Wifi Guide

How to Change Wifi With Ring? Reconnect Devices in the App

Introduction Changing your home WiFi network can feel like a daunting task when you have multiple smart devices connected. If you have recently upgraded your router, switched internet providers, or simply changed your WiFi password, you might be wondering how

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

Changing your home WiFi network can feel like a daunting task when you have multiple smart devices connected. If you have recently upgraded your router, switched internet providers, or simply changed your WiFi password, you might be wondering how to get all your Ring devices back online. Learning How to Change Wifi With Ring? is essential for keeping your home security system running smoothly without interruptions.

Ring devices, including video doorbells, security cameras, alarm systems, and chimes, all rely on a stable WiFi connection to function properly. When your network changes, these devices lose connectivity and stop sending alerts, recording footage, or responding to commands. Fortunately, reconnecting them is a straightforward process once you know the right steps.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about changing WiFi on your Ring devices using the Ring app. Whether you have a single Ring Doorbell or an entire ecosystem of Ring products, this article will help you get everything reconnected quickly and efficiently.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Change Your Ring WiFi

There are several common scenarios where you will need to update the WiFi settings on your Ring devices. Understanding these situations can help you prepare in advance and minimize downtime for your home security system.

Router replacement or upgrade: If you have purchased a new router or mesh WiFi system, your network name (SSID) and password may have changed. Even if you keep the same network name, the new router might use a different frequency or security protocol that requires reconfiguration.

Internet provider change: Switching from one internet service provider to another often means a completely new router with different network credentials. This is one of the most common reasons people need to learn how to change WiFi with Ring devices.

Password updates: For security reasons, you may have changed your WiFi password. While this is a good practice, it means every connected device needs to be updated with the new credentials.

Moving to a new home: Relocating means connecting to a new network entirely. Your Ring devices will need to be paired with your new home’s WiFi before they can function again.

Network optimization: Some users separate their 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks or create dedicated IoT networks for smart home devices. This requires updating each device’s connection settings.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Before diving into the process of changing your Ring WiFi, make sure you have the following items ready. Having everything prepared will make the process much smoother and faster.

  • Your smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed and updated to the latest version
  • Your Ring account login credentials
  • The new WiFi network name (SSID) and password
  • Physical access to your Ring devices (you may need to press a setup button)
  • A stable internet connection on your phone (cellular data works if WiFi is not available)
  • A ladder if your Ring Doorbell or camera is mounted high
  • The Ring device’s QR code or MAC address (usually found on the device or its packaging)

It is also recommended to charge your Ring devices if they are battery-powered. A low battery can cause connection issues during the setup process. Additionally, make sure your new router is fully set up and broadcasting before attempting to connect your Ring devices.

How to Change WiFi With Ring? Step-by-Step

The general process for changing WiFi on any Ring device follows a similar pattern. Here is the overarching method that applies to most Ring products. We will cover device-specific instructions in the following sections.

  1. Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
  2. Tap the three-line menu icon in the top-left corner of the screen.
  3. Select “Devices” from the menu.
  4. Choose the Ring device you want to reconnect.
  5. Tap “Device Health” or the gear icon for settings.
  6. Look for “Change WiFi Network” or “Reconnect to WiFi” option.
  7. Follow the on-screen prompts to put the device in setup mode.
  8. Select your new WiFi network from the list and enter the password.
  9. Wait for the device to connect and verify the connection.

The exact wording and button locations may vary slightly depending on your device type and app version, but this general flow remains consistent across the Ring ecosystem.

Changing WiFi on a Ring Doorbell

Ring Doorbells are among the most popular Ring products, and reconnecting them to a new WiFi network is a common task. Here is the detailed process for changing WiFi on a Ring Video Doorbell.

Step-by-Step for Ring Doorbell

  1. Open the Ring app and tap the menu (three horizontal lines).
  2. Select “Devices” and then tap on your Ring Doorbell.
  3. Tap “Device Health” at the bottom of the screen.
  4. Under the “Network” section, tap “Change WiFi Network” or “Reconnect to WiFi.”
  5. The app will prompt you to put your doorbell into setup mode. For most Ring Doorbells, you need to press and release the orange button on the back of the device. If your doorbell is hardwired, you may need to remove it from the mounting bracket first.
  6. Once the light on the front of the doorbell starts spinning white, tap “Continue” in the app.
  7. The app will scan for available networks. Select your new WiFi network.
  8. Enter the WiFi password when prompted.
  9. Wait for the connection to complete. You will see a confirmation message when the doorbell is successfully connected.
  10. Test the connection by triggering a motion event or pressing the doorbell button.

