Glowforge Says Offline? How to Get It Back Online

"Offline" in the Glowforge app means your laser has lost its internet connection. Glowforge says this usually comes from Wi-Fi interference, a glitch at your internet provider or problems with your networking hardware. Because every Glowforge prints through the cloud, it can't work until it's back online. These steps follow Glowforge's own help article (checked October 18, 2026).

Quick fix: restart in the right order

1. Confirm a computer on the same Wi-Fi can reach the internet.
2. Turn off your computer, phone or tablet.
3. Turn off the Glowforge.
4. Unplug your modem or router, and your Wi-Fi access point.
5. Wait one minute, plug everything back in and power it on.
6. Wait three minutes, then try printing again.

1. Check the Wi-Fi band and security

Glowforge connects only to 2.4 GHz networks (b/g/n) using WPA2, WPA, WEP or open security; the Aura and Spark list WPA2, WPA or open. A network that is 5 GHz only, or WPA3 only, won't work.

2. Improve the signal path

Glowforge recommends placing the access point high up in the open, not on the floor, under a desk, in a cabinet or in a corner. Move the Glowforge and access point closer, add a range extender, or run an Ethernet cable to a second access point near the laser.

3. Reduce interference

Temporarily turn off nearby electronics, and look for metal, thick glass, security systems, baby monitors, walkie-talkies and cordless phones between the laser and the router. Owners on Glowforge's forum also report that changing the router's 2.4 GHz channel helps on crowded networks.

4. Check for changes

If your network name or password changed, you replaced the router, changed provider or moved, run setup again at setup.glowforge.com. Undo any recent security changes on the router.

5. Update everything

Update your computer's operating system and browser, and the firmware on your router and modem. Then turn on the Glowforge and log in at app.glowforge.com.

6. Run the hotspot test

Make a 2.4 GHz hotspot on your phone and put the phone near the Glowforge. Turn the Glowforge on, wait 30 seconds, then hold its button for ten seconds until it glows teal, and choose your hotspot at setup.glowforge.com. If you can print without "Offline", your home network is the problem; keep working on steps 1–5.

Still offline?

Contact Glowforge support with your login email, the serial number (format ABC-123, on a label near the power switch), what you tried and when, and your time zone. If the laser connects but sits on "Focusing" or "Centering", see Glowforge stuck on focusing.

Tired of the cloud requirement? Most rivals run offline; see Glowforge alternatives.