Kindle Blocked From the Router

By Andrew Aarons

All versions of Amazon’s e-readers, from the basic first-generation reader to the Kindle Fire HD tablet, connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi to download books and content. When using the Kindle in your small office, you may experience Wi-Fi problems connected to your wireless router’s configuration. The Kindle works on most routers, though your router may have particular settings that are blocking the Kindle.

Open Network

If your office runs an open (unprotected) wireless network, the Kindle shouldn't have any trouble connecting to the router. In this case, the Wi-Fi issues are almost certainly specific to the Kindle and not a router-side issue. Reset your Kindle to reestablish Wi-Fi settings and try connecting to the network again. To reset any Kindle model, slide the power button and hold it in place for at least 20 seconds. The screen will shut off after a few seconds -- continue holding the power button for another 10 to 15 seconds. Then release the power button and slide it again to turn the device back on.

Network Security

The Kindle can connect to protected networks easily, though the particular security settings on the router may give the Kindle trouble. According to Amazon, you have to tell the Kindle -- including Kindle Fire models -- the type of network it’s connecting to. On a computer, look for your Wi-Fi network and note the kind of security it uses. Windows displays “Security-type” beside all available networks. Your network will use either Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) or media access control (MAC) filtering.

MAC Filtering

Some routers filter all devices that haven’t been approved by the network administrator -- you. If you’ve set up your router to use MAC address filtering, you’ll need to enter your Kindle’s MAC address into the router’s management software. On the Kindle, open settings and then choose “Device” and “About” to reveal your MAC address. Check the router manufacturer's website for the IP address for the router -- usually 192.168.0.1 -- and enter the address into the Web browser on a computer to access router settings. Click on “MAC filtering” and add your Kindle’s MAC address to the list of allowed devices.

Firewall

Your router may also be using a Firewall that isn’t granting access to your Kindle on the network. To view the devices and services allowed through your router, access your router settings as above. Every router’s software is a little different, and newer routers have helpful graphic interfaces that show you how the firewall works. Look for a “Firewall” option in the settings and then for a setting for “Allow devices and programs.” Some routers will present you with an “e-Reader” or “tablets” options; on other routers you may need to tweak firewall settings until the Kindle has access. Check the manufacturer’s website for instructions on allowing specific devices through the firewall.

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