Google recently debuted its new Google Wifi, a system that creates a mesh network that covers the entire house with strong, seamless WiFi. Unlike typical routers, the WiFi coverage from Google Wifi gets rid of "dead zones," doesn't reduce internet speeds, and allows devices to switch connections without interruption.
Google says that its Google Wifi supports two spatial streams concurrently, delivering maximum throughputs of 300 Mbps via the 2.4 GHz band (slower speed, longer range) and 867 Mbps via the 5 GHz band (faster speed, shorter range). The Google Wifi system consists of three units that connect with each other, building a mesh WiFi network blanketing even multi-storied houses.
Business Insider reports that Google Wifi offers better speeds than conventional WiFi routers and extenders, while PC World says that the installation process is fast and easy with the Google Wifi Network Assist. Aside from the improved coverage, faster internet speeds, and no-fuss installation, Google Wifi offers numerous features that enable users to take full control of their network. With the Google Wifi app, families can see which of their devices are online, prioritize or pause the connection to certain devices, and share the WiFi password to guests. Here are just a few of the things users can do with Google Wifi.
Make the Xbox (or any device) get faster speeds. Google Wifi allows users to prioritize the connection to certain devices, so that they can, for example, watch Netflix without any buffering. To assign a device priority status, users only have to tap on the priority button on the usage list, choose a device (or two), and specify a time allotment for the priority status.
Assign network managers. The owner of the Google account used to set up Google Wifi is the default network manager. However, owners can create an additional network manager (e.g. a roommate or a spouse) who will also be able to control the system. To do this, they can simply go to Settings > Network Settings > Managers and add the person's email address.
See how much bandwidth the family's devices are using up. Parents can use this feature to see if their children have been using their tablets when they should be doing their homework. The Google Wifi app shows a list of devices connected to the network and indicates the bandwidth usage of each within a certain time frame, e.g. the last 5 seconds, the past day, and the past week.
Keep devices from connecting to the network. This is a great tool for when users want to avoid social media so they can concentrate on their work or when they want to keep their children off the internet to limit their screen time. The Google Wifi app allows users to easily pause and unpause the connection of individual devices to the WiFi network.
