Pulse PRO: Wi‑Fi Requirements and Compatability

Pulse PRO: Wi‑Fi Requirements and Compatability

Most modern homes use a dual‑band or tri‑band Wi‑Fi router. These can broadcast different Wi-Fi bands, mainly 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. 
Alert
The Pulse PRO connects only to 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi compatible networks.

What Wi-Fi network type do I have?

 Below are the most common Wi‑Fi setups found in homes, along with tips for pairing your Pulse PRO successfully if you are having difficulties.
Info
If you are unsure, pair your Pulse PRO using Ethernet instead. For more info, see Pulse PRO: Ethernet Setup [iPhone and Android]

1. Separate Networks

Some routers broadcast separate network names for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Often labeled with 2.4 or 5 at the end, respectively.
  1. Turn off Auto‑Join for the 5 GHz network.
  2. Forget the 5 GHz network so your device doesn't reconnect automatically.
  3. Connect your device to the 2.4 GHz network before opening the Automate Shades app.

2. Combined (Dual/Tri‑Band) Networks

Some dual‑ and tri‑band routers combine the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands into one Wi‑Fi network name. The router uses a feature called band steering to decide which band to use. This may not always work reliably for all devices.
  1. Avoid connecting to guest networks, as these often block device pairing.
  2. If your router has an app, see if you have an option to temporarily disable the 5 GHz band.
InfoIf unsuccessful, pair via Ethernet with a Wi-Fi backup connection. For more info, see Pulse PRO: Ethernet Setup [iPhone and Android]

3. Mesh Networks

Mesh Wi‑Fi systems use a main router and one or more nodes (also called satellites/repeaters) to provide coverage throughout the home. 
  1. In most cases, the Pulse PRO pairs with mesh networks without issue.
  2. If your router has an app, see if you have an option to temporarily disable the 5 GHz band.
  3. If pairing still fails, temporarily power off or disable all nodes except the main router, then try again.
Common mesh system brands: 
  1. Asus ZenWiFi AX (XT8)
  2. Eero (Eero 6, Eero Pro 6, etc.) - *5Ghz band must be disabled in the Eero app*
  3. Google Nest Wi‑Fi 
  4. Helix Fi 2
  5. Linksys Velop
  6. Netgear Nighthawk MK63 
  7. Netgear Orbi (including Wi-Fi 6 and AC models) - *Netgear/Orbi Armor may need to be disabled*
  8. TP-Link Deco M5 
  9. Ubiquiti AmpliFi HD
  10. Tenda Nova (a more budget-friendly option)
  11. Amplifi Alien (from Ubiquiti, featuring Wi-Fi 6 support)
Info
For more router configuration help, please refer to your router’s user guide or support website.

Relevant Documentation