Adding a shared user to your Ring doorbell lets family or trusted neighbors view live feeds, receive alerts, and manage recordings. This guide walks you through the simple process using the Ring app, ensuring secure and convenient access for everyone who needs it.
Key Takeaways
- Shared users can view live video and receive motion alerts but cannot delete recordings or change device settings unless granted full access.
- You must be the Ring account owner (Admin) to invite and manage shared users for your doorbell.
- Invitations are sent via email or phone number and must be accepted within 7 days or they expire.
- Each shared user needs their own Ring account—they can’t share login credentials for security reasons.
- You can remove or modify shared user permissions anytime directly from the Ring app under Device Settings.
- Shared users can access multiple Ring devices if they’re added to each one individually by the admin.
- Two-factor authentication is recommended for added security when managing shared access.
How to Add a Shared User to Ring Doorbell
If you’ve recently installed a Ring doorbell or have been using one for a while, you might be wondering how to let family members, roommates, or trusted neighbors access your device. Whether it’s your spouse who wants to see who’s at the door while you’re at work, or a neighbor helping watch your home while you’re on vacation, adding a shared user to your Ring doorbell is a simple and secure way to extend access without sharing your login details.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process—from opening the Ring app to confirming the invitation. We’ll also cover important tips, common mistakes to avoid, and troubleshooting advice if something goes wrong. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to manage shared access like a pro and keep your home security system both convenient and safe.
Why Add a Shared User?
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why sharing access is useful—and why Ring’s shared user feature is designed the way it is.
First, shared users enhance home security. If multiple people can see motion alerts or answer the doorbell, there’s a better chance someone will respond quickly to a visitor, delivery, or potential intruder. This is especially helpful for families with kids, elderly relatives, or people who work from home.
Second, shared access promotes accountability. Unlike sharing your password (which Ring strongly discourages), inviting someone as a shared user creates a traceable record. You can see who viewed what and when, and you retain full control over their permissions.
Third, it’s convenient. You don’t have to forward videos or describe who rang the bell—your partner, roommate, or caregiver can check the live feed directly from their phone.
Finally, it’s secure. Ring uses encrypted connections and requires each user to have their own account with optional two-factor authentication. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access.
What Shared Users Can and Cannot Do
It’s important to understand the limits of shared access. Not everyone needs—or should have—full control over your Ring doorbell. Here’s a breakdown of what shared users can and cannot do:
What Shared Users Can Do:
- View live video feed from the doorbell
- Receive motion and doorbell press alerts
- Answer the doorbell and speak through the two-way audio
- View past recordings (if you have a Ring Protect plan)
- Download or share videos (with your permission settings)
What Shared Users Cannot Do (Unless Upgraded to Admin):
- Delete recordings or change recording settings
- Adjust motion zones or sensitivity
- Change Wi-Fi or device settings
- Remove other users or invite new ones
- Cancel or modify your Ring Protect subscription
By default, shared users have “Viewer” access. If you trust someone completely, you can upgrade them to “Admin,” which gives them full control. But for most people, Viewer access is perfect.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Starting
Before you begin adding a shared user, make sure you have the following:
1. Ring App Installed
Download the free Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Make sure it’s updated to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.
Visual guide about How to Add a Shared User to Ring Doorbell
Image source: robots.net
2. Admin Access to the Ring Account
Only the primary account holder (Admin) can add shared users. If you’re not the admin, ask the account owner to invite you first.
3. The Recipient’s Email or Phone Number
You’ll need either the email address or phone number associated with the person’s Ring account. If they don’t have one yet, they’ll need to create a free Ring account before accepting your invitation.
4. A Stable Internet Connection
Both your phone and the Ring doorbell should be connected to Wi-Fi. A weak signal can cause delays or failed invitations.
5. Ring Protect Plan (Optional but Recommended)
While not required to add a shared user, a Ring Protect plan allows shared users to view past recordings. Without it, they can only see live video and real-time alerts.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Add a Shared User
Now that you’re prepared, let’s go through the process step by step. The entire process takes less than five minutes.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.
Step 2: Select Your Doorbell Device
On the home screen, you’ll see a list of your Ring devices. Tap on the doorbell you want to share access to. This will open the device dashboard.
Step 3: Go to Device Settings
In the top-right corner of the device screen, tap the gear icon (⚙️) to open Device Settings.
Step 4: Tap “Shared Users”
Scroll down until you find the “Shared Users” option. Tap on it to open the shared access menu.
Step 5: Tap “Add Shared User”
You’ll see a list of current shared users (if any). Tap the “Add Shared User” button, usually located at the top or bottom of the screen.
Step 6: Enter the Recipient’s Information
You’ll be prompted to enter either the person’s email address or phone number. Make sure it matches the one they used to create their Ring account.
