How to Secure a Google WiFi Mesh WiFi System

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Google WiFi creates a Mesh WiFi network in your home that comes pre-secured out of the box. It is a cloud-managed system, meaning that its settings can all be adjusted via an app on your mobile device. While you don't need to do anything specific to make sure your Google WiFi system is secured, there are some settings that can be adjusted & some features you can take advantage of to make sure that your home's WiFi network is as secure as possible.

Before You Begin:

Your Google WiFi System must already be set up.

• CON-5974 How to Set Up Your Google WiFi Mesh Wi-Fi System

You must have the Google WiFi app installed.

• CON-5972 How to Install the Google WiFi App

2. Change Network Name and Password

Even though your Google WiFi system is configured with a specific WiFi network name and password, customizing these items can be helpful to make sure that your network is using a complex, secure password that you can remember. Having network credentials that are easy to remember makes connecting new devices quick and easy.

To Change Your WiFi Network Name & Password

1. Open the Google WiFi App.
   

2. Tap the icon on the right of the screen.
   

1. Tap Network & General.
   

2. Tap on your Network name.
   

1. Tap the pencil in the top right, then edit either your Network name or password.

Your password must be between 8 and 63 characters. It cannot have any spaces or special characters.

3. Add or Remove Network Manager

By default, the Google account that was used to set up your Google WiFi network is the only account that can make changes to your WiFi settings. However, Google allows you to add Network Managers that can also make changes to your network settings. For instance, adding your spouse or roommate as a Network Manager would allow them to make any necessary changes when you are unable to.

Network Managers can do everything you can do as the network owner, with the exception of adding, removing or factory resetting Google Wifi devices.

To Access Network Managers

1. Open the Google WiFi App.
   

2. Tap the icon on the right of the screen.
   

1. Tap Network & General.
   

2. Tap on Managers.
   

To Add a New Network Manager

1. Tap the Pencil icon at the bottom right of the screen.
2. Enter the email address of the person you wish to add as a Network Manager, then tap Save when done. He or she will receive an email with instructions on how to proceed.

To Delete a Network Manager

1. Tap the Three Dots next to the Network Manager you wish to remove, then tap Remove.

4. Create Guest Network

Creating a guest network is a simple way to give visitors access to a WiFi connection without handing out the password to the network where all of your shared devices and files live. This creates a separate network with its own password that will keep your personal devices out of harm's way, and give you the ability to keep an eye on the visitor devices that are connected there.

To Create a Guest Network

1. Open the Google WiFi App.
   

2. Tap the icon on the right of the screen.
   

1. Tap on Guest Wi-Fi.
   

2. Type in your Guest WiFi name and password.
   

1. You will now be given the opportunity to share devices from your primary WiFi network with the devices that will be connected to your Guest WiFi network. For example, an Apple TV for AirPlay or Chromecast for streaming purposes. Select any devices you wish to make available on the Guest network, then tap Create at the bottom of the screen.