Blue Spinning Circle Video Feed when using Nest Home via Browser

[Pomonikan]

Hello,

Our set of Nestcams are up and running and everything works from the NEST HOME app on my Google Pixel phone.  However, if we use a Chrome Browser on either a PC or a Mac, while we can load all our cameras and see them as a set, if we select any one camera to examine its history (we have NEST AWARE accounts) the individual camera windows only show the blue spinning circle, and the video feed never updates.  If we go to the history we can scroll back and see postage stamp size stills from the history, but we cannot play the history.  This is super frustrating.  Any guidance would be appreciated.  

Thanks!

[chaconmorales]

Hi Pomonikan,

Thanks for reaching out to the Community. I am sorry that you are experiencing issues with your Nest Cameras Live video (feed) feature when using the Web version. But no need to worry, help is here.

The video stability will depend on so many factors; like PC capabilities, browser used, internet capabilities, etc. 

Basic Checks:

Here are some basic troubleshooting steps you can try to fix live video issues with your Nest Camera:

1. Check Your Internet Connection:

• Strong Wi-Fi Signal: Ensure your Nest camera has a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal. Weak signal strength can cause lags or interruptions in the live video feed. Move the camera closer to your router if possible.
• Internet Speed: Nest cameras require a good internet upload speed for smooth live video streaming. Run an internet speed test to verify you meet the minimum recommended upload speed (usually around 2 Mbps per camera, but higher for multiple cameras or high-quality video).
• Restart Router and Modem: Sometimes a simple restart of your router and modem can resolve temporary network glitches. Power them off for 30 seconds, then turn them back on and wait for them to reboot completely.

2. Camera Status:

• Camera Status: Check the status of your Nest camera in the Google Home app. A green light usually indicates the camera is online and functioning properly.
• Restart Camera: Try restarting your Nest camera. The specific method might vary depending on the model. Consult your camera's user manual or the Google Home app for instructions.

3. Additional Considerations as the Mobile App is working and the Web Version is not responding:

• Please try checking the web version on another device, another phone or tablet.
• Let me know if you are using the Google Home Web version or the Nest Home Web version.
• Please try using other web browsers on the same PC if possible.

You can also check the following article if the Video doesn't play, pauses or skips or to Troubleshoot delays in streaming video.

Please keep me posted.

Regards,

Mario

[Pomonikan]

Hello Mario,

I am trying to use Nest Home Web from Chrome with a Google Gmail account login.  I have tried on many computers and OS versions both Mac and Windows.   

Interestingly I found that with the same computer and browser, I could get it to work from my home WiFi system.  So today I tried several different WiFi networks in addition to my Ethernet connection.  I found some that work and others that do not.  It must be something in the settings of the networks, do you have a list of common network security and firewall settings that interfere with the video streams?

Thanks,  David

[chaconmorales]

Hi Pomonikan,

Thank you for following up. I understand that you want to know specific details regarding the connectivity details, firewall rules and network security when using the Nest Home webpage.

Most of the information that you are requesting is not available or is not specified, however please check the following details.

Here's what we know:

• Nest Doesn't Recommend Specific Ports: While some online resources might suggest specific ports, Nest itself doesn't recommend manually opening particular ports in your firewall.
• Dynamic Communication: Google Nest Cameras likely use a dynamic communication method, meaning they might not consistently use the same ports or IP addresses.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• Specific Camera Model: While the general principle applies, communication protocols might differ slightly between Nest camera models. You can check the device’s user guide or manual for additional firewall configurations.
• Firewall Settings: Port Blocking: Ensure ports used for video streaming (typically UDP ports in the range of 10000-20000) are open.
• Allow Nest App and Services: Add the Nest website and related Google services to your firewall's allowed applications list.
• Router Settings: Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritize traffic for your Nest cameras to ensure sufficient bandwidth.
• UPnP (Universal Plug and Play): Enable UPnP to allow devices to automatically open necessary ports.
• Wi-Fi Channel: Try changing your Wi-Fi channel to reduce interference

You can also check the following article to Update Wi-Fi network and router settings in case you want to change that information (it depends on your router’s mode and internet service provider).

Please keep me posted.

Regards,

Mario