Changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell is simple with the Ring app. This guide walks you through every step—from disconnecting your old network to reconnecting to a new one—so you can keep your smart doorbell online and secure.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to change WiFi: All WiFi changes are done through the Ring app—no need to reset your device unless troubleshooting.
- Ensure your new network is 2.4 GHz: Most Ring Doorbells only support 2.4 GHz networks, not 5 GHz.
- Stay within range during setup: Keep your phone and doorbell close to the router while connecting to avoid signal drops.
- Check your WiFi password: Typos are the #1 cause of connection failures—double-check before entering.
- Reconnect motion and live view after setup: Once online, test features like motion alerts and live streaming to confirm everything works.
- Factory reset only as a last resort: If standard steps fail, a reset may be needed—but it erases all settings.
- Update your Ring app regularly: Outdated apps can cause setup issues—keep it updated for the best experience.
How to Change the WiFi on My Ring Doorbell
If you’ve moved, upgraded your internet plan, or just changed your WiFi network name (SSID), you’ll need to update your Ring Doorbell to stay connected. The good news? It’s easier than you think. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can switch your doorbell to a new WiFi network without losing your settings or recordings.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—step by step—so your Ring Doorbell stays online, secure, and ready to alert you whenever someone’s at your door. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or Ring Doorbell Elite, these instructions work for all models.
We’ll also cover common pitfalls, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to make sure your connection is strong and reliable. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to change the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell—and how to avoid the headaches that come with a weak or failed connection.
Why You Might Need to Change Your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi
Visual guide about How to Change the Wifi on My Ring Doorbell
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There are several reasons you might need to update your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi settings:
- Moving to a new home: Your new house likely has a different router and network name.
- Upgrading your internet service: New modems or routers often come with new network names and passwords.
- Changing your WiFi network name or password: For security or convenience, you may rename your network or update your password.
- Switching from 5 GHz to 2.4 GHz: If you accidentally connected to a 5 GHz network (which most Ring Doorbells don’t support), you’ll need to switch back.
- Router replacement: If your old router died and you got a new one, your doorbell won’t automatically reconnect.
No matter the reason, the process is the same: use the Ring app to reconnect your device to the new network. Let’s get started.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Before changing your WiFi, make sure you have the following:
- A smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed: Download it from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) if you don’t already have it.
- Your new WiFi network name (SSID) and password: Have these ready—typos are the most common cause of connection issues.
- Your Ring Doorbell charged or hardwired: Battery-powered models should be at least 50% charged. Hardwired models need power from your doorbell wires.
- Access to your home WiFi router: You’ll need to be within range of the router during setup.
- A stable internet connection: Your phone should be connected to the same WiFi network you want to connect your doorbell to.
Pro tip: If you’re switching from a 5 GHz network to a 2.4 GHz one, make sure your router broadcasts both bands separately. Some routers combine them under one name, which can confuse the Ring app.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change the WiFi on Your Ring Doorbell
Now that you’re prepared, let’s walk through the process of changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi network.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Start by opening the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account associated with your Ring Doorbell.
Once the app loads, you’ll see your dashboard with all your Ring devices. Tap on the doorbell you want to update.
Step 2: Access Device Settings
On your doorbell’s live view or device screen, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. This is the settings menu.
Tap it to open the device settings. Scroll down until you find the option labeled “Device Health” or “Network”, depending on your app version.
Step 3: Select “Change WiFi Network”
In the Device Health or Network section, you’ll see your current WiFi network listed. Below it, tap the option that says “Change WiFi Network” or “Reconnect to WiFi”.
The app will now guide you through the reconnection process.
Step 4: Put Your Doorbell in Setup Mode
To connect to a new network, your Ring Doorbell needs to enter setup mode. Here’s how:
- For battery-powered models (Ring Doorbell, Doorbell 2, Doorbell 3): Press and hold the orange button on the back of the device for 10–15 seconds until the light ring flashes white.
- For hardwired models (Ring Doorbell Pro, Doorbell Elite): You may need to press the button on the side or use the app to trigger setup mode. The app will prompt you.
Once in setup mode, the light ring will pulse white, indicating it’s ready to connect.
Step 5: Connect Your Phone to the Doorbell’s Temporary Network
Your Ring Doorbell will create a temporary WiFi network (usually named “Ring-XXXX”) for setup. Your phone needs to connect to this network to transfer your new WiFi settings.
Go to your phone’s WiFi settings and look for the network starting with “Ring-”. Tap to connect. You may be prompted to enter a password—this is usually found in the Ring app or on the device itself.
Once connected, return to the Ring app. The app should automatically detect the doorbell and begin the setup process.
Step 6: Select Your New WiFi Network
The Ring app will now scan for available WiFi networks. Wait a few seconds for the list to populate.
Look for your new network name (SSID) in the list. Tap on it to select it.
If you don’t see your network, make sure:
- Your router is turned on and broadcasting.
