Google WiFi / Nest WiFi Login
Like Eero, Google's mesh WiFi systems have no web-based admin panel. There's no IP address to type into your browser. Everything is managed through the Google Home app using your Google account. If you're used to traditional routers where you go to 192.168.1.1 to change settings, Google's approach is completely different.
To make things more confusing, Google has released three generations of mesh routers under two different names, and the management app changed partway through. Here's how to sort it out.
Which Google Router Do You Have?
Google has used two product names and two different apps across three hardware generations, which creates genuine confusion:
| Product | Year | WiFi | Managed By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google WiFi (1st gen) | 2016 | WiFi 5 | Google Home app (originally Google WiFi app) |
| Nest WiFi | 2019 | WiFi 5 | Google Home app |
| Nest WiFi Pro | 2022 | WiFi 6E (tri-band) | Google Home app |
The original "Google WiFi" app was retired in 2022 — all management moved to the Google Home app. If you were using the old app, you need to migrate to Google Home to keep managing your network.
Setting Up Google/Nest WiFi
- Connect the primary Google/Nest WiFi point to your modem via Ethernet
- Plug it in and wait for the light to pulse (indicating it's ready to set up)
- Open the Google Home app on your phone
- Tap the "+" button → Set up device → New device
- The app detects the WiFi point automatically (or scan the QR code on the bottom of the device)
- Name your network and set a WiFi password
- Add additional points — the app guides placement and checks connectivity between nodes
Google WiFi replaces your existing router — connect it directly to your modem. If your ISP gave you a gateway (modem+router combo), you'll want to put it in bridge mode to avoid double NAT issues, or at minimum disable its WiFi to avoid interference.
Managing Your Network
In the Google Home app, tap WiFi (or your network name) to access network management. Here's what you can do:
Connected devices — See every device on your network with real-time and historical usage data. You can prioritize a specific device to get bandwidth preference for up to 4 hours (useful for video calls or gaming).
Family WiFi (parental controls) — Create device groups for family members. Schedule WiFi pauses, filter content categories, and set bedtime schedules. Part of the Google Home interface.
Guest network — Enable a separate guest WiFi with its own password. Guests are isolated from your main network and can't access your local devices.
Speed test — Test your internet speed and the mesh connection between each WiFi point. Google periodically runs automatic speed tests in the background too.
Network settings — Change WiFi name and password, configure DNS servers, enable WPA3 encryption.
Advanced Settings (Limited)
Google WiFi offers some advanced features, but they're buried in the app and more limited than traditional routers:
Port forwarding: Google Home → WiFi → Settings → Advanced Networking → Port Management. You can forward specific ports to devices on your network. No DMZ option.
DNS configuration: You can set custom DNS servers (like 1.1.1.1 or 8.8.8.8) under WiFi → Settings → Advanced Networking → DNS.
IP reservations (DHCP reservation): Assign a fixed local IP to a device so it always gets the same address. Useful for servers, printers, and smart home hubs.
What's missing: No VLANs, no static routes, no custom DHCP ranges, no UPnP toggle (it's always on), no QoS beyond basic device prioritization, no bridge mode (Google WiFi insists on being the router). If you need these features, Google's mesh system isn't the right fit.
Troubleshooting
"Your WiFi point is offline" in the app: Check if the primary point (connected to the modem) has power and an internet connection. If only secondary points are offline, they may be too far from the primary. Move them closer or add another point in between.
Slow speeds on WiFi but fast on Ethernet: Run a mesh test in the app (WiFi → Devices → Test mesh). If the connection between points is weak, they need to be closer together. Walls, floors, and appliances degrade the mesh signal.
Can't set up — app doesn't find the device: Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone (the app uses Bluetooth for initial setup). If it still doesn't detect the WiFi point, factory reset it: hold the reset button on the bottom for 10 seconds until the light turns solid amber, then release.
Google Home app isn't showing WiFi settings: Make sure you're signed into the same Google account that was used to set up the WiFi system. If someone else in your household set it up, they need to add you as a home member in the Google Home app.
Want to switch to a different router: Factory reset your Google WiFi points before selling or giving them away. In the app: WiFi → Settings → Factory Reset. Without this, the next person can't set them up.