TP-Link Tapo cameras are popular budget-friendly security cameras, but WiFi setup can sometimes be frustrating. If your Tapo camera is not connecting to your WiFi network during setup, this guide will help you resolve the issue.
Common Causes
- 5GHz WiFi network - Tapo cameras only support 2.4GHz WiFi
- WPA3 encryption - Some cameras only work with WPA2
- WiFi channels 12-14 - Tapo only supports channels 1-11
- VPN on phone - VPN apps can interfere with setup
- Smart Connect enabled - Band steering can prevent connection
- Special characters in WiFi password - Can cause authentication failures
How to Fix It
Step 1: Factory Reset the Camera
- Find the RESET button on the camera
- Press and hold for 5-10 seconds
- The LED should blink red and green when reset is complete
- Wait for the camera to finish booting
Step 2: Verify 2.4GHz Network
Tapo cameras cannot connect to 5GHz WiFi. Make sure:
- Your phone is connected to the 2.4GHz network during setup
- If your router uses the same name for both bands, create a separate 2.4GHz network
- Disable Smart Connect or band steering on your router
Step 3: Check WiFi Channel
Tapo cameras only support WiFi channels 1-11. Channels 12, 13, and 14 are not supported. Log into your router and set the 2.4GHz channel to 1, 6, or 11 for best compatibility.
Step 4: Disable VPN
Disable or uninstall any VPN apps on your phone before setup. VPNs can interfere with the camera discovery process. Some users report needing to fully uninstall the VPN app, not just disable it.
Step 5: Check Router Security Settings
For best results during setup:
- Set security to WPA2-PSK (not WPA3-only)
- Set wireless mode to 802.11 b/g/n
- Remove special characters from your WiFi password if possible
- Disable MAC address filtering
- Disable AP Isolation or Client Isolation
- Make sure DHCP is enabled
Step 6: Disable Cellular Data
During setup, disable cellular data on your phone. This ensures your phone stays connected to the camera WiFi network during the pairing process instead of switching to mobile data.
Step 7: Try a Different Phone
Some users report that certain phones have more difficulty with Tapo setup. If you have access to another phone or tablet:
- Install the Tapo app on a different device
- Try setup from that device
- Use a phone with fewer apps installed if possible
Step 8: Move Camera Closer to Router
During initial setup, place the camera near your router. Weak WiFi signal can cause setup to fail. You can move the camera to its permanent location after successfully connecting.
After WiFi Password Changes
If your camera was working but stopped after changing your WiFi password:
- Factory reset the camera
- Remove it from the Tapo app
- Add it again as a new device