Fixing device setup issues

Having trouble with setup? Learn common setup problems and how to fix them.

General tips for device setup in the Ring app

• Keep your mobile device near the Ring device during setup.
• Have your wifi password.
• Disable security or performance optimizing apps, such as a virtual private network (VPN), that might cause an issue with Ring.
• Set up one Ring device at a time.
• Make sure that your Ring app and mobile device operating system are up to date.
• Watch for light patterns on your Ring device and corresponding in-app prompts that provide next steps to take.

Tips for specific Ring app setup issues

If you’re having trouble scanning the QR code:

• Make sure that you have proper lighting and your camera focuses on the code when scanning.
• If you are unable to scan, select

  Other Options

  and follow the in-app steps to manually enter the device PIN.
• Some early-generation devices do not have a QR code/PIN. If your device does not have PIN, follow these steps:

1. Tap on

   Other Options.
2. Tap on

   Can't see the barcode?
3. Tap on the Ring device being set up.
4. Continue to follow the in-app prompts.

If you’re unable to add a location or address:

• Enable location permissions on your mobile device for the Ring app.
• Make sure you log in to the correct account.
• Try to enter the address manually or with wifi disabled.
• For new or unlisted addresses, drag the pin to the closest possible location on the map.

If you’re unable to connect to the Ring setup network:

• For battery-powered devices:

  Make sure the battery is fully charged and the device powers on.
• For wired or plug-in devices:

  Confirm the power supply matches the requirements indicated in the setup instructions, and the device powers on.
• Verify the device is in setup mode. The app will indicate what setup mode looks like for your device.
• Try to use a different phone or tablet for setup.
• Factory reset or power cycle your Ring device and attempt a new setup.
  • To factory reset Ring Doorbells, Cameras, and Chimes:

    Hold the setup button for 20 seconds, then release.
  • To power cycle battery-operated devices

    : Remove the battery pack(s) for 10 seconds, then reinsert.
  • To power cycle plug-in devices:

    Unplug the device for 10 seconds, then plug back in.
  • To power cycle wired devices:

    Turn off the power source (light switch or circuit breaker) for 30 seconds, then turn back on.
• Unplug your router or modem and allow it to shut down completely, so all lights turn off. Plug the device back in, and allow your network to come back online.

If your wifi network doesn't appear but other networks appear:

• Move the Ring device closer to your wifi router. Make sure there are no obstacles blocking the signal and that
  your wifi router is in an elevated, central, and open location.
• Verify your mobile device can connect to the desired wifi network.
• Connect to the proper wifi frequency. Note that 2.4 GHz-only devices won't see 5 GHz networks.

If your Ring device fails to connect to your home wifi network:

Sometimes your router settings can cause a Ring device to fail setup. Your device’s light pattern and corresponding in-app instructions will indicate the reason for the failed setup. If you need to make adjustments to your network and are unfamiliar with how to make changes, consult your internet service provider or network equipment manufacturer for assistance.

• When the firewall settings on your router are too strict, it can cause Ring devices to fail setup. If your router has variable firewall settings, try to change the setting from “High” to “Medium” or from “Medium” to “Low.”
• Remove special characters from your wifi network name (e.g. apostrophes, spaces, !, @, #, $, %, &).
• Try to connect the Ring device to a guest network or other wifi network.
• If your Ring device is far away from your router, you might need to use a wifi extender, such as the Ring Chime Pro, to assist with signal strength.
• Unplug all non-Ring devices connected to your router via Ethernet cables. Do NOT unplug the Ethernet cable that connects your router to the modem or wall outlet for internet service.
• Check your router security protocol setting. WPA2 is recommended for Ring devices. WPA2 balances strong encryption with broad compatibility. Currently, Ring devices are not compatible with WPA3.
• Setup can be blocked if your router is using IPv6. Disable IPv6 and use IPv4 or IPv4v6 instead.