Moving into a new home with a pre-installed Ring Doorbell can be a great convenience. However, you may need some guidance on how to connect and set up the device for your personal use. In this article, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to take control of an already installed Ring Doorbell and integrate it into your smart home ecosystem.
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Checking the Device Status
Before you begin the process of connecting to a Ring Doorbell that is already installed, it is essential to check the current status of the device.
Identifying the Ring Doorbell Model
First, you need to identify which Ring Doorbell model you have. There are several models available, such as Ring, Ring Pro, and Ring 2. To determine your Ring Doorbell model, locate the device’s label on the back or refer to the user manual that came with it. Knowing the specific model will assist you in following the correct setup procedure for your doorbell.
Sharing the Ring Doorbell with Other Users
If the Ring Doorbell was previously owned, it is crucial to ensure that the previous owner has removed the device from their Ring account. Ask the previous owner to launch the Ring app, open the device, and remove it from the device’s general settings. This will enable you to connect to the Ring Doorbell without any issues.
Factory Reset the Ring Doorbell
Performing a factory reset on the Ring Doorbell is an essential step, especially if it has been previously owned. This will erase any existing settings and saved Wi-Fi passwords, providing you a fresh start with the device. To factory reset your Ring Doorbell:
- Locate the reset button on the back of the device (it may vary depending on the model).
- Press and hold the reset button for at least 20 seconds.
- Release the button and wait for the device to reboot.
Once you’ve identified the model, ensured that other users no longer have access, and performed a factory reset, you are ready to proceed with the connection process. Follow the specific setup instructions for your Ring Doorbell model using the Ring app, and soon you’ll have your doorbell up and running seamlessly.
Connecting to an Existing Ring Doorbell
Configure the Ring App on Your Smartphone or Tablet
To connect to an existing Ring Doorbell, first, download the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Both Android and iOS devices are compatible.
Once the app is installed, open it and create an account. If you already have an account, simply log in with your credentials.
After logging in, navigate to the Menu icon, usually represented by three lines stacked on top of each other. Tap on it and follow the instructions to add a new device. This will help you connect to the already installed Ring Doorbell.
Find the Device Address
Before connecting to the Ring Doorbell, you need to ensure that it is powered on and connected to a Wi-Fi network. You may need to reset the doorbell to factory settings to remove any existing configurations.
To do this, press and hold the function button on the Ring Doorbell for approximately 15-20 seconds. This will initiate the reset process. Note that in some cases, a reset may not be necessary, but it is recommended as a precautionary measure.
Once the doorbell has been reset, the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet should automatically detect the device. Follow the on-screen prompts to add the device to your account, and you will be connected to your existing Ring Doorbell.
Reconnecting to Wi-Fi Networks
If your Ring Doorbell has been previously installed but loses its connection to your Wi-Fi network, you can easily reconnect it by following these steps.
Connecting to a New Wi-Fi Network
If you need to connect your Ring Doorbell to a new Wi-Fi network:
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone.
- Tap on the menu icon in the top left corner.
- Select “Devices” from the menu options.
- Choose the Ring Doorbell you want to reconnect to Wi-Fi.
- Tap on “Device Health” in the device settings.
- Select “Change Network” and then tap “Reconnect.”
- Choose between “Movement” or “Setup Button” based on your doorbell model and accessibility.
- Stand close to your Doorbell, within its camera field of view.
- Select your new Wi-Fi network from the list and enter your Wi-Fi password.
- Follow the prompts in the app to complete the reconnection process.
Resolving Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues
If your Ring Doorbell is having trouble reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Reboot your Wi-Fi router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and then plugging it back in.
- Check the Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) in the “Device Health” section of the Ring app to ensure an optimal connection.
- Move your Wi-Fi router closer to the doorbell or use a Wi-Fi extender if necessary to improve signal strength.
- Disconnect other devices connected to your Wi-Fi network that may be causing interference or using up bandwidth.
Managing Ring Account Settings
In this section, we’ll guide you through managing your Ring account settings to enhance your experience with the Ring device.
Verify the Email Address
Carry out the following steps to verify your email address, which is essential to keep your account secure:
- Log into your Ring app.
- Tap on the three lines in the top left corner of the dashboard.
- Select “Account” from the menu that appears.
- Click “Verify Email” under your email address displayed in the account section.
- Check your inbox for an email from Ring with a verification link.
- Click on the link in this email to confirm and complete the email verification process.
Verifying your email address helps ensure the security of your account and makes it easy to recover your account in case you forget your password.
Setting Up Shared Users
Adding shared users to your Ring account allows multiple people to access the Ring device features. This is particularly useful for members within a household or coworkers in an office. To set up shared users, follow the steps detailed below:
- Open the Ring app and log in.
- Tap the three lines in the top left corner of the dashboard.
- Choose “Devices” from the drop-down menu.
- Select the specific device you’d like to share access to.
- Tap “Device Settings,” then “Shared Users.”
- Click on “Add User” and enter the email address of the person you want to share access with.
- Select the appropriate role for the new user (Owner, Shared User, or Guest User) and click “Send Invite.”
