Ring Video Doorbell and Security Camera Frequently Asked Questions

If you have general questions about Ring video doorbells, security cameras, subscription plans, and more—read the FAQs below.

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To find out what doorbell or security camera you have, head to this page or check Device Details under the Device Health page in the Ring app.

Click here to search more topics in the Ring Help Center.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do Ring products work?

Ring products require an existing home wifi network for setup and use, a smart device (phone or tablet), and the Ring app, which allows you to monitor and control all of your Ring devices in one place.

All Ring devices are compatible with 2.4 GHz wifi networks. Some Ring devices can also use 5 GHz networks.

Ring products are designed to work with your home wifi network. Your Ring devices will not work with a mobile phone hotspot. Ring products do not support Bluetooth.

Ring products

Ring offers a range of smart home security devices. Click the links below to learn more about each type of Ring product.

Ring Video Doorbells

Ring video doorbells feature a built-in camera and Two-Way Talk, so you can hear and speak to whomever is at your door through your Ring app. Your video doorbell can also send notifications to your smart device (phone or tablet). If you have a Ring Protect subscription plan, you can view past recordings of events captured by your doorbell.

To compare Ring doorbells, check out our Ring Doorbell Comparison Chart.

Ring Security Cameras

Ring has a variety of indoor and outdoor security cameras that are battery-powered, plug-in, or hardwired. Some security cameras also provide motion-sensing lighting.

To compare Ring security cameras, check out our Ring Security Camera Comparison Chart.

Ring Alarm Security System

An affordable DIY home security system, the Ring Alarm Security System includes a Base Station, Keypad, Contact Sensor, Motion Detector and Range Extender. You can add additional components to meet your security needs depending on the size of your home.

VIDEO: Which Is The Best Ring Security System For Your Home?

Ring Smart Lighting

Ring Smart Lighting allows you to control your Ring Smart Lights from the Ring app. You can also link Smart Lighting to select Ring video doorbells and security cameras.

Ring Subscription Plans

Do you need a subscription to use Ring?

Ring devices don’t require a Ring Protect subscription plan. Without a subscription, you can view real-time video for Ring doorbells and security cameras and answer doorbell notifications as they happen. However, without a Ring Protect plan, you won't get video recordings of those events.

With a Ring Protect plan, you can save, review, and share video recordings from your Ring devices to your Ring account. Ring Protect plans are available for purchase with a monthly or annual subscription. Once purchased, your subscription will automatically renew and continue until you choose to cancel it, which you can do anytime from your account on Ring.com. Learn how to cancel.

What types of Ring Protect Plans are available?

New Ring devices come with a 30-day Ring Protect Trial. Your trial automatically starts when you set up a new video doorbell, security camera, or alarm in the Ring app.

Ring Protect Basic includes video recording for one doorbell or security camera in your home.

You can save, download, and share recorded videos from your Ring account. You’ll also get a 10% discount on purchases of select Ring products on Ring.com and Amazon.com (terms and conditions apply). Ring Protect Basic costs $3.99/month or $39.99/year.

Ring Protect Plus includes video recording for all doorbells and security cameras in your home.

You also get an extended warranty plus 10% off select Ring products on Ring.com and Amazon.com. Terms and conditions apply. Ring Protect Plus costs $10/month or $100/year (save $20 with annual purchase).

Ring Protect Pro includes professional monitoring and 24/7 backup internet for your Ring Alarm Security System.

Ring Protect Pro includes all the benefits from Ring Protect Plus. You also get video recording for all video doorbells and security cameras in and around your home. Ring Protect Pro costs $20/month or $200/year (save $40 with annual purchase).

Learn more and compare Ring Protect subscription plans.

Purchasing, Tracking, or Returning Ring Devices

Where does Ring ship to?

Ring ships to the United States and to several international countries. Information regarding shipping can be found in the Ring Shipping Policies page.

Will I be charged when I place an order or when my Ring product ships?

You'll be charged when you place your order during the checkout process.

What payment methods do you accept?

You can securely purchase a device on Ring.com using any major credit or debit card, or an online payment service like PayPal, Amazon Pay, Shop Pay, and Affirm. Credit card information is processed by Stripe. Your connection to our servers is backed by standard security protocols for handling sensitive information. To purchase a Ring Protect plan (on its own or with a device), you must use a credit or debit card. PayPal is not accepted for subscription plans.

Is there a warranty on Ring products?

Yes. All Ring devices come with a limited warranty and theft protection. You can get an extended warranty for all Ring devices when you subscribe to Ring Protect Plus or Pro.

Information on Ring’s Limited Warranty and Theft Protection Plan.

How do I track my order?

