Set up Google Wifi

How to install and set up Google Wifi

Set up your Google Wifi mesh Wi-Fi system or OnHub devices to expand Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home.

To set up Google Nest Wifi devices with an existing Google Wifi network, go to Use Google Nest Wifi and Google Wifi devices on the same network.

  • Note: OnHub isn't compatible with Nest Wifi.

To add Google Wifi to your existing Nest Wifi or Google Wifi setup, follow the instructions below for Add an additional point.

Important: If your Google Wifi device is powered off or disconnected from the internet for 6 months, Google will automatically delete the app data and cloud data, and the device will factory reset itself the next time it connects to the internet. To continue to use your device, you'll need to set it up again.

To get started, you need:

  • Google Wifi point(s)
  • A Google Account
  • One of the following mobile devices:
    • An Android phone running Android 8.0 or later
    • An Android tablet running Android 8.0 or later
    • An iPhone or iPad with iOS 14.0 or later
  • The latest version of the Google Home app available on Android or iOS
  • Internet service
    • Some Internet Service Providers (ISP) use VLAN tagging. You may 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 to purchase Google Wifi from the country where you'll be using it. Since wireless regulations vary by country, you may experience compatibility issues if you move your Wifi device(s) to a different country and Google will be unable to offer support. If you're setting up a mesh network, it's recommended to purchase all of your Wifi points in the same country.

Set up your Google Wifi primary Wifi point

Before you set up your first Google Wifi point (primary Wifi point), 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 to use 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 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 that it's ready to be set up in the Google Home app .
  7. On your phone or tablet, open the Google Home app .
  8. Tap Add Set up device New 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. Select a room for your router or create a new one.
  13. Give your Wi-Fi network a name and a secure password.
  14. Continue through the app to complete setup.
  15. The router should now create your Wi-Fi network. This may 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 Google 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 Google Home app for setup.

  1. Open the Google Home app .
  2. Tap Add Set up device New 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 would 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. 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. 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 of your Wifi devices, the app performs a mesh test to confirm everything works.

Troubleshooting setup

If setup didn't work, try the following steps:

  1. Unplug your modem, router, and point, and then plug them back in.
  2. Make sure your points are all plugged in and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  3. Make sure you meet all of the requirements in the "To get started, you need" section.
  4. Factory reset your point.
  5. Contact support.

Related articles

Factory reset Nest Wifi or Google Wifi devices
Test mesh connection
Use Google Wifi and Nest Wifi on the same network
What the light on your Wifi device means
Where to place your Wifi devices
Hardwire Nest Wifi routers, Google Wifi points, and other devices
Google Home app can't find Nest Wifi or Google Wifi devices
Set up a network that uses VLAN tagging

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