If the Hue Bridge is unable to connect when pressing the button, then you should troubleshoot the software-related issues. There is a possibility the Hue app might affected by the outdated data in the cache memory.
You should clear the Hue app cache by going into your phone “Settings->Apps->Philips Hue app->Storage->Clear cache”. If you are still facing the issue, then uninstall the Hue app from your phone and then reinstall it. Now, try to connect the Hue Bridge by pressing the button, it will be connected.
If you still find the Hue Bridge button unresponsive, then you need to check the network configurations. Make sure, all the three LEDs are turned ON on the Hue Bridge.
- If you are using any VPN on your phone, then disable it.
- Download the Fing app (networking tool) on your phone and scan your network with it.
- If your phone and Hue Bridge are connected to the same WiFi network then you will get the IP address details of Hue Bridge
- Select “I need help” in the Hue app when it is unable to find the Hue Bridge and then follow the on-screen instructions to add the Hue Bridge to the Hue app using this IP address.
In case, you find the 3rd LED (internet light) is OFF on your Hue Bridge, it is a sign of a network connectivity issue. Your Hue Bridge will be unable to connect to the internet then. You should check the DHCP configuration in your Router’s settings.
Before that, make sure the ethernet cable is properly connected to the Hue Bridge and router. In most cases, the network connectivity issue occurs due to the ethernet cable not being properly connected.
Check DHCP Configuration
- Launch the web browser on the device that is connected to your network and enter your router IP address into the address bar. (The IP address of the router can be labeled on the router itself)
- Now, enter your router “username” and “password” (that too can be found on the router itself).
- Locate and open “DHCP settings”.
- Make sure the DHCP is enabled and set to automatically assign the IP address to devices on your network.
- Check the subnet mask configuration in the DHCP settings and ensure that it matches the subnet mask of your network.
- After that, check the gateway address configuration in the DHCP settings and ensure that it matches the IP address of your router.
- Now, save the changes and exit the router configuration.
You should restart your router and the Hue Bridge and then try to connect.
Restart Router and Hue Bridge
- Unplug the power cables from both devices.
- Wait for about 1 minute and then again plug the power cables.
- Once, your network becomes stable after restarting, then try to connect the Hue bridge using the Hue app.
Reset Hue Bridge
- At last, resetting can help you resolve the issue if you find the other fixes unhelpful.
- Locate the small reset button on the back of Hue Bridge and then press it for about 10 seconds until you see the LED lights start blinking.
- Now, the resetting process will start. Once it is completed, then start reconfiguring it from scratch using the Philips Hue app.