Changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell Camera is simple with the right steps. This guide walks you through the entire process using the Ring app, including setup, troubleshooting, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app: All WiFi changes must be done through the official Ring mobile app—no physical buttons on the device.
- Stay within range: Your smartphone must be near the doorbell during setup to maintain a strong Bluetooth connection.
- Check network compatibility: Ring devices only support 2.4 GHz WiFi networks, not 5 GHz.
- Reconnect after power loss: If your doorbell loses power, you may need to reconfigure the WiFi settings.
- Update firmware regularly: Keep your Ring app and device firmware updated to avoid connectivity issues.
- Use strong passwords: Weak or complex passwords can cause connection failures—stick to simple, secure combinations.
- Restart if needed: A quick restart of your router or doorbell can resolve temporary glitches.
How to Change WiFi on Ring Doorbell Camera
If you’ve moved, upgraded your internet plan, or simply need to switch your Ring Doorbell Camera to a new WiFi network, you’re in the right place. Changing the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell might sound tricky, but it’s actually a straightforward process—as long as you follow the right steps. Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or Ring Doorbell Elite, the method is nearly identical.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell Camera. You’ll learn how to use the Ring app, avoid common pitfalls, troubleshoot connection issues, and ensure your doorbell stays online and secure. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently switch networks without losing functionality or video quality.
Let’s get started!
Why You Might Need to Change Your WiFi Network
Visual guide about How to Change Wifi on Ring Doorbell Camera
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There are several reasons why you might need to change the WiFi network your Ring Doorbell is connected to. Understanding these can help you decide when it’s time to make the switch.
First, you may have moved to a new home or office. In this case, your old WiFi network is no longer available, and you’ll need to connect your Ring Doorbell to your new internet setup.
Second, you might have upgraded your internet service. Many people switch from a basic plan to a faster one, which often comes with a new router and network name (SSID). Your Ring Doorbell won’t automatically connect to the new network, so you’ll need to manually update it.
Third, you could be experiencing poor signal strength. If your doorbell is far from your router or there are too many walls and obstacles, the WiFi signal might be weak. In this case, you might want to switch to a stronger network or use a WiFi extender.
Finally, you may have changed your WiFi password or network name for security reasons. Even a small change—like updating your password—requires you to reconnect your Ring Doorbell to the network.
No matter the reason, the process remains the same. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin changing the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell Camera, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Your smartphone or tablet: You’ll need a device with the Ring app installed. The app is available for both iOS and Android.
- The Ring app: Download it from the App Store or Google Play if you haven’t already. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- Your new WiFi network name (SSID) and password: Have this information handy. Double-check for typos.
- Access to your Ring Doorbell: You’ll need to be within Bluetooth range of the device (usually within 10–15 feet).
- A stable internet connection: Your phone should be connected to the internet, preferably via the same WiFi network you’re switching to.
- Power to your doorbell: Ensure your Ring Doorbell has sufficient battery or is hardwired. Low power can interrupt the setup process.
Having these items ready will make the process smoother and reduce the chance of errors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing WiFi on Ring Doorbell
Now that you’re prepared, let’s go through the actual steps to change the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell Camera. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a successful connection.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Start by unlocking your smartphone or tablet and opening the Ring app. If you’re not already logged in, enter your email and password to access your account.
Once inside, you’ll see the home screen with a list of your Ring devices. Look for your doorbell—it should appear with a live preview or a still image, depending on its current status.
Tap on the doorbell to open its control panel. This will give you access to settings, live view, motion detection, and more.
Step 2: Access Device Settings
In the doorbell’s control panel, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. This is the settings menu. Tap on it to open the device settings.
You’ll now see a list of options such as Motion Settings, Device Health, Chime Pro, and more. Scroll down until you find the option labeled Device Connection or WiFi Network. Tap on it.
Note: The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your Ring model and app version, but it will generally include “WiFi” or “Network.”
Step 3: Begin WiFi Setup
After tapping on the WiFi network option, you’ll see a button that says Change WiFi Network or Update WiFi. Tap on it to begin the process.
The app will now prompt you to bring your phone within Bluetooth range of the doorbell. This is important—Bluetooth is used to securely transfer the new WiFi credentials to the device.
Make sure your phone’s Bluetooth is turned on. If it’s not, the app will usually remind you to enable it.
Step 4: Select Your New WiFi Network
Once your phone connects to the doorbell via Bluetooth, the app will scan for available WiFi networks in your area. A list will appear showing all nearby networks.
Look for your new WiFi network by name (SSID). Tap on it to select it.
If your network doesn’t appear, make sure it’s broadcasting its SSID. Some routers hide the network name for security, but Ring requires it to be visible during setup.
Step 5: Enter Your WiFi Password
After selecting your network, you’ll be asked to enter the password. Type it in carefully. The app will show dots or asterisks to hide the password, so double-check for accuracy.
Avoid using special characters or spaces unless absolutely necessary. While Ring supports most passwords, overly complex ones can sometimes cause connection issues.
