Orbi Bridge Mode – Complete Guide to Setup and Benefits

If you’re exploring advanced networking options, enabling Orbi Bridge Mode can help integrate your Orbi system with an existing router. By default, Orbi operates as a router, managing your entire home network. But when you already have another primary router—such as one provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP)—running Orbi in Bridge Mode allows the system to act as a powerful WiFi extender, eliminating conflicts and ensuring smooth connectivity. What is Orbi Bridge Mode? Orbi Bridge Mode turns your Orbi router into a network bridge instead of a traditional router. In this mode, Orbi: Disables its routing functions (like DHCP and NAT). Passes IP addresses from your primary router. Extends your network’s coverage with Orbi’s strong WiFi performance. This setup is useful if you want to keep your ISP’s router as the main gateway while still enjoying Orbi’s mesh WiFi system. When Should You Use Orbi Bridge Mode? You may want to enable Orbi Bridge Mode in the following situations: Your ISP requires you to use its modem-router combo. You want to avoid Double NAT issues (common when two routers run on the same network). You need to extend coverage without replacing the existing router. You are running advanced setups like port forwarding or VPNs that work best under a single router. How to Enable Orbi Bridge Mode Follow these steps to set up Bridge Mode on your Orbi system: Step 1: Log in to Orbi Open a browser and type orbilogin.com or the default IP address. Enter your admin username and password. Step 2: Access Advanced Settings Navigate to Advanced > Advanced Setup > Router/AP Mode. Step 3: Select Bridge Mode Choose Enable Bridge Mode. Save and apply the changes. Step 4: Reboot Devices Restart your Orbi router and satellites. Ensure your devices are connected to the Orbi WiFi network. Once Bridge Mode is active, Orbi will no longer manage your network as a router but instead provide extended WiFi coverage from your main router. Limitations of Orbi Bridge Mode While Bridge Mode is beneficial in many cases, it has a few limitations: Some advanced Orbi features, like Parental Controls and Traffic Meter, may not work. You will rely on your ISP’s router for most network management tasks. The Orbi app may have reduced functionality. When Not to Use Bridge Mode If you do not have another router, or if you want Orbi to handle routing tasks like DHCP, NAT, and firewall settings, you should keep Orbi in Router Mode instead of Bridge Mode. Final Thoughts Enabling Orbi Bridge Mode is an effective way to integrate your Orbi system with an existing router, avoiding network conflicts while maintaining strong WiFi coverage. Although it comes with certain feature limitations, Bridge Mode is the ideal setup for users who must use an ISP-provided router or want to eliminate double NAT problems. With the right configuration, you can enjoy seamless WiFi throughout your home or office while maintaining a stable and efficient network.