Can You Use Ring Doorbell Without WiFi?
A Ring Doorbell requires WiFi to see the video, use two-way talk, and receive notifications, alerts, and updates. You can’t use a Ring Doorbell without both WiFi and a stable internet connection. Ring Video Doorbell models 1, 2, 3, and 4 are 100% wireless and powered by a battery. They connect to your smartphone, tablet, or computer via WiFi. Ring Doorbell Pro and Ring Doorbell Elite are hardwired and use an Ethernet cable for power and internet, but they still communicate with your wireless devices using WiFi. So even though the internet is provided to them via the Ethernet cable, you still need WiFi to control them with a smartphone.
There’s a difference between the internet and WiFi. Your internet service provides access to the internet by connecting a computer to a modem. But it’s not wireless. To make your internet signal wireless, you need a router. The internet signal broadcast by your router is called WiFi. This is how devices like smartphones, video game systems, TVs, and video doorbells work wirelessly. They connect to the home’s internet service by using WiFi. So, in addition to your internet service and a modem, you also need a router to create a WiFi signal.
So, can you use a Ring Doorbell without WiFi? No, Ring Video Doorbells require both internet and WiFi to communicate with your smartphone, PC, tablet, and other devices. However, there is one exception, you can use a mobile hotspot to temporarily access your Ring Devices.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Ring Doorbells and how to use them without WiFi.
Does Ring Doorbell Work Without WiFi?
A Ring Doorbell does not work without WiFi. It requires WiFi to see video, use two-way talk, and receive notifications, alerts, and updates. You can’t use video doorbells without both WiFi and a stable internet connection. If the blue light is spinning, it means the Ring is trying to connect to WiFi.
To find out how to turn off the blue light on Ring Doorbell, click the link. I have an article that will tech you how step by step.
Ring Video Doorbell models 1, 2, 3, and 4 are 100% wireless, are powered by battery, and connect to your smartphone, tablet, or computer via WiFi. Ring Doorbell Pro and Ring Doorbell Elite are hardwired and use an Ethernet cable for power and internet, but they still communicate with your devices using WiFi.
Internet service and WiFi are two different things. WiFi is simply your internet service turned into a wireless signal by a router. This makes it possible for wireless devices like a smartphone, TVs, video game systems or doorbells to access the internet wirelessly and talk to each other.
When a Ring Doorbell sends a live stream video feed, alerts, and notifications to your phone, it does it by connecting to the internet with WiFi.
Ring Doorbell 1 | Ring Doorbell 2 | Ring Doorbell 3 | Ring Doorbell Pro | Ring Doorbell Elite | |
Complete Wireless Capability | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | X | X |
Data Connection Method | WiFi | WiFi | WiFi | WiFi | WiFi |
Ability To Hardwire | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Hardwiring Required | X | X | X | ✔ | ✔ |
Rechargeable Battery | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | X | X |
Can Ring Use A Wireless Hotspot?
A Ring doorbell requires WiFi and a stable internet connection to function properly. If it lacks internet access, problems like getting stuck in boot loop can occur. However, there is one exception to this rule. To use your Ring devices without WiFi, you can connect them to a wireless hotspot.
A mobile hotspot is a temporary wireless access point created by a dedicated hardware device or a smartphone that shares the device’s cellular data. Other nearby wireless devices can use the shared hotspot to connect to the internet. Mobile hotspots are also known as portable hotspots.
One of the benefits of connecting your Ring Doorbell to a mobile hotspot is that it eliminates some of the drilling required to install a modem and router. If you want to learn more about how to install Ring without drilling, check out or guide by clicking the link.
Click here to see our list of the best wireless doorbells for rentals. They pair really well with using a mobile hotspot because they’re easy to install and can be quickly uninstalled when you move.
Can I Use Ring App Without WiFi?
Your Ring Doorbell relies on Wi-Fi for essential functions like video streaming, two-way communication, and receiving alerts, notifications, and updates. It’s a must-have for your Ring Doorbell to work correctly, along with a stable internet connection.
There are various Ring Doorbell models, including 1, 2, 3, and 4, which are completely wireless running on batteries. They connect to your smartphone, tablet, or computer through Wi-Fi. Even hardwired models like Ring Doorbell Pro and Ring Doorbell Elite still use Wi-Fi to communicate with your devices, despite being powered and connected to the internet via Ethernet cable.
