Skybell Firmware Update Failed? Here's How to Fix It
A failed firmware update can leave your Skybell video doorbell unresponsive, offline, or stuck with a blinking light, compromising your home security. These updates are essential for new features and security patches, so resolving a failure is a priority. This guide provides clear, easy-to-follow steps to troubleshoot and fix a Skybell that won't update.
Understanding the Causes of Update Failure
Most Skybell firmware update issues stem from a few common culprits. Identifying the cause can help you solve the problem more efficiently.
- Weak Wi-Fi Connection: The most frequent cause. If your Wi-Fi signal is weak or unstable at the doorbell's location, the device cannot reliably download the update file.
- Insufficient Power: Skybell doorbells require a specific amount of power from your doorbell transformer. If the voltage is too low, the device may not have enough power to complete the demanding update process.
- Firewall or Network Restrictions: Some router or firewall settings can block the connection to Skybell's servers, preventing the firmware from being downloaded.
- Temporary Server Issues: Occasionally, the problem might not be on your end but with Skybell's update servers.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
Start with these basic checks. They are simple to perform and often resolve the issue without needing a full device reset.
1. Check the LED Indicator Light
The colour and pattern of the LED light on your Skybell can tell you a lot about the problem.
- Blinking Orange/Red: This typically indicates a problem connecting to your Wi-Fi network.
- Solid Red: This often points to a power supply issue. The transformer may not be providing enough voltage.
2. Verify Your Wi-Fi Signal
Stand next to your door with your smartphone and check the Wi-Fi signal strength. If you have only one or two bars, the signal is likely too weak. Consider moving your router closer to the door or installing a Wi-Fi extender. Your Skybell requires a 2.4 GHz network connection with a good upload speed (2 Mbps or more is recommended).
3. Power Cycle the Skybell
Rebooting the device can clear temporary glitches.
- Locate the circuit breaker that controls your doorbell chime and turn it off.
- Wait for at least 60 seconds.
- Turn the breaker back on.
- Allow the Skybell a few minutes to reboot and try to reconnect. The update may restart automatically.
Advanced Solutions for a Stubborn Device
If the initial steps didn't solve the problem, you might need to take more decisive action.
1. Check Your Doorbell Transformer
Your Skybell needs sufficient power to operate correctly, especially during an update.
- Safety First: Turn off the power at the circuit breaker before inspecting any wiring.
- Check the voltage rating printed on your transformer. It should meet the requirements specified in your Skybell's manual (typically at least 16V AC and 10 VA).
- If your transformer is old or underpowered, replacing it with a more powerful one can solve a host of intermittent issues, including update failures.
2. Perform a Factory Reset
A factory reset will erase the device's settings, including its Wi-Fi configuration, and force it to start the setup process from scratch. This is often the most effective way to resolve a failed update.
- Press and hold down the main button on the front of the Skybell.
- Continue holding the button through various LED colour changes.
- After approximately 80-90 seconds, the LED will begin to flash blue rapidly. You can now release the button.
- The device has been reset. Open your Skybell app and follow the on-screen instructions to add your doorbell again, as if it were a new device. This process will trigger a fresh firmware download.
By systematically working through these steps, you can diagnose the root cause of the firmware update failure and get your Skybell doorbell back online and protecting your home.