Adding users to your Ring Doorbell 2 lets family or trusted neighbors receive alerts and view live footage. This guide walks you through the entire process using the Ring app, with clear steps and helpful tips.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app: All user management happens through the official Ring mobile app—no web browser needed.
- Invite via email: You can only add users by sending an invitation to their registered Ring account email.
- Choose permission levels: Assign “Shared User” or “Admin” roles to control what others can do with your device.
- Acceptance required: New users must accept your invite before they gain access to your Ring Doorbell 2.
- Limit shared users: Ring allows up to 20 shared users per device, but only one admin (the owner).
- Troubleshoot common issues: If invites fail, check email accuracy, app updates, and internet connection.
- Revoke access anytime: You can remove users instantly from the device settings in the app.
Introduction: Why Share Your Ring Doorbell 2?
Your Ring Doorbell 2 is more than just a security camera—it’s a smart home hub that keeps you connected to your front door, whether you’re home or halfway across the world. But what if you want your spouse, roommate, or trusted neighbor to also get motion alerts, answer the door remotely, or review video clips? That’s where adding users comes in.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to add users to Ring Doorbell 2 step by step. Whether you’re setting up shared access for the first time or managing existing users, you’ll learn how to do it safely, efficiently, and without frustration. We’ll cover everything from invitation basics to troubleshooting common hiccups, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your loved ones are also protected by your Ring system.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to:
- Invite new users via the Ring app
- Set appropriate permission levels
- Manage or remove users as needed
- Troubleshoot invite failures
- Understand Ring’s user limits and best practices
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Adding Users
Before you start inviting others to your Ring Doorbell 2, make sure you have the following in place:
Visual guide about How to Add Users to Ring Doorbell 2
Image source: i.redd.it
1. A Registered Ring Account
You must be the primary account holder (admin) of the Ring Doorbell 2. If you’re not the owner, you won’t be able to add users. Your account should be verified and linked to the device.
2. The Latest Version of the Ring App
Download or update the Ring app from the Apple App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android). Older versions may not support user management features or could cause errors during the invite process.
3. Stable Internet Connection
Both your phone and your Ring Doorbell 2 need a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Weak signals can delay or prevent invitations from being sent or received.
4. The Recipient’s Ring Account Email
You can only invite someone who already has a Ring account. You’ll need their exact email address used during registration. If they don’t have one, they’ll need to create a free Ring account first.
5. Device Firmware Updated
While not always required, ensuring your Ring Doorbell 2 has the latest firmware prevents compatibility issues. The app usually prompts you to update if needed.
Step-by-Step: How to Add Users to Ring Doorbell 2
Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into the actual process. Adding users is straightforward, but attention to detail ensures success.
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 Ring Doorbell 2.
Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings
Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-left corner. From the menu, select “Devices”. Find your Ring Doorbell 2 in the list and tap on it.
Step 3: Access Shared Users
On the device dashboard, scroll down until you see the “Shared Users” section. Tap on it. This is where you’ll manage all invited users.
Step 4: Send an Invitation
Tap the “Add Shared User” button (it may appear as a “+” icon depending on your app version). A form will appear asking for the recipient’s email address.
Step 5: Enter the Recipient’s Email
Type in the exact email address associated with their Ring account. Double-check for typos—this is the #1 reason invites fail. If the email isn’t recognized, the recipient must create a Ring account first.
Step 6: Choose Permission Level
Ring offers two user roles:
- Shared User: Can view live video, receive alerts, and review recordings. Cannot change device settings or remove other users.
- Admin: Has full control, including adding/removing users and adjusting settings. Only the device owner can be an admin—you cannot assign this role to others.
For most cases, select “Shared User”. Tap “Send Invite” to complete the process.
Step 7: Notify the Recipient
The invited user will receive an email with a link to accept the invitation. They must open the link and log into their Ring account to confirm. Once accepted, they’ll see your Ring Doorbell 2 in their app under “Shared Devices.”
Managing Existing Users
After adding users, you may need to adjust permissions or remove access. Here’s how to manage your shared users effectively.
Viewing Current Shared Users
Go back to the “Shared Users” section in your device settings. You’ll see a list of everyone with access, along with their permission level and status (e.g., “Accepted” or “Pending”).
Removing a User
If someone no longer needs access—like a former roommate or temporary helper—you can remove them instantly:
- Tap on the user’s name in the Shared Users list.
- Select “Remove User”.
- Confirm the action.
Their access is revoked immediately, and they’ll no longer receive alerts or see the device in their app.
Resending an Invitation
If a user hasn’t accepted your invite after a few days, you can resend it:
- Go to the user’s profile in Shared Users.
