Changing the WiFi network for your Ring Doorbell is simple with the right steps. This guide walks you through the entire process using the Ring app, ensuring a smooth transition to a new network without losing functionality.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app: All WiFi changes must be done through the official Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Stay within range: Your device must be within 30 feet of the Ring Doorbell during setup for a strong connection.
- Know your network details: Have your new WiFi name (SSID) and password ready before starting.
- Reconnect after power loss: If your doorbell loses power, you may need to reconfigure the WiFi settings.
- Test after setup: Always verify the connection by checking live view and motion alerts.
- Update firmware: Ensure your Ring Doorbell has the latest firmware for optimal performance.
- Contact support if needed: Ring’s customer service can assist with persistent connection issues.
How to Change WiFi for Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve moved to a new home, upgraded your internet plan, or simply changed your WiFi network, you’ll need to update the WiFi settings on your Ring Doorbell. Don’t worry—this process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few minutes using the Ring app. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or any other model, the steps are nearly identical.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to change WiFi for Ring Doorbell. You’ll learn how to prepare for the switch, follow the correct setup steps, troubleshoot common issues, and ensure your doorbell stays connected and functional. By the end, you’ll feel confident managing your Ring device’s network settings like a pro.
Let’s get started!
Why You Might Need to Change Your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi
There are several common reasons why you might need to update the WiFi network your Ring Doorbell is connected to:
- Moving to a new home: Your new house likely has a different internet provider and network name.
- Upgrading your router: New routers often come with new network names and passwords.
- Changing your internet plan: Some providers reset your network credentials when you switch plans.
- Network security concerns: You may want to switch to a more secure or private network.
- Improving signal strength: Connecting to a 2.4GHz network instead of 5GHz (or vice versa) can improve performance.
No matter the reason, knowing how to change WiFi for Ring Doorbell ensures your device continues to send alerts, record video, and allow two-way communication.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin the process, make sure you have the following:
- Your smartphone or tablet: The Ring app is required for all setup and configuration.
- Access to the Ring app: Download it from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) if you haven’t already.
- Your new WiFi network name (SSID) and password: Double-check for typos—this is a common cause of setup failure.
- Your Ring Doorbell charged or powered: Battery-powered models should have at least 50% charge. Wired models should be connected to power.
- Proximity to the doorbell: Stay within 30 feet during setup for a strong Bluetooth and WiFi connection.
Having these items ready will make the process quick and stress-free.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Log In
The first step in changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi is to open the Ring app on your mobile device.
Launch the App
Find the Ring app icon on your phone and tap to open it. If you’re not already logged in, enter your email and password to access your account.
Visual guide about How to Change Wifi for Ring Doorbell
Image source: emptylighthome.com
Ensure You’re on the Right Account
If you have multiple Ring devices or share access with family members, confirm you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell. You can check this by looking at the device list on the home screen.
Update the App (If Needed)
Using an outdated version of the Ring app can cause setup issues. Go to your device’s app store and check for updates. Install any available updates before proceeding.
Once you’re in the app and everything is up to date, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Access Device Settings
Now that you’re in the app, you need to navigate to the settings for your specific doorbell.
Go to the Dashboard
The home screen of the Ring app shows all your connected devices. Look for your Ring Doorbell—it should appear as a tile with a live preview or last recorded image.
Tap on Your Doorbell
Tap the doorbell tile to open its live view or recent activity. This ensures the app is communicating with the device.
Open Device Health
In the top-right corner of the screen, tap the gear icon (⚙️) to open the Device Health menu. This section shows connection status, battery level, and network information.
Select “Change WiFi Network”
Scroll down in the Device Health menu until you see the option labeled “Change WiFi Network.” Tap it to begin the setup process.
If you don’t see this option, your doorbell may not be online or the app may need refreshing. Try closing and reopening the app, or restart your phone.
Step 3: Put Your Doorbell in Setup Mode
To connect to a new network, your Ring Doorbell needs to enter a special setup mode. This allows it to scan for available WiFi networks and pair with your phone.
Locate the Setup Button
On most Ring Doorbell models, there’s a small button on the back or side of the device. For battery-powered models, you’ll need to remove the faceplate to access it. For wired models, the button is usually on the side.
Press and Hold the Button
Press and hold the setup button for about 5–10 seconds. You’ll know it’s working when the LED light on the front of the doorbell starts flashing in a specific pattern (usually white or blue).
Wait for Confirmation
The Ring app will detect when the doorbell is in setup mode. You’ll see a message like “Doorbell is ready to connect.” This may take 10–20 seconds.
If the app doesn’t recognize the doorbell, try pressing the button again or moving closer to the device.
Step 4: Connect Your Phone to the Doorbell’s Temporary Network
During setup, your Ring Doorbell creates a temporary WiFi network that your phone connects to. This allows the app to send your new network details securely.
Go to Your Phone’s WiFi Settings
Open your phone’s settings and navigate to WiFi. You should see a new network named something like “Ring-XXXX” (where XXXX is a series of numbers).
Connect to the Ring Network
Tap on the Ring network and wait for your phone to connect. You don’t need a password—this network is open and temporary.
Return to the Ring App
Once connected, go back to the Ring app. The app will automatically detect the connection and proceed to the next step.
This step is crucial—without connecting to the doorbell’s temporary network, the app can’t send your new WiFi credentials.
Step 5: Select Your New WiFi Network
Now it’s time to choose the network you want your Ring Doorbell to use.
Wait for Network Scan
The app will scan for available WiFi networks in your area. This may take 10–30 seconds. Make sure your new network is broadcasting and within range.
Choose Your Network
From the list of available networks, tap on the one you want to use. If you have both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands with the same name, select the 2.4GHz option—Ring Doorbells work best on this frequency due to better range and wall penetration.
