Resetting the Roborock S4 for Unresponsive WiFi Connection

Roborock S4 devices are known for their powerful suction, advanced mapping, and smart scheduling. When the Wi‑Fi link drops, the unit can seem stubbornly disconnected, making remote control and app updates impossible. A common cause of this problem is simply that the robot’s network settings have become corrupted or out of sync. Rather than swapping out hardware, most users can restore a stable connection with a reset. This guide walks you through the complete process, from basic checks to a full factory reset, and explains why each step matters.

Why the Wi‑Fi Might Become Unresponsive

When a Roborock S4 loses its wireless connection, several scenarios could be at play:

• Firmware glitches that misconfigure the Wi‑Fi module
• Router changes such as a new SSID, password, or 5 GHz band
• Signal interference from neighboring networks or appliances
• Power cycling issues that leave the robot in a half‑awake state
• Incorrect router settings (e.g., DHCP disabled, MAC filtering)

Understanding the root cause can help you choose the right reset method and avoid unnecessary steps.

Preliminary Checks Before Resetting

Before you dive into reset procedures, perform these quick diagnostics to confirm the problem is truly the Wi‑Fi link.

Verify Router Functionality

• Check other devices: Ensure smartphones, laptops, or tablets can connect to the same network. If they cannot, the issue lies with the router.
• Restart the router: A simple power cycle often clears transient glitches.

Confirm Wi‑Fi Signal Strength

• Move the S4 closer: Place the robot near the router to rule out weak signal.
• Check for obstructions: Thick walls, metal objects, or microwave ovens can degrade signal quality.

Test the S4’s Wi‑Fi Interface

• Open the app: Attempt to connect via the mobile app. If the app shows “Connection failed” consistently, the robot is not picking up the network.
• Use the “Find my robot” feature: If the robot appears on the map but you cannot control it, Wi‑Fi might be partially working.

If these checks confirm a persistent disconnection, proceed to the reset steps.

Resetting Wi‑Fi Settings (Soft Reset)

The first, least invasive reset attempts to clear the Wi‑Fi cache without affecting cleaning history or custom settings.

Step 1 – Access the Device Menu

1. Put the S4 on its charging dock.
2. Press and hold the Power button for 3 seconds.
3. A voice prompt will announce “Enter configuration mode.”

Step 2 – Clear the Saved Network

1. Use the + and – buttons to scroll through menu options until you see “Wi‑Fi Settings.”
2. Select “Wi‑Fi Settings” and then “Forget network.”
3. Confirm the action when prompted.

Step 3 – Re‑Pair with Your Router

1. After forgetting the network, the S4 will prompt for a new Wi‑Fi connection.
2. Open the Roborock app, choose the robot, and select “Add new Wi‑Fi.”
3. Follow the on‑screen wizard to enter your SSID and password.

If the robot successfully reconnects, you are done. If not, proceed to a deeper reset.

Performing a Full Factory Reset

A factory reset restores the robot to its original configuration, wiping all maps, schedules, and customizations. Use this step only if the soft reset fails.

Step 1 – Initiate Factory Reset

1. With the S4 on its dock, press and hold the Power button for 5 seconds.
2. Listen for the confirmation voice: “Factory reset.”
3. The S4 will power down and restart automatically.

Step 2 – Re‑configure Settings

1. After restart, open the Roborock app and choose “Add new device.”
2. The robot will broadcast its network name. Select it from the list.
3. Follow the on‑screen steps to connect to your Wi‑Fi and set up a new username and password.

Step 3 – Restore Maps (Optional)

If you have an older backup, you can import maps via the app. Navigate to the Map section, tap “Import,” and select the backup file.

Re‑pairing the Device After Reset

Once the robot has reset, you must pair it again with your home network.

1. Ensure the Robot is in Range

• Place the S4 within a 20‑meter radius of the router to guarantee a strong signal during the pairing process.

2. Launch the App

• Open the Roborock app and tap the “Add new device” button.
• The app will scan for available S4 units; the robot’s name will appear once it broadcasts.

3. Follow the Setup Wizard

• Select the robot, then choose “Wi‑Fi connection.”
• Enter your SSID and password exactly as they appear on your router.
• If your router uses a 5 GHz band, ensure the robot supports it; otherwise, switch to the 2.4 GHz band.

4. Confirm Connection

• The app will display a success message when the robot connects.
• Test a remote command (e.g., “Start cleaning”) to verify full functionality.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If resetting the robot does not restore connectivity, try these advanced steps.

Check Router Compatibility

• Dual‑band routers: Some models broadcast a hidden 5 GHz network that the S4 cannot detect.
• MAC filtering: Disable this feature temporarily to rule out blocked access.

Inspect Firmware Version

• In the app, tap the robot icon → Device Settings → Firmware Version.
• If the firmware is outdated, download the latest update from the app’s Settings menu.

Adjust Power Settings

• Some routers offer a “Client Isolation” feature that isolates devices from each other.
• Disable this setting so the S4 can communicate with the router’s control channel.

Use a Static IP Address

• Assign a static IP to the S4 in your router’s DHCP reservation list.
• This prevents IP conflicts and can improve reliability.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

When to Contact Roborock Support

If you’ve exhausted all reset steps and the Wi‑Fi connection remains unstable:

1. Check warranty status: A malfunctioning Wi‑Fi module may be covered.
2. Gather diagnostic data: In the app, go to Help → Report a problem and include screenshots or log files.
3. Follow the support workflow: The team may provide a firmware rebuild or advise a repair.

Summary

• Start with router and signal checks.
• Use a soft Wi‑Fi reset to clear network cache.
• If that fails, perform a full factory reset.
• Re‑pair the robot via the app, ensuring correct SSID, password, and band.
• Apply advanced tweaks—static IP, MAC filtering, firmware updates—if necessary.
• Contact support only after all steps fail.

By following these structured steps, you’ll restore your Roborock S4’s Wi‑Fi connectivity and return to hassle‑free automated cleaning. Remember, a well‑maintained router and a healthy firmware environment are key to long‑term stability. Happy cleaning!