Why won't my eufy security camera work on the guest network?

The short answer

The homebase and your phone must be on the same network, which guest networks prevent. Guest networks deliberately stop devices from seeing each other. That is exactly what this gadget needs to do, so it fails — as designed.

What's happening underneath

Setup usually fails on a guest network because your phone cannot reach the camera while pairing.

Source: Manufacturer documentation

Try these, in this order

• • Put your phone on the same Wi-Fi name as the homebase, not the guest network.
• • Plug the homebase into the router with a cable if it sits close by.
• • Turn off 'client isolation' or 'AP isolation' on the router.
• • Use one Wi-Fi name for both bands rather than two separate names.
• • Check the signal where the gadget actually lives, not where you're standing.
• • Move the router off the floor and out of any cupboard before buying anything.
• • Put the gadget and your phone on the same Wi-Fi name.

Setting it up again properly

• • Stand next to your router while you set it up, then move the gadget to where it lives.
• • Put your phone on the 2.4 GHz network name for the setup, or use one name for both bands so the phone can follow.
• • If your router splits bands into two names, turn the 5 GHz one off for five minutes rather than fighting it.
• • Turn mobile data off on your phone during setup — some apps quietly use it and never find the gadget.

When it's worth spending money

Rarely needed. A cable to the homebase fixes most homes for a few pounds.