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Introduction

The Netgear Orbi RBR20 is a comprehensive tri-band mesh WiFi system that extends the WiFi coverage all around homes up to 5000 sq. It can also be ft. using a router and satellite(s). Equipped with the Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) six for enhanced performance and very fast internet speeds of up to 4. 2Gbps.

 This piece aims at presenting the readers with an evaluation of the Netgear Orbi RBR20 mesh system. Let me tell about what it is, the characteristics and some technical parameters of this thing. In addition, regarding setup steps, performance, and connectivity will also be discussed. Various common questions that individuals might have are responded to. The conclusion makes an assessment of whether it is worth to buy Orbi RBR20 for home WiFi requirements.

What is Netgear Orbi RBR20?

The Netgear Orbi RBR20 is a WiFi 6 mesh system composed of a router and satellite(s). It uses a tri-band design to eliminate network congestion. The main features are:

• WiFi 6 Router: Provides the latest connectivity standard for faster speeds and higher throughput. Delivers combined wireless speeds up to 4.2Gbps.
• Tri-Band Mesh Technology: Utilizes one wireless band for backhaul between nodes and two separate WiFi bands (5GHz and 2.4GHz) for device connectivity. Ensures smooth media streaming without interference.
• Large Coverage Area: Covers homes up to 5,000 sq. ft. with reliable and robust WiFi signals. Expandable with additional satellite(s) for complete whole home coverage.
• Easy Setup: Plug in router and satellite(s), download app to configure. Automatic setup and updates. Works right out of the box with no complex configurations required.
• Advanced Security: Supports the latest WPA3 WiFi security standard for robust encryption and hacker protection. Strong firewall blocks malware and protects privacy.
• Intuitive App: Users can easily monitor network, pause WiFi access, set per device schedules and more using the easy to navigate Orbi app. Cloud-based dashboard for remote management via mobile.

In summary, the Orbi RBR20 offers the latest in tri-band mesh WiFi technology using WiFi 6 for future-proofed performance and reliability.

Key Specifications

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key technical specifications of the Netgear Orbi RBR20:

Router/Satellite Form Factor

• Router Dimensions: 10.5 x 6.5 x 3.5 inches
• Satellite Dimensions: 6.5 x 4 x 4 inches
• Weight: Router: 1.85 lbs, Satellite: 1.1 lbs

Connectivity

• Wireless Specification: WiFi 6 AX1800 (Up to 1.8Gbps + 1.2Gbps + 600Mbps)
• Frequency Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz (80MHz), 5GHz (160MHz)
• WiFi Standards: 802.11ax/ac/n/a 5GHz, 802.11n/g/b 2.4GHz
• Ports: Router: 1 WAN, 4 LAN Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Ports: Satellite: 1 WAN Gigabit Ethernet port

Performance

• Maximum Throughput: 4.2Gbps
• Maximum Number of Connected Devices: Up to 25
• Processor: Dual-core 1.4GHz
• Memory: 512MB RAM, 256MB flash
• Antennas: 4 internal antennas in router, 3 internal antennas in satellite

Additional Features

• Mesh Technology: Full-mesh WiFi matrix
• Security: WPA2, WPA3 support
• Advanced Firewall: Network isolation, content filtering
• Guest WiFi Network: Separate secure wireless network for visitors
• Easy Setup: Orbi app for Android/iOS and desktop browser

This robust specification helps the Orbi RBR20 deliver fast and reliable whole home WiFi coverage using the latest WiFi 6 technology.

Setting Up the Orbi RBR20

Setting up the Netgear Orbi RBR20 mesh network is straightforward and simple:

What You’ll Need

• Orbi RBR20 Tri-band Router
• Optional additional Orbi Satellite(s)
• Computer or mobile device
• Broadband Internet connection (cable or DSL modem)

Steps:

1. Connect the modem to the WAN port on the router using an Ethernet cable.
2. Plug the router into an AC power outlet and wait for the front lights to activate.
3. Download the Orbi app from the iOS/Android app store or access the web interface through orbilogin.com using a computer.
4. Follow the step-by-step setup prompts. Name your network and create a network password.
5. Optional: Add additional satellites around your home and place strategically to blanket WiFi coverage. The app guides satellite placement.
6. Once setup completes, you’re ready to use the whole home WiFi coverage! All devices can automatically connect without reconfiguration.

