How to reset Alexa on your Amazon Echo

⚡ Fast fix

• Locate the reset hole or specific button combo for your Echo generation.
• Deregister the device in the Alexa app under Settings > Device Settings to start fresh.
• Hold the Action button for 20 seconds until the light ring turns orange then blue.
• Reset process stalled?
  An Amazon expert can help at 866-853-4942.

From playing Jeopardy!® to making your favorite playlist, there are tons of fun and useful things your virtual assistant can do for you. But if you say, “Alexa, what's the weather?" and you get no response, it may be time to reset your smart speaker. Don't worry, it's simple.

At Asurion, we know how to help you get the most out of your smart home devices—whether you want to secure your phone from hackers or pick the best smart home hub. Here's our guide for how to reset Alexa® on any model or generation of Amazon Echo® speaker.

How to restart Alexa on your Amazon Echo

If your Alexa-powered speaker won't respond, try restarting it by unplugging your device from the wall and plugging it back in. Simple, right?

How to reset your Amazon Echo to its factory settings using the Alexa app

If restarting your Echo didn't get Alexa working properly again, the next step is to try a factory reset. Beware that this will erase your data—you will lose information such as settings and preferences. Once you reset your Echo device to factory defaults, you'll need to access your device settings and go through setup mode to use it again. Follow our guide to setup your Amazon Echo.

Here's how to complete the process using the Alexa app on your iOS® or Android™ smartphone.

1. Go to Devices.
2. Tap the Echo & Alexa icon at the top.
3. Select the speaker you want to factory reset.
4. Scroll down and tap Factory Reset.
5. Confirm the factory reset.

How to reset your Amazon Echo to its factory settings from the speaker

It's possible to reset your Alexa directly from your Echo device. The steps will differ depending on the model and generation of your speaker. But we'll break it down for you. (Not sure which model Amazon Echo you have? Go to Amazon.com > Account > Content & Devices > Devices. Your registered Echo devices will be listed with their model names.)

Standard Echo & Echo Dot (2nd generation and newer)

Press and hold Microphone Off + Volume Down for about 20 seconds. Release when the light ring turns off and then back on. The device will restart and enter setup mode.

Echo (1st generation) and Echo Dot (1st generation)

Use a paper clip to press and hold the Reset button on the bottom of the device for 5–8 seconds until the light ring turns orange.

Echo Plus (2nd generation)

Press and hold the Action button for about 20 seconds until the light turns off and restarts.

Echo Show

Press and hold Mute + Volume Down for about 15 seconds until the Amazon logo appears. The device will reset and restart.

Echo Studio

Press and hold Microphone Off + Volume Down for about 20 seconds until the light ring turns off and back on.

Echo Flex

Press and hold the Microphone Off button for about 20 seconds until the light pulses orange and enters setup mode.

Echo Sub

Press and hold the Action button for about 25 seconds.

After resetting, your device will return to setup mode and you’ll need to reconnect it in the Alexa app.

FAQ

What happens when I reset my Alexa device?

Resetting your Echo removes it from your Amazon account, erases Wi-Fi settings, and clears personal preferences. Afterward, you’ll need to set it up again in the Alexa app like it’s brand new.

Does resetting Alexa delete my Amazon account?

No. It only removes the device from your account. Your Amazon account, subscriptions, and saved settings stay intact.

Why isn’t my Echo resetting?

Make sure you’re holding the correct button combination for your model and holding it long enough—usually around 20 seconds. If nothing happens, unplug the device for a minute and try again.