How to Set Up a Ring Video Doorbell

Follow these steps in order to set up your Ring video doorbell.

  1. Install the Ring app and create an account

    Install the Ring app and create an account with your email.

  2. Mount the doorbell beside your door

    Use the included bracket to fix the doorbell to the wall next to your front door.

  3. Connect it to Wi-Fi in the app

    Follow the in-app instructions to connect the doorbell to your home Wi-Fi network.

  4. Set motion zones and alerts

    Define the areas where you want motion detected and set up phone notifications for when someone is there.

  5. Why is this useful?

    Even when you're not home, you can see who's at the door in real time and talk to them from your phone, which meaningfully eases worries about package theft or unfamiliar visitors.

If package theft or unfamiliar visitors worry you

Being able to check a live video feed and speak directly with whoever is at the door, even while you're away, takes a real bite out of the anxiety around delivery drivers or unknown visitors showing up unannounced.

Battery or wired, and what platform it works with

If your home already has doorbell wiring, a wired model is more convenient since you never have to worry about charging, while a battery model is the easier choice if there's no existing wiring to reuse. Most video doorbells also integrate with a broader smart home platform, such as Alexa or Google Home, so check that compatibility if you plan to bring it into an existing setup rather than using the maker's app on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate subscription to save video?

Live viewing is free, but recording footage to the cloud and reviewing it later usually requires a paid subscription like Ring Protect.

Should I choose battery or wired?

If you already have doorbell wiring, a wired model is more convenient with no charging to worry about; if there's no wiring, a battery model is the simpler install.