However, there’s a workaround: you can use a mobile hotspot to maintain communication with your Ring devices.
A mobile hotspot is like a temporary Wi-Fi signal created by a dedicated device or smartphone, sharing its cellular data. Other nearby devices can latch onto this hotspot to access the internet. They’re sometimes called portable hotspots. If your home Wi-Fi goes down, you can rely on a mobile hotspot to keep your Ring devices running.
Here’s how it works: Once you turn on your hotspot, your other wireless devices can detect it. But remember, you have to manually connect each device to the hotspot; they won’t do it automatically. Once connected, your devices will function as usual as long as the hotspot stays active. However, keep these things in mind:
- Limited Range: Hotspots have a shorter range compared to regular Wi-Fi connections.
- Data Usage: Depending on your cellular plan, you may incur additional charges for data usage.
- Signal Strength Matters: Your devices will perform better with a strong cellular signal.
So, while Wi-Fi is crucial for your Ring Doorbell, a mobile hotspot can be a backup solution if your home Wi-Fi temporarily goes offline.
Does Turning Off WiFi Stop Ring Doorbell?
When you turn off Wi-Fi for your Ring camera or devices, you’re essentially cutting off all communication to and from them. This means you won’t be able to access live video, have two-way conversations, receive alerts, notifications, or updates. Ring cameras rely entirely on an internet connection to function, and they don’t store data locally; everything goes to the cloud.
Without a stable internet connection, your Ring camera can’t reach Ring’s servers to provide live video streams or send any notifications. It also can’t interact with your other devices like phones, tablets, or computers.
If your Wi-Fi goes down, here’s what you’ll lose:
- Notifications: You won’t receive alerts for detected motion or doorbell rings.
- Access to Recorded Videos: You can’t view any recorded videos from your Ring Doorbell.
- Cloud Video Storage: Your camera won’t be able to record or store videos in the cloud.
- Remote Control: You won’t be able to wirelessly control your Ring Doorbell.
Common issues like power outages or a poor internet connection can cause Ring devices to stop working. The only solution is to restore your internet connection.
Ring devices use a technology called SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) to communicate, connecting two points over an IP (Internet Protocol) network. But for this connection to happen, they rely on the internet.
If you need to change WiFi on a Ring doorbell, click the link to learn how. I have an article explaining the entire process.
What To Do If Your Ring Doorbell Stops Working
If your Ring Doorbell stops working, the most common issue is connectivity. Ring devices communicate with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and PCs over WiFi. If the internet goes down, the Ring will lose its ability to talk with other devices and can’t access its cloud storage. This means no storing or accessing any video footage, files, two-way talk, notifications, updates, or alerts until the internet is restored.
Here are a few things you should try if your Ring Doorbell has no WiFi:
Here are some steps to try if your Ring Doorbell has no Wi-Fi:
- Check Wi-Fi Password: Ensure the Wi-Fi password is correct. If it has been changed, update it in your Ring’s settings.
- Inspect the Fuse Box: Check the fuse box. If your router or modem loses power, the Wi-Fi stops working.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your wireless router for 30 seconds and then plug it back in. This can help refresh the connection.
- Verify Cable Connections: Make sure all your cables are correctly plugged in.
- Reconnect through the Ring App: Open the Ring app on your smartphone and reconnect your Ring device to the Wi-Fi network.
- Test Your Internet: Ensure your Internet is functioning correctly. Sometimes, it’s an internet problem rather than a Ring issue. If your internet is down, contact your provider.
- Check Batteries or Ethernet Cable: Low battery power can cause problems, so make sure your Ring device’s batteries are adequate. If it’s a wired model, inspect the Ethernet cable.
How Do I Know If My Ring Doorbell Has WiFi?
There are several reasons why Ring devices can lose connectivity with your wireless network. The most common being problems with the router, modem, or internet service. In most cases, when a Ring Doorbell stops working, it’s not a problem with the Ring.
Because Ring devices require internet and WiFi to communicate and work properly, the first place you should look when they stop working is your internet connection. But how do you know if the Ring is connected to the network?
