Moderator note: This article has been updated in December 2024.
This article is intended to get you unstuck if you are having problems adding a Sonos device to your existing system.
Firstly, this is with the assumption that you already have one or more Sonos products and are simply adding onto that system. If your setup is brand new and this is your first device, please see this list of support articles instead: Setting up your Sonos system.
If you haven’t run into any problems with the setup but are just unsure how to go about it, see this help article: Add a new Sonos product to an existing system.
If you have followed the usual steps with no success, read on…
We have assembled a short list of quick tips to try to get your device added in as quickly as possible.
Let’s try some of these things first.
- Restart the device that has the Sonos app installed on it (we call this the controller device): This can help for many reasons. For example, sometimes, an application running in the background can interfere with devices on your home WiFi network.
- Unplug your router for 10 seconds. Once the router is back up-and-running, reopen the Sonos app and try to add the product again.
- Do you have a Sonos device wired to your router? Try unplugging this for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in, before trying to add your new Sonos product again.
Still no luck? We might need to take a closer look.
Do any of the following scenarios apply to you?
- You have more than one device that gives out WiFi (WiFi Extenders, additional routers, etc.)
Are you using multiple WiFi access points? Your devices may be latched on to different instances of your WiFi. In which case, we recommend viewing this article: Sonos system requirements.
You can also do some further reading in this existing discussion on the community: Wifi Extenders
- You have a Sonos Product wired to your router via Ethernet cable.
That’s good. Whilst not essential, this has many benefits. However, if you have a powerful router, it may be disrupting your cabled device’s ability to send or receive a WiFi signal. Try increasing the distance between your Sonos device and your router, this will reduce the interference that they otherwise create for one-another. Let’s use an analogy: ____________.
Also, it may be the case that the cable isn’t connecting successfully anymore. Check the ports on the router, where the Ethernet cable inserts. Are the lights blinking, showing a healthy connection? If not, you may wish to try re-seating the cable, or replacing it altogether. Consult your router’s manual for further information concerning the Ethernet ports.
- You are attempting to start, or add to, a Sonos system at work / on an office network.
Office networks are far more complex than ones say, within the home. If you are attempting to add a device at work, you will need to consult your IT department for assistance. The variables are too great for us to be able to sufficiently explain it without further details. If you do consult with your IT department, this page concerning the Sonos system requirements may be helpful to them.
Please feel free to contact one of our support technicians if you need any assistance throughout.
Or you can ask the community for help.
In either case, be sure to provide the following information, where available:
- Which Sonos devices do you already have?
- Is one of them cabled to your router?
- What is the make and model of your router?
- Do you use any WiFi Extenders?
- Which controller device are you trying to do this from (where is the app installed)?