If your Amazon Echo stopped responding to Alexa or ignores voice commands, this guide covers the most common fixes. These steps work for Echo Dot, Echo Show, and other Echo devices.
Why Your Echo Is Not Responding
There are several reasons your Amazon Echo might not respond to voice commands:
- The microphone is muted (red light on top)
- WiFi connection dropped
- Software needs a restart
- Wake word sensitivity is too low
- Too much background noise
How to Fix an Unresponsive Echo
Check If the Microphone Is Muted
Look at the top of your Echo. A red light ring means the microphone is off. Press the microphone button once to turn it back on. The light should turn blue briefly, then go off.
Restart Your Echo
A simple restart fixes most Echo problems:
- Unplug the power adapter from the wall
- Wait 30 seconds
- Plug it back in
- Wait for the blue ring to appear, then try a voice command
Check Your WiFi Connection
Your Echo needs an internet connection to process voice commands. Open the Alexa app on your phone, go to Devices, select your Echo, and check the WiFi status. If it shows disconnected, tap WiFi Network to reconnect.
Move Your Echo Away from Noise Sources
Fans, TVs, air conditioners, and open windows can make it hard for Echo to hear you. Try moving it to a quieter spot at least 8 inches from walls.
Factory Reset Your Echo
If nothing else works, reset your Echo to factory settings. Press and hold the Action button (the one with a dot) for 25 seconds until the light ring turns orange. You will need to set up the device again in the Alexa app.