Alexa Error 701: What It Means and How to Fix It

You’ve probably landed on this page because you’ve run into Alexa error 701. Your Amazon Alexa isn’t working as it should, and I will help you troubleshoot this error. 

An Alexa device - Guide on how to fix the Alexa error 701 and stop error 701
Photo by Jonathan Borba

Have you experienced the Alexa error 701? No need to worry! In this post, I will guide you through simple steps to fix it and restore your Alexa to proper functioning again.

Understanding Alexa Error 701

Alexa Error 701 is a connectivity issue that arises when your Alexa device cannot establish an internet connection. Various factors can contribute to this error, including:

  1. Your Wi-Fi connection isn’t working.
  2. Your Alexa device isn’t updated.
  3. There might be an issue with your Alexa device itself.

How to Fix Alexa Error Code 701

With a little bit of patience and following some steps, you can fix the error 701 enter stop.

Let’s dive into the methods you can try to get your Alexa back online and listen to your commands.

Check Your Internet Connection

Alexa needs a stable and strong internet connection to function properly. Here’s how you can check if your internet is strong enough:

  1. Take your phone or tablet and disconnect it from Wi-Fi.
  2. After a few seconds, connect it back to Wi-Fi.
  3. Open a web browser and try to load a website. If the website loads quickly, your internet is fine. There might be an issue if it loads slowly or not at all.
  4. You can also use online speed test tools to check your internet speed.

Restart Your Router and Alexa Device

Here’s how you do it:

  1. Unplug your Alexa device from the power socket.
  2. Do the same with your Wi-Fi router.
  3. Wait for about 30 seconds. This wait is essential – it lets everything reset properly.
  4. Plug your router back in first and wait for it to turn back on fully.
  5. Once your router is working again, plug your Alexa device back in.
  6. Give your Alexa device a moment to turn back on and connect to your Wi-Fi.

Restart Your Modem and Wireless Router

Restarting your modem and router is similar to restarting your Alexa device. Here’s how:

  1. Unplug your modem and your router from the power socket.
  2. Wait about 30 seconds. Just like when restarting your Alexa, this time is important.
  3. Plug your modem back in first. Wait for it to turn back on completely.
  4. Once your modem is on, plug your router back in. Wait for it to turn back on.
  5. When your modem and router are on again, give your Alexa device a moment to connect to the Wi-Fi.

Clear the Cache

Clearing the cache is like cleaning your room – it removes stuff you don’t need and can make things work better. Here’s how you do it:

  1. Open the Alexa app on your phone or tablet.
  2. Tap on ‘Settings.’
  3. Choose ‘Device Settings.’
  4. Find your Alexa device and select it.
  5. There should be an option saying ‘Clear Cache.’ Tap on it.
  6. Wait a moment for the cache to be cleared.

Change the Band Alexa is Connecting to

Switching between your Wi-Fi bands can fix connectivity issues. Your router broadcasts in two frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. If you’re having problems with one, the other might work better. Here’s how to switch:

  1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.
  2. Tap on ‘Devices’ at the bottom.
  3. Choose ‘Echo & Alexa,’ then select your device.
  4. Tap on ‘Wi-Fi Network’ and then on ‘Change.’
  5. You’ll see a list of networks. Look for your Wi-Fi network’s name and connect to the other band. For example, if you’re on ‘MyNetwork 2.4,’ connect to ‘MyNetwork 5’ or vice versa.

Check for Updates

Just like your phone or computer, your Alexa device also gets updates. These updates can fix bugs and add new features. Here’s how to check for updates:

  1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.
  2. Tap on ‘Devices’ at the bottom.
  3. Choose ‘Echo & Alexa,’ then select your device.
  4. Scroll down until you see ‘Device software version.’ If there’s an update available, you’ll see an ‘Update’ button next to it.

Why Alexa Sometimes Stops Playing Music

You’re enjoying your favorite song, and suddenly Alexa stops playing music. This can be annoying and can happen for several reasons:

  1. Weak Wi-Fi: Just like for the error 701, weak Wi-Fi can stop Alexa from playing music. You can follow the same steps from the previous sections to fix it.
  2. Problems with the music service: Sometimes, the problem isn’t with Alexa, but with the service you’re using to play music. If you’re having problems, try using another music service to see if it works better.
  3. Alexa needs an update: If your device’s software is outdated, Alexa might stop playing music. As explained in the previous section, checking for updates can solve this issue.
  4. Issues with the device: Sometimes, Alexa devices can have issues. When this happens, restarting your device can help. If you’re still having issues, you might need to reset your device to its factory settings.

Alexa Error 701 is primarily a network issue, usually solved by simple steps. By following these simple steps already discussed, you can fix the 701 error and get back to enjoying your Alexa device to the fullest. 

Related Post: Best Safe YouTube to MP3 Converter [2023]

Are you still having the Alexa Error 701?

If you’ve followed all the steps above and still experiencing Alexa Error 701, it may be time to contact Amazon’s Customer Support. Sometimes, the problem can be more technical and might need expert help to fix it.

Lastly, even if this process can feel a bit overwhelming, don’t get discouraged. Technical issues are common with any electronic device, and there’s always a solution. So keep going, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Cognitive Quest

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading