How to Fix a Tapo Camera That Keeps Disconnecting From Wifi
A Tapo camera that constantly disconnects from your wifi network is more than just an annoyance; it's a gap in your security. Whether your camera appears as "Offline" in the app, the live feed is constantly buffering, or you're missing important notifications, the cause is almost always a weak or unstable wifi connection.
This guide will help you systematically troubleshoot and resolve the common issues that cause Tapo cameras to disconnect, so you can enjoy a stable and reliable video feed.
## Step 1: Analyse Your Wifi Signal Strength
The most frequent reason for disconnection is a poor wifi signal at the camera's location. Your phone might connect fine in the same spot, but cameras have smaller, less powerful wifi antennas.
- Check Signal in the App: Open the Tapo app, select your camera, and go to the device settings. Look for the wifi icon, which should display the signal strength. If you only see one bar, the signal is too weak for a reliable connection.
- The "RSSI" Value: For a more technical measure, find the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value in the camera's settings or device information page. A good signal is typically better than -60dBm (e.g., -55dBm, -45dBm). A value of -70dBm or worse (e.g., -75dBm, -80dBm) is very likely to cause disconnections.
## Step 2: The Universal Fix: Reboot Everything
A simple power cycle can often resolve temporary network glitches. It's crucial to reboot in the right order.
- Unplug your Tapo camera from its power source.
- Unplug your wifi router and your modem.
- Wait for 60 seconds. This allows the devices to fully discharge and clear any temporary errors.
- Plug in the modem first. Wait for its lights to become stable (usually 1-2 minutes).
- Plug in your wifi router. Wait for its lights to indicate it's broadcasting.
- Finally, plug your Tapo camera back in. Give it a few minutes to boot up and reconnect to the network.
## Step 3: Optimise Your Router's Position and Settings
The environment around your router and camera plays a huge role in wifi performance.
- Minimise Obstructions: Wifi signals, especially on the 2.4 GHz band used by Tapo cameras, are weakened by physical barriers. Thick concrete or brick walls, large metal appliances (like refrigerators), and even water (like in an aquarium) can block the signal. Ensure the clearest possible path between the router and the camera.
- Reduce Interference: The 2.4 GHz band is crowded. Microwave ovens, cordless phones, baby monitors, and even your neighbours' wifi networks can all cause interference. Try to keep your camera and router away from these devices.
- Change Wifi Channel: Log into your router's administrative settings and try changing the 2.4 GHz wifi channel. Channels 1, 6, and 11 are the best choices as they don't overlap. Use a wifi analyser app on your phone to see which channel is least congested in your area.
## Step 4: Update Your Camera's Firmware
TP-Link often releases firmware updates that can improve connectivity and fix known bugs.
- Check for Updates in the App: In the Tapo app, navigate to your camera's settings page. The app will usually notify you if a firmware update is available. It's a simple process that can often make a big difference.
## Step 5: Reset and Reconfigure
If you've tried everything else without success, a factory reset is the last resort. This will erase all your settings on the camera, including its wifi configuration.
- Perform the Reset: Find the reset button on your camera (it might be a small pinhole). With the camera powered on, press and hold the button for about 10 seconds until the LED changes its pattern.
- Set Up Again: After the reset, you will need to delete the camera from your Tapo app and then add it again as a new device, following the on-screen instructions to connect it to your wifi network.
By following these steps, from checking the signal to optimising your network, you can solve the vast majority of Tapo wifi disconnection issues.