How to Connect an Old RBS50Y in Extender Mode to the RBRE960?

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You presumably still have one of those sturdy outside satellites, the RBS50Y, from your old Orbi system. And now that you’ve upgraded to the RBRE960, now you’re probably wondering whether you can still use the old one.

More precisely, is it possible Getting RBS50Y work with RBRE960 as an extender?

Yes, you can do it.

There are, however, a few problems. A few odd things. A couple times you must’ve thought “Wait, why isn’t this working?” And if you’ve already tried to figure it out with the standard assistance articles and nothing is working. This guide is for you.

What is extender mode on the RBS50Y?

Normally, Orbi satellites function together in a mesh system. They connect to the main router and become part of the same WiFi cloud. But what about extender mode? That looks more like WiFi repeaters from the past.

Here’s how extender mode is different:

• The satellite connects to your current WiFi network by sending your existing signal further, not by synchronizing with the router.
• It has a separate setup procedure; you have to link it to your WiFi credentials manually instead of sync orbi router to the extender.
• You can’t control it as you can with other satellites with the Orbi app. It turns into its own entity that simply helps send out the signal.

This mode is great for older devices that can’t work with newer Orbi systems but can still be used as a range extender.

Getting RBS50Y work with RBRE960?

Let’s get this over with:

Nope. Not in mesh mode.

The RBS50Y is a WiFi 5 satellite, while the RBRE960, which is part of the Orbi 960 series, which is completely WiFi 6E technology. They simply don’t go together. It’s like they both operate on different languages.

But you can still connect an old RBS50Y in extender mode, which doesn’t need Orbi mesh synchronization.

You’re merely putting it up as a separate extender that connects to your WiFi. It’s like giving your device a second chance.

How to Connect an Old RBS50Y in Extender Mode Step by Step?

You just need your RBS50Y, the RBRE960 network, and a web browser and here we go:

1. Restart the RBS50Y

It’s preferable to wipe down its old settings, if it’s been used previously.

• Connect it to electricity (make sure it is turned on)
• Look for the little reset hole on the rear
• Press and hold for around 15 seconds with a paperclip or pin.
• Let go when the LED starts to flicker amber.

Wait a few minutes. It will start again automatically.

2. Join Its Temporary Network

After you’ve reset it, it will send out a network name like “ORBI_EXT” or “NETGEAR_EXT.” The name may change depending on the firmware.

• Turn on your phone or laptop
• Connect to that short-term WiFi signal
• It’s not the internet yet.

3. Go to the Setup Page

Type this into your browser: 192.168.1.250

You will now see the Netgear Genie or basic setup screen.

Try turning off mobile data or prefer using a laptop instead. Because, when there is no internet connection, devices tend to mix up the signals.

4. Pick “Extender Mode”

You’ll see a few displays. Skip those that talk about synchronizing the Orbi router or satellite. You aren’t doing that.

Search for the option that looks something like: “Use as a WiFi Range Extender”

Choose that.

5. Look for Networks

Your system (PC or laptop) might be looking for nearby WiFi networks. Choose the one that your RBRE960 is transmitting.

As it is a WiFi at home. It’ll have same SSID.

• Now, enter your password
• Give the expanded network a name. You can leave it the same or add “_EXT” to the end to make it clear that it’s different.
• Let it use the settings

It will start again.

6. Finished. Sort of.

After it restarts, the RBS50Y will send out a new network or a better version of the one you already have.

Your devices will connect to it automatically if they are near enough, or you may pick it manually.

That’s all.

No app is needed. There is no Orbi dashboard. Just the same old extender mode.

What to Look Forward To?

A few things to keep in mind:

• It’s normal for the speed to reduce. As extender mode might limit bandwidth based on interference in the surroundings and location.
• Don’t worry if you are not able to spot the extender in your Orbi app.
• The RBS50Y’s performance relies a lot on how far away it is from the RBRE960 and how many barriers are in the way.
• If the signal begins to behave weird, a reboot might assist.

But all in all, it’s still a terrific gadget for casual outside usage or to give an older area of the home a bit additional power.

Where Should You Put the RBS50Y?

People don’t realize how important this is.

Don’t simply put it at the furthest corner of your home. You should put it approximately halfway between the RBRE960 router and the location where you desire enhanced coverage.

Outside? Just make sure it’s not in bright sunshine or heavy rain all the time unless it’s under a modest roof or awning. It was made to be used outdoors, but you should still be kind to it.

Can you connect more than one?

Yes, technically. You can utilize more than one RBS50Y device in extender mode, but they won’t work together. Each one connects to the RBRE960 network on its own.

Also, remember, too many satellites might cause problem. Stick to one or two at most, unless you’re really spreading them apart.

Conclusion

Is it a good idea to use newer Orbi hardware with older satellites like the RBS50Y?

Not really. They don’t fit together. They don’t have much of compatibility with each other. They are from various generations of technology.

But, if you already have the hardware and don’t want to invest extra, connect an old RBS50Y in extender mode will work. Is it flawless? Nope. But it works, and sometimes that’s all you need.

Don’t worry about it too much. Just turn it on, check the signal, and go about your day. And what if it goes crazy every now and then? Turn it off and then back on. That’s the genuine remedy half the time, anyhow.

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