Google Nest - Wifi turns off when Broadband reset/off

[Steve14536]

Hi there, I have a very well established home network using Nest Wifi.

I have Virgin Media broadband with my router/modem in modem mode. I can access it from a browser using ###.###.###.#. It is connected directly into my Nest Wifi pod. This pod is also connected into a network switch which has many devices running from it. I also have an outside office which is connected to this switch. In this office I have a further pod plugged into the switch to extend my wifi. There are 2 more pods in my house acting wirelessly as Wifi extenders. I have a strong connection to all pods (as verified by the app). My IP addresses in my network are ###.###.##.#

My network has been working very well for many years but has always done something that I think is a problem. In the event of a broadband outage (or if I turn off my Virgin Media router/modem) the wifi from the Nest Wifi pods turns off. The wired network remains and I can still access devices on my home network such as my smart home hubs etc. But the wifi remains off until the broadband outage is fixed (or if I power back on my mode).

Surely the expected behaviour is that the network, be it wired or wireless should continue regardless? Why would just the wireless be impacted and not the whole network?

Thanks

Steve

[sicsacol]

Hi Steve14536,

Thanks for reaching out and providing such detailed information about your network setup. 

The behavior you're experiencing with the Nest Wifi turning off when the Virgin Media modem is off is actually expected in your current configuration. Here's why:

• Nest Wifi in Access Point Mode: Since your Virgin Media router is in modem mode, your Nest Wifi is likely acting as an access point (AP). This means it relies on the internet connection provided by the modem for its primary function – delivering Wi-Fi.
• No Internet, No Wi-Fi: Without a functioning internet connection (when the modem is off), the Nest Wifi has no signal to broadcast. Therefore, it disables the Wi-Fi functionality to avoid potential confusion for devices searching for a network.

Now, let's explore some options to potentially achieve the desired behavior of maintaining Wi-Fi even during a broadband outage:

• Bridge Mode for Virgin Media Router: If your Virgin Media router supports bridge mode, switching to it might allow the Nest Wifi to continue functioning in a limited capacity. In bridge mode, the router acts solely as a modem, passing the internet signal to your Nest Wifi which would then handle all routing and Wi-Fi functions. However, consult Virgin Media to confirm compatibility and potential configuration changes.
• Guest Network: Consider setting up a guest network on your Nest Wifi. This guest network could be configured to use a different SSID and password than your main network. Since the guest network doesn't necessarily require an internet connection for basic functionality, it might remain active even during a broadband outage. However, keep in mind guest networks often have limited functionalities.

Hopefully, this explanation clarifies the current behavior and provides potential solutions for achieving your desired outcome.  Feel free to ask any further questions you may have.

Cheers,

Jonathan