How to Fix the Scout App When It's Not Loading
When the Scout security app on your smartphone fails to load, gets stuck on the loading screen, or repeatedly crashes, it can be unsettling as it cuts off access to your home security system. You can't arm or disarm your system, view cameras, or check status. This guide provides a step-by-step process to troubleshoot and fix the Scout app, getting you reconnected quickly.
Common Reasons for the Scout App Not Loading
App loading issues are usually temporary and can be traced back to a few common sources:
- Network Connectivity: The app requires a stable connection to the internet (either Wi-Fi or mobile data) to communicate with Scout's servers.
- App Cache: Over time, the app's stored temporary files (cache) can become corrupted, leading to loading problems.
- Outdated Software: An old version of the Scout app or your phone's operating system can cause compatibility issues.
- Server-Side Problems: Occasionally, the issue might be with Scout's servers, not your device.
Troubleshooting the Scout App Loading Issue
Follow these steps in order. Most issues are resolved by one of the first three steps.
Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
This is the most common and easiest issue to fix.
- Check Wi-Fi and Mobile Data: Ensure your phone has an active internet connection. Try opening a web browser and navigating to a new page to confirm.
- Switch Connection Types: If you are on Wi-Fi, try turning it off and using your mobile data instead. If you are on mobile data, try connecting to a stable Wi-Fi network. If the app loads on one connection but not the other, you've identified a network problem.
- Reboot Your Router: If the problem seems to be your Wi-Fi, unplug your internet router for 30 seconds and then plug it back in.
Step 2: Force Close and Re-open the App
The app may be stuck in a bad state. Force closing it provides a fresh start.
- On iOS (iPhone X and later): Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle. Swipe right or left to find the Scout app, then swipe up on its preview to close it.
- On iOS (iPhone 8 and earlier): Double-press the Home button to see your recent apps, then swipe up on the Scout app's preview.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps. Find the Scout app in the list, tap on it, and then tap the 'Force Stop' button.
After closing the app, wait a few moments and then try to open it again.
Step 3: Clear the App's Cache (Android Only)
If force-stopping didn't work, clearing the cached data is the next logical step.
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Find and tap on the Scout app.
- Tap on Storage & cache.
- Tap the Clear Cache button. Do not tap 'Clear Storage' or 'Clear Data' yet, as this will delete your login information.
- Try to launch the app again.
Step 4: Check for App and System Updates
An outdated app can cause login and loading problems.
- Update the Scout App: Go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, search for the Scout app, and see if there is an 'Update' button.
- Update Your Phone's OS: Go to your phone's main settings menu and check for any available system updates. Install them if necessary, as they often contain important compatibility and security fixes.
Step 5: Reboot Your Phone
A simple restart of your smartphone can resolve a surprising number of issues by clearing out temporary memory and closing stuck background processes. Press and hold your phone's power button and follow the prompts to restart it.
Step 6: Reinstall the Scout App
If nothing else has worked, reinstalling the app is the final step. This will give you a completely fresh installation.
- Uninstall the App: Press and hold the Scout app icon on your home screen and select 'Uninstall' or 'Delete App'.
- Reboot Your Phone: It's good practice to restart your phone after uninstalling.
- Reinstall the App: Go back to the App Store or Play Store, search for the Scout app, and install it again.
- Log In: You will need to enter your Scout account email and password to log back in.
If the app still won't load after a full reinstallation, it's a good time to check the official Scout support website or social media channels to see if they have reported a server outage. If not, you should contact their customer support directly for further assistance.