This guide walks you through how to change WiFi on Ring Video Doorbell using the Ring app. Whether you’ve moved, upgraded your router, or switched internet providers, we’ll help you reconnect your device in minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app: All WiFi changes must be done through the official Ring app—no physical buttons on the doorbell.
- Stay within range: Keep your phone and doorbell close to the new WiFi router during setup for a strong signal.
- Know your network details: Have your new WiFi name (SSID) and password ready before starting.
- Reconnect power if needed: Battery-powered models may need a quick recharge or hardwired power to complete setup.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If connection fails, restart your router, check for interference, or reset the doorbell.
- Update firmware: Ensure your Ring device has the latest software for smooth WiFi switching.
- Test after setup: Always verify live view and motion alerts work on the new network.
How to Change WiFi on Ring Video Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve moved to a new home, upgraded your internet plan, or maybe your old router finally gave up the ghost. Whatever the reason, you now need to connect your Ring Video Doorbell to a new WiFi network. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to change WiFi on Ring Video Doorbell quickly, safely, and without frustration.
Whether you have a Ring Video Doorbell (1st, 2nd, or 3rd gen), Ring Video Doorbell Pro, Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, Ring Video Doorbell Elite, or Ring Video Doorbell Wired, the process is nearly identical. The key is using the Ring app—your central hub for managing all Ring devices. No need to climb ladders or fiddle with wires (unless you’re hardwired). Just your smartphone, your new WiFi info, and about 10 minutes of your time.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to switch your Ring doorbell to a new network, avoid common pitfalls, and confirm everything is working perfectly. Let’s get started!
Why You Might Need to Change Your Ring Doorbell’s WiFi
Before diving into the steps, it helps to understand when and why you’d need to update your Ring doorbell’s WiFi settings. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Moving to a new home: Your old WiFi network won’t be available, so you’ll need to connect to your new place’s internet.
- Router replacement or upgrade: New routers often come with different network names (SSIDs) or passwords.
- Switching internet providers: Your ISP may install a new modem/router combo with a fresh network setup.
- Network optimization: You might want to connect to a less congested 2.4GHz band or a faster 5GHz network (if supported).
- Security concerns: If you suspect your WiFi was compromised, changing networks adds a layer of protection.
No matter the reason, the process remains the same. The Ring app handles the heavy lifting, guiding you through each step with clear prompts.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin, make sure you have the following ready:
- Your smartphone or tablet: Must have the Ring app installed and be logged into your Ring account.
- New WiFi network name (SSID) and password: Double-check for typos—this is the #1 cause of setup failures.
- Access to your Ring doorbell: You’ll need to be near it during setup so your phone can communicate with it.
- Power source: If your doorbell is battery-powered, ensure it’s charged (at least 50% is ideal). Hardwired models should stay powered, but a quick check never hurts.
- Stable internet connection: Your phone should be connected to the new WiFi network (or at least able to switch to it).
Pro tip: If you’re switching from a 5GHz to a 2.4GHz network (or vice versa), confirm your Ring model supports the band. Most Ring doorbells only work on 2.4GHz, though newer models like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 support both.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Select Your Device
The first step in how to change WiFi on Ring Video Doorbell is launching the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
Launch the Ring App
Open the Ring app and log in with your credentials if you aren’t already. Make sure you’re using the same account linked to your doorbell.
Navigate to Your Doorbell
On the home screen, you’ll see a list of your Ring devices. Tap on the video doorbell you want to update. If you have multiple Ring devices, look for the one labeled “Front Door,” “Main Entrance,” or whatever name you assigned.
Access Device Settings
Once you’re on the device’s live view or event history screen, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. Tap it to open the device settings menu.
Step 2: Start the WiFi Setup Process
Now that you’re in the settings, it’s time to begin reconfiguring your WiFi.
Find the Network Settings
Scroll down in the settings menu until you see an option labeled “Network” or “WiFi Network.” Tap on it.
Choose “Change WiFi Network”
You’ll see your current network listed. Below it, tap the button that says “Change WiFi Network” or “Update Network.” This will start the setup wizard.
Confirm Your Action
The app may ask you to confirm that you want to change the network. Tap “Yes” or “Continue.” At this point, your doorbell will disconnect from the current WiFi and prepare to scan for new networks.
Step 3: Put Your Doorbell in Setup Mode
This step varies slightly depending on your Ring model, but the goal is the same: get your doorbell ready to receive new WiFi info.
For Battery-Powered Models (Ring Video Doorbell, 2nd/3rd Gen)
You’ll need to wake up the doorbell and put it in setup mode. Here’s how:
- Remove the faceplate (if applicable) to access the battery.
- Press and hold the orange button on the back of the doorbell for 10–15 seconds until the light ring flashes white.
- Release the button. The doorbell is now in setup mode and ready to connect.
For Hardwired Models (Ring Video Doorbell Pro, Pro 2, Wired)
These models stay powered, so you don’t need to remove anything. Instead:
- Press and hold the setup button (usually on the side or back) for 5–10 seconds.
- The light ring will flash white, indicating setup mode is active.
For Ring Video Doorbell Elite
Since the Elite is hardwired and uses Ethernet, you’ll follow the hardwired steps above. However, if you’re switching from Ethernet to WiFi (or vice versa), you may need to adjust settings in the app accordingly.
