This guide walks you through how to change the WiFi on a Ring Doorbell using the Ring app, whether you’ve moved, upgraded your network, or are troubleshooting connection problems. With clear instructions and helpful tips, you’ll get your doorbell back online quickly and securely.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app: All WiFi changes must be done through the official Ring app—there’s no physical button or web interface for this.
- Ensure strong signal strength: Your Ring Doorbell needs at least -70 dBm signal strength to function properly; test before reconnecting.
- Know your network details: Have your new WiFi name (SSID) and password ready before starting the process.
- Reconnect during setup mode: You’ll need to put your Ring device into setup mode using the orange button on the back.
- 2.4 GHz networks only: Most Ring Doorbells only support 2.4 GHz WiFi; 5 GHz networks won’t work unless you have a newer model like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2.
- Reset if needed: If you can’t reconnect, perform a factory reset by holding the orange button for 20 seconds.
- Test after reconnecting: Always check live view and motion alerts to confirm everything works.
How to Change the WiFi on a Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve moved to a new house. Or maybe your internet provider upgraded your router. Or perhaps your Ring Doorbell keeps going offline—and you suspect it’s because of a weak or changed WiFi network. Whatever the reason, knowing how to change the WiFi on a Ring Doorbell is essential for keeping your smart home security system running smoothly.
The good news? It’s easier than you might think—but only if you follow the right steps. Unlike some smart devices that let you reconfigure settings via a web portal or physical buttons, Ring Doorbells rely entirely on the Ring mobile app for network changes. That means no fiddling with routers or guessing passwords blind.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of updating your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi connection—from preparing your network to testing the final setup. We’ll also cover common pitfalls, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to ensure your doorbell stays connected 24/7. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned smart home user, this guide has you covered.
Let’s get started!
Why Would You Need to Change Your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi?
Before diving into the how-to, it’s helpful to understand why you might need to change your WiFi network in the first place. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Moving to a new home: Your old WiFi network doesn’t exist anymore—you’ll need to connect to your new router.
- Router upgrade or replacement: New routers often come with different network names (SSIDs) or security settings.
- Network name or password change: Maybe you simplified your WiFi name or updated your password for security reasons.
- Switching ISPs: Changing internet providers usually means a new modem/router combo.
- Connection issues: If your doorbell frequently disconnects, reconnecting to a stronger or less congested network can help.
- Adding a mesh network or extender: You may want your doorbell to connect directly to a closer access point for better performance.
No matter your reason, the process remains largely the same. But preparation is key—so let’s talk about what you’ll need before you begin.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi isn’t complicated, but skipping prep work can lead to frustration. Gather these items and information ahead of time:
1. Your New WiFi Network Details
Make sure you know:
Visual guide about How to Change the Wifi on a Ring Doorbell
Image source: i.ytimg.com
- The exact network name (SSID)—including capitalization and special characters.
- The WiFi password—double-check for typos!
- Whether it’s a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz network (most Ring Doorbells only work on 2.4 GHz).
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether your network is 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, check your router settings or use a WiFi analyzer app on your phone. Many modern routers broadcast both bands under the same name—this can confuse devices. If possible, temporarily separate the networks (e.g., “HomeWiFi_2.4G” and “HomeWiFi_5G”) to avoid confusion.
2. A Fully Charged Ring Doorbell
Your doorbell should have at least 50% battery before starting. Low power can interrupt the setup process. If you have a wired model (like the Ring Video Doorbell Wired), ensure it’s receiving consistent power.
3. The Latest Version of the Ring App
Download the most recent version of the Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Older versions may not support newer features or security protocols.
4. A Stable Internet Connection on Your Phone
Your smartphone needs to stay connected to the new WiFi network during setup. If you’re switching networks, make sure your phone can connect to the new one before proceeding.
5. Access to Your Doorbell
You’ll need to physically press the orange button on the back of your Ring Doorbell to enter setup mode. Make sure you can safely reach it—use a ladder if necessary, and never stand on unstable surfaces.
Once you’ve checked off this list, you’re ready to begin!
Step-by-Step: How to Change the WiFi on a Ring Doorbell
Now for the main event. Follow these steps carefully to update your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi connection.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Select Your Device
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone. Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top-left corner, then select Devices. Find your Ring Doorbell in the list and tap on it.
Note: If you have multiple Ring devices, make sure you’re selecting the correct doorbell. Look for the device name you assigned during initial setup (e.g., “Front Door,” “Side Entrance”).
Step 2: Go to Device Settings
On your doorbell’s device page, scroll down and tap Device Settings. Then select Network.
You’ll see your current WiFi network listed here. Tap Change Network to begin the process.
Step 3: Put Your Ring Doorbell into Setup Mode
This is where physical access comes in. On the back of your Ring Doorbell, locate the small orange button. Press and hold it for about 5–10 seconds until the light on the front of the device starts flashing white.
What if the light doesn’t flash?
– Make sure the doorbell has power (battery charged or wired connection secure).