Doorbell-Specific Tips

If your Ring Doorbell is hardwired, the orange setup button is usually located on the back. You will need to remove the device from its mounting bracket to access it. For battery-powered models, the setup button is also on the back, but you can usually access it without removing the device completely.

After changing the WiFi, it may take a few minutes for the doorbell to fully reconnect and resume normal operation. The live view feature might be temporarily unavailable during this transition period.

Changing WiFi on a Ring Camera

Ring offers a variety of security cameras, including the Ring Stick Up Cam, Ring Spotlight Cam, Ring Floodlight Cam, and Ring Indoor Cam. While the process is similar across models, there are some device-specific nuances to be aware of.

Step-by-Step for Ring Cameras

  1. Open the Ring app and navigate to “Devices.”
  2. Select the camera you want to reconnect.
  3. Tap “Device Health” or the settings gear icon.
  4. Tap “Change WiFi Network” under the network settings.
  5. Press and hold the setup button on the camera. The location varies by model:
    • Stick Up Cam: Button on the bottom of the device
    • Spotlight Cam: Button on top of the device
    • Floodlight Cam: Button on the bottom of the camera unit
    • Indoor Cam: Button on the back of the device
  6. Wait for the LED indicator to start flashing (usually white or blue).
  7. Tap “Continue” in the app and select your new WiFi network.
  8. Enter the password and wait for the connection to complete.
  9. Verify the connection by viewing the live feed from the camera.

Important Notes for Cameras

Some Ring cameras, like the Floodlight Cam, are hardwired and require the power to be cycled if the setup button does not respond. You can do this by turning off the breaker for a few seconds and then turning it back on. Battery-powered cameras should have sufficient charge before attempting to reconnect.

If your camera has a solar panel accessory, ensure it is connected and receiving adequate sunlight during the setup process, as a low battery can cause the camera to disconnect during pairing.

Changing WiFi on a Ring Alarm Base Station

The Ring Alarm Base Station is the hub of your Ring security system. It connects to the internet via WiFi or Ethernet and communicates with all your sensors and accessories. Changing its WiFi connection is slightly different from other Ring devices.

Step-by-Step for Ring Alarm Base Station

  1. Open the Ring app and go to “Devices.”
  2. Select your Ring Alarm Base Station.
  3. Tap “Device Health.”
  4. Under “Network,” tap “Change WiFi Network.”
  5. The app will guide you through the process. You may need to press the pairing button on the back of the base station.
  6. If your base station is connected via Ethernet, you may want to temporarily disconnect the Ethernet cable to force a WiFi connection.
  7. Select your new WiFi network from the list.
  8. Enter the password and wait for the connection.
  9. Once connected, you can reconnect the Ethernet cable if you want to use both (Ethernet takes priority over WiFi).

Alarm-Specific Considerations

The Ring Alarm Base Station supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi networks. However, for better range and stability, 2.4 GHz is often recommended for security systems. If you are experiencing connection issues, try connecting to the 2.4 GHz band.

If your base station loses connection during the WiFi change, your alarm system may go offline temporarily. Consider disarming the system before making changes to avoid false alarms. All connected sensors will remain paired with the base station; only the internet connection needs to be updated.

Changing WiFi on a Ring Chime or Chime Pro

Ring Chimes plug into standard wall outlets and act as doorbell chimes and WiFi extenders (in the case of Chime Pro). Changing their WiFi connection is usually the simplest process among Ring devices.

Step-by-Step for Ring Chime

  1. Open the Ring app and navigate to “Devices.”
  2. Select your Ring Chime or Chime Pro.
  3. Tap “Device Health.”
  4. Tap “Change WiFi Network.”
  5. Unplug the Chime from the wall outlet and plug it back in. This puts it in setup mode.
  6. Wait for the light on the Chime to start flashing (usually blue).
  7. Tap “Continue” in the app.
  8. Select your new WiFi network and enter the password.
  9. Wait for the connection to complete. The Chime will play a confirmation tone.

Chime Pro as WiFi Extender

If you are using a Ring Chime Pro as a WiFi extender for your other Ring devices, changing its WiFi connection may affect the extended network. After reconnecting the Chime Pro, you may need to update the WiFi settings on devices that were connected through the Chime Pro’s extended network.

