Replacing my Google Onhub router with the new Google Nest Wifi Router

[jnberks]

Hello! So I am finally replacing my old Google Onhub router with the new Google Nest router. I also have three 1st gen Google Wifi points that I will use for my mesh network. I saw something that you need to factory reset the  Google Wifi points to use with the new Nest router? Is this accurate? Will I need I need to create a new Wifi network? Or can I just recreate my old account with the same name, etc? Thanks!

[MichaelP · Accepted solution]

Hello @jnberks 

Yes, you will need to factory reset the Google WiFi units before you can add them to the new Nest WiFi system. However, you can re-use the same network name and password when you set that system up so that all of your client devices can reconnect without being reset as well.

[MichaelP · Accepted solution]

Hello @jnberks 

Yes, you will need to factory reset the Google WiFi units before you can add them to the new Nest WiFi system. However, you can re-use the same network name and password when you set that system up so that all of your client devices can reconnect without being reset as well.

[Jeff]

Hi, jnberks.
I just wanted to jump in real fast to see if you saw MichaelP's reply and to see if you still needed some help on this or if you were able to get it sorted out. If you are still needing some help, just let us know and we'll be happy to continue helping.
Thanks.

[jnberks]

Hi Jeff. Thanks for the follow-up. Yes, I was able to get it set up. However, it seems as though my coverage isn't as good as with the Onhub (distance wise). I assumed it would be better. My configuration is the Google Nest Wifi Router and 3 Google Wifi (1st gen) points. All within a room or two away. Do I need to change the channel or port? If you can recommend the best settings for optimization, that would be great! We mostly stream movies and work from home, so Zoom. We have the highest plan via Spectrum (400MBPS). Thank you.

[Jeff]

Hey again, jnberks.

Now that you have everything set up, what are the results of your mesh test? I know you have everything set up within recommended distances, and that's great, but sometimes other factors can play into mesh network strength. Also, can you run a speed tests from the Home app? It will help us make sure your speeds are up to expectation based on what you're getting from your ISP.

Thanks.

[jnberks]

Hi Jeff,

I was going to attach screen shots but it doesn't appear I am able to. The mesh says great connection, with all green lights. The download speed is 456 and upload is 22.4. The internet has been good but the distance coverage seems worse and the Points are in the same place as well as the new router.

[Jeff]

Thanks for the quick follow up, jnberks.

One thing that might be happening is that your devices are connecting to the 5GHz band rather than the 2.4GHz. 5GHz is higher bandwidth and will give you better speeds, but it doesn't reach as far as 2.4GHz. You can tell what band they're connecting to by checking on them in the device list. If devices are on 5GHz, you'll have a shorter range of strong signal.

Thanks.

[jnberks]

Hi Jeff,

It seems like some are 5 GHZ and some are 2.4GHZ (most that are idle are 2.4). So I guess my Google Pixel (which is 5GHZ) is limited by range now? Is there anything else I can do to increase the distance? Would another wifi point (would be #4) help or would it create more problems? SHould I also do anything with the DNS or WAN/LAN or IPv6 or have the WPA3 enabled? I wish there were more explanations on the settings as I have no clue what does what. Thank you for any advice

[Jeff]

Hey, jnberks.

While additional points will extend the range of your network, it's not always necessary. When you say your range is limited, how severe is the range issue? If you move a couple of rooms from a point, are you getting total dropoffs?

As far as the right number of points for your home, here's an article that uses a table to show what's recommended based on home size: https://bit.ly/3GVMTtl

That article also shares a few factors that can affect ranges. Take a quick look there and see if that gives you any insight on things.

Thanks.

[Jeff]

Hey, jnberks.

Just a quick check in to see if that guide I shared was able to answer your questions and to see if there's anything else I can do for you on this. If so, let me know.

Thanks.

[Jeff · Accepted solution]

Hi, everyone.
As we haven't had any activity here recently I'm going to go ahead and close the thread. If you have more to add, feel free to start a new discussion.
Thanks