# Change a machine's network

Change the WiFi network on a machine that has already been provisioned and deployed. There are three approaches depending on your situation.

## Option 1: Move to a new WiFi network using provisioning mode

If the machine’s current network is no longer available (for example, you moved the machine to a new facility), force the machine back into provisioning mode:

1. Connect to the machine with a shell (if possible):

```sh
   viam machines part shell --part=<part-id>
   ```

2. Create a file that forces provisioning mode on next boot:

```sh
   sudo touch /opt/viam/etc/force_provisioning_mode
   ```

3. Reboot the machine. On boot, `viam-agent` enters provisioning mode and creates a WiFi hotspot.

4. Follow the [end-user device setup](https://docs.viam.com/fleet/end-user-setup/) instructions to connect the machine to the new network.

If you cannot shell into the machine, power cycle it. If the current network is truly unavailable, `viam-agent` enters provisioning mode automatically after the configured timeout (`retry_connection_timeout_minutes`, default 10 minutes).

## Option 2: Add a new network while keeping the current one

If the machine is still connected to its current network and you want to add a second network (for example, when moving between locations):

1. Add the new network credentials in the machine’s system settings. See [configure additional networks](https://docs.viam.com/fleet/system-settings/#configure-additional-networks).
2. Set the `priority` value higher than the current network’s priority if you want the machine to prefer the new one. Priority is an integer; higher values win. Default is `0`.
3. Save the configuration. The machine picks up the new network on its next config sync.

## Option 3: Pre-configure multiple networks during provisioning

If you know the machine will need to connect to multiple networks, add them to the `additional_networks` section of the `viam-defaults.json` file before provisioning. See [provision additional networks](https://docs.viam.com/fleet/provision-devices/#provision-additional-networks).

## Verify the network change

After changing the network:

1. In the Viam app, navigate to the fleet dashboard or the machine’s page.
2. Confirm the machine shows as **Live**.
3. If the machine does not come back online within a few minutes, it may not have connected to the new network. Power cycle the device to restart provisioning mode.