Why does my Google Nest Doorbell keep needing setting up again?

The short answer

Google splits setup, network and device problems across separate help paths, so people get bounced around. Repeated re-pairing nearly always means the gadget is losing its place on the network, not that it is faulty.

What's happening underneath

2.4 GHz client sitting at the furthest, coldest, most obstructed point in the house. Fine on an IoT network after setup.

Source: Manufacturer documentation

Try these, in this order

• • Check the signal reading in the Google Home app at the door itself.
• • Move the router out of the hall cupboard and up off the floor.
• • Reduce video quality in the app — it makes a big difference on a weak link.
• • Add a mesh box in the hallway rather than a plug-in extender.
• • Check the signal where the gadget actually lives, not where you're standing.
• • Move the router off the floor and out of any cupboard before buying anything.
• • Put the gadget and your phone on the same Wi-Fi name.

Setting it up again properly

• • Stand next to your router while you set it up, then move the gadget to where it lives.
• • Put your phone on the 2.4 GHz network name for the setup, or use one name for both bands so the phone can follow.
• • If your router splits bands into two names, turn the 5 GHz one off for five minutes rather than fighting it.
• • Turn mobile data off on your phone during setup — some apps quietly use it and never find the gadget.

When it's worth spending money

One mesh box near the front door, only after the free steps above.