How do I bridge my modem/router combo device?

If your modem has a built-in router, we recommend that you put its routing functionality into bridge mode to make the best use of your eero(s). By putting your modem/router combo device into bridge mode, you are essentially turning off its WiFi capabilities and passing its Internet connection through to your eero. This step ensures your eero system can work its magic and you can take full advantage of its many advanced features.

Instructions for putting your modem/router combo device in bridge mode will vary widely by ISP and device. We’ve included links to the help articles provided by some of the larger ISPs, but if you can’t figure out how to put your device into bridge mode, we recommend giving your ISP a call.

Follow the instructions below to put your modem/router combo in bridge mode before you set up your eero network.

1. Find a device connected to your existing — non-eero — WiFi network. Open a web browser and go to the web interface of your modem/router combo device. Typically, this requires you to open an Internet browser and type the following: "192.168.1.1," "192.168.0.1," or "192.168.2.1." This may automatically open  the page where you manage information. The instructions provided with your device will give you the exact IP address if it is different from the ones mentioned above.
2. Log in with your username and password. You should be able to find the admin username and password on the sticker on the modem/router, which is usually located on the side, back, or bottom of the device.
3. From this interface, you can put your device in bridge mode. If you have a Hitron device, you will select "Disable" on the "Gateway Function" setting. If you have an Arris device, you will select "Enable" on the "Bridge mode" setting. After the changes have been saved and applied, your modem/router combo should automatically reboot. If not, you’ll have to reboot it manually. You can do this by clicking the power button on and off or simply unplugging and plugging your device back in. Once it reboots, your device should function solely as a modem.
4. If for any reason, putting your modem/router combo into bridge mode causes problems, please contact Tech Support. Our support team can usually enable bridge mode for you or walk you through the steps.
5. Once your combo device is in bridge mode, you should disconnect all devices from its LAN ports. The LAN ports are labeled, and there’s usually four of them on any combo device.
6. After all your devices have been disconnected from your modem/router device, connect your first eero to LAN port 1 on the modem/router, then power up that eero. If your eero network was set up before enabling bridge mode, your other eeros won’t be affected by the change.
7. If you need to reconnect devices that were once connected to your modem/router combo, you’ll need a Gigabit switch. Connect the switch to the open Ethernet port on your eero, and then connect as many devices as you’d like to the ports on your switch. Note: For you network to function properly, make sure you don’t connect a switch between your modem and eero. Connect your eero directly to the modem before connecting a switch to your eero (we've got more details on how to connect a switch here). 
8. To re-connect certain devices to your eero network, you might need to forget your wireless network on your device and add it again. We’ve got tips on how to do this here.

There are some notable exceptions to the general instructions we provided above. If your device doesn't offer bridge mode, you should turn off WiFi on the equipment provided to you by Sparklight and put your eeros in bridge mode. You can read more about how to bridge your eeros—and the situations in which this configuration is necessary—here.