Step 4: Connect Your Phone to the Doorbell’s Temporary Network
Once your doorbell is in setup mode, it creates a temporary WiFi network that your phone can join. This allows the app to send your new network credentials securely.
Go to Your Phone’s WiFi Settings
Open your phone’s Settings app and navigate to WiFi. Look for a network named something like “Ring-XXXX” (where XXXX is a series of numbers). This is your doorbell’s temporary network.
Join the Temporary Network
Tap on the Ring network and connect. You won’t need a password—it’s open for setup purposes. Once connected, return to the Ring app.
Wait for the App to Detect the Doorbell
The Ring app should automatically detect that your phone is connected to the doorbell’s network. If it doesn’t, tap “Refresh” or “Search for Device” in the app.
Step 5: Select Your New WiFi Network
Now comes the crucial part: choosing your new home network.
Scan for Available Networks
The app will scan for nearby WiFi networks. This may take 10–30 seconds. Make sure your new router is powered on and broadcasting.
Choose Your Network
From the list, tap on your new WiFi network (SSID). If you have both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands with the same name, look for indicators like “_5G” or “_2.4G” to choose the correct one.
Enter Your WiFi Password
Type in your new WiFi password carefully. The app will show dots or asterisks, so double-check for typos. If you make a mistake, you can go back and correct it.
Confirm and Send
Tap “Continue” or “Connect.” The app will send the network info to your doorbell over the temporary connection.
Step 6: Wait for the Connection to Complete
This is where patience pays off. Your doorbell will now attempt to connect to the new WiFi network.
Watch for Status Updates
The app will show a progress bar or status messages like “Connecting…” or “Updating Settings.” This usually takes 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
Look for the Light Ring
On your doorbell, the light ring will change colors:
- Solid white: Successfully connected.
- Blinking white: Still connecting.
- Red or orange: Connection failed—check troubleshooting section.
Return to Your Home WiFi
Once connected, your phone will automatically disconnect from the doorbell’s temporary network. Go back to your phone’s WiFi settings and reconnect to your home network.
Step 7: Test Your Doorbell on the New Network
Don’t skip this step! Testing ensures everything is working correctly.
Check Live View
Open the Ring app and tap on your doorbell. Try opening the live view. If it loads within 5–10 seconds, the connection is strong.
Test Motion Alerts
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger a motion alert. You should receive a notification on your phone within a few seconds.
Verify Two-Way Audio
Tap the microphone icon in live view and speak. Ask someone near the doorbell to confirm they can hear you. Then have them speak—you should hear them clearly.
Check Event History
Go to the event timeline and confirm recent motion or ring events are recorded. This shows the doorbell is uploading data successfully.
Troubleshooting Common WiFi Connection Issues
Even with perfect steps, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when learning how to change WiFi on Ring Video Doorbell.
Doorbell Won’t Connect to New WiFi
- Check password: Re-enter the WiFi password carefully. Even one wrong character will fail.
- Signal strength: Move closer to the router or use a WiFi extender. Ring doorbells need at least -70 dBm signal strength.
- Restart router: Power cycle your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
- Forget and retry: In the Ring app, go back to network settings and restart the process.
App Can’t Find the Doorbell in Setup Mode
- Ensure setup mode is active: The light ring should be flashing white. If not, re-enter setup mode.
- Close distance: Stand within 10 feet of the doorbell with no major obstructions.
- Restart the app: Close and reopen the Ring app, then try again.
- Toggle airplane mode: Turn on airplane mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off to reset your phone’s wireless connections.
Live View is Slow or Buffering
- Check internet speed: Run a speed test. Ring recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed for HD video.
- Reduce interference: Move the router away from microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.
- Update firmware: Go to Device Health in the Ring app and check for updates.
Doorbell Keeps Disconnecting
- WiFi congestion: Too many devices on one network? Try connecting to a less busy channel or band.
- Power issues: For battery models, recharge fully. For hardwired, check voltage with a multimeter (should be 16–24V AC).
- Reset the doorbell: As a last resort, perform a factory reset (see Ring support for model-specific steps).
Pro Tips for a Smooth WiFi Switch
Make your next WiFi change even easier with these expert tips:
- Name your networks clearly: Use distinct names like “Home_2.4G” and “Home_5G” to avoid confusion.
- Use a WiFi analyzer app: Apps like NetSpot or Wi-Fi Analyzer help you find the best channel and signal strength.
- Update the Ring app regularly: New versions often include bug fixes and improved connectivity.
- Keep your doorbell charged: Low battery can cause setup failures—charge to 100% before starting.
- Document your network info: Save your SSID and password in a secure note or password manager.
Conclusion
Changing the WiFi on your Ring Video Doorbell doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and a clear step-by-step approach, you can switch networks in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re moving, upgrading your internet, or just optimizing your home security setup, knowing how to change WiFi on Ring Video Doorbell puts you in control.
Remember: always use the Ring app, stay close to your doorbell during setup, double-check your network details, and test everything afterward. If you run into issues, don’t panic—most problems have simple fixes.
Your Ring doorbell is a powerful tool for home security, and keeping it connected to a reliable WiFi network ensures you never miss a visitor, package, or unexpected event. So go ahead, make that switch with confidence, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your front door is always under watch.