How to Update Wifi Ring Doorbell? Reconnect After Network Changes

Introduction

Your Ring Doorbell is only as good as its internet connection. When the WiFi network changes—whether you got a new router, switched internet providers, renamed your network, or moved to a new home—the doorbell can lose its connection and stop sending alerts, streaming video, or recording events. Knowing how to update WiFi on your Ring Doorbell is an essential skill for any smart home owner.

In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to know about how to update wifi ring doorbell settings after network changes. You will learn how to reconnect your doorbell using the Ring app, what to do when a simple reconnect fails, when a factory reset is necessary, and how different Ring doorbell models handle WiFi updates. We will also cover troubleshooting tips, signal strength improvements, and security best practices so your doorbell stays online and protects your home reliably.

By the end of this article, you will be able to confidently update the WiFi on any Ring Doorbell model and get your security camera back online without calling customer support.

Table of Contents

• Why You Might Need to Update WiFi on Your Ring Doorbell
• Before You Start: What You’ll Need
• Ring App Basics: Device Health and WiFi Settings
• How to Update Wifi Ring Doorbell? Step-by-Step Guide
• Reconnecting After a Router or ISP Change
• Using the Setup Button: Factory Reset and Reconfiguration
• Ring Doorbell Models and WiFi Setup Differences
• Troubleshooting Common WiFi Update Issues
• Improving WiFi Signal for Ring Doorbells
• Security Best Practices for Ring Doorbell WiFi
• Updating WiFi on Multiple Ring Devices
• Tips and Best Practices
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Why You Might Need to Update WiFi on Your Ring Doorbell

A Ring Doorbell depends on a steady WiFi connection to upload video clips, send motion notifications, and allow two-way audio conversations. If anything about your home network changes, the doorbell may no longer be able to communicate with Ring’s servers. One of the most common reasons people search for how to update wifi ring doorbell instructions is because they replaced their old router with a new one. New routers often come with default network names and passwords that differ from the previous setup.

Switching internet service providers is another frequent trigger. When a new ISP installs a gateway or modem, the WiFi credentials usually change, leaving your Ring Doorbell connected to a network that no longer exists. Similarly, if you renamed your WiFi SSID or changed the password for security reasons, any smart device connected to the old credentials—including your doorbell—will go offline until you update it.

Moving to a new house almost always requires updating WiFi on every smart device. Even if you bring the same Ring Doorbell with you, the new home’s network will be different. Mesh WiFi systems can also cause issues if the doorbell was previously connected to a standalone router and now needs to join a mesh node with a different signal path. Finally, older network security protocols may be retired by your router, forcing you to update both the router and the doorbell’s connection settings.

Before You Start: What You’ll Need

Before you begin the process of how to update wifi ring doorbell settings, gather a few items so you do not have to pause halfway through. First, make sure you have the Ring app installed on your smartphone and that you are logged into the account that owns the doorbell. You will need the email address and password associated with your Ring account.

Second, have the name and password of your new WiFi network ready. It helps to write them down or keep them open on another device so you can enter them accurately. Keep in mind that many Ring Doorbell models only support 2.4 GHz WiFi networks. If your router uses a single network name for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, that is usually fine, but if the bands are split into separate networks, you must connect the doorbell to the 2.4 GHz network.

Third, you need physical access to the doorbell. Depending on the model, you may need a screwdriver to remove the faceplate and reach the setup button. Make sure the doorbell is charged or hardwired and receiving power. A dead battery can prevent the device from entering setup mode or staying connected long enough to finish the update.

Finally, choose a time when you are home and can test the doorbell after reconnecting. You will want to press the doorbell button or trigger motion detection to confirm that alerts and video streaming are working again.

Ring App Basics: Device Health and WiFi Settings

The Ring app is the central hub for managing your doorbell’s connection. When you open the app and select your doorbell from the device list, you will see a Device Health screen. This page shows the current WiFi network name, signal strength, battery level, and whether the device is online or offline. If your doorbell is offline after a network change, Device Health is usually the first place that will tell you.

Within Device Health, there is often an option labeled “Change WiFi Network” or “Reconnect to WiFi.” Tapping this option starts the process of updating the doorbell’s wireless credentials. The app will guide you through putting the doorbell into setup mode and selecting a new network. Understanding where these options live makes the entire process of how to update wifi ring doorbell settings much faster.

