09-08-2022 07:27 AM
We have a Google Nest "2-pack" system and want to add a 3rd point to extend our wireless coverage to include the garage (not attached to house)...what is the correct addition to purchase and what is the maximum distance from the others? (I can sometimes get WIFI already but most of the time the signal drops...?
Thanks for the assistance.
Walter
09-08-2022 08:37 AM
Hello @waltshan
Getting WiFi coverage in outbuildings like this can be challenging. The Nest WiFi mesh interconnect runs over 5GHz only, and while that provides high performance at short distances, it doesn't work well at longer ranges. I suspect the only WiFi coverage you're getting out there now is in the 2.4GHz band, which is lower performance at short ranges, but continues to work at longer ranges. In short, it's unlikely any of the Nest WiFi units would work well in that garage. My advice for this situation is usually to try to run an Ethernet cable from the main unit (the Nest WiFi Router that is connected to your internet service) out to the garage, and then connect either another Nest WiFi Router unit (or a less expensive Google WiFi unit) to it. That way, the remote access point is talking to your home network via Ethernet instead of a wireless connection, but it can provide WiFi to clients in that area. It's definitely more work, but the result should perform quite well. If you decide to pursue this approach, I can provide more detailed advice.
If you really can't run an Ethernet cable out there, then you may be able to use (relatively expensive) directional WiFi bridges intended for long range operation between buildings. They would need to be permanently mounted on both sides, but at short ranges would probably work from inside each building. That's also going to be a fair amount of work (and expense).
09-11-2022 12:14 PM
09-14-2022 12:42 PM
Hey there,
Checking back in should you still have some questions here. Let us know by replying to this thread.
Best,
Mel
09-15-2022 03:48 PM
Hello there,
Due to inactivity, I'll go ahead and lock this thread in 24 hours. Feel free to start a new thread if you need assistance with your Google Wifi and we'd be glad to assist you further.
Best,
Princess