While SimpliSafe solar panels are well-known for their reliability and excellence, they may occasionally experience problems that can be frustrating. One such issue that can occur is dealing with a faulty Base Station.
If you’re experiencing such issues with your SimpliSafe Base Station, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss why your SimpliSafe Base Station isn’t working, how to fix the problem, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

What Causes a Simplisafe Base Station to Not Work?
Your SimpliSafe Base Station might not be working for a few reasons. Let’s explore some of these reasons.
- WiFi Connection Issues
The Base Station needs a stable WiFi connection to update, but the network might have issues. Even though the network sees the Base Station, interference or restrictions might prevent it from connecting to SimpliSafe servers.
- Firmware or Software Issues
The Base Station might have problems with its firmware or software, which could be stopping it from updating. Trying to update the firmware might not work because of these issues, making the Base Station unable to work properly.
- Router Configuration
The router might be configured to prevent the Base Station from communicating with SimpliSafe servers. It’s a good practice to check to see if the router has restricted or blocked the base unit from connecting to the Internet.
- Base Station Hardware Problems
A hardware issue with the Base Station could hinder its ability to connect to SimpliSafe.
Performing a reset may help if the problem is related to temporary glitches in the hardware. Otherwise, the unit might need to be replaced entirely.
- ISP (Internet Service Provider) Issues
In some cases, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) may be causing disruptions that prevent the Base Station from connecting to SimpliSafe servers. Checking with the ISP for any known issues or troubleshooting connectivity problems may be necessary.
- SimpliSafe Server Issues
There may be temporary problems with SimpliSafe servers that may prevent the Base Station from connecting and updating.
You can wait for the issue to be resolved or contact SimpliSafe support to inquire about any ongoing server problems.
- Incompatibility with Network Configuration
The SimpliSafe system may not work well with specific network setups or security settings. To troubleshoot, you can try adjusting your network settings or contacting SimpliSafe support for help.
- SimpliSafe Account or Configuration Issues
There might be problems with your SimpliSafe account or settings, causing issues with the Base Station update. It’s advisable to contact SimpliSafe support to discuss the account and configuration details and find a solution.
How to Fix Simplisafe Base Station Not Working?
Is your SimpliSafe Base Station unexpectedly flashing red and indicating a power outage? Or are you having a difficult time getting it to connect? If you’re experiencing these issues or something along those lines, here are steps to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:
Rugged Boot or Base Station Reset
One of the first things you can do if you’re experiencing issues getting your Base Station to connect or power up is to perform a hard reset.
How do you do this?
- Use a Philips-head screwdriver to remove the battery cover from the bottom of the device.
- Take out the batteries.
- Wait for at least 15 seconds, then put the batteries back in.
- Replace the battery cover and secure it with your screwdriver.
- Reconnect the power adapter to the Base Station.
- The unit will go through a reset phase lasting up to two minutes.
- Complete the reset by testing your Base Station using the Home and Away buttons.
- The reset was successful if the “No Link to Dispatcher” message was gone.
- If issues persist, contact customer support for further assistance. You can also try any of the other troubleshooting steps below.
Power Adapter Test
Suppose your Base Station won’t power on or is having battery issues. In that case, you can try plugging in the power adapter without the batteries to see if the problem is with the batteries or the power adapter.
This will help you figure out where the problem is coming from and guide you in troubleshooting the issue.
Replacement Batteries
If your Base Station requires new rechargeable batteries, you can request them from SimpliSafe support. You may need to contact support to obtain replacement batteries. Doing it this way will ensure that your system has reliable power.
Ensure Proper WiFi Connection
To ensure your SimpliSafe system connects well to WiFi, double-check that it’s linked to your router’s 2.4GHz band, not the 5GHz band. This helps prevent compatibility issues.
Also, when connecting to your WiFi network, it is recommended that you use numeric characters (numbers) instead of special characters (symbols or punctuation marks). Using numbers can contribute to a smoother and more trouble-free connection process.
Special characters in network passwords or names can sometimes lead to compatibility issues or errors during the connection setup, and using numbers helps avoid such complications.
To connect your system to WiFi, follow these steps:
- Using the Mobile App
- Open the SimpliSafe Mobile App on your phone or tablet.
- Select “My System” from the bottom navigation bar.
- Choose “Base Station Settings.”
- Tap on “WiFi Network.”
- Ensure your WiFi network is visible as your device scans for available networks.
- Pick your WiFi network from the list.
- Enter your WiFi network password.
- Click on “Connect.”
- Using the Keypad
- Press the “Menu” button on your Keypad and enter your 4-digit Master PIN.
- Navigate to “System Settings” using the correct rocker.
- Select “WiFi.” After a moment, your Keypad will display available networks.
- Scroll to your desired network and press the right rocker to select it.
- Enter your network password.
- The Base Station will try to connect, and the Keypad will notify you of the result.
Check for Updates or SIM Issues
- Make sure that the Base Station has the latest updates installed. This involves checking for and applying any available firmware or software updates for the Base Station.
- How do you check for updates?
- If an update is available, you’ll either get a notification on your Keyboard or see a Gear icon. If you haven’t seen it, check for updates in System Settings.
