Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Explained

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a way to wire power and internet together to select Ring devices like Stick Up Cam Elite and Video Doorbell Elite.

How Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Works

PoE allows you to supply power to a networking device using the same cable that transmits the data. If you have such a device, it will automatically detect when it is connected to a PoE-capable device provide the device with power. This means you won't have to connect the device with a standard power outlet for it to work. Ring PoE devices need CAT5 cables or higher. 

Do PoE devices work with standard (non-PoE) devices such as routers?

Yes. If you connect a non-PoE router to a PoE device or a PoE router to a non-PoE device it will provide networking as usual but the device will have to connect to another source of power to work.

Can do you mix PoE and non-PoE devices in your network?

Yes, although the non-PoE devices will require a separate power source. 

How do you know if your router is capable of producing PoE?

You'll need to check your router’s model number against the manufacturer to tell whether or not your device is capable of producing PoE. If your device is more than a year or two old, however, odds are it's not capable of producing PoE.

Are there any risks with using PoE with my Ring device?

No. PoE can be used with any Ring devices that are PoE-enabled such as Stick Up Cam Elite. All current and future Ring products with PoE capability are engineered to IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards. If you can connect your network cables, you should have no difficulty connecting your device to a PoE producing switch or router and having it draw power.

Does hooking up a PoE connection require any special electrical knowledge?

No. You will connect your PoE connection at the same time as you hook up your network cables as both power and data are routed through the same cable.