The Chime Pro creates its own WiFi network for Ring devices. When you change the primary WiFi, the extended network credentials may also change. Check each connected device to ensure it is still properly connected.

Alternative Method Using Device Health

If the standard method of changing WiFi does not work, or if you cannot find the “Change WiFi Network” option, you can use the Device Health section as an alternative approach. This method is particularly useful when the app does not automatically detect that a WiFi change is needed.

Using Device Health to Reconnect

  1. Open the Ring app and go to “Devices.”
  2. Select the device that needs reconnection.
  3. Tap “Device Health.”
  4. Look for the “Network” section. If the device is offline, you will see a “Reconnect” or “Troubleshoot” button.
  5. Tap “Reconnect” and follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. The app will guide you through putting the device in setup mode and selecting a new network.
  7. If prompted, scan the QR code on the device or enter the MAC address manually.
  8. Select your new WiFi network and enter the password.
  9. Complete the setup and verify the connection.

This alternative method is especially helpful when your device shows as offline in the app but the standard “Change WiFi Network” option is not available. It forces the app to treat the device as a new connection, which can resolve stubborn connectivity issues.

Ring Device WiFi Compatibility Comparison

Not all Ring devices support the same WiFi bands. Understanding which frequency your device uses can help you troubleshoot connection issues and choose the right network settings. Here is a comparison of WiFi compatibility across popular Ring devices.

Ring Device 2.4 GHz Support 5 GHz Support Ethernet Support Setup Button Location
Ring Video Doorbell (1st Gen) Yes No No Back of device
Ring Video Doorbell 2 Yes No No Back of device
Ring Video Doorbell 3 Yes Yes No Back of device
Ring Video Doorbell 4 Yes Yes No Back of device
Ring Video Doorbell Pro Yes Yes No Right side of device
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 Yes Yes No Right side of device
Ring Stick Up Cam Yes Yes (Battery/Plug-in) Yes (Elite) Bottom of device
Ring Spotlight Cam Yes Yes (Wired/Battery) No Top of device
Ring Floodlight Cam Yes Yes No Bottom of camera
Ring Indoor Cam Yes Yes No Back of device
Ring Alarm Base Station Yes Yes Yes Back of device
Ring Chime Yes No No None (unplug/replug)
Ring Chime Pro Yes Yes No None (unplug/replug)

As you can see, most newer Ring devices support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, while older models may only support 2.4 GHz. If your new router broadcasts both bands under the same network name, Ring devices will typically connect to the 2.4 GHz band automatically for better range, unless the device specifically supports and prefers 5 GHz.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Change Issues

Even when following the correct steps, you may encounter issues when changing WiFi on your Ring devices. Here are the most common problems and their solutions.

Device Not Connecting to New Network

If your Ring device fails to connect to the new WiFi network, try the following solutions:

  • Double-check that you entered the correct WiFi password. Passwords are case-sensitive.
  • Ensure your phone is connected to the same WiFi network you are trying to connect the Ring device to.
  • Move closer to your router during setup. Weak signal strength can cause pairing failures.
  • Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.
  • Try connecting to the 2.4 GHz band instead of 5 GHz, especially for older devices.
  • Reset the Ring device to factory settings and try the setup process again.
  • Make sure your router’s firewall is not blocking the Ring device. Some routers have MAC filtering or parental controls that may interfere.

Weak Signal Issues After Reconnection

Sometimes a device connects to the new network but experiences weak signal strength, leading to poor video quality or delayed alerts. Here is how to address this:

  • Check the “Device Health” section in the app to see the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value. A value between -40 and -60 is good; below -70 is poor.
  • Move your router to a more central location or add a WiFi extender.
  • Consider using a Ring Chime Pro to extend WiFi coverage to your Ring devices.
  • Reduce interference by keeping the router away from microwaves, cordless phones, and thick walls.
  • If possible, connect the device to the 5 GHz band for faster speeds, but only if signal strength is adequate.

App Not Finding the Device

If the Ring app cannot detect your device during setup, try these troubleshooting steps:

  • Make sure the device is in setup mode. The LED should be flashing. If not, press the setup button again.
  • Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, as some Ring devices use Bluetooth for initial pairing.
  • Close and reopen the Ring app, or force-stop it and restart.
  • Clear the app cache (on Android) or reinstall the app (on iOS).
  • Make sure your phone and the Ring device are on the same WiFi network during setup.
  • Try using a different phone or tablet if available.

