- Set up Protect with the Nest app before you install it on the ceiling or wall. You need to scan a QR code on the back of your Protect to add it to the app.
- The app has complete detailed instructions and will guide you through Protect setup and installation.
- Use this article as an overview of setup along with some troubleshooting help.
- Once you add your Protect to the app, you can get alerts on your phone, silence alarms with the app, and more. If you don't add your Protect to the Nest app, it will still warn you when it detects smoke and carbon monoxide (CO), but you won't get notifications from the app.
For a preview of Protect setup and installation, check out the video.
What you need to get started
- Nest Protect
- Wi-Fi and internet access in the same location that you're installing your Protect (your home's Wi-Fi network)
- Wi-Fi network password
- Phone or tablet
- Latest version of the Nest app
- A Nest or Google account
1. Put your Protect near your Wi-Fi router
- Put your Protect on a table near your Wi-Fi router so it's easy to access as you set it up.
- Don't pull out the battery tab. The app will tell you when you need to. If you already have, don't worry. You can press the button to wake up your Protect when needed.
If you're installing more than one Protect
- Set up all your Protects at the same time and add them to the Nest app before you install them on the ceiling or wall.
- Make sure Bluetooth is on, and your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network that you're connecting Protect to.
Important: Sometimes phones and tablets won't immediately connect to Protect over Wi-Fi and will automatically switch to cellular data. - Temporarily turn off cellular data on your phone. Once you're done with setup, you can turn it back on.
- Check Wi-Fi settings. Some devices have automatic network switching options, which should also be disabled.
- Uncheck Avoid poor connections. You can turn it on again after setup is complete.
You may need to turn off and restart your phone or tablet for these changes to take effect. After restart, double-check that Wi-Fi is back on.
3. Get the Nest app
- If you don't already have the Nest app, go to the Google Play store or Apple App Store to download it.
- If you already have the Nest app, check that you have the latest version.
4. Sign in to your account
If you're new, you'll be asked to create an account. Otherwise, sign in if you haven't already.