After you place your order, we'll send an Order Confirmation to your email. In the shipping email we send you two to three days after your purchase, you can click Track Order or View Order to get tracking details for your order. Learn how to track your Ring.com order.

Can I cancel my Ring order?

Yes. You can cancel your order up to 45 minutes after purchase. If you miss the cancellation window, you can start a return. Click here to learn how to cancel your order. Ring Community Support agents don't have the ability to cancel orders after the cancellation window.

Can I return a Ring product?

Yes. You have 30 days from the date you receive your order to request a full refund.
Click here to learn more about the Ring Return Policy.

Powering your Ring Device

Does a Ring device require wires to work?

Some Ring doorbells and security cameras are battery-powered and don’t require wiring to work. Other devices are plug-in only or require hardwiring.

Battery-powered doorbells can be wired to your internal doorbell chime. However, they only receive a trickle-charge from the wiring and are primarily powered by the battery. Doorbell solar chargers can also provide a trickle charge to battery devices.

Note: Consult the individual product’s FAQ for a listing of the power options available for that device.

What doorbell transformers are compatible with a Ring doorbell?

Ring doorbells may be connected to low voltage transformers that power internal doorbell chimes. You can connect a Ring doorbell in series with a transformer operating between 8V and 24V AC only (40V max) at 50/60Hz. Intercom systems and DC transformers aren't compatible. Do not use a halogen or garden lighting transformer to power your Ring device.

Do I have to turn off the power in my house before installing a Ring device?

Always follow the safety instructions in your Ring device manual. Turn off the power at the breaker before working with any electrical wires.

WARNING: Electric shock hazard. Disconnect power to installation area at your circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning installation. Always use caution when handling electrical wiring.

Installation by a qualified electrician may be required in your area. Refer to your local laws and building codes before performing electrical work; permits plus professional installation may be required by law.

Do I have to charge my battery prior to setting up and installing my Ring doorbell?

Your Ring doorbell comes with a partially charged battery because there are restrictions related to shipping fully-charged lithium batteries. The battery should have enough charge to set up the doorbell. However, if you have experienced multiple failed setup attempts, you may need to fully charge the battery before you can complete the setup process.

If you’re wiring a battery-powered doorbell, you'll still need to charge your battery to 100% for the best performance. Hardwiring only provides a trickle charge to battery-powered doorbells.

If the device uses a battery, how long does it take the battery to recharge?

Depending on the device, it should take 4-10 hours for a battery to fully recharge.

Will I be notified when the battery in my Ring device is running low?

Yes. You'll receive email reminders when your battery needs charging. The Ring app will also display a low-battery warning on each device that is running low.

VIDEO: What is the Device Health section of the Ring app?

Why is my Ring battery draining too fast?

If your Ring battery seems to be draining too fast, read more here.

 

Setting Up and Using your Ring Device

How can I get help with the set up and installation of my Ring device?

When you set up a Ring device, you’ll get step-by-step instructions in the Ring app. In addition the Ring Help Center support.ring.com has hundreds of articles available on all aspects of installing and operating your Ring devices.

Can more than one person use a Ring doorbell or security camera?

Yes. One person is considered the Owner of a Ring account and the Owner can add as many Shared Users as they would like.

How to invite a Shared User to your Ring account.

Do you need to have the app open to receive notifications?

No, as long as you’re signed in to the app, your smartphone, tablet or computer, you will receive notifications.

Learn how to set up notifications on your computer

VIDEO: What Kind of Alerts Can I Set Up In The Ring App?

How do you know where your visitor is located if you have multiple Ring devices and/or multiple properties?

During your device setup, you'll be asked to give each Ring device a unique name. Notifications are delivered with the name of the device that triggered them, showing you exactly where the activity is taking place.

Can Ring devices capture footage at night?

Yes, you can learn more about night vision here.

Do Ring devices work in extreme heat or cold?

Learn more about extreme temperatures and Ring devices here.

Adjusting Ringer Volume on your Ring Video Doorbell

To adjust the volume of the Ringer on your Ring Video Doorbell:

  1. Open the Ring app to access your Dashboard.
  2. Find the device whose volume you'd like to adjust and tap Settings.
  3. Tap the Device Settings tile.
  4. From the list, choose General Settings.
  5. Here you will find a volume slider you can use to set the Ringer volume.

Technical Information

What version of iOS or Android do I need to use the Ring app?

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Ring products work?

Ring products require an existing home wifi network for setup and use, a smart device (phone or tablet), and the Ring app, which allows you to monitor and control all of your Ring devices in one place.

All Ring devices are compatible with 2.4 GHz wifi networks. Some Ring devices can also use 5 GHz networks.

