While reliable, sometimes issues arise with Alexa, and users hear the message, “Sorry, I’m having trouble understanding you right now. Please try a little later.” Here’s what’s behind this problem and how to fix it and get Alexa back to work.

Causes of Alexa Not Understanding Errors

How to Fix ‘Alexa Not Understanding You Right Now’

Try these troubleshooting steps in the order presented to narrow down your issue and get Alexa listening again.

Restart the Alexa-enabled device. A simple restart is a tried-and-true tech troubleshooting method. Restarting the Echo device may be all you need to do.

Check the internet connection on Is My Internet Working?. Is your internet down? If so, Alexa won’t be able to work. If your internet isn’t up and running, take steps to restore your internet connection.

Check the Wi-Fi connection. Echo devices connect to dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz/5 GHz) networks that use the 802.11a/b/g/ n standard. If Wi-Fi is down, reset it and see if that gets Alexa working again.

Make sure the Alexa-enabled device is in Wi-Fi range. Your Wi-Fi might be available, and the internet might be streaming, but that’s no help if your Alexa-enabled device is too far away. Move it closer to the router.

Reset the Alexa-enabled device to factory defaults. Your Echo might be having a software issue that it can’t resolve on its own. Resetting the Alexa-enabled device back to factory defaults may fix the issue.

Your Alexa device can flash in several different colors, depending on what it’s trying to communicate. A flashing red light means the device has been muted. Tap the flashing red button on top of the device to unmute it.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day