- Tap “Resend Invite”.
This sends a fresh email link. Avoid spamming—wait at least 24 hours between resends.
Understanding User Roles and Permissions
Ring’s user system is designed to balance convenience and security. Knowing the difference between roles helps you share wisely.
Shared User Permissions
Shared users can:
- Receive motion and doorbell alerts
- View live video feeds
- Access recorded videos in the event history
- Answer the doorbell remotely (if enabled)
- Use two-way audio to speak with visitors
They cannot:
- Change Wi-Fi settings
- Adjust motion zones or sensitivity
- Delete recordings
- Add or remove other users
- Unpair the device from your account
Admin (Owner) Permissions
As the admin, you retain full control. Only you can:
- Add or remove shared users
- Modify device settings
- Transfer ownership (in rare cases)
- Delete the device entirely
Note: You cannot assign admin rights to another person. The device always belongs to the original purchaser/account holder.
Best Practices for Sharing Your Ring Doorbell 2
Sharing access is helpful, but it’s important to do it responsibly. Follow these tips to keep your home secure.
Only Invite Trusted Individuals
Anyone with access can see who comes and goes at your home. Limit invites to family members, roommates, or close neighbors you trust completely.
Use Strong Passwords
Encourage all users to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on their Ring accounts. This adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized access.
Review Access Regularly
Every few months, check your Shared Users list. Remove anyone who no longer needs access—like a babysitter from last summer or a contractor who finished work.
Communicate About Usage
Let shared users know your expectations. For example, ask them not to answer the doorbell unless it’s urgent, or to avoid reviewing footage unnecessarily.
Monitor Activity (Optional)
While Ring doesn’t log every action a shared user takes, you can spot unusual behavior—like frequent live views at odd hours—by checking your own app usage patterns.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, problems can occur. Here’s how to fix the most frequent issues when adding users to Ring Doorbell 2.
Invite Not Received
Symptom: The recipient says they never got the email.
Solution:
- Check the spam/junk folder.
- Verify the email address was entered correctly.
- Ensure the recipient has a Ring account with that email.
- Resend the invite after 24 hours.
“Email Not Found” Error
Symptom: The app says the email isn’t associated with a Ring account.
Solution: The person must create a free Ring account using that email first. They can download the app and sign up in under two minutes.
Invite Stuck in “Pending” Status
Symptom: The user claims they accepted, but it still shows “Pending.”
Solution:
- Ask them to log out and back into the Ring app.
- Have them check if the device appears under “Shared Devices.”
- If not, remove and re-invite them.
App Crashes or Freezes During Setup
Symptom: The Ring app becomes unresponsive when adding a user.
Solution:
- Close and reopen the app.
- Restart your phone.
- Update the app to the latest version.
- Clear the app cache (Android) or reinstall (iOS if needed).
Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues
Symptom: Invites fail or devices go offline frequently.
Solution:
- Move your router closer to the doorbell or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Ensure your Ring Doorbell 2 shows “Good” or “Excellent” signal strength in the app.
- Restart your router and the doorbell (via the app’s “Device Health” section).
Reached User Limit
Symptom: You can’t add more users.
Solution: Ring allows up to 20 shared users per device. If you’ve hit the limit, remove inactive users before adding new ones.
Advanced Tips for Power Users
If you’re managing multiple Ring devices or a smart home ecosystem, these tips will help streamline user management.
Use the Same Email for All Devices
If you have multiple Ring products (e.g., doorbell, spotlight cam, alarm), invite users using the same email across all devices. This creates a unified experience.
Leverage Ring Groups (for Neighborhoods)
For community sharing (e.g., with neighbors), consider creating a Ring Neighborhood group instead of individual invites. This allows broader alert sharing without granting device access.
Sync with Alexa or Google Home
Shared users can also integrate your Ring Doorbell 2 with voice assistants—if you enable it. Go to Device Settings > Linked Services to connect Alexa or Google.
Enable Smart Alerts for Shared Users
Customize which alerts shared users receive. For example, you might disable package detection for a neighbor but allow motion alerts for your spouse.
Conclusion: Share Smart, Stay Secure
Adding users to your Ring Doorbell 2 is a simple yet powerful way to extend your home’s security network. Whether you’re keeping your family in the loop or helping a neighbor keep an eye on your porch, the process takes just minutes—and the peace of mind lasts much longer.
Remember: always verify email addresses, choose appropriate permission levels, and review access regularly. With the steps in this guide, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and ensure smooth, secure sharing.
Your Ring Doorbell 2 is more than a camera—it’s a shared guardian. Use it wisely, share it safely, and enjoy the confidence that comes from knowing you’re never truly alone in protecting your home.