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The standard eero installation is internet service → modem or optical network terminal (ONT) → gateway eero → additional eeros. Choose an Ethernet-capable eero as the gateway, connect it to the modem or ONT, complete setup in the eero app, then add and correctly position the remaining units.
The main decision is whether eero will replace your existing router. For most homes, eero should handle routing and Wi-Fi. If your ISP supplied a modem/router gateway, it should usually be placed in bridge or passthrough mode. If that is not possible, you can keep the ISP gateway and use eero behind it, but double NAT or bridge-mode limitations may apply.
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What you need before starting
- An active internet subscription
- A modem, fiber ONT, or ISP gateway
- At least one gateway-capable eero with Ethernet ports
- An Ethernet cable
- An iPhone, iPad, or Android device
- The eero app
- A mobile-data connection during setup
- Your preferred Wi-Fi network name and password
- ISP account details if your connection requires PPPoE, VLAN settings, MAC registration, or another special configuration
eero currently lists iOS 15 or later and Android 9 or later as minimum mobile operating-system requirements. It also suggests at least 1 Mbps download speed for the system to function properly. Setup labels can change as the app is updated, so follow the closest equivalent option shown in your current US eero app.
Download the app from the official eero setup guidance before disconnecting your old equipment.
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Understand the equipment
- Modem: Converts a cable, DSL, or fixed-wireless service into an Ethernet connection.
- ONT: Performs a similar handoff for many fiber installations.
- ISP gateway: Combines a modem or ONT handoff with a router and Wi-Fi system.
- Gateway eero: The eero connected by Ethernet to the modem, ONT, or upstream router.
- Extender eero: An additional unit that expands the same mesh network.
- Ethernet backhaul: A secondary eero connected to the network by Ethernet rather than communicating wirelessly with the gateway.
Do not assume every eero-shaped device can start a new network. eero Beacon and eero 6 Extender units cannot act as the gateway for a brand-new network because they do not provide the required Ethernet connection. Use an Ethernet-capable unit as the first eero, then add the extender through the app. See eero’s model comparison for current gateway compatibility.
Choose the right network arrangement
| Your equipment | Recommended arrangement | Important consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone modem or ONT | Modem/ONT → gateway eero | eero handles routing, DHCP, NAT, and Wi-Fi. |
| Modem/router gateway with bridge mode | Put the ISP gateway in bridge or passthrough mode, then connect eero | ISP-specific instructions vary. |
| ISP gateway must remain a router | Place eero behind it, or configure eero in bridge mode | Double NAT or loss of eero routing features may result. |
| Existing third-party router must remain | Connect the gateway eero to it and use eero bridge mode when appropriate | The existing router remains responsible for DHCP and NAT. |
| Special ISP service, such as some AT&T U-Verse or PPPoE connections | Follow the ISP-specific configuration | Do not assume generic modem instructions will work. |
For details about retaining an existing router, consult eero’s official guidance.
Set up the gateway eero
- Choose the gateway unit. Select an eero with Ethernet ports. If your kit contains different models, do not use a Beacon or eero 6 Extender as the first unit.
- Power down the modem or ONT. Unplug it temporarily. This helps some providers recognize the newly connected network device.
- Connect Ethernet. Run an Ethernet cable from the modem or ONT to either Ethernet port on the gateway eero. Eero units with auto-sensing ports generally do not require you to identify a dedicated WAN port; check the instructions for your specific model if its port layout differs.
- Power the eero. Connect it to power and wait for its status light to indicate that it is starting.
- Restart the modem or ONT. Plug it back in and allow it to finish its startup cycle. Cable and fiber equipment may take several minutes to restore service.
- Open the eero app. Sign in or create an eero account, then follow the guided setup. Keep mobile data available if the app requests it.
- Create the Wi-Fi network. Choose a network name and password. You can use the same name and password as the old router to reduce the number of devices that need manual reconfiguration, although some devices may still need to be restarted or reconnected.
- Finish the gateway setup. Wait for the app to confirm that the eero network is online before adding other units.
The exact app screens and menu names can vary by app version, model, and ISP-managed deployment. The app remains the source of truth for the current setup sequence.
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Add the remaining eeros
- Plug in the next eero near the gateway temporarily.
- In the eero app, use the option to add or set up another eero.
- Allow the app to detect and configure the unit.
- Give it a meaningful room name, such as Upstairs Hall or Workshop.
- Repeat the process one unit at a time, beginning with the eero closest to the gateway.
