Setting up your Alexa device involves connecting it to your home WiFi network. Whether you’ve just moved, updated your WiFi password, or are simply setting up a new device, getting your Alexa online is crucial for accessing its smart features. This guide will walk you through the process of connecting your Alexa device to a new WiFi network, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
If this is the initial setup of your Alexa device, you might want to check out our comprehensive guide on how to set up Alexa on an Echo smart speaker for a complete walkthrough.
Connecting Your Alexa Device to a New WiFi Network: A Detailed Tutorial
To reconnect your Alexa device to a different WiFi network, you’ll primarily use the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step process:
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Launch the Alexa App: The first step is to open the Alexa application on your mobile device. If you don’t have it yet, download it from the Apple App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices. Ensure the app is officially from AMZN Mobile LLC for security.
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Navigate to the ‘Devices’ Section: Look at the bottom menu bar of the Alexa app. You’ll see several options; tap on “Devices”. This section is usually represented by a light bulb icon and is your gateway to managing all connected smart devices.
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Select ‘Device Type’: In the ‘Devices’ screen, you’ll find ‘Device Type’ listed, often in the middle of the screen. Tap on it. If you have a limited number of devices, you might directly see your Alexa device in the list under ‘Devices’ and can skip to step 6. However, for easier navigation, especially with multiple smart home devices, filtering by device type is helpful.
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Choose ‘Echo & Alexa’: From the ‘Device Type’ options, select ‘Echo & Alexa’. This action filters the device list to specifically show your Echo and Alexa smart speakers, making it easier to find the device you want to configure. If you’re aiming to change the WiFi for a different type of smart device, select the appropriate category instead.
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Apply the Filter: After selecting ‘Echo & Alexa’, tap ‘Apply’. This confirms your filter and updates the device list to only display your Alexa devices.
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Identify Your Alexa Device: Browse through the displayed Alexa devices and select the specific one you want to connect to the new WiFi network. You might need to scroll down if you have multiple devices. If your device isn’t listed, ensure it’s properly set up and powered on. For new device setup or troubleshooting, refer to guides on setting up your Alexa Echo device or resetting your Echo device.
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Access Device Settings: Once you’ve selected your device, a device-specific page will appear. Look for a gear icon, usually located in the top-right corner of this page. Tap this gear icon to access the settings menu for your chosen Alexa device.
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Find ‘WiFi Network’ and Select ‘Change’: Within the settings menu, scroll down until you find the ‘WiFi Network’ option. Next to it, you should see a ‘Change’ button. Tap ‘Change’ to initiate the WiFi network modification process.
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Choose ‘Join Another WiFi Network’: A new screen will appear, showing the current WiFi network your Alexa device is connected to (if any). Below, you’ll see the option ‘Join another Wifi network’. Select this to proceed with connecting to a new network.
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Put Your Alexa Device in Setup Mode: To allow your Alexa device to connect to a new WiFi, it needs to be in setup or pairing mode. The method to activate this mode varies slightly depending on your specific Alexa device model.
- Action Button: For many Echo devices, press and hold the ‘Action’ button for about 15 seconds. This button is typically a single dot icon located on the top of your device.
- Volume Buttons: If you don’t find an Action button, simultaneously press and hold the ‘Volume Up’ and ‘Volume Down’ buttons for 15 seconds.
If you are setting up your Alexa device for the very first time, it should automatically enter setup mode once plugged into power.
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Confirm Setup Mode in the App: After initiating setup mode on your device, tap ‘Continue’ in the Alexa app, then ‘Yes’ to confirm. You’ll know your device is in setup mode when its ring light starts blinking orange and your Alexa may announce, “Now in setup mode. Follow the instructions in your Alexa app.”
Troubleshooting Tip: Ensure your smartphone or tablet is within 10 feet of your Alexa device during this process for a stable connection. Also, double-check that your Alexa device is properly plugged in and powered on.
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Select Your Alexa Device in the App: The Alexa app will now search for devices in setup mode. Once it detects your device, it will appear in the app. Select your Alexa device from the list to continue the WiFi pairing process. If your device doesn’t appear, tap ‘Device not listed’ for further assistance.
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Choose Your New WiFi Network: The app will display a list of available WiFi networks. Select your new WiFi network from this list. If your network isn’t immediately visible, tap ‘Rescan Network’ to refresh the list.
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Enter WiFi Password and Connect: Enter the password for your chosen WiFi network. If you have previously saved WiFi passwords to your Amazon account, selecting a network under ‘Previously Saved to Amazon’ might auto-fill the password and connect your device directly. After entering the password, tap ‘Connect’.
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Wait for Connection and Complete Setup: Allow your Alexa device a moment to connect to the new WiFi network. Once connected, you might need to go through a brief setup process within the Alexa app. This could include confirming your language, address, device location in your home, setting up voice ID, and choosing preferences like Amazon Sidewalk. You can typically skip these optional steps by tapping the “X” icon or ‘Skip’ if you prefer to configure them later.
Once these steps are completed, your Alexa device should be successfully paired with your new WiFi network and ready to use. Enjoy seamless access to Alexa’s features and smart home controls!
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