Wyze Camera Error Code 21: How to Fix It

Easy 10-20 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Summarize with ChatGPTSummarize with ClaudeSummarize with Perplexity Add as Preferred Source on Google
Error Code
21
Brand
Wyze
Product Type
camera
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-20 minutes
Wyze Camera Error Code 21 indicates that the built-in siren on your Wyze Cam has been disabled, either through the app settings, a firmware issue, or a permission conflict. This means your camera will not sound an alert during a detected motion or security event, which can leave your home less protected. The good news is that this is almost always a software-level issue you can resolve yourself in just a few minutes using the Wyze app.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 21

  1. Check the Wyze App Siren Setting

  2. Verify Wyze App Notifications and Permissions

  3. Check Wyze Cam Rules and Shortcuts

  4. Update the Wyze App and Camera Firmware

    Do not unplug or power off the camera during a firmware update, as this can corrupt the firmware and cause additional errors.

  5. Restart the Wyze Camera

    Ensure the camera is plugged into a stable power source. Avoid power cycling during active recording sessions if possible.

  6. Re-add the Camera to Your Wyze Account

    Removing the device will erase all local settings for that camera. Make note of any custom rules or settings before proceeding.

  7. Perform a Factory Reset

    A factory reset will erase all settings, schedules, and configurations stored on the device. This action cannot be undone.
Ad

When to Call a Professional

If the camera's siren hardware itself appears to be defective — for example, the siren setting is enabled in the app but no sound is ever produced during a test — the internal speaker or siren component may have failed. In this case, contact Wyze Support directly at support.wyze.com to request a warranty replacement or repair, as opening the camera yourself will void the warranty and the hardware is not user-serviceable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Error Code 21 mean on a Wyze Camera?
Error Code 21 on a Wyze Camera means the camera's built-in siren has been disabled. This can happen due to an incorrect app setting, a conflicting automation rule, outdated firmware, or a software glitch. It does not indicate a hardware failure in most cases and is typically resolved through the Wyze app settings.
How do I turn on the siren on my Wyze Camera?
Open the Wyze app, tap on your camera, go to Settings (gear icon), then navigate to Advanced Settings. Look for the 'Siren' toggle and make sure it is switched on. You can also test the siren manually from within that menu to confirm it is working.
Can a Wyze app rule disable the camera siren automatically?
Yes. If you have created a Wyze Rule or Shortcut that includes an action to disable the siren — for example, during nighttime hours — this can trigger Error Code 21. Go to the Rules tab in the Wyze app and review all active rules that affect your camera to find and remove any that are disabling the siren.
Will updating Wyze firmware fix Error Code 21?
In many cases, yes. Firmware bugs have been known to cause siren-related errors including Error Code 21. Keeping your Wyze Cam firmware up to date is one of the most effective ways to prevent and resolve this error. Check for updates under Account > Firmware Upgrade in the Wyze app.
Does Wyze Error Code 21 mean my camera is broken?
Not necessarily. Error Code 21 almost always points to a software or settings issue rather than a hardware failure. Work through the app settings, firmware update, and factory reset steps before concluding there is a hardware problem. If the siren remains silent even after all software fixes, contact Wyze Support to evaluate whether a hardware defect is present.

Related Error Codes