With the ever-growing demand for seamless internet connectivity in outdoor spaces, Netgear has introduced its Orbi Outdoor Satellite (RBS50Y), a powerful solution to extend Wi-Fi coverage beyond your home’s walls. In this review, we will take a closer look at how the Netgear Orbi Outdoor Satellite performs and why it deserves a spot in your network setup.

Design and Build

At first glance, the Orbi Outdoor Satellite is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions with its IP66 weather-resistant rating. The sleek design features an all-white enclosure with well-placed vents for proper airflow, ensuring that the device stays cool even during hot days. The satellite comes with wall or pole mount options, making it versatile and easy to install in various locations.

Setup and Installation

Setting up the RBS50Y is simple and requires minimal effort. With seamless integration to your existing Orbi network, all you need to do is plug it into an outdoor power outlet and follow the instructions on the Orbi app. The app guides you through a step-by-step process of connecting the outdoor satellite to your primary router or main Orbi unit. Once connected, it automatically optimizes the Wi-Fi signal strength for your extended network.

Performance

Netgear’s RBS50Y does not disappoint when it comes to performance. The tri-band Wi-Fi technology featured in this device ensures that there’s plenty of bandwidth available for multiple devices to connect without experiencing any slowdowns. Additionally, its dedicated backhaul channel enables excellent data transfer rates between its main unit and satellite.

In real-world testing, the Orbi Outdoor Satellite effectively doubled the Wi-Fi range compared to a conventional indoor router setup. The RBS50Y is capable of covering up to 2,500 square feet with high-speed connection without any dead zones or intermittent signal drops. Moreover, it supports MU-MIMO, ensuring simultaneous data transfer and smooth streaming for multiple devices.

Security: Netgear Armor and Orbi Guest Network

Netgear’s Orbi Outdoor Satellite is equipped with Netgear Armor, offering advanced cyber threat protection for all connected devices. With a subscription to the Netgear Armor service, you can secure your home network and any connected devices against intrusion and other potential threats.

Additionally, the Orbi system allows you to set up a guest Wi-Fi network easily. This feature is particularly useful when hosting friends or family without compromising your main network’s security.

Bottom Line

The Netgear Orbi Outdoor Satellite (RBS50Y) is a strong contender in the world of outdoor Wi-Fi solutions. Its weather-resistant design, simple setup process, and outstanding performance make it an ideal choice for expanding your network to include patios, yards, or any outdoor area. Furthermore, increased security features and a customizable guest network will ensure your peace of mind. If you desire an out-of-this-world Wi-Fi experience covering both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Netgear RBS50Y is undoubtedly worth considering.