Guide 

Now you can easily follow these steps for a perfect Netgear Orbi setup with existing router.

  • Physical Connection 

Start the process by turning off the existing router and also the Orbi unit if it’s already on. Now take an Ethernet cable. Plug its one side into the LAN port of the existing router and the other side into the internet port of the Orbi router. Up next power on the existing router. Wait for it to start up properly and show a stable power light. Following it, activate the orbi router and let its ring LED turn solid white. 

  • Use Orbi App

Moving further, grab your smart device. On it install the Orbi app. If you already have access to the application then for conducting a seamless Netgear Orbi setup with existing router you must ensure the proper updation of the app. As pending updates can create a ruckus. 

Now launch the app and start following the app’s instructions to set up your Orbi system. The app will guide you through connecting your satellites as well as with their proper placement. Remember that during the initial setup, the Orbi will be in Router Mode by default. Now in the next step we will switch to the AP mode. 

  • Switch To AP (Access Point) Mode

Now comes the most crucial step for successful Netgear Orbi setup with existing router which is switching to AP mode. So for this re-open the Orbi app. Head to the settings section and then to the My Wifi section. Thereafter head to the Advanced Settings and from here you’ll be able to switch from the router mode to the AP mode. Once you do this, do not forget to save the changes. With this the Orbi will reboot and will start functioning in the AP mode. 

For any assistance, feel free to call our expert technicians.