Changing your Ring Doorbell WiFi network is simple with the right steps. This guide walks you through the entire process—from preparation to reconnection—ensuring your device stays secure and functional on your new network.
Key Takeaways
- Preparation is key: Before changing networks, ensure your new WiFi is active, has a strong signal, and uses a 2.4GHz band (or 5GHz if supported).
- Use the Ring app: All network changes must be done through the official Ring app—there’s no manual setup on the device itself.
- Reconnect in setup mode: You’ll need to put your Ring Doorbell into setup mode using the orange button or QR code scan.
- Check signal strength: After reconnecting, verify the WiFi signal in the app to avoid disconnections or poor video quality.
- Update firmware if needed: Sometimes, outdated firmware can cause connection issues—check for updates during the process.
- Keep your old network active: Don’t delete the old WiFi until the new connection is confirmed to work reliably.
- Contact support if stuck: If you encounter persistent issues, Ring’s customer support can help troubleshoot complex problems.
How to Change My Ring Doorbell WiFi Network
If you’ve recently changed your internet provider, upgraded your router, or simply moved to a new home, you might be wondering: How do I change my Ring Doorbell WiFi network? The good news is that it’s easier than you think—especially with the user-friendly Ring app guiding you every step of the way.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of updating your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi settings. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or Ring Doorbell Elite, the steps are nearly identical. You’ll learn how to prepare your new network, safely disconnect from the old one, reconnect to the new WiFi, and troubleshoot common issues.
By the end of this article, you’ll not only know how to change your Ring Doorbell WiFi network, but you’ll also understand best practices to keep your device running smoothly for years to come.
Why You Might Need to Change Your Ring Doorbell WiFi
Visual guide about How to Change My Ring Doorbell Wifi Network
Image source: m.media-amazon.com
There are several common reasons why you might need to update your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi connection:
- Moving to a new home: Your new residence likely has a different internet setup, requiring a fresh connection.
- Upgrading your router: Newer routers often come with improved security and faster speeds—but they also mean a new network name (SSID) and password.
- Changing internet providers: Switching from one ISP to another usually involves new equipment and network credentials.
- Network performance issues: If your current WiFi is slow or unstable, connecting to a stronger or less congested network can improve video quality and responsiveness.
- Security concerns: If you suspect your old network was compromised, updating your Ring Doorbell’s connection adds an extra layer of protection.
No matter your reason, the process is straightforward—and we’re here to make sure you get it right the first time.
Before You Begin: Preparation Checklist
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to prepare. Rushing into the process without the right setup can lead to frustration or connection failures. Use this checklist to ensure everything is ready:
Gather Your New WiFi Information
You’ll need the following details for your new network:
- Network name (SSID): This is the name of your WiFi network, like “Home_Network_5G” or “SmithFamilyWiFi.”
- Password: The exact password for your new network. Make sure you know whether it’s case-sensitive.
- Network type: Most Ring Doorbells require a 2.4GHz network. Some newer models (like Ring Doorbell 3 and Pro) support 5GHz, but 2.4GHz is more reliable for doorbells due to better range and wall penetration.
Tip: If your router broadcasts both 2.4GHz and 5GHz under the same name (a feature called “band steering”), consider temporarily renaming one of them so you can select the correct band during setup.
Ensure Your New WiFi Is Active and Strong
Your Ring Doorbell needs a stable connection to function properly. Before changing networks:
- Test the WiFi signal strength at your doorbell’s location using your phone or a WiFi analyzer app.
- Avoid areas with weak signals—consider using a WiFi extender if needed.
- Make sure your internet speed is sufficient. Ring recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed for optimal performance.
Charge Your Ring Doorbell (If Battery-Powered)
If you have a battery-powered Ring Doorbell (like the standard Ring Video Doorbell or Ring Doorbell 2), make sure it’s fully charged. The setup process can drain the battery quickly, especially if it takes multiple attempts.
Download or Update the Ring App
The Ring app is essential for managing your device. Make sure you have the latest version installed on your smartphone:
- Open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Search for “Ring” and update if a new version is available.
- Log in with your Ring account credentials.
Keep Your Old Network Active (Temporarily)
Don’t disconnect or delete your old WiFi network until your Ring Doorbell is successfully connected to the new one. This gives you a fallback option if something goes wrong.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Ring Doorbell WiFi Network
Now that you’re prepared, let’s walk through the actual process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth transition.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Select Your Device
1. Launch the Ring app on your smartphone.
2. Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-left corner.
3. Select “Devices” from the menu.
4. Choose your Ring Doorbell from the list of devices.
You’ll now be on the device dashboard, which shows live view, motion settings, and more.
Step 2: Access Device Health
1. On the device dashboard, scroll down and tap “Device Health.”
2. Look for the “Change WiFi Network” option and tap it.
This will initiate the WiFi setup process. The app will guide you through the next steps.
Step 3: Put Your Ring Doorbell into Setup Mode
Now you need to physically interact with your doorbell to put it into setup mode. The method depends on your model:
For Battery-Powered Ring Doorbells (e.g., Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2):
1. Remove the doorbell from its mounting bracket (you may need a screwdriver).
2. Press and hold the orange button on the back of the device for about 10 seconds.
3. The LED on the front will flash white, indicating setup mode.
For Wired Ring Doorbells (e.g., Ring Doorbell Pro, Ring Doorbell Elite):
1. Locate the small button on the side or back of the device.
2. Press and hold it for 10–15 seconds until the LED flashes white.
Alternative Method: QR Code Scan
Some newer models allow you to scan a QR code instead:
1. In the Ring app, tap “Scan QR Code” when prompted.
2. Point your phone’s camera at the QR code on the back of your doorbell.
3. The app will automatically detect the device and enter setup mode.
Step 4: Connect to Your New WiFi Network
Once your doorbell is in setup mode, the app will search for available networks:
1. Select your new WiFi network from the list.
2. Enter the password when prompted.
3. Tap “Connect.”
The app will send the network credentials to your doorbell. This may take 30–60 seconds. During this time, the LED on your doorbell will flash white or blue.
