In router mode, your NETGEAR device functions normally and all of the router’s features are available.
In access point (AP) mode, your NETGEAR router acts as a gateway for other devices to connect to. You can set up your router in AP mode to extend the existing WiFi of your ISP-provided hardware. However, some popular features are disabled in AP mode, including the following:
- Guest network
- The ability to block specific websites
- VPN Service
- Remote Management
We recommend that you enable bridge mode on your ISP gateway and install your NETGEAR or Orbi router in router mode to use all the features of your router. If you cannot enable bridge mode on your ISP gateway, you must turn off the WiFi on your ISP gateway and install your NETGEAR or Orbi router in AP mode.
For more information about features disabled in AP mode:
- Which features are disabled on my NETGEAR router when it is set to AP Mode?
- Which features are disabled on my Nighthawk Pro Gaming router when it is set up in AP mode?
For more information about AP mode setup:
- How do I install my NETGEAR or Orbi router if I use a gateway from my ISP?
- How do I install my NETGEAR or Orbi router after I’ve enabled bridge mode or turned the WiFi off on my ISP gateway?
- How do I change my NETGEAR router to AP mode after I’ve already run setup?