Once entered, tap Continue or Connect.
Step 6: Wait for the Connection
The app will now attempt to connect your Ring Doorbell to the new WiFi network. This process usually takes 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
During this time, your phone will remain connected to the doorbell via Bluetooth, and the app will display a progress bar or status message.
Do not close the app or walk away from the doorbell. If you move out of Bluetooth range, the connection may fail.
Step 7: Confirm the Connection
Once the process is complete, the app will notify you whether the connection was successful.
If it says “Connected,” congratulations! Your Ring Doorbell is now using the new WiFi network. You can return to the home screen and test the live view to confirm everything is working.
If it says “Failed,” don’t panic. We’ll cover troubleshooting steps later in this guide.
Tips for a Smooth WiFi Change
Changing your WiFi network doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few smart tips, you can make the process faster and more reliable.
Stay Close to Your Doorbell
Bluetooth has a limited range—usually around 30 feet, but walls and interference can reduce this. Stay within 10–15 feet of your doorbell during the entire setup process.
If you have a large home, consider using a ladder or step stool to get closer if your doorbell is mounted high.
Use a 2.4 GHz Network
Ring Doorbell Cameras only support 2.4 GHz WiFi networks. They do not work with 5 GHz networks, which are faster but have shorter range.
If your router broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks under the same name (a feature called “band steering”), your phone might connect to the 5 GHz band by default. This can cause confusion.
To avoid this, temporarily rename your 2.4 GHz network (e.g., “HomeWiFi_2.4”) so it’s clearly distinguishable. After setup, you can change it back.
Restart Your Router
If you’re having trouble connecting, try restarting your router. Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This can resolve temporary glitches and improve signal strength.
Wait a few minutes after restarting before attempting the WiFi change.
Check for Interference
Other electronic devices—like microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors—can interfere with WiFi signals. If your doorbell is near such devices, consider moving them or choosing a different location for your router.
Update the Ring App and Firmware
Outdated software can cause compatibility issues. Make sure your Ring app is updated to the latest version. You can check this in your phone’s app store.
Also, Ring devices receive automatic firmware updates when connected to WiFi. If your doorbell hasn’t updated in a while, it might be worth checking for updates in the app under Device Health.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation, things don’t always go perfectly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
“Failed to Connect” Error
If the app says “Failed to Connect,” try the following:
- Double-check your WiFi password. Even one wrong character will prevent connection.
- Ensure your network is 2.4 GHz. Use a network scanner app if you’re unsure.
- Move closer to the doorbell and restart the process.
- Restart your router and try again.
Bluetooth Connection Fails
If your phone can’t connect to the doorbell via Bluetooth:
- Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
- Close other apps that might be using Bluetooth.
- Restart your phone and try again.
- If all else fails, remove the doorbell from the app and re-add it as a new device.
Doorbell Goes Offline After WiFi Change
Sometimes, the doorbell connects initially but goes offline shortly after. This could be due to:
- Weak signal strength. Use a WiFi extender or move your router closer.
- Power issues. If battery-powered, ensure the battery is fully charged.
- Network congestion. Too many devices on the same network can slow things down.
Can’t Find My WiFi Network
If your network doesn’t appear in the list:
- Make sure it’s not hidden. Go to your router settings and enable SSID broadcasting.
- Check that your phone is connected to the same network (or at least can see it).
- Try manually entering the network name and password in the app.
Advanced Tips for Better Performance
Once your Ring Doorbell is connected to the new WiFi network, you can take steps to improve its performance and reliability.
Use a WiFi Extender
If your doorbell is far from your router, a WiFi extender can boost the signal. Place the extender halfway between your router and doorbell for best results.
Look for extenders that support 2.4 GHz and have strong reviews for outdoor use.
Optimize Router Placement
Your router should be centrally located in your home, away from walls and metal objects. Avoid placing it in basements or behind large furniture.
If possible, elevate the router and keep it away from other electronics.
Set Up a Guest Network
For added security, consider setting up a guest network just for your Ring devices. This keeps your main network private while still allowing your doorbell to function.
Most modern routers allow you to create a separate guest network with its own password.
Monitor Device Health
The Ring app includes a Device Health feature that shows signal strength, battery level, and last seen time. Check this regularly to catch issues early.
If the signal strength is consistently low, it’s time to improve your WiFi setup.
Conclusion
Changing the WiFi network on your Ring Doorbell Camera is a simple process when you follow the right steps. By using the Ring app, staying within Bluetooth range, and ensuring your network is compatible, you can switch networks quickly and securely.
Remember to use a 2.4 GHz network, keep your passwords accurate, and troubleshoot any issues with patience. With the tips and tricks in this guide, your Ring Doorbell will stay connected and ready to protect your home.
Whether you’re moving, upgrading your internet, or just improving your setup, you now have the knowledge to change your WiFi with confidence. Stay safe, stay connected, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a reliable Ring Doorbell.