If your SensorPush Gateway is having trouble connecting to your WiFi network, don't worry. WiFi configuration issues are usually solvable once you understand the Gateway's network requirements. The most common cause is a 2.4GHz compatibility issue.
2.4GHz WiFi Only
SensorPush Gateways (both the G1 and the G2) only support 2.4GHz WiFi networks. This is by design because the Gateway doesn't need the additional speed provided by 5GHz, and 2.4GHz has better range and better ability to penetrate walls and obstructions. The G1 uses the 802.11 B/G/N wireless standards, which means it cannot connect to 5GHz-only networks or networks using only the 802.11 AC or AX (WiFi 6) standards. Most routers broadcast 2.4GHz and 5GHz together ("dual band"), and that works fine. If your network doesn't appear in the list of available networks during Gateway setup, your router may not be broadcasting on 2.4GHz.
WiFi Security (WPA3 and PMF)
The G1 works with WPA2-Personal (and WPA/WPA2), and with WPA2/WPA3 mixed mode. It can't join WPA3-only networks, or networks where a setting called PMF (802.11w) is set to Required. If your G1 won't connect even though the password is right, see My G1 WiFi Gateway won't connect to WiFi: check your router's PMF / 802.11w setting. The G2 supports WPA2 and WPA3, including PMF Required.
Neither Gateway supports enterprise WiFi that asks for a username as well as a password (WPA2-Enterprise / 802.1X).
General Troubleshooting Steps
Start by rebooting both your phone and the Gateway. After the Gateway boots up, check its light: a G1 should show a steady blue light on the front. Make sure you're in the same room as the Gateway during the configuration process. Verify that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
If you have a G2, the app tells you what went wrong. "Incorrect password" means the WiFi password didn't match, so check it and try again. "Couldn't find" your network means the G2 can't see it, so check that the network is on, uses 2.4GHz and is near the Gateway. "Couldn't connect" usually means the signal is too weak, so move the Gateway closer to your router.
Hidden Networks
The Gateway can connect to hidden networks. During the WiFi configuration phase, look for the "Join Other Network" option at the bottom of the list of available networks. Select this option and manually type in your network name (SSID) exactly as it's configured on your router.
Eero and Mesh Network Systems
For Eero specifically, here's how to enable 2.4GHz-only mode during initial setup: Open the Eero app and go to Settings. Select "Troubleshooting," then "My device won't connect," then "My device is 2.4GHz only." Select "Temporarily pause 5GHz." After enabling this, reboot your Gateway and complete the setup process. Once the Gateway is connected, you can re-enable 5GHz in the Eero app.
Fast Roaming and Enterprise Features
If you're using enterprise-grade equipment like Meraki, Ubiquiti UniFi, or other managed network systems, features like fast roaming (802.11r), client steering, fast transition, and band steering can cause the Gateway to connect and then immediately disconnect. If you're having problems connecting, try disabling these features.
Captive Portals (Hotel and Corporate Networks)
The Gateway cannot connect to networks that require a web-based login page (captive portals). If you need to use the Gateway in such an environment, use a mobile hotspot (see Using SensorPush with a mobile hotspot) or, with a G1, its Ethernet port.
Starlink Users
If you have Starlink and your Gateway shows connected to WiFi but has no internet access, open the Starlink app and go to the Network section. Look for device permissions and ensure the Gateway is allowed to access the internet.
Ethernet as an Alternative (G1)
If WiFi proves troublesome, the G1 WiFi Gateway also has an Ethernet port. Simply connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the Gateway. Note that DHCP is required for Ethernet connections. The G2 connects over WiFi only.
New Router or New WiFi Password?
If your Gateway was working and stopped after you changed your router, internet provider or WiFi password, you don't need to remove it or re-add your sensors. Just give it the new network details: see How can I change my Gateway's WiFi network?
If you've tried everything and the Gateway still won't connect, contact us at support@sensorpush.com and we'll be happy to help. Let us know which Gateway you have (G1 or G2), your router brand and model, and any message the app showed.