Ring products are designed to work with your home wifi network. Your Ring devices will not work with a mobile phone hotspot. Ring products do not support Bluetooth.

Ring products

Ring offers a range of smart home security devices. Click the links below to learn more about each type of Ring product.

Ring Video Doorbells

Ring video doorbells feature a built-in camera and Two-Way Talk, so you can hear and speak to whoever is at your door through your Ring app. Your video doorbell can also send notifications to your smart device (phone or tablet). If you have a Ring Protect Plan subscription, you can view past recordings* of events captured by your doorbell.

To compare Ring doorbells, check out our Ring Doorbell Comparison Chart.

*Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

Ring Security Cameras

Ring has a variety of indoor and outdoor security cameras that are battery-powered, plug-in, or hardwired. Some security cameras also provide motion-activated lighting.

To compare Ring security cameras, check out our Ring Security Camera Comparison Chart.

Ring Alarm Security System

An affordable DIY home security system, the Ring Alarm Security System includes a Base Station, Keypad, Contact Sensor, Motion Detector and Range Extender. You can add additional components to meet your security needs depending on the size of your home.

VIDEO: Which Is The Best Ring Security System For Your Home?

Ring Smart Lighting

Ring Smart Lighting allows you to control your Ring Smart Lights from the Ring app. You can also link Smart Lighting to select Ring video doorbells and security cameras.

 

Ring Subscription Plans

Do you need a subscription to use Ring?

Ring devices don’t require a Ring Protect subscription plan. Without a subscription, you can view real-time video for Ring doorbells and security cameras as events happen. However, without a Ring Protect plan, you won't get video recordings of those events.

With a Ring Protect Plan subscription, you can save, review, and share video recordings from your Ring devices to your Ring account. Ring Protect Plans are available for purchase with a monthly or annual subscription. Once purchased, your subscription will automatically renew and continue until you choose to cancel it, which you can do for any reason from your account on Ring.com.

What types of Ring Protect Plans are available?

New Ring devices come with a 30-day Ring Protect Trial1 . Your trial automatically starts when you set up a new video doorbell, security camera, or alarm in the Ring app. After your trial, subscribe to Basic, Plus, or Pro to access additional features for the Ring Alarm System:

  • Ring Protect Basic includes video recording for one doorbell or security camera in your home. You can save, download, and share recorded videos from your Ring account. You’ll also get a 10% discount on purchases of select Ring products on Ring.com and Amazon.com (terms and conditions apply).
  • Ring Protect Plus includes video recording for all doorbells and security cameras in your home. You also get an extended warranty plus 10% off select Ring products on Ring.com and Amazon.com. Terms and conditions apply.
  • Ring Protect Pro includes professional monitoring and 24/7 backup internet for your Ring Alarm Security System. Ring Protect Pro includes all the benefits from Ring Protect Plus, and you’ll also get video recording for all video doorbells and security cameras in and around your home.

Learn more about Ring Protect Plans.

1 Free trial is not applicable for locations with an existing Ring Protect Plus or Pro subscription. Terms and limitations apply. See Ring Protect Plans for more information.

 

Purchasing, Tracking, or Returning Ring Devices

Where does Ring ship to?

Ring ships to the United States and to several international countries. Information regarding shipping can be found in the Ring Shipping Policies page.

What payment methods do you accept?

You can securely purchase a device on Ring.com using any major credit or debit card, or an online payment service. Learn more.

Is there a warranty on Ring products?

Yes. All Ring devices come with a limited warranty and theft protection. You can get an extended warranty for all Ring devices when you subscribe to Ring Protect Plus or Pro.

Information on Ring’s Limited Warranty and Theft Protection Plan.

How do I track my order?

After you place your order, we'll send an Order Confirmation to your email. In the shipping email we send you two to three days after your purchase, you can click Track Order or View Order to get tracking details for your order. Learn how to track your Ring.com order.

Can I cancel my Ring order?

Yes. You can cancel your order up to 45 minutes after purchase. If you miss the cancellation window, you can start a return. Click here to learn how to cancel your order. Ring Community Support agents don't have the ability to cancel orders after the cancellation window.

Can I return a Ring product?

Yes. You have 30 days from the date you receive your order to request a full refund.

Click here to learn more about the Ring Return Policy.

 

Powering your Ring Device

Does a Ring device require wires to work?

Some Ring doorbells and security cameras are battery-powered and don’t require wiring to work. Other devices are plug-in only or require hardwiring.

Battery-powered doorbells can be wired to your internal doorbell chime. However, they only receive a trickle-charge from the wiring and are primarily powered by the battery. Doorbell solar chargers can also provide a trickle charge to battery devices.

NOTE: Consult the individual product’s FAQ for a listing of the power options available for that device.

