Diagnosis
Having them too close during setup can actually cause problems. The radios can interfere with each other if they’re literally inches apart, confusing the system as it tries to establish a clean backhaul channel.
How to Fix It
For setup, you need some distance. Unplug all the points. Set up the main router by itself first. Once it’s online and pulsing white, take your first point and plug it in in a different room, at least 10-15 feet away from the main router. Then use the Google Home app to add it. This gives the system space to establish a proper, strong connection. Repeat for additional points, placing them in their intended final locations, not right next to the router.
If That Didn't Work
There could be temporary wireless congestion. Try a different location for the point, even just across the room. Also, ensure there aren’t large metal objects or appliances like refrigerators or microwaves directly between where you’re placing the point and the main router during this initial handshake.
Heads Up
Don’t judge final placement by the setup phase. The “weak connection” warning during setup is just for that moment. Once the mesh is fully built, you can move the points to their optimal spots (which might be farther apart) and the system will re-optimize.