Once every unit is online, move each one to its intended location. If you are using Ethernet backhaul, connect the secondary unit to the supported wired network after the gateway network is operating.
Place the eeros for reliable coverage
The most common placement mistake is putting an extender inside the dead zone. A secondary eero must receive a usable signal from the gateway or another node before it can provide useful coverage.
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- 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞-𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞: Covers up to 6,600 sq. ft. for over 150 devices with the option to expand anytime by adding another Deco router. All Deco routers work together.
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- Place the gateway in an open, elevated location where possible.
- Put additional eeros approximately halfway between the gateway and the weak-coverage area.
- Keep each unit on a hard, flat surface and off the floor.
- Avoid cabinets, enclosed shelves, media consoles, thick masonry, large metal objects, and major appliances.
- Keep a reasonably open path between neighboring units.
- Use the eero app’s connection or speed information to fine-tune locations.
Do not add more nodes automatically just because a home is large. Excessive node density can create unnecessary radio contention. Building materials, floor layouts, neighboring networks, and the location of the modem often matter more than advertised square footage.
Wireless versus wired backhaul
| Wireless backhaul | Wired backhaul |
|---|---|
| Fastest and simplest to install where no cabling exists. | Requires Ethernet cabling and, in some layouts, a suitable switch. |
| Performance depends on the signal between nodes. | Usually provides a more consistent connection between nodes. |
| A poorly placed node can simply extend a weak connection. | Useful in large homes, concrete buildings, busy networks, and homes with high-speed service. |
Wired backhaul does not guarantee that a single phone or laptop will exceed the speed of your broadband plan. Its main benefit is removing the wireless link between nodes as a potential bottleneck and improving consistency.
Should you use bridge mode?
Bridge mode is appropriate when another router must remain in charge of the network. In bridge mode, eero continues to provide Wi-Fi, but the upstream router performs routing, DHCP, and NAT.
To bridge an existing eero network, eero’s current instructions are:
- Complete creation of the eero network first.
- Open the eero app.
- Select Settings.
- Select Advanced networking.
- Under Network services, select DHCP & NAT.
- Change Automatic to Bridge.
One eero must remain connected by Ethernet to the upstream network. Eero states that some features, including advanced security, ad blocking, content filters, historical data usage, and Internet Backup, may be unavailable or may not work properly in bridge mode. Read the eero bridge-mode documentation before changing the setting.
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Double NAT: when it matters
Double NAT occurs when both the ISP gateway and eero perform routing. It may be acceptable for ordinary browsing, streaming, and many smart-home uses, but it can complicate port forwarding, multiplayer games, hosted services, remote access, and some VPN configurations.
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Confirm that the network works
- Connect a phone or laptop near the gateway and browse several websites.
- Repeat the test near every additional eero.
- Test the rooms where coverage was previously poor, not only the room containing the modem.
- Check that wired devices work if you used Ethernet backhaul or connected equipment to an eero.
- Run the app’s available speed test and compare results after moving a weak node.
- If you replaced the old router, turn off its Wi-Fi after eero is working.
If you reused the old network name and password, most devices should reconnect, but some may need a restart or a manual “forget this network” step. Avoid operating two nearby Wi-Fi networks with identical names unless that arrangement is deliberate and you understand which device controls routing.
Fix common eero setup problems
The app cannot find an eero
- Confirm the eero is powered on.
- Enable Bluetooth if the app requests it.
- Make sure the phone has mobile data or is connected as instructed by the app.
- Check that the modem has completed its restart.
- Reseat both ends of the Ethernet cable.
- Confirm that you selected an Ethernet-capable gateway eero.
If the app reports “Unable to add eero,” check whether the unit lacks Ethernet ports. Use an Ethernet-capable unit as the gateway and add the non-gateway device afterward.
The network has no internet
- Verify that the modem or ONT provides service independently, if your ISP allows that test.
- Confirm that Ethernet runs from the modem or ONT to the gateway eero.
- Restart the modem or ONT, wait for it to finish starting, then restart the gateway eero.
- Check whether the ISP requires PPPoE credentials, VLAN tagging, a registered MAC address, or a particular router mode.
- If the ISP device is a modem/router combination, decide whether it should be bridged or whether eero should operate behind it.
Some eero Pro 6 and eero 6 systems support PPPoE beginning with eeroOS 6.6.1 and eero app 6.13.0, but ISP and software compatibility should be confirmed before relying on that configuration.
