Unable to set up Google Home, Google Home Mini, Google Nest Audio

Summary

Explains why Google Home, Google Nest, and other Google smart speakers cannot be set up on Bowdoin's campus wireless network due to WPA2-Enterprise security requirements and network segmentation. Applies to all students and staff.

Body

Issues

  • I can't set up my Google Home on Bowdoin's Wi-Fi network.
  • Google Home Mini won't connect to the Bowdoin wireless network.
  • My Google Nest Audio isn't working on campus.
  • Why can't I set up a Google smart speaker in my dorm room?
  • Google smart devices are unable to connect to Bowdoin Wi-Fi — what are my options?
  • Can I use a Google Home or Nest on Bowdoin's BOWDOIN-PSK network?

Environment

This article applies to all Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff attempting to set up Google smart speakers or other Google smart devices on campus.

  • Who: All Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff
  • What: Google Home, Google Home Mini, Google Nest Audio, and other Google smart devices
  • Also affected: Other consumer smart devices (smart bulbs, smart switches, etc.) have a similar issue — see Unable to setup smart lights or smart switches in a dorm room or office space in the Related Articles section.

Resolution

Unfortunately, Google smart devices cannot be used on Bowdoin's campus network. There are two reasons for this:

  1. WPA2-Enterprise incompatibility: Bowdoin's primary wireless network uses WPA2-Enterprise security. Google devices are unable to join a WPA2-Enterprise network.
  2. BOWDOIN-PSK network limitation: Google devices also cannot connect via the BOWDOIN-PSK network because setup requires the controlling mobile device and the Google device to be on the same network simultaneously. The Google Home app on a phone connects to the BOWDOIN network (5 GHz), while devices connect to BOWDOIN-PSK and the two cannot communicate during setup.
Other smart devices: This limitation applies broadly to consumer smart home products — smart bulbs, smart switches, smart plugs, and similar devices are also affected by Bowdoin's network security configuration.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.

Details

Details

Article ID: 48140
Created
Fri 2/9/18 9:00 AM
Modified
Mon 5/4/26 11:39 AM

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