General Questions
Is this legal?
Is this legal?
Yes. You own your thermostat and have the right to modify its software under right-to-repair principles.
Will this void my warranty?
Will this void my warranty?
Possibly. Flashing custom firmware may void Google/Nest’s warranty.However, if your device is out of warranty or Google has discontinued support, this doesn’t matter.
Can I go back to Google's servers?
Can I go back to Google's servers?
Yes. You can reflash the original Nest firmware to restore factory functionality.Note: We don’t provide Google’s firmware. You’d need to obtain it separately or contact Nest support.
Which Nest generations are supported?
Which Nest generations are supported?
Generation 1 and Generation 2 are fully supported.
- Gen 2: Simple USB connection (15-30 minutes)
- Gen 1: Requires device teardown and contact bridging (30-45 minutes)
- Gen 3: Not yet supported - under development
What operating systems are supported?
What operating systems are supported?
Linux (recommended) or macOS only.Windows is NOT supported, including WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux).The firmware flashing tools require native Linux or macOS USB drivers that don’t work properly in Windows environments.
Is my data safe?
Is my data safe?
Yes. All communication uses SSL/TLS encryption.For the hosted service, we don’t sell or share your data.For complete data ownership, consider self-hosting.
Technical Questions
What if No Longer Evil shuts down?
What if No Longer Evil shuts down?
Hosted service users: Your thermostat will lose remote access but continue working locally.Self-hosted users: No impact - you’re completely independent.We’re committed to open-sourcing everything so the community can continue the project indefinitely.
Can I use this without internet?
Can I use this without internet?
With self-hosting: Yes! Run the API server on your local network and your thermostat works without internet.With hosted service: No. The thermostat needs internet to reach No Longer Evil servers.
What happens during flashing if something goes wrong?
What happens during flashing if something goes wrong?
Worst case: Device might be bricked (unresponsive).Recovery options:
- Try reflashing (often works)
- Contact community for help
Troubleshooting FAQs
My thermostat shows offline in the dashboard
My thermostat shows offline in the dashboard
Check:
- Device is connected to WiFi (Settings → Network)
- Internet connection is working
- Firewall isn’t blocking port 443
- Try different network (phone hotspot) to isolate issue
Entry code doesn't work
Entry code doesn't work
Common causes:
- Code expired (>1 hour old) - generate new one
- Typo (check 0/O, 1/I/L confusion)
- Code already used - generate new one
- Device not online - check WiFi
Can't enter DFU mode (Gen 2)
Can't enter DFU mode (Gen 2)
Try these steps in order:
- Boot device on backplate first - Connect to wall mount and let it fully boot to home screen
- Remove from wall - Once booted, remove from backplate
- Start installer - Run
./install.shand wait for “Waiting for device…” - Connect USB - Use data-capable cable (not charge-only)
- Charge battery - Ensure >50% battery
- Reboot - Hold display for 10-15 seconds
Gen 1 teardown seems difficult
Gen 1 teardown seems difficult
Gen 1 requires device disassembly which is more complex than Gen 2.What you need:
- Phillips screwdriver or prying tool
- Metal tweezers (to bridge contacts)
- Patience and steady hands
- Getting a Gen 2 device instead (easier to flash)
- Asking for help in our Discord community