Enter Your WiFi Password
Type in the password for your selected network. Be careful with capitalization and special characters. If you make a mistake, the doorbell won’t connect.
Tap “Continue” or “Connect”
After entering the password, tap the button to proceed. The app will send the network details to your doorbell.
Double-check your password before submitting—this is one of the most common reasons for setup failure.
Step 6: Wait for the Doorbell to Connect
After sending the network information, your Ring Doorbell will attempt to connect to the new WiFi.
Monitor the LED Light
The LED on your doorbell will flash during the connection process. A solid green or blue light usually means success. A red or flashing red light indicates a problem.
Check the App for Status
The Ring app will show a progress bar or status message. It may say “Connecting…” or “Almost done!” This process typically takes 1–2 minutes.
Do Not Interrupt the Process
Avoid pressing buttons, removing the battery, or walking away during this time. Interrupting the connection can cause it to fail.
If the connection takes longer than 3 minutes, proceed to the troubleshooting section below.
Step 7: Confirm the Connection
Once the setup is complete, it’s important to verify that your Ring Doorbell is working properly on the new network.
Return to Device Health
Go back to the Device Health section in the Ring app. Look for the WiFi signal strength indicator. It should show “Good” or “Excellent.”
Test Live View
Tap the live view button to see a real-time video feed from your doorbell. If the image loads quickly and clearly, the connection is strong.
Trigger a Motion Alert
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger a motion detection. Check your phone to see if you receive a notification within a few seconds.
Test Two-Way Audio
Press the talk button in the app and speak. You should hear your voice through the doorbell’s speaker, and others should hear you clearly.
If all these tests pass, congratulations—you’ve successfully changed the WiFi for your Ring Doorbell!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful steps, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are solutions to the most common problems when changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi.
Doorbell Won’t Enter Setup Mode
If the LED doesn’t flash when you press the setup button, try the following:
- Ensure the doorbell has power (charge the battery or check wiring).
- Press and hold the button for at least 10 seconds.
- Remove and reinsert the battery (for battery models).
- Restart your phone and try again.
If the issue persists, the button may be faulty—contact Ring support.
App Doesn’t Detect the Doorbell
If the app says “No devices found” during setup:
- Make sure your phone is connected to the doorbell’s temporary network (Ring-XXXX).
- Move closer to the doorbell—stay within 30 feet.
- Turn off Bluetooth on your phone temporarily (some users report interference).
- Close and reopen the Ring app.
Still no luck? Try restarting your phone and router.
Incorrect Password Error
If the app says “Incorrect password”:
- Double-check the password for typos, spaces, or wrong characters.
- Try typing the password in a notes app first, then copy and paste it.
- Ensure Caps Lock is off.
- If your network uses special characters (like @ or !), make sure they’re entered correctly.
When in doubt, reset your router’s password to something simple and try again.
Poor Signal or Frequent Disconnects
If your doorbell connects but has a weak signal:
- Move your router closer to the doorbell, or use a WiFi extender.
- Switch to the 2.4GHz band if you’re on 5GHz.
- Reduce interference from microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.
- Update your router’s firmware.
A strong signal is key to reliable performance.
Doorbell Goes Offline After Setup
If the doorbell connects initially but drops offline later:
- Check if your router has a “guest network” enabled—Ring devices don’t work well on guest networks.
- Ensure your router isn’t set to “auto-disconnect idle devices.”
- Reboot your router and doorbell.
- Update the Ring app and doorbell firmware.
Persistent offline issues may require a factory reset (see below).
How to Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell (If Needed)
If you’re unable to change the WiFi or the doorbell is malfunctioning, a factory reset may be necessary. This erases all settings and returns the device to its original state.
When to Reset
Only perform a factory reset if:
- The doorbell won’t connect to any network.
- You’re selling or giving away the device.
- All other troubleshooting steps have failed.
Note: A reset will remove the device from your account, so you’ll need to set it up again from scratch.
Steps to Reset
For most Ring Doorbells:
- Remove the faceplate (if battery-powered).
- Press and hold the setup button for 20–30 seconds.
- Release when the LED flashes rapidly or changes color.
- Wait for the doorbell to restart (LED will turn off and on).
For wired models, the process is similar—just locate the button on the side.
Reconnect After Reset
Once reset, follow the same steps above to reconnect your doorbell to WiFi. You’ll need to go through the full setup process again.
Tips for a Strong and Reliable Connection
To keep your Ring Doorbell working smoothly after changing the WiFi, follow these best practices:
- Use a dedicated 2.4GHz network: Ring devices are optimized for 2.4GHz, which offers better range and wall penetration than 5GHz.
- Place your router centrally: Avoid putting the router in a basement or far corner of the house.
- Use a WiFi extender: If your doorbell is far from the router, a extender can boost the signal.
- Avoid network congestion: Too many devices on one network can slow performance. Consider upgrading to a mesh WiFi system.
- Update regularly: Keep your Ring app and doorbell firmware up to date for security and performance improvements.
- Check battery levels: Low battery can affect WiFi performance. Charge or replace batteries as needed.
A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your doorbell stays connected.
Conclusion
Changing the WiFi for your Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation and step-by-step guidance, you can switch networks quickly and confidently. Whether you’re moving, upgrading your internet, or just troubleshooting, the process is manageable using the Ring app and a few simple actions.
Remember to keep your network details handy, stay close to the doorbell during setup, and test the connection afterward. If you run into issues, the troubleshooting tips in this guide can help you resolve most problems. And if all else fails, Ring’s customer support team is available to assist.
By following this guide, you’ll keep your Ring Doorbell online, secure, and ready to protect your home—no matter which WiFi network you’re using.