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Pre-Order $129 'Google Wifi' Router Replacement

Google Wifi aims to eliminate dead zones completely from your wireless network.

 & Stephanie Mlot Contributor

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Google is set to remove the wireless dead zones from your home with the launch of the Google Wifi router, which can now be pre-ordered.

Expected to launch on Dec. 6, the wireless router is being offered as a single $129 device, or in a $299 bundle of three for use as a "mesh" system around your home.

Wireless mesh technology, for the uninitiated, is a communications network in which compatible routers forward traffic to and from gateways; it basically allows users to build a unique home network out of multiple devices to ensure complete coverage. Eero, Luma, and Orbi have long provided similar solutions, but they come with a higher price tag.

Google Wifi replaces traditional routers, which often suffer from limited range, with what the company calls "points." Two or more points seamlessly connect using mesh technology to create a blanket wireless network, capable of handling simultaneous streaming, downloading, and sharing.

A single Wifi point is enough for a small house or apartment (500 to 1,500 square feet), and two will suffice for a medium home (1,500 to 3,000 square feet). The three-pack can be linked together to cover residences up to 4,500 square feet. Keep in mind that a long, narrow home or particularly thick walls may require additional Wifi points.

Unveiled during an October hardware event alongside Google Home and Daydream VR, the new appliance boasts smart features similar to the wireless OnHub router, released last year.

Designed with internal antennas and "subtle, useful lighting," the trash can-like OnHub searches the airwaves and selects the best channel for the fastest connection. And soon, owners can tap into the power of Google Wifi to expand that coverage.

According to Google's support page, the Wifi device works with almost all US Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and is compatible with almost all modems, but there are no details as to specific incompatilities yet. It cannot, however, be used as an extender for a traditional router. If you have a combined modem and router, it's usually possible to disable the router functionality and replace it with Google Wifi.

About Our Expert

Stephanie Mlot

Stephanie Mlot

Contributor

My Experience

  • B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)
  • Reporter at The Frederick News-Post (2008-2012)
  • Reporter for PCMag and Geek.com (RIP) (2012-present)

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