How do I find out what version of software is running on My Google wifi mesh?

[sequeiraca]

I suspect that it may need an update.
I have 1 gig uplink from Xfinity but I barely get 100 MBps over the google mesh wifi.
Someone suggested updating the firmware on the mesh system but I have no idea how to check what version it's on and how to update it.
Help!!!

[MichaelP]

Hello @sequeiraca 

Google/Nest WiFi keep themselves updated automatically. But, if you do want to check what version yours is currently running, launch the Google Home app, tap the "Wifi" bubble at the top, then "X points" (where "X" is the number of units you have in your system), then tap the name of your primary/router unit under "Nest Wifi router", and finally, tap the gear icon in the upper right corner. The version should appear next to "Software version" in the "Wi-Fi Information" section. 

Mine are currently running 14150.376.32 for example.

That said, if your system is currently limited to 100Mbps, I would take a look at the Ethernet cable connecting it to your cable modem. First, try removing that and reseating it on both ends (firmly – make sure it clicks). If that doesn't help, then you might just replace that cable – even a good Cat 5e Ethernet cable should only be a few dollars.

[sequeiraca]

Thanks MichaelP.

I have checked and doublechecked the connections and I am using a CAT6 cable.

Even with the WiFi loss, I should still be seeing at the least, somewhere in the 200 to 300 Mbps range strength.
I hardly get 100.

[sequeiraca]

When I run the Network speed test on the Google Home app, it gives me consistently anywhere from 850 to 950 Mbps. I assume this is the wired connection from the AP to the modem/router. So I know the AP is getting the advertised Xfinity speed.

[MichaelP]

Sorry – this came in while I was composing the previous response. It sounds like your Ethernet connection to the internet is in good shape. So, what test are you running that is showing slower performance than you expect? 

[MichaelP]

Oddly, sometimes cat 6 cables can be a problem compared to cat 5e. Cat 6 cables are often more stiff than cat 5e, and can end up not making good contact on the underside of Google WiFi units due to the tight bends required. I would try to confirm where the issue is by running an internet speed test from the Google Home app. This will test the performance between your primary/router Google WiFi unit and a server on the internet. So, it isn't testing the WiFi part of the system, only the internet connection.  To run that test, just open the Google Home app, tap the "Wifi" bubble at the top, then tap "Test network". That cell may already be showing the internet speed test last performed by the system (which happens automatically every few days). If it shows 100Mbps or less, continue to focus on the Ethernet cable. If that test shows something closer to what you expect (I have 400Mbps service from Xfinity, and my system shows 446Mbps for this test, for example), then you know you can focus on the WiFi part of the system (which is more complex to test and understand, but I can try to help with that as well).

[sequeiraca]

So let me make sure I am reading you right. Don't use CAT6 but use CAT5e instead?

[MichaelP]

At this point, since it sounds like your Ethernet connection to the internet is working as expected, I wouldn't switch it out. But, if that test had come in at 100Mbps, I would have recommended switching to cat5e. The thing is, cat5e is designed to carry 1Gbps. Cat6 is designed to carry 10Gbps. So, most people think it's "better" than cat5e. But, if the Ethernet ports in question are 1Gbps ports, then the increased "quality" of cat6 isn't useful, and the higher stiffness that comes with it can cause problems for devices like Google WiFi that have ports underneath.

[sequeiraca]

Do they even sell CAT5e cables?
Lol

[MichaelP]

Yes. Here's an example: https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-Cat5e-Ethernet-Patch-Cable/dp/B00ACR5SD0/ (not an endorsement, of course).

[sequeiraca]

Ok..so I just did a speed test standing right next to the main google AP and I am consistently getting 300 Mbps.
It never occurred to me to do that and I have been running speed tests against the puck installed in my bedroom. That's where I am getting 100 Mbps.

[MichaelP]

Ok, so we can focus on Wifi speed at this point. Depending on the type of client device, 300Mbps is pretty good for being that close. For the bedroom case, we need to take a look at the mesh connection first. In the Google Home app, I would run a mesh speed test (tap the "Wifi" bubble, then "X points", where "X" is the number of Google WiFi units you have, then "Test mesh"). You want to have your secondary units placed close enough to the primary/router unit that they all get "Great connection" results on the mesh test. If you're trying to improve connectivity to the bedroom, you may want to place that secondary half way between the bedroom and the primary/router unit. The mesh runs on the 5GHz WiFi radio, which is also used by 5GHz WiFi clients, so just putting a secondary in an area that is struggling to get a good 5GHz connection isn't going to help.

[sequeiraca]

I guess I am just gonna have to live with this.
Thanks for your suggestions

[productperson1]

I've been having a similar issue and its driving me crazy. Verizon Fios 1gbps up/down service at the house and direct cat6 cable from ONT to Google router (no Verizon router in-between). I have 2 wifi access points - mesh seems to work well; however, this week my internet speeds have become atrocious at 50 mbps up/down at best. I've noticed devices losing connection over the past few months (simplisafe security system) but didn't think much of it. As typical - everyone blames the carrier so I thought it was verizon. Did all the trouble shooting with them and speed test directly from ONT to my computer is 1 gbps up/down. Factory reset the google wifi several times and tried everything, testing cat6 cable, tried cat5e cable. Occasionally I will get a decent speed test either up or down but never both. I'm 100% convinced it's my google wifi and not sure what else to do besides junk it.  Coincidently I know a few coworkers with very similar circumstances happening in the last few weeks. 

[sequeiraca]

I hear you,
I am just living with it to be honest.
What version of the Google mesh do you have?
I am on version 1.

[productperson1]

I believe its version 2 - I bought them around 2021.  Ever since they redesigned the app I seem to be having issues and the tools to troubleshoot are lacking. 

I'm replacing it with a verizon router and extender (free of charge) until I figure out which mesh system is better. I personally feel that all google products have started to go down hill in the past year. It's a shame considering we standardized on Nest/Google products in our home so going to replace everything eventually. 

[sequeiraca]

ooof
I seriously am considering going with the Xfinity X1 Gateway router and WiFi extender as well.

[productperson1]

I've heard good things about the Eero mesh devices too but at this point the Verizon stuff is being provided free and supports the 1gb connection. 

[sequeiraca]

As have I.
Wondering if I should order one and try out?
Xfinity doesnt give anything for Free and Verizon doesnt provide ISP service out where I live. Its just Xfinity or ATT(not fibre)

[productperson1]

They're not bad priced, so may be worth a shot. I don't like technology that makes me think and this google router with access points has been way more trouble than its worth. So whatever works wins right now for me. 

[sequeiraca]

I ordered the Deco X55 a cpl of weeks back and was getting great throughput (Avg 300 Mbps) but for some reason my Zoom/Team calls were flaky, my Smart TVs kept dropping connections. Tp-Link tech support were a joke to say the least, reset router, plug/un plug cable, move device closer to access point...are you serious?
Ended up returning the whole system with a negative review. Put back my old google mesh system, Slower speeds but at least my Zoom and Smart TV connections stayed up.

[productperson1]

Oh interesting, I'll cross the Deco off of the list. This week has been annoying because the wifi was impacting my security system and zoom calls - two things I can't compromise! lol.