Tip: If they don’t have a Ring account yet, they’ll receive instructions to create one after you send the invite.
Step 7: Choose Access Level
Select the level of access you want to grant:
- Viewer: Can view live video, receive alerts, and answer the doorbell. Cannot change settings.
- Admin: Full access, including the ability to manage other users and device settings.
For most people, Viewer is the best choice.
Step 8: Send the Invitation
Tap “Send Invitation”. The recipient will receive a notification via email or SMS with a link to accept the invite.
Step 9: Recipient Accepts the Invitation
The shared user must open the link and log into their Ring account (or create one). Once they accept, they’ll appear in your Shared Users list.
Step 10: Confirm Access
Return to the Shared Users section in the app. You should now see the new user listed with their access level. They can now open the Ring app and see your doorbell under “Shared Devices.”
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Adding a shared user is usually straightforward, but a few best practices can prevent headaches:
1. Double-Check the Email or Phone Number
A typo can send the invite to the wrong person or cause it to fail. Always confirm the contact info with the recipient beforehand.
2. Notify the Recipient in Advance
Let them know an invitation is coming. This prevents confusion and ensures they check their email or messages promptly.
3. Use Descriptive Names
If you have multiple shared users, give them clear labels like “Spouse – John” or “Neighbor – Sarah” to avoid mix-ups.
4. Set Expectations About Access
Explain what they can and cannot do. For example, let them know they won’t be able to delete recordings unless you upgrade them to Admin.
5. Keep Your App Updated
Ring frequently releases updates that improve security and functionality. An outdated app may not support the latest sharing features.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful steps, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems:
Issue 1: Invitation Not Received
Possible Causes: Wrong email/phone, spam folder, or expired invite.
Solution: Ask the recipient to check their spam/junk folder. If the invite is more than 7 days old, it has expired. Resend the invitation from the Shared Users menu.
Issue 2: “User Not Found” Error
Possible Causes: The recipient doesn’t have a Ring account, or the contact info doesn’t match their account.
Solution: Confirm they’ve created a Ring account using the exact email or phone number you entered. If not, have them create one first.
Issue 3: Shared User Can’t See the Doorbell
Possible Causes: App not updated, device not shared, or network issues.
Solution: Have the shared user close and reopen the Ring app. Ensure they’re logged into the correct account. Check that the doorbell appears under “Shared Devices.”
Issue 4: Invitation Stuck “Pending”
Possible Causes: Recipient hasn’t accepted, or there’s a sync delay.
Solution: Remind them to accept the invite. If it’s been more than 24 hours, resend it. You can also remove the pending invite and start over.
Issue 5: Can’t Remove a Shared User
Possible Causes: App glitch or outdated version.
Solution: Force-close the app, restart your phone, and try again. If that doesn’t work, log out and back into your Ring account.
Managing Shared Users Over Time
Adding a shared user isn’t a one-time task. You’ll likely need to manage access as your household or needs change.
How to Remove a Shared User
Go to Device Settings > Shared Users > tap the user > select “Remove User.” Confirm the action. They will lose access immediately.
How to Change Access Level
In the Shared Users menu, tap the user and select “Change Access.” Switch between Viewer and Admin as needed.
How to Add Multiple Shared Users
You can add as many shared users as you want. Just repeat the process for each person. Each must have their own Ring account.
How to Share Multiple Devices
If you have a Ring doorbell, camera, and alarm, you’ll need to add the shared user to each device individually. There’s no “share all” option, but it only takes a few extra minutes.
Security Best Practices
While sharing access is convenient, it’s important to do it safely.
1. Only Share with Trusted Individuals
Remember, shared users can see who comes to your door and when. Only invite people you trust.
2. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enable 2FA on your Ring account to prevent unauthorized access. Go to Account Settings > Two-Factor Authentication to set it up.
3. Regularly Review Shared Users
Check your Shared Users list every few months. Remove anyone who no longer needs access, like a former roommate or guest.
4. Avoid Public Sharing
Never post your Ring invite link on social media or public forums. This could allow strangers to request access.
5. Monitor Activity
While Ring doesn’t provide detailed logs of who viewed what, you can see when recordings were accessed if you have a Ring Protect plan. Use this to spot unusual activity.
Conclusion
Adding a shared user to your Ring doorbell is a smart, secure way to involve family, friends, or neighbors in your home security. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can grant controlled access to live video, alerts, and two-way communication—without compromising your account or privacy.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to invite users, set access levels, troubleshoot issues, and manage permissions over time. Whether you’re sharing with a spouse, caregiver, or trusted neighbor, you now have the tools to keep your home safe and connected.
Remember: convenience should never come at the cost of security. Always verify identities, use strong passwords, and review access regularly. With these practices in place, your Ring doorbell will remain a reliable guardian of your home—for you and those you trust.