First, use the Ring app to make sure your device is connected to your WiFi network. If you’ve opened the app and can’t view the live video feed or if you’re not receiving notifications or alerts from the Ring Doorbell, it may be offline.
Once the app is open, go into the settings and click “Device Health.” If it says “Offline” under the “Network” heading, it means your Ring Doorbell isn’t connected to a wireless network.
After you’ve confirmed that the Ring isn’t connected to the internet, investigate why.
First, check your modem and router. Unplug all your hardware for 30 seconds and then plug them in. Wait a few minutes for them to reset. Check to make sure the internet and WiFi are working by using other devices like your smartphone or tablet.
If the internet and WiFi are working properly, go into your Ring app and try to reconnect.
If the Ring won’t connect even though the internet and WiFi are working properly, check the power. Low power will cause issues.
When all else fails, call customer support. In the United States, the number is 1-800-656-1918.
How To Check Ring Doorbell WiFi Signal Strength?
Even though your internet and WiFi are working properly, the signal strength could still be weak. Ring Doorbells and other devices work best when they have a strong internet connection.
If you’re Ring Doorbell is having problems, it could be the strength of your WiFi connection.
Here are some problems that signal weakness can cause:
- Poor Video and Audio Quality: You might notice low-quality video and audio.
- Delayed Alerts and Notifications: There could be delays in receiving alerts or notifications.
- Motion Sensor Problems: Motion sensors may not work as expected.
- Intermittent Connectivity: The Ring device may disconnect and reconnect to the network.
- Slow Cloud Access: Accessing cloud-stored content might take longer than usual.
One of the best ways to check the WiFi strength of your Ring is with the Ring App.
First, open the Ring app and tap “Device Health.” If the app says the device is “Online” but “Signal Strength” is “Poor” or “Very Poor,” there is a WiFi connection, but it’s weak.
If your phone shows weak signal strength near the Ring, consider these steps:
- Router Placement: Think about moving your router closer to the Ring device for better signal reception.
- WiFi Extender: Installing a Wi-Fi extender can help boost the signal and improve connectivity.
By addressing these signal strength issues, you can ensure that your Ring Doorbell and other devices function smoothly.
Reasons A Ring Doorbell Has Bad WiFi Signal
If a Ring Doorbell is connected to WiFi but has poor signal strength, the most common reason is the router. Your home’s router is what puts out the WiFi signal. If it’s located far away from the Ring doorbell camera or is an older router, you may have to relocate it or use a WiFi extender.
Here’s a list of the most common reasons why a Ring Doorbell has a weak WiFi connection:
- Your wireless router is too far away from the Ring device. WiFi signal strength gets better the closer you are to the router.
- The layout of your home interferes with the wireless signal. WiFi bounces off of walls and other hard surfaces. If it can’t get to the Ring Doorbell because walls are in the way, you have to relocate the router or use a WiFi extender.
- Other devices are causing interference. TVs and video game systems located close to the Ring may cause interference with the signal.
- Building materials like brick, stone, and concrete can block a WiFi signal.
- The router may be old. Newer hardware puts out a stronger, more consistent signal.
- Check the modem and your internet service. The problem may not be the router.
In most cases, a poor WiFi signal can be fixed by moving the router or installing a WiFi extender close to the Ring. However, you should also check the modem and internet service. In most cases, it’s not an issue with the Ring Device.
If everything is working properly and you still have a weak WiFi signal, call customer service. In the United States, the number is 1-800-656-1918.
Do Ring Doorbells Automatically Recover When WiFi Comes Back?
In most cases, a Ring Doorbell will start working as soon as the internet connection and WiFi signal are restored. But depending on your internet speed and the reason it went out, it may take a few minutes.
Any recordings made right before or during the outage will be lost. A Ring Doorbell does not have internal storage. If it can’t send video to your phone or the cloud, the files are lost. However, files that were sent to the cloud before the outage should be saved to the cloud.
Most new internet routers offer both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz connectivity. It doesn’t matter which signal you connect your Ring Doorbell to. As soon as the signal is restored, the other Ring doorbell devices should automatically reconnect and start working.
If the Ring Doorbell doesn’t reconnect to your WiFi once it turns back on, go into your Ring App and connect it manually.
