How to install and set up Google Wifi
Set up your Google Wifi mesh Wi-Fi system to expand Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.
To set up Google Nest Wifi devices with an existing Google Wifi network, follow the instructions on how to use Google Wifi with Nest Wifi. To add Google Wifi to your existing Nest Wifi or Google Wifi setup, follow the instructions below to add an additional point. Google Nest Wifi Pro (Wi-Fi 6E) can't be combined with Nest Wifi routers or points or Google Wifi points (Wi-Fi 5) in a mesh network.
To get started, you need:
- Google Wifi point(s)
- If your device(s) have previously been set up, factory reset your device before you add it to a new network.
- A Google Account
- One of the following mobile devices:
- Android phone or tablet with Android 9.0 or later
- iPhone or iPad with iOS 17.0 or later
- The latest version of the Google Home app available on Android or iOS
- Internet service
- Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) use VLAN tagging. You might need additional equipment for Google Wifi to work. Learn how to set up your network with an ISP that uses VLAN tagging.
- Modem (not provided)
- Ethernet cable for the primary Wifi point (provided)
- Power adapter for each Wifi point (provided)
- To temporarily disable your phone’s VPN in your phone’s settings, if you have a VPN (iOS only)
Important: It's strongly recommended you purchase Google Wifi from the country where you'll be using it. Since wireless regulations vary by country, you might experience compatibility issues if you move your Wifi device(s) to a different country and Google will be unable to offer support.
Important:
- Make sure your device is plugged in or fully charged and powered on.
- If the device has been used before, factory reset it before you continue.
Before you set up your first Google Wifi point, referred to as "primary Wifi point" or "Wifi router," make sure your modem works and is connected to the internet.
- Open the Google Home app
.
- If this is your first time using the Google Home app
, set up a home.
- Choose a location for your primary Wifi point.
- You can use any Google Wifi point as a primary Wifi point.
- Your primary Wifi point needs to be connected to a working modem that's connected to the Internet.
- For the strongest signal, place your primary Wifi point at eye level, in plain view, like on a shelf or TV stand.
- Learn more about where to place your Google Wifi devices.
- Connect the Ethernet cable to your Google Wifi point's WAN port
. Then, connect the other end of the cable to your modem.
- Plug your primary Wifi point into a wall outlet.
- Wait 90 seconds for the light to slowly pulse blue. The pulsing blue light indicates it's ready to be set up in the Google Home app
.
-
At the top right, tap Add
Device
.
- Or, if a setup screen for your device appears, tap Set up or Next.
- If it’s not the correct device, tap Not now or Set up a different device.
- Or, if a setup screen for your device appears, tap Set up or Next.
-
Scan the QR code of your device. A check mark appears when the scan is complete.
- If you can’t scan the QR code:
- Tap Use setup code, then enter the setup code for your device.
Tip: The Google Home app provides additional details to help you locate and use your device setup code.
- Tap Add a different way, enter your device in the search bar, then select your device.
- Tap Use setup code, then enter the setup code for your device.
- If you can’t scan the QR code:
-
Wait for your app to connect to the device. Once it’s finished, you’ll see a confirmation screen that says, “Connected.”
-
Follow the in-app steps to complete setup.
Google Wifi and Nest Wifi devices can be added anytime to your network. All additional Wifi devices are considered points in the mesh network. Decide where to place your point and plug it in. Then, use the Google Home app for setup.
- Open the Google Home app
.
-
At the top right, tap Add
Device
.
- Or, if a setup screen for your device appears, tap Set up or Next.
- If it’s not the correct device, tap Not now or Set up a different device.
- Or, if a setup screen for your device appears, tap Set up or Next.
-
Scan the QR code of your device. A check mark appears when the scan is complete.
- If you can’t scan the QR code:
- Tap Use setup code, then enter the setup code for your device.
Tip: The Google Home app provides additional details to help you locate and use your device setup code.
- Tap Add a different way, enter your device in the search bar, then select your device.
- Tap Use setup code, then enter the setup code for your device.
- If you can’t scan the QR code:
- Wait for your app to connect to the device. Once it’s finished, you’ll see a confirmation screen that says, “Connected.”
- Follow the in-app steps to complete setup.
- If you'd like to add another point, tap Yes in the app when prompted, or repeat these steps at a later time for additional points.
- Once you've added all your Wifi devices, the app performs a mesh test to confirm everything works.
Troubleshooting setup
If setup doesn't work, make sure:- Your points are all plugged in and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- You meet all requirements in the "To get started, you need" section.
- Force close, then reopen the Google Home app.
- Uninstall, then reinstall the Google Home app.
- Forget nearby networks.
- Restart your Wifi device.
- Use a different device (phone or tablet) for setup.
If set up still isn't working, try to factory reset your point, or you can contact support.
Related resources
- Troubleshoot Google Nest Wifi setup issues
- Troubleshoot setup with iOS
- Factory reset your Wifi device
- Test mesh connection
- Use Nest Wifi and Google Wifi devices on the same network
- What the light on your Wifi device means
- Where to place your Wifi devices
- Hardwire Wifi devices with Ethernet
- Google Home app can't find Wifi devices
- Set up a network that uses VLAN tagging