Step 5: Wait for Connection Confirmation
After entering the password, your doorbell will attempt to connect to the new network. You’ll see a progress bar in the app.
- If successful, the app will display “Connected” and return to the device dashboard.
- If it fails, you’ll see an error message—don’t panic. We’ll cover troubleshooting in a later section.
Step 6: Test the Connection
Once connected, it’s important to verify everything is working:
1. Go back to the device dashboard.
2. Tap “Live View” to check the video feed.
3. Check the signal strength under “Device Health”—it should show “Good” or “Excellent.”
4. Test motion detection by walking in front of the doorbell.
If everything looks good, you’re all set!
Tips for a Successful WiFi Switch
Changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi network doesn’t have to be stressful. These practical tips will help ensure a smooth experience:
Use a 2.4GHz Network When Possible
Even if your doorbell supports 5GHz, the 2.4GHz band is often better for outdoor devices. It has a longer range and can penetrate walls and obstacles more effectively. If your router combines both bands under one name, temporarily split them during setup.
Position Your Router Strategically
Your doorbell’s location matters. If it’s far from your router, consider:
- Moving the router closer to the front door.
- Using a WiFi extender or mesh network system.
- Installing a powerline adapter to boost signal through electrical wiring.
Restart Your Router Before Setup
A simple restart can resolve many connectivity issues. Turn off your router for 30 seconds, then turn it back on. This refreshes the network and can improve performance.
Keep Your Phone Close to the Doorbell
During setup, your phone acts as a bridge between the app and the doorbell. Stay within 10–15 feet of the device to ensure a strong Bluetooth connection.
Update Firmware After Reconnection
Sometimes, reconnecting to a new network triggers a firmware update. Check “Device Health” for any pending updates and install them to keep your doorbell secure and up to date.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when changing your Ring Doorbell WiFi network.
Issue 1: “Unable to Connect to WiFi”
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect password entered.
- Weak signal at the doorbell location.
- Network uses unsupported security (e.g., WEP instead of WPA2).
Solutions:
- Double-check the password—remember, it’s case-sensitive.
- Move closer to the router or use a WiFi extender.
- Ensure your network uses WPA2 or WPA3 encryption.
- Try connecting to a different network (e.g., a mobile hotspot) to test the doorbell.
Issue 2: LED Flashes Red or Doesn’t Flash at All
Possible Causes:
- Low battery (for battery models).
- Faulty wiring (for wired models).
- Hardware malfunction.
Solutions:
- Recharge the battery fully before retrying.
- Check that all wires are securely connected to the doorbell and transformer.
- Contact Ring Support if the issue persists.
Issue 3: App Says “Device Not Found”
Possible Causes:
- Doorbell not in setup mode.
- Bluetooth disabled on your phone.
- App needs to be restarted.
Solutions:
- Re-enter setup mode by pressing the orange button again.
- Enable Bluetooth in your phone’s settings.
- Close and reopen the Ring app.
- Restart your phone if necessary.
Issue 4: Poor Video Quality After Reconnection
Possible Causes:
- Weak WiFi signal.
- Network congestion.
- Outdated firmware.
Solutions:
- Check signal strength in Device Health—aim for “Good” or higher.
- Reduce the number of devices on your network during peak hours.
- Update the doorbell’s firmware through the app.
- Lower the video quality setting temporarily to test stability.
Issue 5: Doorbell Disconnects Frequently
Possible Causes:
- Interference from other devices (microwaves, cordless phones).
- Router settings (e.g., short DHCP lease time).
- Power issues (for wired models).
Solutions:
- Move interfering devices away from the router or doorbell.
- Log into your router and increase the DHCP lease time.
- Check that the transformer provides at least 16–24 volts.
- Consider switching to a dedicated IoT network if your router supports it.
When to Contact Ring Support
Most WiFi issues can be resolved with the steps above. However, if you’ve tried everything and your Ring Doorbell still won’t connect, it’s time to reach out for help.
Contact Ring Customer Support if:
- The doorbell won’t enter setup mode.
- You receive repeated “Connection Failed” errors.
- The device is unresponsive or stuck in a boot loop.
- You suspect hardware damage.
You can contact Ring Support through:
- The Ring app (tap “Help” in the menu).
- The Ring website (support.ring.com).
- Phone support (available in select regions).
Be ready to provide your device model, serial number, and a description of the issue.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Ring Doorbell Connected
Changing your Ring Doorbell WiFi network is a routine maintenance task that ensures your device stays secure and performs at its best. With the right preparation and a little patience, you can complete the process in under 15 minutes.
Remember: always use the Ring app, keep your networks active during the transition, and test the connection thoroughly. And if you run into trouble, don’t hesitate to use the troubleshooting tips or contact support.
Your Ring Doorbell is more than just a doorbell—it’s a key part of your home security system. By keeping it connected to a strong, reliable WiFi network, you’re ensuring that you never miss a visitor, package, or potential threat.
So the next time you upgrade your internet or move to a new place, you’ll know exactly how to change your Ring Doorbell WiFi network—quickly, safely, and with confidence.