Set up Google Wifi

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.

Note: 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 16.0 or later
• The latest version of the Google Home app available on Android or iOS
• Internet service
  • Note: 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.

Set up your primary Google Wifi point

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.

1. Download the Google Home app for Android or iOS.
2. If this is your first time using the Google Home app , set up a home.
3. 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.
4. Connect the Ethernet cable to your Google Wifi point's WAN port . Then, connect the other end of the cable to your modem.
5. Plug your primary Wifi point into a wall outlet.
6. Wait 90 seconds for the light to slowly pulse blue. The pulsing blue light indicates it's ready to be set up in the Home app .
7. On your phone or tablet, open the Home app .
8. Tap Devices   Add Google Nest or partner device .
9. Choose a home.
10. The app should find your Google Wifi device. Tap Yes to continue. If you have multiple devices available for setup, select your primary Wifi point.
11. Scan the QR code on the bottom of your device.
    • Hold your phone about 5 in (12 cm) away to scan. Learn more tips for scanning QR codes.
    • If you're unable to scan the QR code, tap Continue without scanning, then enter the setup key on the bottom of your device.
12. Give your Wi-Fi network a name and secure password.
13. Select a room for your router or create a new one.
14. Continue through the app to complete setup.
15. The router should now create your Wi-Fi network. This might take a few minutes.
16. If you'd like to add another Wifi device, tap Yes in the app to continue or follow the steps below to add a point at a later time.

Add an additional point

Google Wifi and Nest Wifi devices can be added anytime to your network. All additional Wifi devices are considered points in the mesh network. Once you've decided where to place your point and have plugged it in, use the Home app for setup.

1. Open the Home app .
2. Tap Devices   Add Google Nest or partner device .
3. If prompted, choose a home.
4. The app should find your Wifi device. Tap Yes to continue. If you have multiple devices available for setup, select the device you'd like to set up as a point Next.
5. Scan the QR code on the bottom of your device.
   • Hold your phone about 5 in (12 cm) away to scan. Learn more tips for scanning QR codes.
   • If you're unable to scan the QR code, tap Continue without scanning, then enter the setup key on the bottom of your device.
6. Your point should now connect.
   • Note: For Nest Wifi points, when you get a sound from your speaker, tap Yes.
7. Follow the in-app instructions to finish setup.
8. 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.
9. 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:

1. Your points are all plugged in and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. You meet all requirements in the "To get started, you need" section.

Other troubleshooting steps to try:

• Force close, then reopen the Home app.
• Uninstall, then reinstall the 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 articles

• 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