What you need before you start

To connect a device to Alexa, you need three things: an Amazon account, the Alexa app on your phone or tablet, and a device that supports Alexa — either an Echo speaker, a Fire tablet, or another device with Alexa built in. You also need to be within range of your Wi-Fi network during setup.

If you don't have an Amazon account yet, you'll create one during the Alexa app setup. The app is free and works on iPhone, iPad, and Android devices. You can download it from the App Store or Google Play.

Key Takeaways

  • Download the Alexa app, sign in with your Amazon account, and tap the plus icon to add a new device.
  • Select your device type from the list, connect it to your Wi-Fi network, and let Alexa complete the setup automatically.
  • Once connected, you can control your device by voice or through the app, and add other smart home devices later.
  • If setup fails, restart your Wi-Fi router and Alexa device, then try again — most connection problems solve this way.
  • Your Wi-Fi password and Amazon account password are both needed during setup but are not stored on the device itself.

Download the Alexa app and sign in

Open the App Store on iPhone or iPad, or Google Play on Android. Search for "Amazon Alexa" — the official app has the Amazon smile logo. Tap Get or Install, then open the app once it finishes downloading.

When you open Alexa for the first time, you'll see a sign-in screen. Enter your Amazon account email and password. If you don't have an Amazon account, tap "Create a new Amazon account" and follow the prompts to set one up. This is the same account you use for Amazon shopping, but you don't need to have made any purchases.

Add a new device in the Alexa app

Once you're signed in, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Select "Devices" from the menu. You'll see a plus icon in the top right — tap it to add a new device.

The app will ask what kind of device you're setting up. Scroll through the list and select your device type — for example, "Echo Dot," "Echo Show," or "Fire Tablet." If you're not sure which one you have, check the bottom or back of the device for the model name.

Connect your device to Wi-Fi

The Alexa app will guide you through connecting to Wi-Fi. Your Alexa device needs to be plugged in and powered on. Make sure it's in the same room as your phone or tablet during setup.

When the app prompts you, select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter your Wi-Fi password. The app will confirm the connection and then download any software updates your device needs. This can take a few minutes. Don't unplug the device or close the app during this step.

Complete setup and test your connection

Once the app finishes downloading updates, it will ask you to confirm that your Alexa device is ready. You may hear a chime or see a light on the device. The app will then ask you to name your device — you can call it "Living Room Echo" or just "Echo," whatever makes sense for where it's located.

After naming, the setup is complete. Try saying "Alexa, what time is it?" to test the connection. If your device responds, it's working. If it doesn't respond, check that your Wi-Fi is still connected and that the device is plugged in.

What to do if setup fails

If your device won't connect to Wi-Fi, restart both your Wi-Fi router and your Alexa device. Unplug the router for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for it to fully restart. Then unplug your Alexa device, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in. Try the setup again from the Alexa app.

If the app can't find your device, make sure your phone and the Alexa device are on the same Wi-Fi network. Some routers have separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks — Alexa devices work best on 2.4 GHz. Check your router settings or ask your internet provider which band your network uses. If you're still stuck, uninstall the Alexa app, restart your phone, and reinstall it.

Using your device after setup

Once connected, you can control your Alexa device by speaking to it or by tapping buttons in the Alexa app. Say "Alexa" followed by a command — for example, "Alexa, play music" or "Alexa, set a timer for 10 minutes." You can also use the app to adjust volume, check your device status, or see what Alexa heard.

If you have other smart home devices like smart lights or thermostats, you can add them to the Alexa app later. The app will walk you through connecting each one. You don't need to set them all up on the first day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an Amazon Prime membership to use Alexa?

No. Alexa works with a regular Amazon account. Prime membership gives you access to additional features like Prime Music, but basic voice commands and smart home control work without it.

Can I use Alexa without Wi-Fi?

No. Your Alexa device needs a constant Wi-Fi connection to work. It won't respond to voice commands if the Wi-Fi is down, even if the device is powered on.

What if I forget my Amazon password during setup?

Tap "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in screen. Amazon will send a reset link to the email address on your account. Check your email, click the link, and create a new password. Then sign back into the Alexa app.

Can I connect multiple Alexa devices to one Amazon account?

Yes. You can add as many devices as you want to a single account. Each device will appear in the Devices section of the Alexa app, and you can control them all from one place or give them to different rooms.

Is my Wi-Fi password stored on the Alexa device?

Your Wi-Fi password is stored on the device so it can reconnect to your network automatically, but it's encrypted. Amazon doesn't see your Wi-Fi password, and the device won't share it with other networks or devices.