This guide walks you through how to factory reset a Ring Doorbell safely and effectively. Whether you’re troubleshooting, transferring ownership, or setting up a new device, you’ll find clear instructions and expert tips to get it done right.
Key Takeaways
- Factory reset erases all settings: It removes your Wi-Fi, motion zones, and user accounts, returning the device to its original state.
- Use the Ring app for most models: The easiest method is through the Ring app’s device settings menu.
- Physical reset button required for older models: Devices like the Ring Video Doorbell (1st Gen) need a manual reset using the orange button.
- Reconnect after reset: You’ll need to set up the doorbell again from scratch, including Wi-Fi and chime pairing.
- Reset before selling or giving away: Always factory reset to protect your privacy and data.
- Check power source first: Ensure your doorbell has sufficient battery or wired power before resetting.
- Contact support if issues persist: If the reset fails, Ring’s customer service can help troubleshoot hardware or app problems.
How to Factory Reset Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Is your Ring Doorbell acting up? Maybe it won’t connect to Wi-Fi, keeps disconnecting, or you’re planning to sell it. Whatever the reason, a factory reset can often solve the problem—or at least give you a clean slate to start over.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to factory reset a Ring Doorbell for all major models. Whether you have a battery-powered Ring Video Doorbell, a hardwired Ring Doorbell Pro, or an older first-generation model, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn the right method for your device, what to expect after the reset, and how to avoid common mistakes.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently reset your Ring Doorbell, reconnect it to your network, and restore full functionality—no tech degree required.
Why Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell?
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why you might need to factory reset your Ring Doorbell. Here are the most common reasons:
Visual guide about How to Factor Reset Ring Doorbell
Image source: wikihow.com
- Troubleshooting connectivity issues: If your doorbell keeps dropping offline or won’t connect to Wi-Fi, a reset can clear glitches.
- Preparing for resale or transfer: Always reset before selling or giving your doorbell to someone else to protect your personal data.
- Switching Wi-Fi networks: Moving to a new home or upgrading your router? A reset helps the doorbell reconnect smoothly.
- App sync problems: If the Ring app isn’t recognizing your device, a reset can re-establish the connection.
- Starting fresh after updates: Sometimes software updates cause bugs. A reset can help the system reboot cleanly.
Think of a factory reset like turning your computer off and on again—but for your smart doorbell. It wipes all custom settings and returns the device to its original factory state. Once reset, you’ll need to set it up again from scratch, just like the first time you used it.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin the reset process, make sure you have the following:
- The Ring app installed on your smartphone: Available for iOS and Android. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- Your Ring account login details: You’ll need your email and password to access device settings.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: Required for reconfiguring the doorbell after the reset.
- Access to the doorbell: You’ll need to physically reach the device, especially if using the manual reset button.
- A charged battery or wired power: Ensure the doorbell has enough power to complete the reset. If it’s battery-powered, charge it fully or replace the battery.
Having these items ready will make the process smoother and prevent interruptions.
How to Factory Reset Ring Doorbell Using the App (Most Models)
The easiest and most common way to factory reset a Ring Doorbell is through the Ring app. This method works for most modern models, including:
- Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen and newer)
- Ring Video Doorbell Pro
- Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
- Ring Video Doorbell Wired
- Ring Video Doorbell Elite
Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.
Step 2: Select Your Device
On the home screen, tap the three-line menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner. Then, tap Devices. Find your doorbell in the list and tap on it to open its settings.
Step 3: Go to Device Settings
Once inside the device page, scroll down and tap Device Settings. This will open a new menu with options like Motion Settings, Chime Settings, and more.
Step 4: Choose General Settings
Tap General Settings. This section contains core device options, including the factory reset feature.
Step 5: Tap “Remove Device”
Scroll down until you see the Remove Device option. Tap it. The app will warn you that this will disconnect the device from your account and erase all settings.
Step 6: Confirm the Reset
Tap Remove to confirm. The app will send a command to the doorbell to begin the factory reset process. This may take a few seconds.
Step 7: Wait for Confirmation
The app will notify you when the reset is complete. Your doorbell will now be in its original factory state, ready for a new setup.
Tip: After the reset, the doorbell’s LED light will blink in a specific pattern (usually white or blue) to indicate it’s in setup mode. This confirms the reset was successful.
How to Factory Reset Older Ring Doorbells (1st Gen and Battery Models)
Older models, such as the Ring Video Doorbell (1st Generation) and some early battery-powered versions, don’t support app-based resets. Instead, you’ll need to use the physical reset button located on the back or side of the device.
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Remove the Doorbell from the Mount
Use the security screwdriver (usually a Torx T15) to loosen the screw at the bottom of the doorbell. Gently pull the device away from the mounting bracket.
Step 2: Locate the Orange Reset Button
On the back of the doorbell, you’ll see a small orange button near the battery compartment. This is the factory reset button.
Step 3: Press and Hold the Reset Button
Using a paperclip, SIM tool, or small pin, press and hold the orange button for at least 15 seconds. You’ll see the LED light on the front blink rapidly.
