How to Disable Google Fiber WiFi

The Problem:

WiFi signal from Google Fiber hardware is interfering with my preferred home WiFi hardware signal.  I discovered that we cannot permanently disable WiFi on GFBR set-top box (STB) using Fiber software.  It can be temporarily disabled using Fiber App, but it will eventually be re-enabled.  I've tried using a crude "Faraday Cage" place around the STB, but this did not reduce the Fiber WiFi signal by more than ~5 dBm.

The Fix:

ATTENTION: If you want/need support from Google, or if you don't really know what you are doing... don't do this!  Think of this as a warranty-voiding activity for the tech-savvy folks only.  

You've been warned.  To proceed:

1) Unscrew four (4) T9x40 screws found on bottom of GFBR set-top box.

2) Remove cover.  See the white and black wires?  Those six (6) wires (3 black + 3 white) are the WiFi Antennae.  The top plastic plate is hinged. It gently lifts from left side to reveal 6 RF connectors.

I recommend using plastic tweezers or phone disassembly tools for this next step.

3) Gently unplug the 6 RF connectors. 

4) Once disconnected, pull the wires and RF connectors away from the main printed circuit board (PCB).  I recommend taping these to the underside of the hinged platform to prevent an accidental short on exposed components below.  Be careful not to interfere with the fan/blower.  Be careful not to apply tape to any metal surface.  (Those metal-encased RF modules get hot-enough without additional insulation.)

5) Close the hinged platform back into place, reassemble the plastic enclosure and reinstall screws.

The Results:

WiFi Signal Strength Comparison

Before:   -45 dBm                          After: -71 dBm                      Delta: -26 dBm

 

NOTES: 

[1] Signal Strength measured using a smartphone app: WiFiAnalyzer (open-source) downloaded from Google Apps Store... this is not an Ad or endorsement.  Just FYI.  Your results may vary.

[2] Measurements taken less than 10 ft from Google Fiber / GFBR set-top-box (STB).

[3] Without turning off the RF modules, it is pretty much impossible to have no RF signal.  But >25 dBm signal attenuation is plenty to ensure my preferred home WiFi hardware does not experience more signal interference form the Fiber hardware than it does from a neighbor's WiFi signal.