Setting up your Alexa device is usually straightforward, but what happens when you change your WiFi network or move to a new home? You’ll need to reconnect your Alexa device to the new WiFi network to keep enjoying its smart features. Don’t worry, the process is simple and can be done quickly through the Alexa app. This guide will walk you through exactly how to connect your Alexa and Echo devices to a new WiFi network, ensuring you’re back online in no time.
Whether you’ve upgraded your router, changed your internet provider, or simply updated your WiFi password, reconnecting your Alexa is a common task. This article provides a comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide to get your smart speaker back online and ready to assist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reconnecting Your Alexa to WiFi
The most convenient way to connect your Alexa device to a new WiFi network is through the Amazon Alexa app. Make sure you have the app installed on your smartphone or tablet. If not, you can 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.
Here’s how to reconnect your Alexa device to WiFi using the app:
Step 1: Open the Alexa App
Locate the Alexa app icon on your phone or tablet and tap to open it. Make sure you are logged in to your Amazon account within the app.
Step 2: Navigate to Devices
At the bottom of the app screen, you will see a menu bar. Tap on the “Devices” icon. It looks like a light bulb. This section is where you manage all your connected smart devices.
Step 3: Select Device Type
In the “Devices” screen, you will see various options. Look for and select “Device Type”. This option helps filter devices and quickly locate your Alexa device. Note: If you only have a few devices connected, you might see your Alexa device listed directly under “Devices”. In that case, scroll down and select your device, then skip to Step 6.
Step 4: Choose Echo & Alexa
From the “Device Type” menu, select “Echo & Alexa”. This will filter the device list to only show your Echo and Alexa smart speakers, making it easier to find the specific device you want to reconnect. If you were managing a different type of Amazon smart device, you would select the appropriate category here.
Step 5: Apply the Filter
After selecting “Echo & Alexa”, tap “Apply”. This action confirms your filter and displays your Alexa devices.
Step 6: Select Your Alexa Device
Now, from the list of devices, choose the specific Alexa device you want to connect to the new WiFi network. You might need to scroll down if you have multiple devices. Note: If you don’t see your device listed, ensure it is plugged in and powered on. If it’s still not visible, you may need to consult guides on how to set up your Alexa Echo device or how to reset your Echo device.
Step 7: Access Device Settings
Once you’ve selected your device, a new screen will appear. In the top-right corner of this screen, tap the gear icon. This icon represents “Settings” and allows you to configure your Alexa device.
Step 8: Change WiFi Network
Within the device settings, look for “WiFi Network”. Next to it, you should see a “Change” option. Tap “Change” to proceed with connecting to a new network.
Step 9: Join a New WiFi Network
On the WiFi settings screen, select “Join a different WiFi network” or “Join another Wifi network”. You will likely see the current WiFi network your device is trying to connect to at the top of the screen.
Step 10: Put Your Alexa Device into Setup Mode
Follow the on-screen instructions to put your Alexa device into setup mode. Typically, this involves pressing and holding the ‘Action’ button (often a dot icon) on the top of your Alexa device for about 15 seconds. If your device doesn’t have an action button, you might need to press and hold the ‘Volume Up’ and ‘Volume Down’ buttons simultaneously for 15 seconds. Note: For first-time setup, your device usually enters setup mode automatically when powered on.
Step 11: Confirm Setup Mode in the App
Once your device is in setup mode, the ring light on your Alexa should turn orange and begin spinning. Additionally, your Alexa device may announce, “Now in setup mode. Follow the instructions in your Alexa app.” In the app, tap “Continue” and then “Yes” to confirm your device is in setup mode.
Step 12: Select Your Alexa Device in the App
The app will now search for available devices. Select your Alexa device from the list when it appears. Note: If your device doesn’t appear, tap “Device not listed” at the top of the screen for further assistance.
Step 13: Choose Your New WiFi Network
The Alexa app will now display a list of available WiFi networks. Select your new WiFi network from this list. If your network doesn’t appear immediately, tap “Rescan Network” to refresh the list.
Step 14: Enter Your WiFi Password
Enter the password for your chosen WiFi network when prompted, and then tap “Connect”. Tip: If you’ve previously saved WiFi passwords to your Amazon account, selecting a network under “Previously Saved to Amazon” might automatically connect your device.
Step 15: Wait for Connection
Your Alexa device will now attempt to connect to the new WiFi network. This process might take a few moments. Once connected, you may need to go through a brief setup process in the Alexa app, such as confirming your language, address, device location, and voice ID. You can usually skip these steps if desired by tapping the “X” icon or “Skip”.
Congratulations! Your Alexa device should now be connected to your new WiFi network and ready to use.
Troubleshooting WiFi Connection Issues
If you encounter problems connecting your Alexa device to WiFi, here are a few things to check:
- Proximity: Ensure your smartphone or tablet is within 10 feet of your Alexa device during the setup process.
- Power: Verify that your Alexa device is properly plugged in and powered on.
- WiFi Password: Double-check that you have entered the correct WiFi password. Passwords are case-sensitive.
- Router Restart: Sometimes, restarting your WiFi router can resolve connection issues. Unplug your router, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in.
- Device Reset: If all else fails, you may need to reset your Alexa device and try the connection process again. Refer to Amazon’s help documentation for specific reset instructions for your Echo device model.
By following these steps, you should be able to easily connect your Alexa device to a new WiFi network and continue enjoying all its smart features.