Orbi is a mesh network. Here, multiple devices work together to provide seamless internet to cover large amount of area. The main unit connects to your modem, and then satellite units extend the WiFi signal to other areas. And if your Orbi is not broadcasting WiFi, there could be many reasons for this issue. Here are some troubleshooting tips for helping you to identify and resolve the problem:
Troubleshooting Tips
Check Power and LED Status
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Power LED:
Ensure that your Orbi router and satellite are powered on. The power LED should be Orbisolid white light when functioning properly.
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WiFi LED Status:
If the LED is off or amber/red, it indicates a possible connectivity issue or a hardware problem. Sometimes Orbi amber light even looks like an Orbi orange light.
Restart Orbi Router
- Sometimes, a minor glitch occurs and that can be resolve by restarting the router.
- To restart, unplug the router from power outlet.
- Now, you have to wait for like 1 to 2 minutes, and then plugging it back in.
- This will refresh the router and may resolve broadcasting issues.
Verify WiFi is Enabled
- Open the Orbi app or access the web interface.
- Check that the WiFi network is enabled. If it is accidentally disabled, you won’t see any broadcast.
- Make sure the SSID broadcast setting is enabled. If disabled, the network will be hidden from devices trying to connect.
Check Firmware Version
- Make sure your Orbi is running the latest firmware version.
- An outdated firmware can cause problems with WiFi broadcasting.
- You can check and update the firmware through the Orbi app or the web interface.
Distance Between Router and Satellites
- Ensure that your Orbi router and satellites are placed properly. Satellite is placed such way that lies between router and the area where network is poor.
- If a satellite is too far away from the main router, it may not be able to broadcast the WiFi properly.
- The connection should show blue LED, which indicates a good signal. Amber or red means the signal is weak or lost.
Check Connected Devices
- If too many devices are connected to the Orbi, it may stop broadcasting to new devices.
- Ensure that the number of connected devices is within the capacity of the Orbi router.
Reset
- If your Orbi is still not broadcasting WiFi, you may need to reset Orbi router.
- Firstly, you have to locate a reset button on Orbi router or if there is no reset button, then there must be a small pin hole.
- Press that reset button or insert a small pin in that hole for about 10 seconds until the LED starts to blink.
- After resetting, you will need to reconfigure your network settings again.
Interference From Other Devices
- Make sure that there are no electronic appliances, which creates interference.
- You can change the WiFi channel settings on your Orbi router, which may improve broadcasting.
Check Wireless Mode
- Some older devices might not support modern WiFi standards.
- In the Orbi settings, ensure the wireless mode is compatible with older standards, If you have such devices that need to connect.
Disable AP Mode if Enabled
- If your Orbi is set to AP mode and not router mode, it might be subject to limitations based on the main router it is connected to.
- Make sure the settings are correct for your intended network setup.
Router Hardware Issue
- If none of these steps work, it is possible that there may be a hardware problem with your Orbi router.
- Check for any unusual signs like overheating or odd noises
Conclusion
From the above mentioned points, we have concluded that just following these steps, you can identify why your Orbi isn’t broadcasting WiFi. Then take the necessary actions to resolve it.
