# Amazon Alexa does not understand the names of the devices

**GoSafer Security Knowledge Base**

*This operational reference is organized for GoSafer Security customers and staff. Alarm.com product names are retained where required for technical accuracy.*

## Overview

Amazon Alexa does not understand the names of the devices

<table id="bkmrk-platformgeneral-%2F-de"> <tbody> <tr><th>Platform</th><td>General / Device</td></tr> <tr><th>Content type</th><td>Troubleshooting</td></tr> <tr><th>Source last updated</th><td>2026-03-26</td></tr> </tbody></table>

## Procedure

### If Alexa is having trouble understanding the names of the devices

Do not use special characters (e.g., \*(&amp;%’#\_) in the device names.

Avoid typos or grammatical errors.

Do not use conjunctions (e.g., and, or, etc.)

Avoid using device names that are homophones of each other (e.g., Aaron’s Lights and Erin’s lights, etc.).

For more information on changing device names, see Change a device name in Amazon Alexa.

## Source and support

For GoSafer Security assistance, visit [gosafersecurity.com](https://gosafersecurity.com/).

Original Alarm.com reference: [https://answers.alarm.com/Customer/Website\_and\_App/Home\_Automation/Amazon\_Alexa\_Smart\_Home\_Skill/Amazon\_Alexa\_does\_not\_understand\_the\_names\_of\_the\_devices](https://answers.alarm.com/Customer/Website_and_App/Home_Automation/Amazon_Alexa_Smart_Home_Skill/Amazon_Alexa_does_not_understand_the_names_of_the_devices)

<small>Always verify safety, installation, compatibility, and current UI details against the original manufacturer documentation before operational use.</small>