An email invitation will be sent to the invited user to complete the setup process. Once the shared user accepts the invitation, they can access your Ring device/features based on their assigned role.
Ring Doorbells Features and Plans
In this section, we will discuss some of the standout features and plans offered by Ring Doorbells, specifically Snapshot Capture and the Ring Protect Plan.
Snapshot Capture
Snapshot Capture is a feature that enables your Ring Doorbell to automatically take pictures at specified intervals throughout the day. These images provide you with a visual record of what happens in front of your door, even when there is no motion or event to trigger a recording. To use this feature, follow these steps:
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet
- Tap on the menu icon in the top left corner and select “Devices”
- Select your Ring Doorbell from the list of devices
- Tap the “Snapshot Capture” tile and toggle it on to enable the feature
- Choose your preferred snapshot frequency, ranging from every 30 seconds to every hour
Note that Snapshot Capture may not be available for all Ring Doorbell models and depends on the subscription plan you have.
Ring Protect Plan
Ring offers two types of subscription plans: Ring Protect Basic and Ring Protect Plus. These plans enhance the functionality of your Ring Doorbell and provide additional features and benefits.
The Ring Protect Basic plan covers a single Ring Doorbell device and offers video history, sharing, and Snapshot Capture features. The Ring Protect Plus plan, on the other hand, covers all Ring devices at one selected location and includes additional features such as 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, extended warranty, and a 10% discount on Ring.com purchases.
Understanding Privacy and Security Settings
When using your Ring Doorbell, it’s essential to understand how to manage your privacy and security settings. This section covers managing security notifications and adjusting privacy settings to help you customize your Ring Doorbell experience.
Managing Security Notifications
Being aware of security notifications is a crucial part of any security system. You can adjust the notifications settings of your Ring Doorbell by following these steps:
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone and log into your account.
- Tap on the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner of the screen.
- Select “Devices” and choose your Ring Doorbell from the list.
- Tap on the “Notification Settings” option.
- Here, you can choose the type of alerts you want to receive (Ring Alerts or Motion Alerts) and set the schedule for when you want to receive notifications.
By managing your security notifications, you can stay informed about potential security risks and tailor notifications to suit your needs.
Adjusting Privacy Settings
It’s essential to adjust your privacy settings to ensure your personal information stays protected. The Ring app provides a Control Center where you can modify your privacy settings. To access the Control Center, follow these steps:
- Open the Ring app and tap on the menu icon in the top-left corner of the screen.
- Select “Control Center.”
Within the Control Center, you’ll find several options related to privacy, such as:
- Two-Factor Authentication: Enable this feature to add an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a verification code in addition to your password.
- Authorized Client Devices: Review a list of devices that have access to your Ring account and remove any unauthorized ones.
- Privacy Information: Learn more about the data collected by Ring and adjust your preferences about sharing this information with third-party service providers.
By understanding how to manage your privacy and security settings, you can take full advantage of your Ring Doorbell while maintaining control over your personal information and data.
Troubleshooting and Support
Occasionally, you might encounter some challenges while connecting to a Ring doorbell that is already installed. In this section, we will discuss some troubleshooting tips and support options to assist you in resolving any issues.
Finding the QR Code
If your Ring doorbell has a QR code, it might be located under the doorbell cover. You may need to use a screwdriver to remove the torx screw and pop off the lid to scan the code. If you don’t find the QR code after removing the cover, check if the original box has it, provided the previous homeowner left it for you.
Using the Orange Button for Resetting
If you need to reset your Ring doorbell, follow these steps:
- Use a screwdriver to unscrew the Ring doorbell from the base plate or bracket.
- On the back of the doorbell, hold the orange reset button for 10-20 seconds.
- In a few minutes, the Ring doorbell will enter setup mode, indicating that the doorbell has been successfully reset.
After resetting the device, open the Ring app and create your own Ring account or log in to an existing one. Follow the instructions to add the doorbell as a new device.
Contacting Ring Support
If you still encounter difficulties or have more questions, it’s best to contact Ring Support for assistance. They can guide you through the process and provide additional resources tailored to your specific device model and issue.
By using the troubleshooting tips and support options mentioned in this section, you should be able to effectively connect to a Ring doorbell that’s already installed in your home.
Final Thoughts
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to connect to your already installed Ring Doorbell. Make sure to follow the appropriate setup procedure within your Ring app and, if needed, reset your device or consult Ring’s support resources. As Ring Doorbells continue to gain popularity, staying informed about how to effectively connect and manage your device is essential.
With various Ring devices available, it’s crucial to follow the specific setup instructions for your particular model. This will ensure that your doorbell functions optimally and integrates seamlessly with your home security system. Keep in mind that setting up an existing Ring Doorbell requires an extra step and doesn’t differ significantly from the initial installation procedure. If you ever face challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help from the Ring support team or their community forums.
As you continue to use your Ring Doorbell, the setup process should become more familiar, making it easier to manage additional Ring devices or reinstall your existing doorbell. And remember, installing and connecting to your Ring Doorbell is just the beginning; explore the many features and customization options available within the app to make the most of your Ring Doorbell experience.