How to Change Wifi Settings on a Ring Doorbell

Changing WiFi settings on your Ring Doorbell is simple and essential for maintaining a strong connection. This guide walks you through every step—from accessing the app to reconnecting your device—so you can keep your smart doorbell working smoothly.

Key Takeaways

Use the Ring app: All WiFi changes must be made through the official Ring app, not your phone’s settings.
Ensure 2.4 GHz network: Most Ring Doorbells only support 2.4 GHz WiFi—check your router settings before connecting.
Stay within range: Your doorbell should be within 30–50 feet of your router for reliable signal strength.
Reset if needed: If connection fails, use the device reset button or remove and re-add the doorbell in the app.
Update firmware regularly: Keep your Ring Doorbell updated to avoid compatibility issues with new WiFi networks.
Test after setup: Always test live view and motion alerts after changing WiFi to confirm everything works.
Contact support if stuck: Ring’s customer service can help with persistent connection problems or advanced troubleshooting.

How to Change WiFi Settings on a Ring Doorbell

If you’ve moved, upgraded your internet plan, or simply need to switch your Ring Doorbell to a new WiFi network, you’re in the right place. Changing WiFi settings on a Ring Doorbell might sound technical, but it’s actually straightforward—once you know the right steps. Whether you’re dealing with a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell 4, or even a Ring Doorbell Pro, the process is nearly identical.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to update your WiFi settings safely and efficiently. We’ll walk you through everything from preparing your network to testing your connection afterward. You’ll also get practical tips to avoid common pitfalls and troubleshoot issues if they arise. By the end, your Ring Doorbell will be back online, streaming crystal-clear video and sending timely alerts—no matter which WiFi network you’re using.

Let’s get started!

Why You Might Need to Change Your WiFi Settings

There are several reasons why you might need to update the WiFi settings on your Ring Doorbell:

Moving to a new home: Your old WiFi network won’t be available, so you’ll need to connect to your new router.
Upgrading your internet service: New modems or routers often come with different network names (SSIDs) or passwords.
Switching to a mesh network: Many homeowners are upgrading to systems like Google Nest WiFi or Eero, which may require reconfiguration.
Improving signal strength: If your doorbell keeps disconnecting, switching to a stronger or less congested network can help.
Security updates: Changing your WiFi password? Your Ring Doorbell will need the new credentials to stay connected.

No matter your reason, the process is the same. The key is using the Ring app—not your phone’s WiFi settings—to make the change.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need

Before diving into the steps, make sure you have the following:

The Ring app installed: Available for free on iOS and Android. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
Your new WiFi network name (SSID) and password: Double-check for typos—even a single wrong character will prevent connection.
Access to your router: You may need to log in to confirm your network is broadcasting on 2.4 GHz (more on that below).
A charged phone or tablet: The setup process can take 10–15 minutes, so ensure your device doesn’t die mid-process.
Your Ring Doorbell powered on: If it’s hardwired, make sure power is connected. If battery-powered, ensure it has at least 50% charge.

Check Your WiFi Network Compatibility

Most Ring Doorbells—especially older models—only work with 2.4 GHz WiFi networks. While newer models like the Ring Doorbell (2nd Gen) and Ring Doorbell Pro 2 support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, it’s still recommended to use 2.4 GHz for better range and wall penetration.

To check your network:

Open your phone’s WiFi settings.
Look at the list of available networks. If you see two versions of your home network (e.g., “HomeWiFi” and “HomeWiFi_5G”), the 5G one is likely 5 GHz.
Choose the one without “5G” or “_5G” in the name—that’s your 2.4 GHz network.

If your router combines both bands under one name (called “band steering”), you may need to temporarily separate them during setup. Check your router’s admin page (usually accessible via a web browser at 192.168.1.1 or similar) to disable band steering or create a separate 2.4 GHz network.

Step-by-Step: How to Change WiFi Settings on a Ring Doorbell

Now that you’re prepared, let’s walk through the actual process. These steps work for all current Ring Doorbell models.

Step 1: Open the Ring App

Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account associated with your doorbell.

If you have multiple Ring devices, tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top-left corner and select your doorbell from the list.

Step 2: Access Device Settings

Once you’re on your doorbell’s live view or dashboard:

Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. This opens the Device Settings menu.
Scroll down and select “Device Health”.
Look for the option labeled “Change WiFi Network” or “Reconnect to WiFi”. Tap it.

Note: If you don’t see this option, your doorbell may already be offline. In that case, go to the main dashboard, tap “Set Up a Device,” and follow the prompts to reconnect.

Step 3: Put Your Doorbell in Setup Mode

Your Ring Doorbell needs to enter a special mode to scan for new networks. Here’s how:

For battery-powered models (Ring Doorbell, Doorbell 2, 3, 4): Press and hold the orange button on the back of the device for 15–20 seconds until the light on the front flashes white. Release the button.
For hardwired models (Ring Doorbell Pro, Pro 2): You’ll need to remove the faceplate and press the setup button inside the device. The light will flash white when ready.