How to Troubleshoot Wi-Fi Problems with Your Ring Cameras
Here is the step-by-step process I use whenever I have to troubleshoot an issue with one of my Ring cameras. They’re generally very reliable, but have minor issues every now and then. Usually most can be fixed by resetting the device, but I would recommend going through the entire process just to be sure.
Step 1: Check All Cables
First, make sure all cables are properly connected to your router. Your router is what connects your devices to the internet via Wi-Fi. If you have a wired Ring Camera or Doorbell, double-check the wiring to ensure it’s correct, as wrong wiring can cause connection issues.
Step 2: Battery Check
For battery-powered Ring devices, ensure the device is charged adequately. A low battery can lead to functionality and connectivity problems. Refer to your device’s manual for charging and replacing the battery instructions.
Step 3: Test Your Internet Speed
To rule out router issues, try using the internet on another device connected to the same network as your Ring Camera. If there are problems, resolve them to restore your Ring device’s functionality. You can also run an Internet Speed Test from a device on your home Wi-Fi network to diagnose internet connection problems. If there’s a service outage in your area, try rebooting your router.
Step 4: Check Wi-Fi Range
Position your Ring Camera within the proper range of your router for a strong Wi-Fi connection. Ring devices use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, which can cover more distance than 5GHz networks. If your Ring device is too far, consider moving it closer or invest in a Ring Range Extender to boost Wi-Fi signal strength.
Step 5: Update Firmware
Ensure your Ring Camera’s firmware is up to date. While it usually updates automatically, a weak internet connection can hinder this. You can manually update firmware through the Ring app to receive bug fixes and improvements.
Step 6: Voltage Check
Certain Ring Camera models, like Video Doorbell Pro, may face low voltage issues. This means they aren’t getting enough power from the transformer, causing them to go offline. Consider using a Ring Plug-in Power Adapter to provide extra power to compatible models.
Step 7: Factory Reset
As a last resort, perform a factory reset on your Ring Security Camera or Video Doorbell. This can resolve persistent issues, though you’ll need to set up the device again. The reset process varies by model, so consult the Ring app for specific instructions.
Step 8: Contact Ring Support
If you can’t resolve the connectivity problems using the previous steps, reach out to Ring Support for assistance. Their team will provide further troubleshooting guidance and determine if your device needs repair or replacement.
Does A Ring Chime Ring If WiFi Is Off?
No, the Ring Chime will not ring without an internet connection and WiFi. The Ring Chime is a wireless doorbell chime. Without internet and WiFi, there’s no way for the Ring Doorbell to tell the Ring Chime Pro to ring.
Without WiFi and internet, the Ring Doorbell will still ring when someone pushes the button. Any hardwired mechanical chimes connected to the Ring will continue to ring cameras work just as usual. Assuming you have a Ring Doorbell that supports this feature, like the Ring Doorbell Pro 1 and Pro 2. But no video, audio, notifications, or alerts will be sent to your phone without WiFi, and the Ring Chime won’t make noise.
Can You Setup A Ring Doorbell Without WiFi?
No, without internet and a WiFi connection, you can’t set up a Ring Doorbell.
A new Ring Doorbell is initially set up by using the Ring App. Without an internet connection and a WiFi signal to connect your device to the Ring App, you can’t go through any of the setup steps and menus.
Will Ring Doorbell Work With Mobile Hotspot?
A Ring Doorbell and other Ring devices will connect to and work with a mobile hotspot. A mobile hotspot is a temporary wireless access point created by a dedicated hardware device or smartphone that shares the device’s cellular data. Other nearby wireless devices can use the shared hotspot to connect to the internet. Mobile hotspots are also known as portable hotspots.
By setting up a mobile hotspot, you let your other devices connect to the internet through the cellular network.
Once you set up the hotspot, your Ring devices will detect it. But they won’t connect automatically. You have to go into the device settings and connect them one by one. Once the device is connected to the hotspot, it will work as if it had WiFi.
Hotspots usually have a shorter range and aren’t as stable as WiFi, so the Ring may not work as well. But I’ve tried it a few times when my power was out with Verizon 5G, and it worked fine.
