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The bigger picture

Less guesswork.
More clarity.

Explore the connections behind the specs. A few clear labels, a little context, and the source for every fact.

Connection mapFrom the modem to the far room.One wired connection starts the network. Compatible mesh points carry it farther. Here’s the order in a Google Wifi setup.

Tap a label to explore. You can also hover or use your keyboard.

  1. ModemThe internet connection

    The modem connects to the primary Google Wifi point with an Ethernet cable. Google Wifi still needs an internet service provider and a modem.

    Sources: 1: The primary Google Wifi point connects to a modem with Ethernet.
  2. Ethernet cable
    Mesh routerYour primary Wifi point

    The first Google Wifi point acts as the router and connects to the modem by Ethernet. Set up this primary point before adding the rest of the mesh.

    Sources: 1: The primary Google Wifi point connects to a modem with Ethernet., 4: Set up the primary Google Wifi point before adding additional points.
  3. Wireless mesh link
    Mesh pointsCoverage in more rooms

    Additional Google Wifi points can connect wirelessly. Place the next point partway toward the area that needs coverage, rather than at the far end of a weak signal.

    Sources: 2: Additional Google Wifi points can connect wirelessly or be hardwired., 3: Google recommends placing the next point partway toward the area that needs Wi-Fi.

This shows a wireless mesh topology. Google Wifi also supports hardwired points. Follow the setup guide for your particular system.

Source notes4 references

  1. The primary Google Wifi point connects to a modem with Ethernet.

    support.google.com — source for The primary Google Wifi point connects to a modem with Ethernet.
    connected to a modem with an Ethernet cable

  2. Additional Google Wifi points can connect wirelessly or be hardwired.

    support.google.com — source for Additional Google Wifi points can connect wirelessly or be hardwired.
    Additional Google Wifi points can be on a wireless setup

  3. Google recommends placing the next point partway toward the area that needs Wi-Fi.

    support.google.com — source for Google recommends placing the next point partway toward the area that needs Wi-Fi.
    Place your next point about halfway in that direction

  4. Set up the primary Google Wifi point before adding additional points.

    support.google.com — source for Set up the primary Google Wifi point before adding additional points.
    Set up your primary Google Wifi point
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