Signal strength is displayed as RSSI, with values closer to zero indicating a stronger connection. If your RSSI is poor, you may be able to reconnect to the network, but the doorbell could still drop offline frequently. In that case, updating the WiFi is only half the battle; you may also need to improve the physical placement of your router or add a WiFi extender.

How to Update Wifi Ring Doorbell? Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to update the WiFi on your Ring Doorbell. This method works for most battery-powered and hardwired Ring models without removing the device from your account.

1. Open the Ring app. Launch the app on your phone and log in if necessary.
2. Tap the menu. Tap the three horizontal lines in the top left corner, then select “Devices.”
3. Select your doorbell. Choose the specific Ring Doorbell you need to update from the list of devices.
4. Go to Device Health. Tap the “Device Health” tile to view the current connection status.
5. Choose “Change WiFi Network.” Look for the option to reconnect or change the WiFi network and tap it.
6. Put the doorbell in setup mode. Press and release the orange setup button on the back or side of the doorbell. The device will enter setup mode and a light will begin to spin.
7. Select your new network. In the app, choose your new WiFi network from the list of available networks.
8. Enter the password. Type the WiFi password carefully. Passwords are case-sensitive.
9. Wait for confirmation. The doorbell will attempt to connect. A solid white or blue light usually indicates success, depending on the model.
10. Test the connection. Press the doorbell button or walk in front of the camera to verify that you receive a notification and that video streams correctly.

If the app does not show a “Change WiFi Network” option, your doorbell may need to be removed and re-added, which we cover in the factory reset section below.

Reconnecting After a Router or ISP Change

When you replace a router or switch internet providers, the doorbell may attempt to reconnect automatically if the new router has the exact same network name and password as the old one. In that case, you might not need to do anything at all. However, most new routers come with default credentials, so a manual update is usually required.

Start by power cycling both the router and the Ring Doorbell. Unplug the router for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in. For battery-powered doorbells, press the setup button to wake the device. For hardwired models, you can turn off the breaker briefly and turn it back on. Once both devices are back online, open the Ring app and follow the steps outlined above for how to update wifi ring doorbell settings.

If your ISP provided a gateway that combines a modem and router, make sure the WiFi is enabled and broadcasting. Some gateways have separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. Choose the 2.4 GHz network for older Ring models. After entering the new credentials, give the doorbell a few minutes to establish a stable connection before testing motion alerts.

Using the Setup Button: Factory Reset and Reconfiguration

Sometimes the standard “Change WiFi Network” option in the app is not enough, especially if the doorbell is stuck on an old network or will not enter setup mode. In those cases, you can use the physical setup button to perform a more thorough reset.

Locate the orange setup button on your Ring Doorbell. On battery models, it is usually on the back or under the faceplate. On hardwired Pro models, it is typically on the side. Press and hold the button for about 10 to 20 seconds until the light flashes or the device indicates a reset. This clears the stored network settings and prepares the doorbell to be set up as if it were new.

After a factory reset, open the Ring app and select “Set Up a Device.” Scan the QR code or MAC ID barcode on the doorbell or its packaging, then follow the in-app prompts to connect it to your new WiFi network. Note that a factory reset removes the doorbell from your account, so you will need to re-add it and re-customize settings such as motion zones and alert schedules. Your cloud-stored video history remains tied to your Ring account, but you should verify that the device is working before relying on it for security.

Use the factory reset method as a last resort. If the app’s built-in WiFi update option works, there is no need to wipe the device and start over.

Ring Doorbell Models and WiFi Setup Differences

Not every Ring Doorbell connects to WiFi in exactly the same way. Newer models support different frequency bands, and power sources vary between battery, hardwired, and plug-in options. The table below summarizes the key differences that affect how you update WiFi on each model.

