Can I add a Nest Wifi Router to an existing Nest Wifi network?

[GlennM]

I have an existing Google Nest WiFi (not the Pro) network in my house which consists of the main router, plus two access points. I want to extend the WiFi signal to a wider area so the signal is stronger. I obviously know I can add actual access point devices, that would be easy. 

But, a friend of mine gave me their Google Nest WiFi router (no access points with it - same series as what I have). Can I add this second router to my existing network and have it act like an access point? How would I do that? Detailed instructions would be very welcome. 

For some background: I got a new internet modem about a year ago and the Google nest system has had conflicts with the internet router off and on all year. So I finally had to turn on "bridge mode" on the internet router and now the Google Nest is working much better.  But it means with the internet router no longer able to provide wifi or internet access, I need to expand my Google nest network. 

[Ashepherdson · Accepted solution]

Yes , you can add another Nest wifi router to an existing network, it would act as a point, but the wired outlets would still work.  to do this, go into the google home app, devices, hit the add button, google nest or partner device, and follow the prompts from there.  I did this with my nest wifi before I upgraded to the pro series, and it worked great.

[GlennM]

ok - thanks for that. I guess I'm done adding them then. The 4th one was just added in a weak area and is not too close to the others. Everything else is a decent distance and all rooms at least have adequate signal. 

so - don't push it.

Thanks again!

[GlennM]

Thanks! That seemed to go smoothly and is working. Hopefully they do not interfere with each other like they did with the internet router but I'm optimistic. 

[Ashepherdson]

Having too many , too close, will definitely cause issues.  If you notice points dropping, would recommend take one of the regular points off the network.  

[GlennM]

Out of curiosity - "having too many".... Routers? or combination of routers and access points? I ask because I was hoping to add maybe 1 more access point, possibly 2. Not sure I really need them but if I could get some used ones on the cheap I was thinking the more the merrier. Just curious where I might run into trouble. 

Thanks again - you have been very helpful. 

[Ashepherdson]

Either.  If you have too many in close proximity it can cause interference and network issues. When I had 3 in my house it was perfect, I added a fourth and nodes started dropped randomly.  Once I removed it things went back to normal