How To Set Up A Nest Camera

Google makes setting up a new Nest Camera pretty simple. You can do it in just a few minutes, and the process is very easy. Especially now that it is working through the Google Home app versus the Nest app. But here is a brief overview of how to get started with installing and  setting up your brand new Nest Cam.

It’s important to note that the steps may differ depending on the camera you have. But, the steps are mostly the same in the Google Home and Nest app. Additionally, all future Nest Cams will work within the Google Home app, and the Nest app will sunset eventually.

Installing your new Nest Cam

Before we even get to setting up your new Nest Cam, you’re going to want to install it. For most of these, it really just comes down to plugging them in.

However, with the Nest Cam with Floodlight and the Nest Cam (battery), it involves a bit more. Since these can be mounted – and the floodlight has to be mounted – it’s important to do so before setting it up. That way you can see the video and see how it looks. Make sure to follow the directions in the box, Nest generally includes all of the tools that you’ll need to install them.

With the Nest Cam (battery), you’ll need to attach the camera to the mount, which is magnetic. You can adjust the angle from there, however.

How To Set Up A Nest Camera

If you’ve purchased a newer Nest Cam (released in 2021 or later), then you will need to use the Google Home app to set up your Nest Cam. Otherwise, you’ll need the Nest app.

These cameras are only compatible with the Google Home app:

• Nest Cam (wired)
• Nest Cam with Floodlight
• Nest Cam (battery)

While these are only compatible with the Nest app:

• Nest Cam IQ Indoor
• Nest Cam IQ Outdoor
• Nest Cam Indoor
• Nest Cam Outdoor
• Nest Dropcam (all models)

How to set up with the Google Home App

Open the Google Home app.

Tap add device, or service. It’ll be a plus sign in the upper-left hand corner.

Tap on Set up device.

Then tap on New Device.

You’ll be asked to choose the home you want to add this camera too. For most people, there will only be one option there.

The app will start to look for nearby devices. Then prompt you to select the camera model you have.

Now, the Home app will direct you to use the camera on your phone to scan the QR code on your new Nest Cam. This makes set up a whole lot easier.

Finally, the app will walk you through setting it up and choosing different options to turn on (or off).

And that’s it. Your new Nest Cam is now all set up and ready to go.

How to set up with the Nest App

If you’re new to Nest, you’ll need to create an account, then you can proceed to the next steps.

Tap on the Settings icon in the top right corner.

Next, tap on Add Product.

You’ll now scan the QR code on the back of your camera. You can also opt to set up without scanning, but it’s much easier to scan it.

The app will now walk you through setting up your new Nest Cam. Including turning on and off different features.

And that’s it. Now your new Nest Cam is all set up.

Some troubleshooting tips

It’s possible that you may run into some sort of error during setup. When setting up my own Nest Camera (wired) I did have a few issues. The easiest thing to do is, do the process over. Start from the beginning, and it usually works again.

If you’re having issues getting the camera to connect to WiFi, it’s a good idea to do a restart. And if you have a hidden WiFi network, you will need to type in the SSID manually.

Now, if your camera is not turning on, then you aren’t getting enough power. Make sure you are using the camera and power brick that came with the camera. And don’t try to use another power brick that you may already have, as it may not be powerful enough for the camera. If you have the Nest Camera (battery), make sure to charge the camera before starting the setup process.