Model	Power Source	WiFi Bands	Setup Button Location	WiFi Update Method
Ring Video Doorbell (1st Gen)	Rechargeable battery or hardwired	2.4 GHz only	Back of device	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi
Ring Video Doorbell 2	Quick-release battery pack or hardwired	2.4 GHz only	Back of device	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi
Ring Video Doorbell 3	Quick-release battery pack or hardwired	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz	Back of device	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi
Ring Video Doorbell 3 Plus	Quick-release battery pack or hardwired	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz	Back of device	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi
Ring Video Doorbell 4	Quick-release battery pack or hardwired	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz	Back of device	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi
Ring Video Doorbell Pro	Hardwired only	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz	Side of unit	Ring app > Device Health > Reconnect to WiFi
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2	Hardwired only	2.4 GHz and 5 GHz	Side of unit	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi
Ring Doorbell Wired	Hardwired or plug-in adapter	2.4 GHz only	Top of unit	Ring app > Device Health > Change WiFi

If you own an older model that only supports 2.4 GHz, make sure your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz signal. Some modern routers use “band steering” to push devices toward 5 GHz automatically, which can prevent an older Ring Doorbell from seeing the network at all. In those cases, you may need to temporarily separate the bands in your router settings or move closer to the router during setup.

Troubleshooting Common WiFi Update Issues

Even when you follow the steps for how to update wifi ring doorbell settings, things can go wrong. Below are the most common problems and how to fix them.

Doorbell Will Not Enter Setup Mode

If pressing the orange button does not trigger the setup light, the battery may be too low. Charge the battery fully using the provided USB cable, then try again. For hardwired models, check that the transformer is delivering the correct voltage. A weak electrical connection can prevent the device from powering on properly.

New WiFi Network Does Not Appear

Make sure your router is broadcasting its SSID. If you have hidden your network name, the doorbell may not be able to find it during setup. Temporarily unhide the network, complete the setup, then re-enable hiding if desired. Also confirm that you are looking for a 2.4 GHz network if your doorbell model does not support 5 GHz.

Wrong Password Error

WiFi passwords are case-sensitive. Double-check capitalization and special characters. If you recently changed the router password, make sure you are entering the new one, not the old one. If you are unsure, log into your router’s admin page to verify the exact password.

Connected to WiFi but Still Offline

A doorbell can show as connected to the network yet remain offline in the Ring app. This usually means the signal is too weak or the router is blocking the device. Restart the router, move the doorbell closer temporarily, or check your router’s firewall and parental control settings to ensure the doorbell’s MAC address is not blocked.

App Cannot Find the Doorbell During Setup

Close and reopen the Ring app. Make sure your phone is connected to the same WiFi network you want the doorbell to use. Disable cellular data on your phone during setup so the app communicates directly with the doorbell over the local network.

5 GHz Network Not Showing Up

If your Ring Doorbell model only supports 2.4 GHz, a 5 GHz network will never appear in the app during setup. Select the 2.4 GHz network instead. If your router uses a single name for both bands, the doorbell should connect to the compatible band automatically.

Improving WiFi Signal for Ring Doorbells

Updating the WiFi network is only useful if the signal is strong enough to maintain a connection. Ring doorbells report signal strength using RSSI. Generally, an RSSI between -40 and -60 is strong, -60 to -70 is fair, and anything worse than -70 may cause frequent disconnections.

Place your router in a central location, elevated off the floor, and away from large metal objects, mirrors, and thick brick walls. If the doorbell is far from the router, consider a WiFi extender or a mesh system. Ring also sells the Chime Pro, which can act as a WiFi extender specifically for Ring devices.

If you have a dual-band router, remember that 2.4 GHz travels farther and penetrates walls better than 5 GHz, though it offers slower speeds. Since a doorbell does not need high bandwidth, 2.4 GHz is often the better choice for range. Avoid placing the router inside a cabinet or closet, as enclosed spaces significantly weaken the signal.

Security Best Practices for Ring Doorbell WiFi

Because your doorbell streams video and audio, securing its WiFi connection is critical. Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption on your router. Avoid older WEP security, which is easy to crack. Choose a strong, unique password for your WiFi network that is different from your Ring account password.

Enable two-factor authentication on your Ring account so that even if someone obtains your login credentials, they cannot access your doorbell without a secondary code. Regularly check the Ring app for firmware updates and install them promptly, as updates often include security patches and connectivity improvements.

