Changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell is simple with the right steps. This guide walks you through disconnecting from your old network, connecting to a new one, and troubleshooting common issues to ensure a smooth transition.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to manage WiFi settings: All network changes must be done through the official Ring app, not your phone’s WiFi settings.
- Ensure your new network is 2.4GHz compatible: Most Ring Doorbells only support 2.4GHz networks, not 5GHz.
- Keep your doorbell charged or powered during setup: A stable power source prevents interruptions during the network switch.
- Reconnect within 30 seconds of removing from mount: The setup mode activates briefly, so timing is crucial.
- Test your connection after switching: Verify live view and motion alerts work to confirm a successful setup.
- Update your network name and password first: Make sure your new WiFi network is active and accessible before starting.
- Contact Ring Support if issues persist: If you can’t reconnect, factory reset or reach out for help.
How to Change WiFi Networks on Ring Doorbell
If you’ve moved to a new home, upgraded your internet service, or simply want to switch your Ring Doorbell to a different WiFi network, you’re in the right place. Changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell might sound tricky, but with the right guidance, it’s a straightforward process. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell 4, or Ring Doorbell Pro, the steps are similar across models.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of changing your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi network—from preparing your new network to reconnecting your device and troubleshooting common issues. You’ll learn how to use the Ring app effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your smart doorbell stays online and secure.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently switch your Ring Doorbell to a new WiFi network without losing functionality or compromising your home security. Let’s get started!
Why You Might Need to Change Your WiFi Network
There are several common reasons why you might need to change the WiFi network your Ring Doorbell is connected to. Understanding these scenarios can help you prepare and avoid frustration during the process.
First, if you’ve moved to a new home, your old WiFi network won’t be available. You’ll need to connect your Ring Doorbell to your new home’s internet connection to continue receiving alerts, viewing live footage, and using two-way audio.
Second, you may have upgraded your internet plan or router. Newer routers often come with improved security, faster speeds, or better coverage. Switching your Ring Doorbell to the new network ensures it benefits from these upgrades.
Third, you might be troubleshooting connectivity issues. If your doorbell frequently goes offline or has poor video quality, switching to a stronger or less congested network can resolve these problems.
Finally, some users change networks for security reasons. If you suspect your WiFi has been compromised or you’ve shared your password with too many people, updating your network and reconnecting your devices is a smart move.
No matter your reason, changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell is a normal part of maintaining your smart home system. With the right approach, it’s quick and easy.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Before you start the process of changing your WiFi network, it’s important to gather everything you’ll need. Preparation saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
First, make sure your Ring Doorbell is powered. If you have a battery-powered model, ensure the battery is fully charged. For wired models, confirm the power source is stable. A low battery or power interruption can disrupt the setup process.
Next, download or update the Ring app on your smartphone. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and is essential for managing your doorbell’s settings. Make sure you’re logged into the correct Ring account associated with your device.
You’ll also need access to your new WiFi network. Have the network name (SSID) and password ready. Double-check that the network is active and within range of your doorbell. Most Ring Doorbells only support 2.4GHz networks, so confirm your new router broadcasts on that frequency. If your router uses dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), ensure the 2.4GHz network is enabled and accessible.
Finally, keep your phone close to the doorbell during setup. You’ll need to scan a QR code or enter setup mode, which requires proximity.
Having these items ready will make the process smoother and help you avoid common mistakes.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Access Device Settings
The first step in changing your WiFi network is opening the Ring app and navigating to your doorbell’s settings. This is where you’ll initiate the network change process.
Start by launching the Ring app on your smartphone. If you haven’t used it in a while, you may need to log in with your email and password. Make sure you’re using the same account that’s linked to your Ring Doorbell.
Once logged in, you’ll see a dashboard with all your Ring devices. Tap on the doorbell you want to update. This will open the device’s live view or event history screen.
Next, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner of the screen. This is the settings button. Tap it to access the device settings menu.
In the settings menu, scroll down until you find the option labeled “Device Health” or “Network.” Tap on it. This section shows your current WiFi network, signal strength, and other connection details.
Now, look for an option like “Change WiFi Network” or “Reconnect to WiFi.” The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your app version, but it will be clearly labeled. Tap this option to begin the process.
At this point, the app will guide you through the next steps. But before you proceed, make sure your phone is connected to the new WiFi network you want to use. This is crucial—your phone must be on the same network you’re trying to connect your doorbell to.
Step 2: Remove the Doorbell from Its Mount
Once you’ve initiated the WiFi change in the app, the next step is to physically remove your Ring Doorbell from its mounting bracket. This activates the device’s setup mode, allowing it to search for new networks.
Carefully unscrew or unclip your doorbell from the wall mount. Most Ring Doorbells have a security screw on the bottom that requires a screwdriver to remove. If you don’t have the original tool, a standard Phillips head screwdriver usually works.
Gently pull the doorbell away from the mount. Be careful not to damage the wires if you have a wired model. For battery-powered models, simply lift it off.
As soon as the doorbell is removed, it will enter setup mode. You’ll usually see a light on the front of the device start to flash—typically a solid white or blinking blue light, depending on the model. This indicates the doorbell is ready to connect to a new network.
Important: You have about 30 seconds to complete the next steps before the doorbell exits setup mode. So be ready to move quickly.
If the light doesn’t turn on or flash, try reinserting the battery (for battery models) or checking the wiring (for wired models). A power issue could prevent setup mode from activating.
Once the light is flashing, return to the Ring app. The app should detect that the doorbell is in setup mode and prompt you to continue.
Step 3: Connect Your Phone to the New WiFi Network
Now that your doorbell is in setup mode, you need to ensure your smartphone is connected to the new WiFi network you want to use. This step is critical—your phone and doorbell must be on the same network for the setup to work.
