How to Setup or Connect Google Nest to Wi-Fi

You might have come across Google Nest Wi-Fi when searching for a seamless mesh networking system for your home. However, since Google has designed this from the ground up, you may face issues setting up and connecting Google Nest to Wi-Fi. It is different from how you would connect a conventional Wi-Fi router.

Fret not, though. Here’s a complete guide on how to connect your Google Nest to Wi-Fi.

What is Google Nest?

Google Nest Wi-Fi, often called Google Nest, is a mesh Wi-Fi router system made by Google. It is similar to the many mesh Wi-Fi, but Google has added some integration-oriented features. The mesh system will have a primary Nest Wi-Fi node along with multiple Nest Wi-Fi Access Points.

A primary node (the Nest Wi-Fi router) is powerful enough to cover up to 2,200 sq. ft. area. You can extend this further via Access Point devices.

These devices work together to create a whole-home Wi-Fi network with seamless roaming. From setup to management, everything about the Nest Wi-Fi can be done through the Google Home app. You also get extra features if you already have made-by-Google smart home appliances.

Rest assured, while different, setting up Google Nest Wi-Fi and connecting it to the internet is effortless.

How to Set Up a Nest Wi-Fi

Here, we have prepared a complete guide to setting up a Nest Wi-Fi at home.

Things You Need for Setting Up Google Nest Wi-Fi

You should have the following things ready at your disposal before.

• A Nest Wi-Fi router (main node, not an access point)
• An Android smartphone/iPhone with Wi-Fi
• A Google account and the Google Home app (which you can download)
• An internet connection through an existing modem/router

With these things ready, you can go ahead with the setup process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Google Nest Wi-Fi

Unbox the Nest Wi-Fi package, which should contain the main router, power cable, and an Ethernet cable.

Create a Google Home

1. While the device powers up, open the Google Home app on your smartphone. You may have to give connectivity permissions for it to work smoothly. You can get it from the Play Store or the App Store.
2. Sign in to the Google account and activate the app.
3. To create a Home, tap Create New Home
4. Follow on-screen instructions to complete a home

Connect to the Internet

1. Now, use the Ethernet cable to connect the Nest Wi-Fi router to the modem.
2. Connect the power cable of the Nest Wi-Fi router to a nearby outlet and turn it on.
3. The Nest Wi-Fi device may take a few minutes to power on.

Add Nest Wi-Fi to Home

• To add the Wi-Fi router to your Home, go to Add > Set up device > New device.
• When asked, choose the Home name that you created on the Home app.

• From the available device options, you can choose a Google Nest router.

• To verify the device, scan the QR code that you can see at the bottom of the Nest router.

Configure Wi-Fi Network

• In this step, the Google Home app will ask you to set the SSID and password for the Wi-Fi network.

• It is important to choose a strong password to avoid potential threats.
• Now, you need to wait for a few minutes while the Google Wi-Fi system completes the process.

Everything should be fine if the modem you have connected to has an active internet connection. If not, the Wi-Fi router may ask you to check the connection.

When the connection is successful, the status light on the Nest Wi-Fi router will turn white and stay stable. This means that the device is connected to the internet and has an active Wi-Fi network.

Tips for Optimizing Your Google Nest Wi-Fi

Here are a few tips to ensure that you have a smooth Wi-Fi experience with Google Nest Wi-Fi.

Nest Wi-Fi routers and AP units are designed to work with each other to create a seamless network. But it does not mean that you can keep these devices at random locations. For one, make sure that you have kept it away from other electronic equipment that can cause signal interference. I’m talking about microwaves.

It is also important to arrange the AP units in a way that allows them to expand the network. This way, if you arrange the main node in your living room and the AP unit a little further, you can expand the coverage area of the network. I’d also recommend keeping the main router unit at an elevated position.

Google continues to upgrade the Wi-Fi experience through updates. So, once in a while, you should check the Google Home app to install those firmware updates. As a bonus, you’ll improve the security of the Wi-Fi network while you are at it.

Can Google Nest Wi-Fi Connect to an Existing Router?

Google Nest Wi-Fi can connect to an existing router, but you need an Ethernet cable to do so. So, if you were hoping to create a mesh network by combining the Nest Wi-Fi router and an existing router, you are out of luck.

Compatibility of Google Nest Wi-Fi with Other Routers

If you want to connect Google Nest Wi-Fi to an existing router via Ethernet, you don’t have to worry about compatibility. In this method, because you connect to a local area network, Google Wi-Fi would consider it a source of internet access.

But, as I said, you need another Google Nest Wi-Fi product to create a mesh network.

How to Connect Google Nest Wi-Fi to an Existing Router

Here’s how you can connect your Google Nest Wi-Fi to an existing router:

1. Power on the Google Nest Wi-Fi as you usually would.
2. Use the Ethernet cable to connect the Nest Wi-Fi router to the LAN port of your existing router.
3. Follow the setup procedure as I demonstrated in the main tutorial
4. You will have to create a separate Wi-Fi network with a unique SSID and password.

With this setup, you will have two wireless networks: one from your existing router and one from the Nest Wi-Fi router.

So, if you are looking for the convenience of seamless roaming, you should get another Nest Wi-Fi AP unit. It can be an expensive purchase, but it will definitely add value.

Conclusion

I hope you found it as easy as I did to set up and connect Google Nest to Wi-Fi. People say you don’t even need another modem if you already have Google Fiber. My tests were with other ISPs, but the process was smooth.