- You’re within range (ideally within 10–15 feet).
- Your network is 2.4 GHz (most Ring Doorbells don’t support 5 GHz).
Pro tip: If your router uses both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz under the same name, try renaming them separately (e.g., “HomeWiFi_2.4” and “HomeWiFi_5”) to avoid confusion.
Step 7: Enter Your WiFi Password
Once you’ve selected your network, the app will ask for the password. Type it carefully—capitalization and special characters matter.
Double-check for typos. Even one wrong character will prevent connection.
If you’re unsure, try retyping it or copying it from a secure note or password manager.
Step 8: Wait for the Connection to Complete
After entering the password, tap “Connect” or “Next”. The app will send the network details to your doorbell.
Your doorbell will attempt to connect. This can take 30 seconds to 2 minutes. During this time, the light ring may flash blue or white.
Do not close the app or walk away. Stay within range of both your phone and the router.
Step 9: Confirm the Connection
Once connected, the app will show a success message. Your doorbell should now appear online in the Ring app.
Tap “Done” or “Finish” to complete the process.
Step 10: Test Your Doorbell
To make sure everything works:
- Open the live view and check the video feed.
- Test motion alerts by walking in front of the doorbell.
- Check that notifications appear on your phone.
- Verify that recordings are saved to the cloud (if you have a Ring Protect plan).
If all features work, congratulations—you’ve successfully changed the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell!
Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Issue 1: Doorbell Won’t Connect to New WiFi
If your doorbell fails to connect, try these steps:
- Check your password: Re-enter it carefully. Use copy-paste if possible.
- Ensure 2.4 GHz network: Confirm your network is 2.4 GHz. Most Ring Doorbells don’t support 5 GHz.
- Move closer to the router: Weak signals cause connection drops. Stand near the router during setup.
- Restart your router: Turn it off for 30 seconds, then back on. This refreshes the network.
- Restart your phone: Sometimes, the app gets stuck. A quick reboot helps.
Issue 2: App Can’t Find the Doorbell in Setup Mode
If the Ring app doesn’t detect your doorbell:
- Make sure the light ring is flashing white: This means it’s in setup mode.
- Check your phone’s WiFi: Ensure it’s connected to the “Ring-XXXX” network.
- Close and reopen the Ring app: Sometimes the app needs a refresh.
- Try a different phone or tablet: In rare cases, device compatibility issues occur.
Issue 3: Doorbell Connects but Drops Frequently
If your doorbell connects but keeps going offline:
- Check signal strength: Go to Device Health in the app. A weak signal (below -70 dBm) causes drops.
- Move the router closer: Or use a WiFi extender to boost coverage near your door.
- Reduce interference: Avoid placing the router near microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.
- Update firmware: The Ring app will notify you if an update is available. Install it.
Issue 4: “Incorrect Password” Error
If you keep getting a password error:
- Reset your WiFi password: Change it in your router settings, then try again.
- Use a simpler password: Avoid special characters if possible. Some devices struggle with symbols.
- Check for hidden characters: Copy-paste from a secure source to avoid invisible spaces.
Issue 5: Doorbell Won’t Enter Setup Mode
If the light ring won’t flash:
- For battery models: Make sure the battery is charged. A low battery can prevent setup.
- For hardwired models: Check that power is reaching the doorbell. Use a voltage tester if needed.
- Try a factory reset: As a last resort, reset the doorbell (see below).
When to Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell
If all else fails, a factory reset may be necessary. This erases all settings and returns the doorbell to its original state.
Only do this if:
- The doorbell won’t connect after multiple attempts.
- The app says “Device Offline” and won’t reconnect.
- You’re giving the doorbell to someone else.
How to Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell
- Battery models: Press and hold the orange button for 20 seconds until the light ring turns off and back on.
- Hardwired models: Use the app to initiate a reset, or press the reset button (if available).
After resetting, follow the initial setup process again—including creating a new device in the app.
Note: A factory reset deletes all recordings and settings. Make sure you’ve backed up anything important.
Tips for a Strong and Reliable WiFi Connection
Once your doorbell is online, keep it that way with these best practices:
- Use a WiFi extender: Place one near your front door to boost signal strength.
- Keep your router updated: Install firmware updates regularly.
- Avoid network congestion: Limit the number of devices on your 2.4 GHz band.
- Check signal strength monthly: Use the Ring app’s Device Health feature to monitor performance.
- Update the Ring app: New versions often include connectivity improvements.
Conclusion
Changing the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be complicated. With the Ring app and a little patience, you can switch networks in just a few minutes. Whether you’ve moved, upgraded your internet, or just changed your password, following these steps will keep your smart doorbell online and working perfectly.
Remember: always use a 2.4 GHz network, double-check your password, and stay close to your router during setup. If you run into trouble, the troubleshooting tips above will help you get back on track.
Your Ring Doorbell is more than just a camera—it’s your first line of defense. Keep it connected, keep it secure, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ll always see who’s at your door.