How to set up an Amazon Echo

Step 1: Download the Alexa app

The free Alexa app is a must-have if you’re the owner of an Amazon Echo or Echo Dot. Download the app on any smartphone or tablet with iOS 11.0 or higher, Android 5.1 or higher, or Fire OS 5.3.3 or higher. Downloading the app on a compute, make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi, then visit the Amazon Alexa website.

Step 2: Plug in the Echo

This is probably the easiest step in the whole process, as the Echo doesn’t require any batteries. Simply plug the included power adapter directly into the Echo, then connect the plug to a power outlet. When the light ring turns blue, that means the power is connected. Then, wait for it to turn orange, as this is a sign that Alexa is preparing to greet you. After that, you’ll hear Alexa’s voice telling you the device is ready for setup.

Step 3: Connect the Echo to Wi-Fi via the app

The latest versions of the Echo should guide you through this process. However, if you get stuck, simply open up the Alexa app and search through the available networks until you find yours. If you have multiple Echo devices, make sure you go to the Devices tab, then click the icon for Echo & Alexa in the top carousel and select your Alexa device. Under the Wireless heading, you should be able to see the state of the Wi-Fi network connection.

Once you’re connected, you have the option of saving your Wi-Fi password to Amazon, which makes it easy to connect to smart home devices or set up a new Alexa device on the same network should you decide to purchase more Echo speakers for other rooms.

Step 4: Start talking to Alexa

Simply tell the Echo, “Alexa, change the wake word.” You can also change the wake word manually by opening up the Alexa app, tapping Help & Feedback, and selecting Change the Wake Word. Currently, you can change the Echo to respond to “Echo,” “Amazon,” or “Computer.” There’s no word on when Amazon will allow you to customize Alexa and call her a name of your choosing.