Once the light is flashing, your doorbell is in setup mode and ready to connect to a new network.

Step 4: Select Your New WiFi Network

Back in the Ring app:

The app will scan for available networks. Wait a few seconds for the list to populate.
Tap your new WiFi network from the list.
Enter the password carefully. Use copy-paste if possible to avoid typos.
Tap “Continue” or “Connect”.

The app will send the network credentials to your doorbell. This may take 30–60 seconds.

Step 5: Wait for Connection

Your doorbell will attempt to connect to the new network. During this time:

The light on the doorbell will pulse white.
The app may show a progress bar or “Connecting…” message.
Do not close the app or lock your phone.

If successful, the light will turn solid green, and the app will confirm the connection.

Step 6: Test Your Connection

Once connected:

Return to the live view in the app.
Check that the video loads within 5–10 seconds.
Test motion alerts by walking in front of the doorbell.
Verify that notifications arrive on your phone.

If everything works, congratulations—you’ve successfully changed your WiFi settings!

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.

Doorbell Won’t Connect to New WiFi

If your doorbell fails to connect:

Double-check the password: Even one wrong character will block the connection. Try re-entering it.
Ensure 2.4 GHz is enabled: Log into your router and confirm the 2.4 GHz band is active.
Move closer to the router: Temporarily bring your doorbell inside near the router during setup.
Restart your router: Power cycle your modem and router by unplugging them for 30 seconds, then plugging back in.
Forget the network on your phone: Go to your phone’s WiFi settings, find the network, and select “Forget.” Then reconnect manually.

Weak Signal or Frequent Disconnects

If your doorbell connects but keeps dropping:

Check signal strength in the app: Go to Device Health > Network. Look for “Signal Strength.” If it’s “Poor” or “Fair,” consider relocating your router or adding a WiFi extender.
Reduce interference: Keep your router away from microwaves, cordless phones, and thick walls.
Use a Ring Chime Pro: This device acts as a WiFi extender specifically for Ring devices. It can boost signal to your doorbell by up to 50%.

App Says “Device Offline”

If your doorbell shows as offline after changing WiFi:

Wait 5–10 minutes: Sometimes it takes time for the device to sync with the cloud.
Reboot the doorbell: Remove the battery (if applicable) for 10 seconds, then reinsert. For hardwired models, turn off power at the breaker for 30 seconds.
Re-run setup: Go back to Device Settings > Device Health > Change WiFi Network and repeat the process.

Forgot Your WiFi Password

If you don’t remember your new WiFi password:

Check your router’s label—many have the default password printed on the bottom.
Log into your router’s admin page (usually via a web browser) to view or reset the password.
Ask another device already connected to the network to share the password (iOS and Android both support this feature).

Advanced Tips for a Smoother Experience

Want to make your Ring Doorbell even more reliable? Try these expert tips:

Use a Dedicated IoT Network

Many modern routers let you create a separate network just for smart devices (like your doorbell, thermostat, or security cameras). This reduces congestion and improves performance.

To set one up:

Log into your router’s admin page.
Look for “Guest Network” or “IoT Network” settings.
Create a new network name (e.g., “Home_IoT”) and set it to 2.4 GHz only.
Connect your Ring Doorbell to this network.

This keeps your main WiFi free for laptops and phones while giving your doorbell a stable connection.

Update Your Ring Doorbell Firmware

Ring regularly releases firmware updates that improve connectivity and security. To check for updates:

Open the Ring app.
Go to Device Settings > Device Health.
Look for “Firmware Version.” If an update is available, it will prompt you to install it.

Updates usually happen automatically, but it’s good to check manually after changing WiFi.

Optimize Your Router Placement

Your doorbell’s signal depends heavily on your router’s location. For best results:

Place your router in a central location, elevated off the floor.
Avoid basements, closets, or behind large appliances.
Use a mesh WiFi system if your home is large or has thick walls.

Even small changes—like moving your router from the basement to the living room—can dramatically improve doorbell performance.

When to Contact Ring Support

If you’ve tried all the steps above and your doorbell still won’t connect, it’s time to reach out for help.

Contact Ring Customer Support if:

Your doorbell won’t enter setup mode (light won’t flash).
The app crashes during WiFi setup.
You receive error messages like “Unable to Connect” or “Network Not Found.”
Your doorbell connects but video is frozen or extremely laggy.

You can contact Ring support via:

The Help section in the Ring app (tap the question mark icon).
Live chat on ring.com/support.
Phone support (available 24/7 in the U.S.).

Have your account email, device model, and WiFi network details ready to speed up the process.

Final Thoughts

Changing WiFi settings on a Ring 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. Remember: always use the Ring app, stick to 2.4 GHz when possible, and test your connection afterward.

Keeping your doorbell connected ensures you never miss a visitor, package, or unexpected motion at your door. And if you run into trouble, don’t hesitate to use the troubleshooting tips or reach out to Ring’s support team.

Now that you know how to update your WiFi settings, you’re ready to enjoy reliable, high-quality video monitoring—no matter where life takes you.