Connecting a smart plug to Alexa depends on the brand. Amazon Smart Plug pairs directly in the Alexa app, while most other brands must be working in their own app before Alexa can control them.
These steps apply to Wi-Fi smart plugs from Amazon, Kasa, Wyze, Wemo, and similar brands added through the Alexa app on iPhone or Android.
Does this affect you?
Use this if the plug works from its own app but does not appear in Alexa, or if you are setting up a new plug for voice control. Skipping the manufacturer’s app is the most common mistake with third-party plugs.
Connect an Amazon Smart Plug
Amazon Smart Plug is designed to set up directly through Alexa.
- Plug the Amazon Smart Plug into an outlet within Wi-Fi range.
- Open the Alexa app.
- Tap Devices.
- Tap the + icon.
- Choose Add Device.
- Select Plug, then Amazon.
- Follow the prompts to connect it to Wi-Fi.
- Assign the plug to a room and give it a useful name.
After setup, test with a simple command such as Alexa, turn on the lamp.
Connect a third-party smart plug
Use this two-step flow for Kasa, Wyze, Wemo, and most other smart plugs.
- Download the plug manufacturer’s app listed on the box or manual.
- Create an account or sign in.
- Use that app to connect the plug to your home Wi-Fi.
- Confirm you can turn the plug on and off from the manufacturer’s app.
- Open the Alexa app.
- Tap Devices > + > Add Device.
- Choose Plug and search for the plug brand.
- Sign in with the same account used in the manufacturer’s app.
- Select the plug Alexa discovers and assign it to a room.
If the brand does not appear during Add Device, open More > Skills & Games in the Alexa app, search for the brand’s smart-home skill, enable it, and then discover devices again.
Make the plug easier to use
Add the plug to an Alexa group under Devices > Groups. If the plug is in the Living Room group, commands like Alexa, turn off the living room can control it along with other room devices.
Use More > Routines to turn the plug on or off at a time, at sunrise or sunset, or as part of a larger routine. That is useful for lamps, holiday lights, fans, and other simple devices.
If the plug goes offline after a router change, reconnect it to Wi-Fi in its own app first. Alexa does not manage most third-party plug Wi-Fi credentials; it sends commands through the brand’s service after the plug is online again.
Sources
- Amazon Alexa Help – Set up a smart plug (2025)
- Amazon Alexa Help – Add and manage smart home skills (2025)
- Amazon Alexa Help – Troubleshoot smart home device connection issues (2025)