Tips and Best Practices

To ensure a smooth WiFi transition for all your Ring devices, follow these tips and best practices:

  • Change one device at a time: Rather than trying to reconnect all devices simultaneously, handle them one by one. This makes it easier to identify and resolve issues.
  • Keep the same network name: If possible, set your new router to use the same SSID and password as your old one. Many Ring devices will reconnect automatically without any manual intervention.
  • Update firmware first: Before changing WiFi, check if there are any firmware updates available for your Ring devices. Updated firmware can improve connectivity and compatibility.
  • Document your setup: Take screenshots of your device settings and note which WiFi band each device uses. This makes reconfiguration faster if needed in the future.
  • Test each device: After reconnecting, test each device thoroughly. Check live view, motion detection, two-way audio, and notifications.
  • Consider a dedicated IoT network: If your router supports it, create a separate network for smart home devices. This can improve security and reduce congestion on your main network.
  • Use Ethernet when possible: For devices that support Ethernet (like the Alarm Base Station and Stick Up Cam Elite), use a wired connection for maximum reliability.
  • Keep devices charged: Ensure battery-powered devices have at least 50% charge before starting the WiFi change process.
  • Schedule changes during off-peak hours: If you rely on your Ring system for security, make WiFi changes when you are home and can monitor the process.
  • Contact Ring support if needed: If you encounter persistent issues, Ring’s customer support team can provide device-specific guidance and remote assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to reset my Ring device to change WiFi?

No, you do not need to perform a factory reset to change WiFi on most Ring devices. The Ring app provides a “Change WiFi Network” option that allows you to update the connection without losing your settings, recordings, or device configurations. A factory reset is only necessary if the standard method fails or if you are troubleshooting a persistent connection issue.

Can I change WiFi on multiple Ring devices at once?

Unfortunately, Ring does not currently offer a bulk WiFi change feature. Each device must be reconnected individually through the app. However, if you keep the same network name and password on your new router, many devices may reconnect automatically without manual intervention.

What happens if my Ring device loses WiFi connection?

If a Ring device loses its WiFi connection, it will stop sending motion alerts, recording video, and responding to live view requests. Battery-powered devices will continue to function in a limited capacity (recording locally if supported) but will not be able to upload footage or send notifications until the connection is restored. Hardwired devices like the Floodlight Cam will continue to provide lighting but will not record or send alerts.

Does Ring work with 5 GHz WiFi?

Many newer Ring devices support 5 GHz WiFi, including the Ring Video Doorbell 3, 4, Pro, Pro 2, and most Ring cameras. However, older models like the original Ring Video Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell 2 only support 2.4 GHz. Check the compatibility table above to confirm which band your device supports.

How long does it take to change WiFi on a Ring device?

The process typically takes 2 to 5 minutes per device, assuming you have the correct credentials and a stable connection. The actual connection time may vary depending on signal strength, device type, and network conditions. After the connection is established, it may take an additional few minutes for the device to fully sync and resume normal operation.

Can I use a mobile hotspot to connect my Ring device?

Yes, you can use a mobile hotspot to connect Ring devices temporarily. However, this is not recommended as a permanent solution due to data usage limitations and potential reliability issues. Mobile hotspots can consume significant data, especially with video doorbells and cameras that continuously upload footage. If you must use a hotspot, ensure it has a strong, stable signal and sufficient data allowance.

Why does my Ring device keep disconnecting from WiFi?

Frequent disconnections can be caused by several factors: weak WiFi signal, router interference, outdated firmware, or network congestion. Check the RSSI value in Device Health, ensure your router firmware is updated, and consider moving the device closer to the router or adding a WiFi extender. If the issue persists, contact Ring support for further diagnosis.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Wifi With Ring? is an essential skill for any Ring device owner. Whether you are upgrading your router, switching internet providers, or simply updating your WiFi password, the process is straightforward when you follow the right steps. By using the Ring app’s built-in WiFi change feature, you can reconnect your devices without losing settings or configurations.

Remember to handle devices one at a time, ensure adequate battery charge, and test each device after reconnection. If you encounter issues, the troubleshooting tips and alternative methods outlined in this guide should help you resolve most common problems. For persistent difficulties, Ring’s customer support team is available to provide personalized assistance.

With your Ring devices successfully reconnected to your new WiFi network, you can rest assured that your home security system is back online and protecting your home. Regular maintenance, including keeping firmware updated and monitoring signal strength, will help ensure reliable performance for years to come.