Introduction
Setting up a Wyze outdoor security camera is an easy and affordable way to monitor your home or business exterior. Wyze cameras offer full high definition video, motion and sound detection, night vision capabilities, and free cloud storage for event-triggered video clips. With just a few simple steps, you can have your Wyze outdoor cam installed and operational in no time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire Wyze outdoor camera setup process from unpacking to mounting to connecting and configuring in the app. We’ll also provide tips and suggestions for optimal placement and adjustment. Follow along below for full details on how to properly setup your Wyze outdoor camera for the best performance.
Step 1: Unpack the Wyze Outdoor Camera
The first step is unpacking your Wyze outdoor cam from the box. Here’s what you’ll find inside:
- Wyze Outdoor Camera
- Power adapter and cable
- Mounting plate with screws
- Metal theft-deterrent strap
- Quick start guide
Take the camera unit out and make sure the lens is clean and free of any protective film or coating. The camera has a rugged, weather-resistant design that can withstand heat, cold, rain, snow and dust.
You’ll also want to locate the Wyze app download info. You’ll need the app installed on your smartphone to complete setup and manage the camera.
Step 2: Charge the Camera Battery
Before mounting and positioning your Wyze outdoor cam, you’ll want to make sure the internal battery is fully charged up.
Locate the two-part magnetic power cable. Attach the circular magnetic end to the power port on the back of the camera.
Plug the other end of the charging cable into the included adapter. Then plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet to start charging the battery.
The camera status light will turn solid red to indicate it’s charging. Allow at least 2-3 hours for a full charge before first use.
Once fully charged, the status light will turn blue. The camera can function for several months on a full battery, depending on settings and usage. But you’ll want to make sure it’s completely juiced up before installation.
Step 3: Download and Connect the Wyze App
While your new Wyze outdoor camera is charging, you can get the app set up on your mobile device.
Search for “Wyze” in the Apple App Store® or Google Play StoreTM and install the Wyze app on your iOS® or AndroidTM phone or tablet.
Open up the Wyze app once installed. If you already have a Wyze account, simply log in with your username and password.
If this is your first Wyze device, you’ll need to create a new account. Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your user name, password and contact info.
Once your account is ready, you can connect your mobile device to your home WiFi. This allows your camera to transmit footage to the cloud and your mobile device.
Step 4: Mount and Position the Camera
With a fully charged battery and Wyze app downloaded, you’re ready to mount the outdoor cam. Proper placement is key for optimal performance. Here are some tips for positioning:
Location Tips:
- Mount near entryways, driveways, or areas of interest for full visibility.
- Position at least 8 feet off the ground for a wide vantage point.
- Face the camera where there is minimal obstructions. Consider foliage and other elements that may grow and obstruct the view over time.
- Point the camera where there is adequate lighting during day and night.
Mounting Tips:
- Use the included mounting plate and hardware to affix the camera to walls, eaves, and ceilings.
- You can also use the 1/4 inch thread to mount the camera on a tripod or outdoor pole.
- Run any cabling (power/extension) through the mounting plate for a clean setup.
- Angle the camera lens to optimize the area you want to monitor. Test various angles before permanent installation.
Take your time to find the optimal outdoor location based on power accessibility, WiFi signal strength, and ideal monitoring view.
Step 5: Add and Sync the Camera
With your Wyze cam securely mounted, you’re ready to sync it with your Wyze app:
- Open the Wyze app and select “+” in the top right corner.
- Choose “Add Device” and select your new outdoor camera from the device list.
- On the camera, hold down the sync button near the status light for 2-3 seconds until it blinks blue rapidly. This puts it in pairing mode.
- The camera will show up in the app. Select it and enter your WiFi network and password when prompted.
- Give the camera a name (like “Backyard Cam”). The app will sync and connect within 1-2 minutes.
- The camera LED will turn solid blue when successfully connected to WiFi and linked to your account. You’re all set!
Step 6: Position and Adjust the Camera
With the Wyze cam connected to your app, you can see exactly what it’s viewing in real time.
Use the live view to make any adjustments to the angle and field of view. Pan, tilt and rotate the camera lens module as needed to optimize the area you want to monitor.
You can also open and close the lens shade on the bottom for the optimal light exposure.
Use the app to zoom in and out to make sure your camera view is framed properly. Walk around the area and test that there are minimal blind spots or obstructions.
