Updating Your Network For 2026

Happy New Year!

As it’s now 2026 many maybe considering switching out old network gear, changing ISP’s or upgrading to a Mesh network setup. It doesn’t have to be a daunting task if you follow a few simple steps before taking down your current network gear. Below are hints to get you through the process hopefully without headache and nail biting. 😊

Installing new network equipment that you own:

Before you disconnect your old router:

1. Make note of current SSID and Password
2. Check Sonos for updates (App and Hardware)
3. Unplug all Sonos
4. Disconnect current router

Setting up new router: *

1. Use the same SSID and Password (step #1 above)
2. Connect your device to Wi-Fi
3. Plug-in Your Sonos 1 x1

Installing new ISP provided network equipment and/or changing ISP’s

Before you disconnect current ISP router. (You may have a combo router/modem box):

1. Make note of current SSID and Password
2. Check Sonos for updates (App and Hardware)
3. Unplug all Sonos
4. Disconnect current ISP router (and/or modem if a combo box)

Setting up new ISP network equipment: *

1. Connect new ISP router/modem
2. Use the same SSID and Password (step #1 above)
3. Connect your device to Wi-Fi
4. Plug-in Your Sonos 1 x1

Installing Mesh Network in conjunction with ISP provided equipment (router/modem).

• There are multiple Mesh network equipment brands to choose from that are easy to setup via manufacturer instructions.
• However, there are some critical steps to be aware of that may not be included in the manufacturer setup guide.

A Mesh network typically consists of two or three components which are called “Nodes”.

• Main Node (acts as Router)
• 1-2 satellite nodes **

Upgrading to Mesh network using ISP provided router/modem.  Before you disconnect ISP equipment:

1. Make note of the current SSID and Password
2. Check Sonos for updates (App and Hardware)
3. Unplug all Sonos
4. Place ISP router side of combo box in Bridge Mode. This will insure you do not have two Wi-Fi networks broadcasting when done.
5. Connect main Node (Router) to ISP provided equipment via Ethernet
6. Use the same SSID and Password (step #1) during main node (router) setup
7. Connect your device
8. Configure satellite nodes per manufacturer instructions ***
9. Make sure satellite nodes do not have DHCP permission to assign IP addresses ****
10. Plug-in your Sonos 1x1

Other tips to know

• Do not factory reset any Sonos
• In the Router Admin make sure “Airtime Fairness” is off
• Do not employ band steering (if possible). Let Sonos attach/choose the appropriate 2.4Ghz or 5Ghz band

* Follow the Sonos steps in the link; if you feel more comfortable doing so; rather following than the steps in this thread: https://support.sonos.com/en-us/article/connect-sonos-to-a-new-router-or-wi-fi-network

** In most pre-packaged setups any node can be designated as the main router

*** Typically, the setup of satellites is via what is called a Wireless Backhaul using one of the routers bands such as a 2nd 5Ghz or 6Ghz. The other more expensive option is called a Wired Backhaul that connects the satellites via Ethernet

**** This step is typically not necessary if following the manufacturers instructions correctly