How to Fix a SimpliSafe System That Keeps Disconnecting
A security system that's offline is no security system at all. If your SimpliSafe app is frequently warning you that your system is offline or a camera is disconnected, it's crucial to resolve the underlying issue. This guide will help you troubleshoot the common causes of disconnection and restore a stable connection to your SimpliSafe system.
The key to a reliable SimpliSafe system is the connection quality of its central hub: the Base Station. All other components, including your cameras, rely on the Base Station's link to the internet.
Step 1: Pinpoint the Source of the Disconnection
First, you need to understand what is disconnecting.
- Is it a single camera? If only one SimpliCam or Video Doorbell is dropping its connection, the issue is likely localised to that specific device's Wi-Fi signal.
- Is it the entire system? If the app says your whole system is 'Offline' and you can't arm or disarm it remotely, the problem lies with the Base Station's connection to the internet. Troubleshooting the Base Station should be your priority.
Step 2: Strengthen the Base Station's Connection
The Base Station connects to the monitoring service via Wi-Fi, with a cellular backup for professionally monitored plans. The primary connection is Wi-Fi, so let's make it as strong as possible.
- Location, Location, Location: Where is your Base Station? If it's tucked away in a cupboard, in the basement, or at the far end of the house from your Wi-Fi router, it's likely struggling to get a good signal. The ideal location is a central spot in your home, with as few walls as possible between it and your router.
- Reduce Interference: The Base Station should not be placed right next to other major electronic devices. Keep it at least a few feet away from your Wi-Fi router, televisions, cordless phone bases, and microwave ovens, all of which can cause signal interference.
- Perform a Full Reboot: A simple reboot can often re-establish a stable connection.
- Unplug your main Wi-Fi router from power.
- Unplug the power cord from your SimpliSafe Base Station.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Plug the router back in first. Wait 5-10 minutes for it to fully restart.
- Plug the Base Station back in. It will announce 'Welcome to SimpliSafe' and go through its startup sequence.
Step 3: Troubleshoot a Specific Camera's Connection
If the Base Station is stable but a specific camera keeps disconnecting, focus on that camera's individual Wi-Fi link.
- Check Signal Strength: The SimpliSafe app unfortunately doesn't provide a detailed signal strength reading. However, the principle remains: the camera needs a good signal from your Wi-Fi router.
- Test the Location: As a test, try moving the camera much closer to your Wi-Fi router. If it stays connected reliably there, you have confirmed the issue is Wi-Fi signal strength at its original location.
- Use a Wi-Fi Extender: If the camera must be located in an area with a weak signal (like a detached garage or an outdoor area), the best solution is a Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh Wi-Fi system. These devices will boost the Wi-Fi signal, providing the stable connection the camera needs.
- Check Upload Speed: Live streaming from a camera requires a decent internet upload speed. Run a speed test (you can search for one online) on your phone while connected to your Wi-Fi. You should have at least 2 Mbps of upload speed available for each camera you are running.
By focusing on providing a strong, stable Wi-Fi signal to your Base Station first, and then to your individual cameras, you can resolve the vast majority of SimpliSafe disconnection issues.