What doorbell transformers are compatible with a Ring doorbell?

Ring doorbells may be connected to low voltage transformers that power internal doorbell chimes. You can connect a Ring doorbell in series with a transformer operating between 8V and 24V AC only (40V max) at 50/60Hz. Intercom systems and DC transformers aren't compatible. Do not use a halogen or garden lighting transformer to power your Ring device.

Do I have to turn off the power in my house before installing a Ring device?

Always follow the safety instructions in your Ring device manual. Turn off the power at the breaker before working with any electrical wires.

WARNING: Electric shock hazard. Disconnect power to installation area at your circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning installation. Always use caution when handling electrical wiring.

Installation by a qualified electrician may be required in your area. Refer to your local laws and building codes before performing electrical work; permits plus professional installation may be required by law.

Do I have to charge my battery prior to setting up and installing my Ring doorbell?

Your Ring doorbell comes with a partially charged battery because there are restrictions related to shipping fully-charged lithium batteries. The battery should have enough charge to set up the doorbell. However, if you have experienced multiple failed setup attempts, you may need to fully charge the battery before you can complete the setup process.

If you’re wiring a battery-powered doorbell, you'll still need to charge your battery to 100% for the best performance. Hardwiring only provides a trickle charge to battery-powered doorbells.

If the device uses a battery, how long does it take the battery to recharge?

Depending on the device, it should take 4-10 hours for a battery to fully recharge.

Will I be notified when the battery in my Ring device is running low?

Yes. You'll receive email reminders when your battery needs charging. The Ring app will also display a low-battery warning on each device that is running low.

VIDEO: What is the Device Health section of the Ring app?

Why is my Ring battery draining too fast?

If your Ring battery seems to be draining too fast, read more here.

 

Setting Up and Using your Ring Device

How can I get help with the set up and installation of my Ring device?

When you set up a Ring device, you’ll get step-by-step instructions in the Ring app. In addition the Ring Help Center support.ring.com has hundreds of articles available on all aspects of installing and operating your Ring devices.

Can more than one person use a Ring doorbell or security camera?

Yes. One person is considered the Owner of a Ring account and the Owner can add as many Shared Users as they would like.

How to invite a Shared User to your Ring account.

Do you need to have the app open to receive notifications?

No, as long as you’re signed in to the app, your smartphone, tablet or computer, you will receive notifications.*

Learn how to set up notifications on your computer

*Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

VIDEO: What Kind of Alerts Can I Set Up In The Ring App?

How do you know where your visitor is located if you have multiple Ring devices and/or multiple properties?

During your device setup, you'll be asked to give each Ring device a unique name. Notifications* are delivered with the name of the device that triggered them, showing you exactly where the activity is taking place.

Can Ring devices capture footage at night?

Yes, you can learn more about night vision here.

Do Ring devices work in extreme heat or cold?

Learn more about extreme temperatures and Ring devices here.

 

Adjusting Ringer Volume on your Ring Video Doorbell

To adjust the volume of the Ringer on your Ring Video Doorbell:

  1. Open the Ring App to access your Dashboard.
  2. Find the device whose volume you'd like to adjust and tap Settings.
  3. Tap the Device Settings tile.
  4. From the list, choose General Settings.
  5. Set the Ringer volume using the volume slider.

Technical Information

What version of iOS or Android do I need to use the Ring app?

Android Version 9 or higher, with access to the Google Play Store, is required for the Ring App. iOS Apple Version 14 and above is required for the Ring app.

Does Ring support WPA2, WEP, or WPA?

Ring devices support WPA2, WPA, and WEP. However, we do not recommend using WEP as it is an older standard and not as secure as other options. When possible, use WPA2 encryption for a more secure connection and broadest compatibility.

Consult your router's owner's manual or contact your internet service provider to learn how to update your network security.

Are Ring products FCC approved?

Yes. Ring products are FCC approved.

Does Ring have facial recognition technology in any of its services or devices?

No. Ring does not have facial recognition technology in any of its devices or services.Android Version 9 or higher, with access to the Google Play Store, is required for the Ring App. iOS Apple Version 14 and above is required for the Ring app.

Does Ring support WPA2, WEP, or WPA?

Ring devices support WPA2, WPA, and WEP. However, we do not recommend using WEP as it is an older standard and not as secure as other options. When possible, use WPA2 encryption for a more secure connection and broadest compatibility.

Consult your router's owner's manual or contact your internet service provider to learn how to update your network security.

Are Ring products FCC approved?

Yes. Ring products are FCC approved.

Does Ring have facial recognition technology in any of its services or devices?

No. Ring does not have facial recognition technology in any of its devices or services.

 

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