- To download the software update for your device
- Ensure your Keypad is next to your Base Station.
- Find the Gear icon and press its left side to open the menu.
- Press the right side to choose “Install Update.”
- Wait for your SimpliSafe system to install updates and restart. You’ll see the progress of the update on your screen.
- That’s it! Your SimpliSafe home security system has now been upgraded with the latest firmware for better performance.
- Also, you may want to check for SIM card issues. If problems persist, you may contact SimpliSafe support to inquire about needing a new SIM card. The SIM card is a crucial component for cellular communication in some security systems. If the current SIM card is causing issues, replacing it may be necessary to ensure proper functionality.
Resolving False Power Outage Messages
If the Base Station incorrectly shows a power outage, try this:
- Unplug the power cord.
- Wait for at least 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the power cord.
Look for a “Power Restored” message in your timeline. This should fix the mistaken power outage alert.
Change Router Bandwidth
It’s important to choose the appropriate frequency to ensure a stable connection between your SimpliSafe Base Station and WiFi.
Due to its extended range, SimpliSafe devices are designed to work seamlessly with a 2.4 GHz WiFi network, even though it operates at a slower speed compared to the 5 GHz network, which has a shorter coverage range.
You can follow these steps to switch your router’s bandwidth to the preferred 2.4 GHz network:
- Locate Your Router’s IP Address
Open your web browser on a laptop or PC. Search for your router’s IP address in the web search section. You can refer to your router’s “owner’s manual” if you are unsure about the IP address.
- Access Router Settings
Enter the router’s IP address in the browser. Log in using your router’s username and password.
- Navigate to Network Settings
Once logged in, select the network settings option.
- Check Wireless Network Settings
Within network settings, go to wireless network settings. Locate the wireless channel and choose the option that’s displaying signals.
- Switch to a 2.4 GHz Network
Select the 2.4 GHz network option and save the settings.
By switching your router to the 2.4 GHz network, you’ll optimize the connectivity of your SimpliSafe Base Station.
This improves connectivity with a broader range, reducing disconnections and making the signal better at going through walls and floors. If your router has dual-band frequencies, you can keep your other devices on the 5 GHz network and reserve the 2.4 GHz network just for the base station, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted connection.
Check SSID Name
Suppose your SimpliSafe Base Station is having trouble connecting to WiFi. In that case, one potential issue may be related to changes in your SSID name or WiFi password. You can resolve this problem by following these steps:
- Re-enter Password on Keypad
Start by re-entering your WiFi password on the Keypad associated with your SimpliSafe system.
- Verify SSID Settings
Check your SSID in the settings to ensure it aligns with your network configuration.
- Hidden SSID Considerations
Some users hide their SSID to enhance security, which can create connection issues. To allow for easy pairing, ensure your WiFi SSID is not hidden when connecting your Base Station.
But how do you confirm your SSID visibility? Here are a few steps you can take to do this:
- Secure Connection
Ensure your phone is securely connected to the WiFi network where your base station is paired.
- Access Router IP Address
Type your router’s IP address into the web browser search box. If you don’t have this information, refer to your router’s owner’s manual.
- Router Dashboard Login
Enter your router’s username and password to access the router dashboard page.
- Navigate to Advanced Options
Select advanced options within the dashboard.
- Check WiFi Security Settings
Locate the WiFi security option, where you can check if your router’s SSID is visible.
- Make SSID Visible
If hidden, adjust the settings to make your router’s SSID visible.
By following these straightforward steps, you can ensure that your SimpliSafe Base Station connects seamlessly to your WiFi network, and your Base Station shouldn’t have any problems working fine.
FAQ Simplisafe Base Station
How do I reboot the SimpliSafe Base Station?
To reboot your SimpliSafe Base Station, start by disconnecting it. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the battery cover, take out the battery, and leave it for a few minutes.
Afterward, replace the battery cover, plug in the power cord, and wait a few more minutes. These steps will reset your SimpliSafe Base Station to its factory default settings, clearing any glitches or bugs.
Why is my SimpliSafe Base Station light not on?
The lights on the SimpliSafe Base Station can mean several things. If they are not showing, your Base station is having issues activating, receiving the signal, or powering up, depending on the light you see. Understanding the colors on your SimpliSafe system is crucial. Here’s a quick guide that can help:
- Blue Light: Indicates activation status, whether your Base Station is armed or disarmed.
- Yellow Light: Signifies network activity, indicating the device is accessing information or communicating.
- White Light: Appears when the device receives user inputs, signaling readiness to receive signals from your Keypad or during the input-receiving process.
How long does the SimpliSafe Base Station last?
The SimpliSafe Base Station can use a hardwired power outlet or a built-in rechargeable battery. This dual power source ensures uninterrupted system functionality, even during a power outage.
The rechargeable battery, lasting approximately 24 hours during system use, can be recharged for extended use over many years. This design eliminates the need for frequent battery replacements and is explicitly activated when there is a power failure.
Summary
The SimpliSafe Base Station is typically dependable, but issues may arise due to hardware, software, or connection problems.
Use the provided guide to troubleshoot and restore your Base Station. However, if problems persist or the issue seems complex, firstly identify the root cause of the problem and seek assistance from support or an expert for effective resolution.