Go to your phone’s settings and open the WiFi menu. Look for your new network name (SSID) and tap on it. Enter the password when prompted. Wait a few seconds for your phone to connect.
Once connected, return to the Ring app. The app should recognize that your phone is now on the new network and guide you to the next step.
If your phone doesn’t connect to the new network, double-check the password. Typos are a common cause of connection failures. Also, make sure the network is broadcasting and within range.
For dual-band routers, ensure you’re connecting to the 2.4GHz network, not the 5GHz one. Ring Doorbells generally don’t support 5GHz networks, so selecting the wrong band will prevent a successful connection.
If you’re unsure which network is 2.4GHz, look for labels like “2.4G,” “_2G,” or “_24” in the network name. Some routers automatically combine both bands under one name, which can cause confusion. In that case, log into your router’s admin panel to separate the bands or rename them for clarity.
Once your phone is successfully connected to the correct network, proceed to the next step in the app.
Step 4: Follow the On-Screen Prompts in the Ring App
With your phone on the new network and your doorbell in setup mode, the Ring app will now guide you through the final steps of connecting your device.
The app will typically ask you to confirm the new WiFi network name and password. Double-check that the information is correct before proceeding. Even a small typo can prevent the doorbell from connecting.
Next, the app may prompt you to scan a QR code on the back of your doorbell. This code contains the device’s unique identifier and helps the app pair with it securely. Use your phone’s camera to scan the code. Make sure the lighting is good and the code is clearly visible.
If your doorbell doesn’t have a QR code or the scan fails, the app will offer a manual entry option. You’ll need to enter the device’s serial number, which is usually found on the back or in the original packaging.
After entering or scanning the code, the app will send the WiFi credentials to your doorbell. You’ll see a progress bar or status message indicating the connection attempt.
During this process, keep your phone close to the doorbell. The signal needs to be strong for the data transfer to work. Avoid moving too far away or going indoors if you’re outside.
If the connection is successful, the app will notify you and return to the device dashboard. Your doorbell should now be connected to the new network.
Step 5: Reattach the Doorbell and Test the Connection
Once the app confirms a successful connection, it’s time to reattach your Ring Doorbell to its mount and test the new setup.
Carefully align the doorbell with the mounting bracket and slide or screw it back into place. Make sure it’s secure and level. For wired models, ensure the wires are properly connected and tucked away.
After reattaching, wait a minute or two for the doorbell to fully power up and reconnect to the network. The light on the front should stabilize—usually a solid white or green light indicates a good connection.
Now, open the Ring app and go to the live view. Try streaming video from your doorbell. If the video loads quickly and plays smoothly, the connection is working.
Next, test the motion and doorbell alerts. Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion detection, or press the button if someone is available. Check that you receive notifications on your phone.
You can also test the two-way audio feature. Speak through the app and listen for the sound on the doorbell’s speaker. This confirms that audio is transmitting properly.
If everything works as expected, your WiFi network change is complete. Your Ring Doorbell is now securely connected to your new network and ready to protect your home.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter issues when changing your WiFi network. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Doorbell Won’t Enter Setup Mode
If your doorbell doesn’t flash a light when removed from the mount, it may not be entering setup mode. First, check the power source. For battery models, replace or recharge the battery. For wired models, ensure the wires are connected and the power is on.
Try removing and reinserting the battery or toggling the power switch. Wait 10–15 seconds before reattaching. If the light still doesn’t flash, the doorbell may need a factory reset.
App Can’t Find the Doorbell
If the Ring app doesn’t detect your doorbell during setup, make sure your phone is on the correct 2.4GHz network. Also, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, as the app uses Bluetooth to communicate with the doorbell during setup.
Move closer to the doorbell and restart the app. If the issue persists, try restarting your phone or reinstalling the Ring app.
Connection Fails After Entering Password
If the app says the connection failed after you enter the WiFi password, double-check the password for typos. Also, confirm the network is not hidden. Ring Doorbells cannot connect to hidden networks.
If your router uses WPA3 security, try switching to WPA2 temporarily, as some older Ring models have compatibility issues with WPA3.
Weak Signal or Frequent Disconnects
If your doorbell connects but has a weak signal or keeps going offline, it may be too far from the router. Consider moving the router closer or using a WiFi extender to boost coverage.
You can also check the signal strength in the Ring app under Device Health. A signal strength of -70 dBm or higher is ideal. Anything below -80 dBm may cause issues.
Doorbell Works but No Live View
If you receive alerts but can’t view live footage, your network may be blocking the required ports. Check your router’s firewall settings and ensure ports 80, 443, and 123 are open.
Also, make sure your internet speed is sufficient. Ring recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed for smooth video streaming.
Tips for a Smooth WiFi Network Change
To make the process even easier, follow these practical tips:
– Update your Ring app regularly: New versions often include bug fixes and improved setup features.
– Use a strong, unique WiFi password: This improves security and reduces connection errors.
– Label your networks clearly: If you have multiple networks, name them distinctly (e.g., “Home_2.4G” and “Home_5G”) to avoid confusion.
– Schedule the change during low-traffic times: Fewer devices on the network mean less interference.
– Keep the original packaging: The QR code and serial number are often printed on the box, which can be helpful if the device label is worn.
Conclusion
Changing the WiFi network on 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 troubleshooting connectivity, this process ensures your smart doorbell stays online and functional.
Remember to use the Ring app, ensure your new network is 2.4GHz compatible, and keep your doorbell powered during setup. Test the connection thoroughly after reattaching the device, and don’t hesitate to troubleshoot if issues arise.
By following this guide, you’ll maintain seamless access to live video, motion alerts, and two-way communication—keeping your home secure and your smart doorbell working at its best.