If you are tech-savvy, consider placing smart home devices on a separate guest network or VLAN. This isolates them from your main computers and phones, limiting the potential impact if one device is compromised. However, make sure the guest network still allows communication with Ring’s cloud servers.

Updating WiFi on Multiple Ring Devices

If you have several Ring Doorbells, cameras, or chimes, you will need to update each one individually after a network change. The Ring app does not currently offer a way to bulk-update WiFi credentials across multiple devices. Start with the doorbell closest to your router to confirm the new network is working, then move to devices farther away.

Use the same WiFi network name and password for all Ring devices to keep things simple. After updating each device, check its Device Health page to confirm the RSSI is acceptable. If one doorbell consistently shows a weak signal while others work fine, the issue is likely placement or interference rather than the network credentials.

Tips and Best Practices

• Update the Ring app to the latest version before changing WiFi settings.
• Have your WiFi network name and password written down before you start.
• Perform the update during daylight hours so you can test the camera’s video quality.
• Keep a screwdriver and ladder nearby if you need to remove the faceplate to reach the setup button.
• Do not factory reset the doorbell unless the standard WiFi update fails.
• After updating, press the doorbell button and walk through the motion zones to verify alerts.
• If you have a hardwired Pro model, confirm your transformer meets the voltage requirements listed in the Ring app.
• Avoid changing your WiFi password frequently, as every Ring device will need to be updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update WiFi without removing the doorbell from its mount?

Yes. In most cases, you can update WiFi through the Ring app without uninstalling the doorbell. You only need physical access to press the setup button, which is usually possible without removing the entire unit.

Does Ring Doorbell support 5GHz WiFi?

Some newer models, including the Ring Video Doorbell 3, 3 Plus, 4, Pro, and Pro 2, support 5 GHz. Older models such as the first and second generation, as well as the Ring Doorbell Wired, support 2.4 GHz only.

What should I do if I forgot my WiFi password?

Log into your router’s admin panel using a computer connected to the network, or check the sticker on the router for the default password. If you changed it and cannot remember, you may need to reset the router to factory defaults and set up a new network name and password.

How long does it take to update WiFi on a Ring Doorbell?

The actual process usually takes five to ten minutes per device. Allow additional time if you need to charge the battery, troubleshoot signal issues, or test the connection afterward.

Will changing WiFi delete my recorded videos?

No. Your video history is stored in the cloud under your Ring account, not on the doorbell itself. Changing the WiFi network will not delete recordings, although the doorbell cannot record new events while it is offline.

Do I need to factory reset my Ring Doorbell to change WiFi?

Not usually. The Ring app’s Device Health menu includes a “Change WiFi Network” option for most situations. A factory reset is only necessary if the doorbell will not enter setup mode or will not accept the new network credentials.

What light color means my Ring Doorbell is connected?

This varies by model, but a solid white or solid blue light typically indicates a successful connection. A spinning light usually means the device is in setup mode. Check your specific model’s documentation if you are unsure.

Can I update WiFi from a computer or web browser?

No. Ring Doorbell WiFi updates must be performed through the Ring mobile app on a smartphone or tablet. There is no web-based interface for changing a doorbell’s WiFi network.

Why does my Ring Doorbell keep going offline after I update WiFi?

Weak signal strength, router interference, or an incompatible 5 GHz network are common causes. Check the RSSI in Device Health and move the router closer or add an extender if needed.

Is the process different for Ring Doorbell Wired?

The basic steps are the same, but because it is hardwired or plug-in, you do not need to worry about battery charge. You still use the Ring app and the setup button to enter setup mode and select the new network.

Conclusion

Knowing how to update wifi ring doorbell settings is a practical skill that saves time and keeps your home security system working after any network change. Whether you installed a new router, switched internet providers, or simply changed your WiFi password, the Ring app provides a straightforward way to reconnect your doorbell. If the standard method does not work, the physical setup button offers a reliable backup path to get your device back online.

Take a moment to check the Device Health page on each of your Ring devices after making network changes. Strong signal strength, correct credentials, and up-to-date firmware will ensure your doorbell captures every visitor and sends alerts when it matters most. With the steps and troubleshooting tips in this guide, you can handle WiFi updates confidently and keep your Ring Doorbell protecting your home without interruption.