– Try pressing the button again—sometimes it takes a couple of attempts.
– If nothing happens, your battery may be too low. Charge it fully before retrying.
Once the light flashes white, your doorbell is in setup mode and ready to connect to a new network.
Step 4: Follow the In-App Prompts
Return to the Ring app. The app should automatically detect that your doorbell is in setup mode. You’ll be guided through a series of screens:
- Select your new WiFi network from the list of available networks.
- Enter your WiFi password carefully. The app will warn you if the password is incorrect—but it won’t tell you why, so double-check spelling and case sensitivity.
- Wait while the app connects your doorbell to the network. This usually takes 30–60 seconds.
Important: During this step, your phone must remain connected to the same WiFi network you’re trying to connect your doorbell to. If your phone switches to mobile data or another network, the process will fail.
Step 5: Confirm Successful Connection
Once connected, the app will show a success message. Your doorbell’s light will stop flashing and return to its normal state (usually solid white or off, depending on the model).
Tap Done or Finish Setup to complete the process.
Step 6: Test Your Doorbell
Don’t skip this! Open the live view in the Ring app to confirm your doorbell is streaming video. Walk in front of it to trigger a motion alert and verify notifications are working.
If everything looks good—congratulations! You’ve successfully changed the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with perfect preparation, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi.
Issue 1: “Unable to Connect to Network” Error
This is the #1 complaint during WiFi changes. Causes include:
- Wrong password: Re-enter it carefully. Consider copying and pasting from a notes app to avoid typos.
- 5 GHz network selected: Most Ring Doorbells (except Pro models) only support 2.4 GHz. Go back to your router settings and ensure your 2.4 GHz network is visible and not hidden.
- Network congestion: Too many devices on the same channel can cause interference. Try changing your router’s channel (channels 1, 6, or 11 are usually best for 2.4 GHz).
- Weak signal: If your doorbell is far from the router, the signal may be too weak. Use a WiFi extender or move the router closer.
Quick Fix: Temporarily move your doorbell closer to the router during setup, then reinstall it in its permanent location.
Issue 2: Doorbell Won’t Enter Setup Mode
If pressing the orange button doesn’t trigger the flashing light:
- Check the battery level—low power prevents setup mode.
- For wired models, ensure the wires are securely connected and receiving power.
- Try removing and reinserting the battery (for battery-powered models).
- If all else fails, perform a factory reset (see below).
Issue 3: App Says “Device Offline” After Reconnection
Sometimes the app shows the doorbell as offline even though it’s connected. Try:
- Force-closing and reopening the Ring app.
- Restarting your smartphone.
- Checking your router’s connected devices list to confirm the doorbell is online.
- Waiting 5–10 minutes—sometimes it takes time for the cloud to sync.
Issue 4: Frequent Disconnections After WiFi Change
If your doorbell keeps dropping offline:
- Test signal strength using a WiFi analyzer app. Aim for -65 dBm or better.
- Reduce interference: Keep the doorbell away from microwaves, cordless phones, and thick walls.
- Update your router’s firmware.
- Consider upgrading to a mesh WiFi system for better coverage.
When to Perform a Factory Reset
If you’ve tried everything and your Ring Doorbell still won’t connect, a factory reset may be necessary. This erases all settings and returns the device to its out-of-box state.
Warning: A factory reset will remove all custom settings (motion zones, alert schedules, etc.). You’ll need to reconfigure them after resetting.
How to Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell
- Remove the doorbell from its mount (if battery-powered, take out the battery).
- Locate the orange button on the back.
- Press and hold the button for 20 seconds (not 5–10 like for setup mode!).
- Release when the light flashes rapidly—this indicates a reset.
- Reinsert the battery and wait for the light to flash white (setup mode).
- Follow the standard setup process again in the Ring app.
After a reset, treat it like a brand-new installation—including naming your device and setting up motion zones.
Best Practices for a Stable Ring Doorbell Connection
Changing your WiFi is just the first step. To keep your Ring Doorbell reliable long-term, follow these best practices:
- Use a dedicated 2.4 GHz network: If your router supports band steering, disable it and create a separate 2.4 GHz network just for IoT devices like Ring.
- Place your router wisely: Avoid basements, closets, or behind large appliances. Central locations work best.
- Update firmware regularly: Ring pushes updates automatically, but ensure your app and router are also up to date.
- Monitor battery health: Cold weather drains batteries faster. Check levels monthly in winter.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Prevent unauthorized access to your network—and your doorbell.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your Ring account.
Final Thoughts
Changing the WiFi on a Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation—and by following the steps in this guide—you can update your network in under 10 minutes. Remember: always use the Ring app, ensure strong signal strength, and test your connection afterward.
Whether you’re moving, upgrading your internet, or just troubleshooting, knowing how to change the WiFi on a Ring Doorbell empowers you to maintain seamless smart home security. And if you run into hiccups? Don’t panic—most issues are fixable with a little patience and the troubleshooting tips above.
Your front door deserves to be watched—even when your WiFi changes.