8 Simple Ways to Fix Alexa Not Responding to Voice Commands

Get Alexa to respond to voice commands again

Co-authored by Rain Kengly Reviewed by Luigi Oppido

Last Updated: August 19, 2024 Fact Checked

Is your Alexa device unresponsive? If your Echo isn't responding to voice commands, you may need to check your cables, Wi-Fi, or settings. Luckily, there are ways to get Alexa working again. Here's what to do if Alexa is not responding to voice commands.

Why Is Alexa Not Responding to My Voice?

Alexa may not respond to your voice if there is a problem with your Wi-Fi network, your Wake Word has changed, or due to hardware issues. For a quick fix, unplug the device fully for 20 minutes, and then plug it back in again.

1

Leave the device unplugged for a bit.

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This allows Alexa to restart fully. When it powers on again, try using voice commands again.

2

Check the power adapter.

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If you don't have the original power adapter that came with your device, make sure you have a replacement certified by Amazon. Faulty adapters can cause hardware issues.^{[1]
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3

Change the Wake Word.

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Try using a different Wake Word. This is the word that wakes your Alexa. Someone may have changed this unknowingly.
- You can change the Wake Word in the mobile app.

4

Check your internet connection.

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Verify Alexa is connected to your Wi-Fi. While Alexa can still be used as a Bluetooth device without Wi-Fi, it will be extremely limited. If it's not responding, it may not have the resources for an answer.
- You may need to troubleshoot your internet.

5

Make sure Alexa isn't muted.

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When Alexa is muted, the light will be red. Some models may have a physical button; this looks like a speaker icon.

6

Rephrase your question.

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Sometimes, questions are too broad or complicated for the AI to answer.

7

Test the Action button.

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Press the Action button. On Alexa devices without a screen, this is a physical button on your device. Pressing it should prompt Alexa to respond.
- Make sure to test the volume buttons too; it may have been lowered by mistake.