Using a traditional router can be tricky when you live in a multi-floor home with basements and attics. Traditional routers often struggle to maintain a strong signal through floors, causing connection issues and buffering during streams or calls. You’ll see a drop in the Wi-Fi signal when you switch rooms that evenflagship Android phonescan’t handle. Google has a solution with its Nest routers. Here’s how to set up your Nest router to avoid problems when using your basement or attic as a home office or entertainment zone.
What is a Nest router?
Google’s Nest router, a member of theGoogle Nest product family, improves the internet by replacing conventional routers with a mesh network system. This system has a main router and additional mini-routers distributed throughout the home to ensure strong, uniform Wi-Fi coverage.
Beyond providing reliable internet, Nest Wifi doubles as a speaker with Google Assistant, capable of music playback, device control, and seamlessly integrating into your smart home ecosystem.
Every music service supported on Google Assistant and Google Nest speakers
Use Google Assistant to play your favorite tunes
First thing first, prepare for your Google Nest router setup
Before jumping into the setup process for a smooth installation, have these key items. Here’s a checklist:
Buy your mesh network devices, including routers and extenders, in the country where you use them to avoid compatibility issues. Wireless regulations are not uniform worldwide. Using devices in a country different from where they were purchased can lead to operational issues.
How to set up a new home on Google Home
Add a home to organize and manage your devices in the Google Home app. After that, invite home members to share control of the house and its devices.
Here’s how to do so:
Google Home: Everything you need to know about the smart home platform
Google Home is essential for your smart home setup and makes your day a little simpler
How to set up a Google Nest router
To set up the Google Nest router in your home, follow these instructions:
Optimal placement of Google Nest router
A Google Nest Wifi router and extension points must be strategically positioned throughout your home to ensure seamless Wi-Fi connectivity. Your router must be connected to a modem, limiting its placement based on the modem’s location and the lengths of available Ethernet and power cables. Optimally, the router should be positioned in a clear, elevated spot, preferably at eye level, like on a shelf or atop a TV stand, to improve signal coverage.
Optimal placement of Google Nest points
To optimize your home’s Wi-Fi coverage with Google Nest Wifi points, assess your home’s layout to determine the number of points required.
Nest Wifi router (standalone)
1–2 bedroom homes
Nest Wifi router + one point
2–3 bedroom homes
Nest Wifi router + two points
3+ bedroom homes
Nest Wifi router + three points
Additional coverage for 1–2 rooms
These points are designed to work cohesively and offer optimal coverage when placed within two rooms of one another. If you’re addressing a weak signal area, position a point not at the far end but somewhat closer to ensure effective signal distribution.
Ideally, points should have a clear line of sight towards each other. Adjust their positions to avoid obstacles such as walls and large objects.
Finalize your setup by performing a mesh test through the Google Home app. ChooseFavorites>Wi-Fi>Points>Test meshto measure your network’s performance.
Enjoy the reliable connection and smart home controls
Google’s Home app is your centralized command center for everything smart in your home. Whether you’re at work or visiting a friend’s house, you can control your home’s devices, from cameras and dishwashers to doorbells and the temperature, with a few taps on your phone. Indulge in your superior network quality. Kick back with some engaginggames on your Android phone, or get to knowGoogle Assistant’s features.