Step 4: Release and Wait
After 15 seconds, release the button. The doorbell will power down and restart. The LED will flash white or blue, indicating it’s in setup mode.
Step 5: Reattach the Doorbell
Once the reset is complete, reattach the doorbell to the mounting bracket and tighten the security screw.
Note: If your doorbell is hardwired, make sure power is restored after reattaching. For battery models, ensure the battery is fully charged before reinserting.
How to Factory Reset Ring Doorbell Pro and Pro 2
The Ring Doorbell Pro and Pro 2 are hardwired devices that also support app-based resets. However, if the app method fails, you can use the physical reset button as a backup.
App Method (Recommended)
Follow the same steps as outlined in the “Using the App” section above. Go to Device Settings > General Settings > Remove Device > Confirm.
Physical Reset (Alternative)
If the app isn’t working, you can reset the Pro models manually:
- Locate the orange reset button on the back of the device.
- Press and hold it for 15–20 seconds using a paperclip.
- Watch for the LED to flash rapidly, then return to a steady light.
- The device will reboot and enter setup mode.
Important: The Pro models require a wired connection to power and the Ring Chime Pro for optimal performance. Make sure your wiring is secure before and after the reset.
What Happens After a Factory Reset?
Once your Ring Doorbell has been factory reset, here’s what you can expect:
- All settings are erased: Wi-Fi credentials, motion zones, chime settings, and user permissions are removed.
- The device is disconnected from your account: It no longer appears in the Ring app until you set it up again.
- LED light indicates setup mode: A blinking white or blue light means the doorbell is ready for reconfiguration.
- You’ll need to re-register the device: Go through the full setup process as if it were brand new.
This is normal and expected. The reset is only the first step—now you need to reconnect and configure your doorbell.
How to Set Up Your Ring Doorbell After a Factory Reset
After resetting, you’ll need to set up your doorbell again. Here’s a quick guide:
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the app and tap the + (plus) icon to add a new device.
Step 2: Select “Doorbells”
Choose “Doorbells” from the list of device types.
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell. If you can’t scan it, tap “I don’t have a QR code” and enter the serial number manually.
Step 4: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
The app will guide you through connecting to Wi-Fi, naming the device, setting up motion zones, and linking to a chime (if applicable).
Step 5: Test the Doorbell
Once setup is complete, press the doorbell button to test the video, audio, and chime. Make sure everything works as expected.
Pro Tip: Use a strong Wi-Fi signal (2.4 GHz recommended for most models) and place your router close to the doorbell if possible. Weak signals are a common cause of post-reset issues.
Troubleshooting Common Factory Reset Issues
Even with clear instructions, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
Problem: The Doorbell Won’t Reset via the App
Solution: Make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the doorbell. If the app freezes, force-close it and reopen. If that doesn’t work, try the physical reset method.
Problem: LED Light Doesn’t Blink After Reset
Solution: Check the power source. For battery models, replace or recharge the battery. For wired models, ensure the circuit breaker is on and wires are secure.
Problem: Doorbell Won’t Reconnect to Wi-Fi
Solution: Move closer to your router during setup. Avoid using 5 GHz networks unless your model supports it (most don’t). Restart your router if needed.
Problem: App Says “Device Not Found”
Solution: Make sure the doorbell is in setup mode (LED blinking). If not, repeat the reset process. Also, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone during setup.
Problem: Reset Button Doesn’t Respond
Solution: Press and hold the button for a full 20 seconds. If it still doesn’t work, the button may be faulty. Contact Ring Support for assistance.
If none of these solutions work, visit the Ring Support Center or call customer service for help.
When to Contact Ring Support
Most factory reset issues can be resolved with the steps above. However, if you’ve tried everything and your doorbell still won’t reset or reconnect, it’s time to reach out to Ring Support.
Contact them if:
- The reset button is unresponsive
- The device won’t power on after reset
- The app consistently fails to detect the doorbell
- You suspect hardware damage (e.g., water ingress, cracked casing)
Ring offers live chat, phone support, and community forums. Have your device model, serial number, and account email ready when you contact them.
Best Practices for Maintaining Your Ring Doorbell
To avoid frequent resets and keep your doorbell running smoothly, follow these tips:
- Update the app and firmware regularly: Ring releases updates to improve performance and security.
- Clean the lens and sensors: Wipe the camera and motion sensor with a soft, dry cloth every few months.
- Check battery levels: For battery models, recharge or replace batteries before they die completely.
- Secure your Wi-Fi network: Use a strong password and avoid network congestion.
- Test the doorbell monthly: Press the button to ensure video, audio, and notifications are working.
Regular maintenance can prevent many issues that lead to resets in the first place.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to factory reset a Ring Doorbell is an essential skill for any smart home owner. Whether you’re fixing a glitch, preparing to sell, or just starting fresh, a factory reset gives you a clean slate and often resolves stubborn problems.
Remember: always use the Ring app when possible, but don’t hesitate to use the physical reset button for older models. After the reset, take the time to properly set up your doorbell with a strong Wi-Fi connection and updated settings.
With this guide, you’re equipped to handle any reset situation with confidence. Your Ring Doorbell will be back online and keeping your home secure in no time.