Meta Quest 3 Setup Guide: Getting Started in 2026

What You Need Before Starting

Setup Steps

Step 1: Download the Meta Quest app on your phone and sign in or create a Meta account.

Step 2: Power on Quest 3 by holding the power button on the right side for 3 seconds.

Step 3: Put on the headset. The setup wizard launches automatically.

Step 4: Follow the in-headset instructions to connect to Wi-Fi - select your network and enter the password using the virtual keyboard or confirm via the Meta Quest app.

Step 5: Define your Guardian boundary. Walk the edges of your play space; Quest 3 maps the area. Stationary mode is available for seated use without a full room boundary.

Step 6: Install initial software updates. Quest 3 will check for and install updates automatically - this takes 5-10 minutes on first setup.

Step 7: Access the Horizon Store from within the headset or via the Meta Quest app to download games and apps.

First Apps to Download

• First Steps - free, excellent introduction to Quest controls
• Meta Quest Browser - for web content and YouTube
• Supernatural or Beat Saber - if fitness use is intended
• Immersed or Horizon Workrooms - if productivity use is intended

Common Setup Issues

• Wi-Fi fails to connect: Try 2.4GHz band if 5GHz fails; check WPA3 compatibility
• Guardian not saving: Ensure good ambient lighting (Guardian uses cameras)
• Controller pairing: Hold pairing button inside battery compartment while in Bluetooth pairing mode
• Update stuck: Force restart by holding power + volume down; update resumes