How to Fix a Honeywell Camera That Keeps Disconnecting
A Honeywell security camera is a great tool for peace of mind, but not when it constantly disconnects from your network. An offline camera is an ineffective one. If you're seeing your camera drop its connection in the Honeywell Home or Total Connect app, this guide will help you find the cause and fix it.
These connection drops are almost always related to your local Wi-Fi network, and a few targeted adjustments can make a world of difference.
### Step 1: Evaluate Your Wi-Fi Signal Strength
The stability of your camera is entirely dependent on the quality of its connection to your Wi-Fi router.
- Check the Distance: How far is the camera from your router? The further away it is, the weaker the signal will be. Wi-Fi signals struggle to pass through dense materials like brick walls, chimney breasts, and large metal appliances.
- Test the Signal: A simple way to test the signal strength is to stand right next to your camera with your smartphone. Check the Wi-Fi icon on your phone. Do you have full bars? If your phone is struggling to get a good signal, your camera definitely is.
- Solutions for a Weak Signal:
- Move the Router: If possible, move your router to a more central location in your house.
- Move the Camera: Try repositioning the camera to a spot where the signal is stronger.
- Use a Wi-Fi Booster: A Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh network system can be installed to specifically boost the signal in the area where your camera is located.
## Step 2: Perform a Full Network Power Cycle
Restarting your equipment in the correct order can clear temporary errors that cause disconnections.
- Unplug Your Camera: Disconnect the Honeywell camera from its power source.
- Unplug Your Router: Unplug your main internet router from the wall socket.
- Wait: Leave both devices unplugged for at least 60 seconds. This allows them to fully power down and clear their memory.
- Restart Router: Plug the router back in and wait for 3-5 minutes. You need to give it enough time to fully reboot and re-establish a connection with your internet provider. Wait until the internet/globe light is stable.
- Restart Camera: Once the router is fully back online, plug your Honeywell camera back in. It will now connect to a freshly restarted network.
### Step 3: Update Software and Firmware
Outdated software can contain bugs that have since been fixed by the manufacturer.
- Update the App: Go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and check for any updates to your Honeywell app (Honeywell Home or Total Connect).
- Update Camera Firmware: Within the app, go to the settings for your camera. Look for an option related to "Device Information" or "Firmware Update". If an update is available, follow the instructions to install it. These updates often include important connectivity improvements.
### Step 4: Reduce Wireless Interference
Other devices in your home can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal and cause your camera to disconnect.
- Change Router Channel: Your Wi-Fi network operates on specific channels. If your neighbours' networks are on the same channel, it can cause congestion. Log in to your router's settings and try changing the 2.4GHz channel to 1, 6, or 11 to see if it provides a more stable connection.
- Check for Competing Devices: Devices like cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens can disrupt the Wi-Fi signal when in use. Try to keep your camera and router away from these if possible.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve the stability of your Honeywell camera's connection and ensure it remains online and ready to protect your home.