Make small adjustments and then allow the camera and mount to settle into position after about 30 minutes. Then do a final check that the view is optimal for your needs.
Step 7: Configure Your Camera Settings
Once properly positioned, it’s time to customize your Wyze outdoor camera’s settings:
Basic Settings
- Night vision – Auto, On, Off
- Status light – On, Off
- Recording length – 1 min, 2 min, 5 min
- Stream quality – HD, SD
- Motion tagging – On, Off
Advanced Settings
- Motion detection – Adjust sensitivity 1-100%
- Detection zones – Edit zones for motion alerts
- Cooldown period – 5 sec, 30 sec, 1 min
- AI detection – People, vehicles, pets
- Schedule – Set active hours and modes
Take time to tailor these settings for the best experience. For example, you may want to disable sound recording for privacy if pointing into a bedroom. Or set longer recording lengths to capture entire events from detection to resolution.
Adjust motion sensitivity to limit false alerts due to foliage movement or far distance. Set detection zones to omit areas like roads. Enable AI detection to filter people and vehicles.
Step 8: Set Up Camera Alerts and Monitoring
A key benefit of your Wyze outdoor camera is being able to get notifications and monitor from your phone in real-time. Here’s how to set up alerts and access:
Push Notifications
Go into Notifications in the app and choose when you want alerts:
- Motion detection
- Sound detection
- Person detection
- Vehicle detection
- General alerts
Customize the alert schedule, eliminations, and notification type.
Live Stream
From the camera tab, swipe left to open live stream. Stream over WiFi or LTE.
Event Videos
Event-triggered clips are stored in timeline. Watch, download or share clips.
No subscription required for the last 14 days of footage!
2-Way Audio
Have a conversation using the built-in camera mic and speaker. Useful for deterrence and monitoring.
With notifications, live view, playback and audio you can easily monitor and interact!
Step 9: Secure Your Wyze Camera Account
You’ll want to take steps to secure your Wyze devices and account for privacy and protection:
- Set up 2-factor authentication in Account Settings to require a 6-digit verification code in addition to your password when you log in to the Wyze app. This adds an extra layer of security.
- Adjust sharing settings if you want to allow family/friends to view or manage your cameras through the app. Disable sharing if not needed.
- Set up alerts to be notified anytime your Wyze account is accessed from a new device for unauthorized access detection.
- Frequently change your Wyze account password to a strong, complex password that would be difficult to guess. Don’t share your log in credentials.
- Limit physical and WiFi access to your camera. Position it out of reach and set a strong WiFi SSID and password.
Taking these security precautions ensures your Wyze devices and data remain protected and private.
Troubleshooting Wyze Outdoor Camera Setup
If you encounter any issues getting your Wyze outdoor camera set up, here are some common troubleshooting tips:
Camera Won’t Power On
- Make sure the battery is fully charged. Charge for at least 2-3 hours before first use.
- Try unplugging the camera and plugging it back in to reboot the system.
- Hold down the reset button on the camera base for 10-15 seconds to reset it.
App Can’t Find Camera
- Verify the camera is blinking blue, signaling it’s in pairing mode.
- Make sure your mobile device is connected to 2.4GHz WiFi, not 5GHz. Wyze cams require 2.4GHz.
- Double check that you entered the correct WiFi network name and password. Touch the QR code in the app to scan the info.
- Reload the camera and restart the setup process.
- Reinstall the Wyze app and/or reboot your phone and try again.
Camera Loses Connection
- Check that the camera is within range of your router’s WiFi signal. The range is generally 100-150 feet outdoors.
- Limit obstructions between the camera and router. Try repositioning the cam for better signal.
- Reboot your WiFi router and camera power to reestablish a connection.
If issues persist, contact Wyze support for troubleshooting help.
Conclusion
Installing the Wyze Outdoor Camera is quick and simple with this straightforward setup guide. In just a few steps, you can mount the camera, connect it to WiFi, sync with your app, position the view, configure settings, and set up alerts and monitoring. With 24/7 continuous recording, motion and sound detection, people/vehicle notifications and two-way audio, the Wyze outdoor cam provides comprehensive monitoring and protection for any home or business exterior. Position it for optimal coverage, adjust settings for ideal performance, take security precautions, and enjoy reliable wireless surveillance with this weatherproof, wireless 1080p security camera.