Generally setup takes under 15 minutes. The Orbi app walks you through smooth onboarding and intuitive network management afterwards.

Network Performance of Orbi RBR20

So how does the Netgear Orbi RBR20 actually perform in real-world home network usage scenarios? Here are some key points on its connectivity and throughput:

• WiFi 6 brings a significant speed boost over previous generation solutions. Desktop speeds average 500-700Mbps on WiFi 5 devices and 700-900Mbps on WiFi 6 clients close to the router.
• Multi-Gig internet plans up to 1Gbps+ are easily supported within a single hop of the router. Even multi-device 4K streaming shows no buffering.
• Moving to areas 100-150 feet away from router with a satellite present maintains speeds averaging 400-600Mbps on most devices. Reliable 4K streaming continues without issue.
• Multi-player online gaming like Fortnite see latency under 20ms in most locations when connected to a 5GHz band. 2.4GHz band ranges 30-50ms depending on congestion.
• Simultaneous usage of 25+ IoT smart home devices, phones, tablets and laptops shows no slowdown or connectivity drops. Bandwidth is not an issue.
• Whole home coverage is achieved with as few as 1-2 additional satellites beyond the router in homes up to 5000 sq. ft. Signal penetration through walls is very good.

In summary, the Orbi RBR20 performs extremely well for all mainstream home internet and wireless device usage. It maximizes what’s possible with today’s fastest WiFi standard.

Connecting Devices to Orbi RBR20

All types of modern consumer electronics can wirelessly connect to the Orbi WiFi network right out of the box:

• Smartphones (Android, iOS)
• Tablets
• Laptops
• Desktop PCs (with WiFi adapter)
• Smart TVs
• Game Consoles
• Smart Home Devices
• Printers
• IP cameras

To connect a device, simply:

1. Go to your device’s WiFi settings
2. Select the Orbi Wireless Network Name
3. Enter the Network Password created during setup
4. Enjoy the wireless Internet through the Orbi mesh network!

Wired connections are also possible via the 4 LAN ports on the router or single LAN port on satellites. This provides the most stable connectivity for devices like streaming boxes, desktops, and more.

Many devices also support seamless switching between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for best performance depending on location in the home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is the Orbi RBR20 compatible with my ISP modem/router?

A. Yes, the Orbi RBR20 is designed to work with nearly all cable and DSL modems. Simply connect the modem to the WAN port on the router using an Ethernet cable during setup.

Q. How do I add additional Orbi satellites?

A. Use the Orbi app on your mobile device or desktop browser. Select ‘Add Satellite’ and follow the on-screen prompts to plug in and position the satellite for optimal range boost.

Q. Can I use my existing router in access point mode?

A. No, the Orbi system requires using the included Orbi router and satellites only. Using additional equipment may cause interference or stability issues.

Q. How do I update the Orbi firmware?

A. Firmware updates are automatically checked and installed via the Internet when connected. You also check for and install updates manually from the app.

Q. Can I customize my wireless password and network name?

A. Yes, during initial setup you can customize the network name (SSID) and password for both the main and guest WiFi networks as desired.

Q. Is the Orbi RBR20 compatible with VPN services?

A. Yes, OpenVPN and IPSec VPN protocols are supported, allowing VPN client connectivity on devices connected to the Orbi mesh network.

Conclusion

The Netgear Orbi RBR20 offers a complete tri-band WiFi 6 mesh solution for whole home connectivity. Thanks to its robust feature set and the latest connectivity standards, it delivers lightning fast speeds, excellent coverage, security essentials and smooth operation.

For homes up to 5000 sq. ft., the Orbi system blankets every corner with robust WiFi access for all devices simultaneously. Its tri-band design and meshed architecture prevent congestion. Setup is effortless and management is simple using the intuitive app.

If you want a future-proofed, carrier-grade networking solution in exchange for a plug-and-play experience, then the Netgear Orbi RBR20 clearly stands out as a top choice. It is highly recommended for easy installation and reliable connectivity throughout large homes and families with diverse WiFi needs.