Smart Lock Not Connecting to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth? Try This

A smart lock that won’t connect is usually a range, network or battery problem. Stand near the lock with your phone, put in fresh batteries, and make sure the lock’s app and your phone’s Bluetooth are on. For Wi-Fi locks, check that your router uses a network band the lock supports.

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Connection problems are frustrating, but they rarely mean the lock is broken. Work through these steps in order, testing after each one, so you know which change fixed it.

First, the lock still works

A lock that loses its connection usually still locks and unlocks by keypad, key or thumb-turn. Check that first so you know whether you have a security problem or just an app problem.

Bluetooth fixes

1. Stand close to the lock, ideally within a few feet.
2. Turn your phone’s Bluetooth off and on.
3. Check the app has permission to use Bluetooth and location if your phone asks.
4. Close and reopen the app, and update it if an update is waiting.
5. Replace the lock’s batteries. Weak batteries can make the radio unreliable.

Wi-Fi fixes

• Network band: many smart locks and their bridges connect only to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. If your router combines bands under one name, check your lock’s manual for how to connect.
• Distance: an exterior door may be at the edge of your Wi-Fi range. A closer router, an extender, or the lock’s bridge or hub (if it uses one) can help.
• Password or router changes: if you changed your router or Wi-Fi password, the lock needs to be set up on the new network again.
• Restart the router and wait a few minutes before testing.

Still offline

• Remove and re-add the lock in the app, following the manufacturer’s steps.
• As a last resort, factory reset the lock. This usually erases codes and settings.
• Check the manufacturer’s support page for outages or known issues with your model.

Keep a backup way in

Know where your physical key is or how your keypad works without the app. If the lock is dead, see smart lock dead battery. For other problems, see smart lock not working. Bill’s video above shows a Wi-Fi smart deadbolt being installed start to finish.

Quick checklist

• Phone close to the lock, Bluetooth on
• App updated and allowed to use Bluetooth
• Fresh batteries in the lock
• Router on a band your lock supports
• Bridge or hub plugged in near the door, if your lock uses one
• Lock re-added to the app if you changed your Wi-Fi