Google Nest Wifi Pro, Nest Wifi, and Google Wifi are mesh network Wi-Fi systems that deliver Wi-Fi and Matter radio coverage across your home. A mesh network is a group of connectivity devices, such as Wi-Fi routers that act as a single network, so there are multiple sources of connectivity around your house instead of just a single router. Google calls the first mesh device you set up a router, and each additional mesh device a point.
Since mesh networks broadcast from each point around your house rather than from a single location, they can provide better coverage over a wider space. Depending on the size of your home, you can add more points for additional Wi-Fi coverage. Learn how many Wifi devices you need.
All points are wirelessly connected to each other. As long as they're within range, they can communicate with each other without the need for a router or switch. This allows for fast and efficient data routing.
For those who prefer wired connections, Nest Wifi Pro, Nest Wifi, Google Wifi, and other devices like computers, printers, and TVs can also be connected together with Ethernet cables. Learn more about hardwiring Wifi routers and points.
Difference from traditional Wi-Fi networks
In a traditional Wi-Fi network, your phone or laptop is connected to a single router, and all communication passes through that single router. The farther you are from the router, the weaker the signal. Items such as walls, furniture, and other obstructions can impact the distribution of wireless signals throughout your home.
With mesh systems, you have multiple connectivity points in your home so you're never far from one.
Benefits of a mesh network
- Flexible coverage: Additional points can be added to get better coverage in hard-to-cover areas like hallways and near walls for outdoor coverage.
- Self-healing: In a mesh network, if one point goes down, communication is simply rerouted through another point. Note: If your router or primary point goes offline (the one connected to your modem), so will your entire network. You’ll also get a notification in the app after a few minutes.
- Direct path: Since all of the points are connected to each other, data can take several paths toward its destination and it’ll always choose the best route from Point A to Point B.