If you ever run into the Sky Q Network proximity error, don’t panic by assuming that your box is broken. Many Sky users like you are trying to look for a guide that can give them an in-depth tutorial on how to fix it.
Luckily for you, you’re already reading it. In this article, we will offer the guidance that you need in solving and in fixing this error!
To clear out the Sky Q proximity error on your Sky Q, power cycle all Sky Q boxes in the area. Then, perform a reset network settings on the box that’s getting the error. After that, connect the main box to the hub via an Ethernet connection and disable both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz to force its wired connection.
Solving it is one thing, but identifying it is another. Knowing what the actual cause is would be relevant because you’ll know what areas to touch and what areas you should just leave.
Why Am I Getting a Network Proximity Error on Sky Q?
The Sky Q proximity error, from its term alone, is an error that you get due to proximity issues. This simply means that the box isn’t getting the right connection it needs.
Some of the most common causes include:
- The signal is not reaching the box (and vice versa)
- Signal jammers between the box and hub (wireless)
- Incorrect standby mode settings between boxes
This proximity problem is common for boxes that are connected wirelessly.
But, if you’re hard-wired and still get the error, it would definitely be a problem with how the box is selecting the connection.
Sky Q Network Proximity Error – Complete Fix Steps
Whether you’re getting the error while being hardwired to the hub or if you’re using wireless, this guide is perfect for you!
Step #1: Power Cycle All Sky Q Boxes
The first thing you want to do is to perform a restart or a power cycle of all Sky Q boxes in the network.
Power cycling a Sky Q box is rather simple, you just need to turn it off either via the clicker or the front panel of the unit.
When it’s off, stop the flow of electricity and unplug it from the mains for about five (5) minutes. Plug the box back in and turn it on again.
NOTE: Wait for the unit to reinitialize before you try to operate it again. It may take anywhere between three (3) to five (5) minutes.
Step #2: Reset the Network Settings
Then, what you want to do next is perform a reset network settings on the main Sky Q box.
Network resetting the Sky Q box would reset all the network and connectivity settings you have on it. This means it’ll forget all saved networks, passwords, and others of the like.
Here’s how you can reset the network settings of your Sky Q box:
- On your clicker, press [HOME] and select Settings.
- From there, scroll until you see Setup > Network > Reset.
- Choose Network Settings Reset and Confirm it.
Your box shall turn off by itself and when it does, just turn it on or activate it again.
NOTE: When your box turns back on, it wouldn’t recognize the same connection it had before the reset. So, you’ll have to set up internet connectivity again.
Step #3: Check the Boxes’ Standby Settings
Then, what you want to do next is to ensure that all boxes share the same Standby Settings. This is one of the more common reasons for your Sky box’s network proximity error.
Here’s how you can check this setting:
- On your Sky Q controller, press [HOME].
- Then, select Settings > Setup.
- Navigate and click Preferences > Standby Mode.
Check and see if your boxes share the same exact settings.
Disable Eco Mode on Your Sky Box
It’s also worth noting to check if your box is set to Eco mode. If this is enabled, then you wouldn’t be able to access the box and its features between 2:30 A.M. and 5:45 A.M.
You can check this in the same area where you’ll find Standby Mode.
Step #4: Ensure Your Box Has a Satellite Signal
What you want to do next is to ensure that your box is getting the right satellite signal. To check this, simply press [HOME] on your Sky Q box remote, and then select Settings.
After that, go to Status. Look and see if the checkbox of Satellite Signal is checked.
If it is, then your satellite signal is good.
Step #5: Use an Ethernet Cable For a Wired Connection
Since the network/connectivity settings have all been reset, you’d have to re-setup the internet connection. This time, try hard wiring it to the hub or router.
To do this, you simply have to follow these steps:
- Take an Ethernet cable and plug one (1) end into the router’s port.
- Then, take the other end and plug it into the Ethernet port on the box.
- During setup, you’ll automatically be directed to go with a wired connection.
Disable 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Once done, you need to disable wireless on your Sky box. Doing so will force the box to connect to the hub via the Ethernet cable.
Here’s a quick guide that’ll teach you how to do this in case you’re not sure how you can do disable wireless on your box:
- Press [HOME] on your clicker.
- Once there, navigate to Settings and highlight it.
- Don’t press [SELECT], while highlighted, enter 0-0-1 on your remote, then press [SELECT].
Once you’re in, you need to navigate to Network. There you will see 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz separately; you need to make sure that you disable both wireless options.
When that’s all done, your Ethernet cable will be the only one your box will recognize.
Step #6: Use External Devices to Improve Connection
Then, you also want to consider using an external device to lengthen or improve your box’s connection.
For this process, you have two (2) options: using a WIFi booster or using a network switch.
Using a WiFi Booster
WiFi boosters, from the term alone, are devices that can extend the WiFi connectivity of your devices. What it does is extend the wireless reach of your gadgets/ devices.
Here’s how you can use a WiFi booster:
- Take the WiFi booster near the Sky Q box.
- Once positioned, plug the power cable into the mains or the wall socket.
NOTE: If you have multiple boxes, make sure you install and position the booster close to all boxes.
Using a Network Switch
Network switches are different. Instead of extending the wireless capability of the hub, it will extend its wired Ethernet connection.
The idea is similar, it’s just that, instead of a wireless connection, it will go through a wired or an Ethernet connection.
- Install and position the network switch in the central part where all devices meet.
- Plug the router’s Ethernet cable into the switch.
- Then, plug the Ethernet cable of the Sky Q box into the network switch.
- Once done, you’ve now extended the reach of your router.
Doing this step-by-step process will clear out the network proximity error on your Sky Q box indefinitely.
As you can see, you don’t really need to be an expert with this whole thing to get it to work again. These simple and easy guidelines can be the only thing you need!
Still Getting the Sky Q Proximity Error, What Should I Do?
If you’ve followed the steps we outlined above and the network proximity error is still showing, it’ll be best to contact Sky’s customer support team right away.
Inform them of your problem and give them the error code you’re seeing. Furthermore, let them know that you’ve already tried hardwiring the connection and using external devices to complement it.
They’ll deduce and let you know if what you need is a replacement of the box.
Read Next: How to Watch Amazon Prime on Sky Q Box?
Final Thoughts
Hence, in short, to fix the network proximity issue you’re getting, power cycle or restart all boxes and perform network settings reset. Then, try using a wired connection, and then disabling wireless capability on the Sky box.
You can also use network switches and boosters for a more stable and solid connection.
Don’t panic when you run into the Sky Q proximity error the first time. With this guide in your hands, you’ll never go in circles trying to find the perfect solution for it.
Whether you’re a newbie or a professional in tech, this tutorial fits just right to the solution you’re looking for!
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.