iRobot Roomba Not Connecting to WiFi or iRobot App

iRobot Roomba vacuums connect to your WiFi network to enable app control, scheduling, and smart home integration. If your Roomba will not connect to WiFi or is not appearing in the iRobot app, this guide will help you troubleshoot the issue.

Common Causes

  • 5GHz WiFi network - Many Roomba models only support 2.4GHz
  • Firewall blocking ports - Roomba needs specific ports open to connect
  • App glitches - The iRobot app may need to be force closed and restarted
  • Weak WiFi at home base - The Roomba needs good signal where it docks
  • Mesh network issues - Some mesh systems have compatibility problems

WiFi Compatibility

Before troubleshooting, check your Roomba model:

  • 600 series and below i6 - Only supports 2.4GHz WiFi
  • i7, i8, j7, s9, and newer - Support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz

If you have an older model, make sure you are connecting to a 2.4GHz network.

How to Fix It

Step 1: Force Close the iRobot App

Simply closing and reopening the app is not enough. You need to force close it:

  • iPhone - Swipe up from the bottom and swipe the app away
  • Android - Go to Settings > Apps > iRobot > Force Stop

Then reopen the app and try connecting again.

Step 2: Reboot the Roomba

Press and hold the Clean button for 20 seconds until you hear a tone. This reboots the Roomba and can resolve many connection issues.

Step 3: Restart Network Equipment

  1. Unplug your modem and router
  2. Wait 5 minutes
  3. Plug them back in and wait for full startup
  4. Make sure your phone is connected to the correct network (2.4GHz if required)
  5. Try connecting the Roomba again

Step 4: Position Home Base Near Router

During initial setup, place the home base closer to your router to ensure a strong WiFi signal. You can move it to your preferred location after successfully connecting.

Step 5: Check Firewall Ports

Roomba needs these ports open on your network:

  • Port 8080
  • Port 443
  • Port 8883
  • Port 123

Check your router or firewall settings and make sure these ports are not blocked.

Step 6: Remove and Re-add Robot

If connection issues persist:

  1. Open the iRobot app
  2. Go to your robot settings
  3. Remove the robot from the app
  4. Add it back as a new device

Your cleaning history should be preserved when you re-add it.

Step 7: Factory Reset

As a last resort, factory reset the Roomba:

  1. Press and hold the Dock and Clean buttons simultaneously
  2. Hold for about 10 seconds until you hear a tone
  3. Release the buttons
  4. Set up the Roomba as a new device in the app

Note: Factory reset erases all settings and maps.

Mesh Network Tips

If you have a mesh WiFi system (Eero, Google WiFi, Deco, etc.):

  • Create a separate 2.4GHz network for IoT devices
  • Disable band steering if available
  • Try using an older version of the iRobot app (some users report v5.6 works better)
  • Place a mesh node near the Roomba home base