my orbi router's internet port light isn't on, is the cable bad or is it the router?

No light on the Internet port means no physical link. Check the cable and modem first.

Fix:

1. Unplug the Ethernet cable from the Orbi's Internet port and from your modem.
2. Inspect both ends of the cable for bent pins or damage.
3. Plug the cable firmly back into your modem's LAN or Ethernet port.
4. Plug the other end firmly into the Orbi's Internet port. It's yellow and separate from the three gray LAN ports.
5. Power cycle your modem by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for all its lights to stabilize.
6. Check the Orbi's Internet port LED. It should light up amber or white.

If that didn't work, try a different, known-good Ethernet cable.

If there's still no light, the port may be faulty. If you have another spare router, test the modem with it to rule out a modem issue. Contact NETGEAR support if the port is dead.