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- 𝐁𝐄𝟏𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐓𝐫𝐢-𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝟕 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬: Delivers up to 5,188 Mbps (6 GHz), 4,324 Mbps (5 GHz), and 574 Mbps (2.4 GHz) speeds for 4K/8K streaming, AR/VR gaming, and more. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, & obstacles such as walls.
- 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝟮.𝟱𝗚 𝗪𝗔𝗡/𝗟𝗔𝗡 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀: Includes four 2.5G WAN/LAN ports and a USB 3.0 port, making it an ideal choice for future-proofing your home network.
- 𝐒𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 & 𝐖𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐮𝐥: Tri-band Wi-Fi 7 and 10G Ethernet work together to balance traffic between Deco units for faster, more stable whole-home coverage. Backhaul requires at least two Deco units.
One secondary eero is slow
Move it closer to the gateway or the previous node. Do not place it in the room where the signal is already unusable. Test again after each move. If possible, use Ethernet backhaul, especially across thick walls or between floors.
A device will not connect
Restart the device, forget the old saved network, and try again near the gateway. Older smart-home equipment may support only 2.4 GHz, while some devices have difficulty with WPA3 or band steering. Follow the current eero troubleshooting guidance rather than permanently splitting 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz network names unless the app specifically supports and requires that arrangement.
Advanced features disappeared
This is usually expected after enabling bridge mode. Eero’s routing and network-management services are disabled or limited because the upstream router has taken responsibility for them.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you buy more or newer eeros?
Choose the number and type of units based on the home rather than the box’s square-footage claim. Consider:
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- Number of floors and rooms
- Concrete, masonry, metal, or other dense walls
- Whether Ethernet wiring is available
- Internet-plan speed
- Number of simultaneous devices
- Whether clients support Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7
- Whether remote rooms need Ethernet ports
- Whether the gateway must remain in a utility closet or near an exterior wall
- Whether coverage is needed in a basement, detached garage, or other separate structure
Dual-band eero systems can be sufficient for modest broadband plans, smaller homes, or installations with wired backhaul. Tri-band models are better suited to busy households and wireless mesh links. Wi-Fi 6E adds a 6-GHz band for compatible clients, while Wi-Fi 7 can provide greater capacity and newer connectivity features. Neither standard automatically makes a slow broadband plan faster, and older devices will not receive the full benefit.
Best Value
- WHOLE-HOME COVERAGE WITH NO DEAD ZONES: The router plus satellites create a seamless mesh system that blanket up to 6,000 sq ft in fast, reliable WiFi from the front door to the backyard and basement to rooftop, link up to 70 devices on one network
- EVERYONE ONLINE AT ONCE, NO SLOWDOWNS: Dual-Band technology with Enhanced Backhaul helps deliver faster WiFi across your home so WiFi stays fast on every device simultaneously
- NEXT-GEN WIFI 7 SPEEDS: Up to 5 Gbps, 2.4X faster than WiFi 6, for 8K streaming, gaming, VR & video calls. Your phones, laptops and TVs all connect, including WiFi 6 and WiFi 5. Real-world speeds vary depending on connected devices and internet plan
- EASY SET UP WITH THE ORBI APP: Guided step-by-step setup gets your mesh network running fast, then manage devices and guest WiFi from anywhere
- WORKS WITH ANY INTERNET PROVIDER: Compatible with cable or fiber Internet Service Provider equipment and ready for plans up to 2.5 Gbps. Simply connect Orbi to your existing modem for whole-home WiFi
Eero supports mixing many generations, but eero says combining newer and older hardware can reduce performance. Use the same generation throughout the network when practical. A premium model is difficult to justify if the home has a slow internet plan, few connected devices, or no compatible newer clients.
Basic eero networking does not require an eero Plus subscription. Eero Plus is an optional service for additional security, parental-control, password-manager, or VPN-related features; availability and terms can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an eero extender be the gateway?
No. The first eero must have an Ethernet port and connect to the modem, ONT, or upstream router. A Beacon or eero 6 Extender can be added only after an Ethernet-capable gateway eero is operating.
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No. Additional eeros can connect wirelessly to the mesh. Ethernet backhaul is optional but usually offers a more consistent connection when suitable cabling is available.
Can I keep my existing Wi-Fi name and password?
Yes. Reusing them can reduce reconnection work, although individual devices may still need to be restarted or manually reconnected.
Does setting up eero require an eero Plus subscription?
No. The subscription is optional; core eero setup and Wi-Fi operation do not generally require it.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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