Connecting Wyze security cameras to a new WiFi network is a common task that many users have to do when they move or change internet providers. While Wyze makes setting up new cameras very simple, changing the WiFi network for existing cameras unfortunately requires resetting them. However, with some preparation and by following a few easy steps, you can have your Wyze cams connected to your new network in no time.
Table of Contents
Why You May Need to Connect to a New Network
There are a few common reasons why you may need to connect your Wyze cams to a new WiFi network:
- You moved to a new home or office: When moving locations, you’ll obviously need to connect your Wyze cams to the new WiFi network at your new place.
- You changed internet providers: Getting a new router from your new internet provider means you’ll need to connect your cams to the new wireless network.
- You upgraded your router/WiFi network: Upgrading your existing router or mesh WiFi system also requires reconnecting your Wyze cams.
- Connection issues: Sometimes connectivity problems can be resolved by resetting and reconnecting the cameras.
Preparation Tips Before Changing the Network
Before connecting your Wyze cams to a new wireless network, follow these tips to ensure a smooth transition:
- Have the new WiFi password ready: You’ll need to enter the SSID and password for the new WiFi during the setup process.
- Use a mobile device connected to the new WiFi: The device running the Wyze app should be connected to the new wireless network you want the camera to connect to.
- Check the camera firmware: Make sure your Wyze cams have the latest firmware installed.
- Fully charge your camera: If you have a wireless Wyze Cam Outdoor or Wyze Cam Pan, make sure it has a full battery before starting. The setup process can drain the battery quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect Wyze Cam to New WiFi
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to connect your Wyze cam to a new wireless network:
1. Open the Wyze App and Tap “+”
Open the Wyze app and tap the “+” button in the top right corner to add a new device.
Wyze app add device
2. Select the Camera Model
Choose the specific Wyze cam model you want to set up from the list.
Select Wyze cam model
3. Press the Setup Button on the Camera
Press and hold the setup button on the bottom of the Wyze cam for 5-10 seconds until you hear a chime. The light on your camera will turn yellow. This puts the cam into setup mode.
Note: If adding a Wyze Cam Pan or Wyze Cam Outdoor, you need to remove the magnetic base to access the setup button.
4. Scan the QR Code
The Wyze app will show a QR code on the screen. Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the app. You’ll hear a voice prompt from the camera saying “QR code detected”.
5. Connect the Camera to the New WiFi
The app will now prompt you to connect to a 2.4GHz WiFi network. Select the new WiFi SSID you want the camera to connect to and enter the new WiFi password when prompted.
6. Wait for the Camera to Connect
It will take a few minutes for the camera to connect to the new WiFi network. You’ll see the status displayed in the app.
Once connected, the light on your camera will turn solid blue. You can now use the camera on the new wireless network through the Wyze app as normal.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your Wyze cam fails to connect to the new WiFi network, here are some things you can try:
- Restart your phone and router
- Delete and reinstall the Wyze app
- Toggle airplane mode on/off on your phone
- Move the camera closer to your router temporarily
- Adjust the position of the camera and router antennas
- Use Wyze’s connection troubleshooting guide
You can also contact Wyze support for further help.
Why Resetting Wyze Cams is Required
Wyze could definitely improve the process of changing WiFi networks for their cameras in a future app update. However, the cameras currently have no way to directly receive new WiFi credentials over the air.
By performing a factory reset and going through the initial setup routine, you are essentially re-educating the cameras with the details of the new wireless network. This allows them to connect to the new router and internet connection.
So while inconvenient, resetting and reconfiguring your Wyze cams is necessary when you need to connect them to a new home network for now. Hopefully Wyze eventually implements an over-the-air WiFi network update option.
Conclusion
Connecting Wyze security cameras to a new home WiFi network requires resetting and reconfiguring the cameras through the initial setup routine.
While this process can be a bit tedious if you have multiple cams, the step-by-step guide above outlines the key things you need to do to get your Wyze cameras connected to your new wireless router and internet connection.
With some preparation and by methodically following the instructions, you can have your Wyze camera system up and running on the new network smoothly.
