How to Fix a Lorex Camera That Keeps Disconnecting from Wi-Fi
A Lorex security camera provides crucial peace of mind, but only when it maintains a stable connection. If your camera is frequently dropping its Wi-Fi signal, showing as "offline" in the app, or delivering choppy video, it's a problem that needs to be solved. This guide will help UK users diagnose and fix the common causes of Lorex Wi-Fi disconnections.
In nearly all cases, the issue isn't a faulty camera but rather a problem within the Wi-Fi environment. By optimising your network, you can achieve the reliability you expect.
Step 1: Perform Initial Checks
Before adjusting any complex settings, let's start with the basics.
Check the Camera's Status LED
The small indicator light on your Lorex camera is a vital diagnostic tool.
- Solid Green: Connected to the network. This is the desired state.
- Flashing Green: Ready to connect or attempting to connect.
- Flashing Red: Wi-Fi connection has failed. This is a clear sign of a problem.
- Solid Red: The camera may be booting up or encountering an issue.
Power Cycle Your Network
Restarting your devices can often clear up temporary software glitches.
- Unplug your Lorex camera from its power source.
- Unplug your main internet router from the wall.
- Wait for a full 60 seconds to allow all components to reset.
- Plug the router back in first. Allow it 5-10 minutes to fully boot up and connect to the internet.
- Plug your Lorex camera back in and give it a few minutes to re-establish its connection.
Step 2: Optimise Your Wi-Fi Network Settings
If a simple reboot didn't solve the problem, you need to ensure your network is correctly configured for smart devices like security cameras.
Use the Correct Wi-Fi Band (2.4GHz)
This is the most common point of failure for Wi-Fi cameras.
- Requirement: Lorex cameras, like most smart home devices, are designed to operate on the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band. The 5GHz band, while faster, has a shorter range and is less effective at penetrating walls and other obstacles.
- The Issue: Many routers provided by UK internet companies use "band steering," which broadcasts both 2.4GHz and 5GHz under a single network name (SSID). This can cause the camera to struggle to maintain a stable connection.
- The Fix: Log into your router's administration settings (the address is usually on a sticker on the router). Find the wireless settings and disable band steering to split the bands. Create two distinct network names, such as:
MyNetwork_2.4GHzandMyNetwork_5GHz. Then, ensure your Lorex camera is connected only to theMyNetwork_2.4GHznetwork.
Ensure a Strong and Stable Signal
Video streaming is demanding and requires a strong Wi-Fi signal.
- Location, Location, Location: The further your camera is from your router, and the more walls and floors are in between, the weaker the signal will be.
- Check the Strength: Check the Lorex app for a Wi-Fi signal indicator in the camera's settings. If the signal is weak, you've likely found the cause of the disconnections.
- The Solution: If moving the camera closer isn't an option, the most effective solution is to install a Wi-Fi range extender or upgrade to a mesh Wi-Fi system to blanket your property in a strong, reliable signal.
Update Firmware
Ensure both your camera and your router are running the latest firmware. Manufacturers release updates to improve performance and fix bugs that could cause connection issues. Check the Lorex app for camera updates and your router manufacturer's website for router updates.
Step 3: Factory Reset as a Final Option
If you have a strong, dedicated 2.4GHz signal and the camera still disconnects, a factory reset is the last resort. This will wipe all its settings.
- Make sure the camera is powered on.
- Find the reset button (you may need a paperclip for recessed buttons).
- Press and hold the reset button for 15-20 seconds.
- The camera will restart. You will then need to go through the initial setup process in the Lorex app again.