How to set up and troubleshoot a Google Nest Wi-Fi point

💡 Need to know

• Mesh tip: Add Nest Wi-Fi points no more than two rooms away from your main router for stronger coverage.
• LED guide: The color of your Nest point light tells you its current status or issue.
• Quick fix: Reboot or run a mesh test in the Google Home app to resolve most connection issues.

Google Nest® eliminates Wi-Fi dead spots in your home so you have smooth and fast connectivity in every room. If you need more coverage, you can add a new Google Nest Wi-Fi point in an area of your choice.

At Asurion, our experts are the go-to for tech help. Whether you're looking for Google Nest tips and tricks or wondering how to connect your Google Nest to Wi-Fi, we have you covered. In this guide, we explain how to set up Google Nest Wi-Fi points for optimal internet speeds.

Set up a Nest Wi-Fi point with the Google Home app

Google Nest Wi-Fi router and points expand internet coverage around your home. True to its name, the layout resembles a nest. Each Google Nest Wi-Fi access point connects to the router, creating an invisible network for your devices.

To add a new Google Nest Wi-Fi point to your existing hub, take these steps:

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. On the Home tab, tap Add > Device > Scan QR code.
3. If asked, choose a home. Select the device you want to add and tap Next.
4. Use your phone to scan the QR code on the bottom of the Google Nest device.
5. If you can't scan the QR code, tap Continue without scanning and enter the setup key on the bottom of the device.
6. Wait for it to connect—you’ll hear a sound once it finishes.
7. Tap Yes in the Google Home app and follow the on-screen instructions.

The app will run a mesh test whenever you add or remove Nest products to your Wi-Fi system. The test checks connection strength and speed and displays the results.

If the test doesn’t start automatically, run it manually:

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. Tap Favorites > Wi-Fi > Points > Test mesh.

A weak mesh test means your connection is unreliable. Repositioning the router or access points can improve signal strength.

Place your Nest Wi-Fi point for optimal signal

Google recommends spacing Nest access points evenly throughout your home. Try to place each one no further than two rooms away from the main router or another point.

Avoid enclosed areas like closets—place the point in an open area free of obstructions. Keep it near a wall outlet so it’s easy to plug in.

Whenever you move a Nest point or router, run a mesh test to check signal strength and reposition as needed.

Troubleshoot common Nest Wi-Fi point issues

Google Nest Wi-Fi points use a circular LED light to show their current status. Here’s what each color means:

If your Nest shows a slow pulsing yellow light, reboot the router and point to clear temporary connection issues.

Nest Wi-Fi points receive automatic firmware updates when connected to the internet. To check your current version:

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. Tap Devices > Home > All.
3. Tap and hold the device tile.
4. Tap Settings > Device Information.

If setup fails, repeat the process using another phone or try a different Google Nest product.

Reset or re-pair your Nest Wi-Fi point if needed

If your Nest Wi-Fi point shows a solid red light—or keeps disconnecting—you’ll need to perform a factory reset.

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. Tap Devices > Home > All.
3. Tap and hold the device tile.
4. Tap Settings > Factory reset Wi-Fi point > Factory reset.

After the reset, re-add the device in the Google Home app and run a mesh test to confirm a stable connection.