Ring devices upload and access information to and from the cloud when they communicate with your mobile device. This means they need a strong connection and pass lots of data. So keep this in mind because your cell provider data rates will apply.
Using a hotspot for your Ring devices could be expensive if you pay high data rates.
How Much Data Does A Ring Doorbell Use?
The amount of data a Ring Doorbell uses each month depends on the features you have set up and the number of times it records and communicates with your phone. However, the average amount of data it uses falls between 50GB and 300GB per month.
Because video files from security cameras are very large, the camera is the primary source of data used by a Ring Doorbell. Depending on which settings you have installed, you could reduce or increase the amount of data it uses.
Settings that affect a Ring Doorbell’s data usage include:
- Motion: Where you mount the Ring is very important because its sensors will detect anything moving through the detection zone. Ideally, it should detect people walking towards the device and not cars or pedestrians.
- Resolution: Resolution is a huge factor in terms of data usage. The better the resolution, the bigger the file sizes. But higher resolution means a clearer video, and Ring Cameras are capable of HD resolutions.
- Pets: You should turn this setting off if you don’t have a pet or don’t let your pet by the Ring.
- Clip Length: The longer the video clip, the more data it takes to save and send it. You can adjust the video clip length in the settings.
- Motion Sensitivity: Reducing motion sensitivity will decrease data usage because it won’t detect as much. On maximum setting, the Ring will detect a leaf blowing, which is a waste of data. I set mine to a medium setting, which detects people as they approach the door but not every small movement in front of the house.
Does A Ring Doorbell Record All The Time?
No, a Ring Doorbell only records when it detects movement within its motion sensor field of view and not all the time. And only if you pay for a Ring Protection Plan. Without a Ring Protect Plan, your Ring Doorbell will not record or store videos at all. You can still view the live video stream without the subscription service, but it won’t have recorded footage or record to the cloud.
If you have a Ring Protect Plan, the doorbell will record and store video whenever motion is detected by the doorbell’s motion sensors, whenever someone presses the doorbell, or whenever you initiate “Live View” on the other device connected with your Ring App.
Because the Ring security cameras will only record when it’s detected movement, when the doorbell button’s been pressed, or when you use the “Live View,” it’s data usage is greatly reduced.
Do Ring Doorbells & Cameras Have Cellular Backup?
Ring Doorbell models do not have a built-in cellular backup. They save all their data and recordings to the cloud. This means if your internet or WiFi goes out, they will not be able to operate until the internet is back online.
Ring Alarm Pro offers backup internet if you have the Ring Protect Pro subscription for $20 per month. This means if your primary internet connection drops, your home’s internet will automatically reduce to a 4G mobile data connection.
As part of the plan, you get 3GB for free, which is around 300 Ring recordings, but you can buy extra data for $3 per gigabyte.
If you don’t have Ring Alarm Pro, it’s possible to set up a mobile hotspot to connect ring devices or your Ring Doorbell to the internet.
Once the mobile hotspot is set up, your Ring Devices will detect it if they’re within range. But they won’t connect automatically. You have to manually connect them to the hotspot by using the Ring App.
When the main internet is back online, you have to go back into the Ring App again and switch from the hotspot to your home’s internet. The Ring won’t switch between internet sources by itself.
Using a mobile hotspot is only good as a short-term solution. The internet speeds are slower and less reliable than WiFi and could get expensive if you pay a lot for data.
Can Ring Doorbells Record To An NAS Or SD Card Without WiFi?
No, Ring Doorbells do not have local storage on hard drives, NAD, or SD cards and are entirely cloud-dependent. Without the internet and a WiFi signal, your Ring doorbell cameras will not be able to record video or audio.
While the internet and/or WiFi are down, you won’t be able to record or save video. However, whatever data you’ve already saved to the cloud will not be lost.
Once your WiFi and/or internet connection is restored, recording and uploading, along with all the Ring’s other features, will work properly.
Conclusion: Ring Doorbells Require Both Internet & WiFi
Ring doorbells require both an internet connection and a WiFi signal to work properly.
Ring devices are cloud-based and require an active internet connection with WiFi to communicate with other devices like your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC. You can’t even do the initial out-of-the-box setup with both the internet and cameras working without WiFi on. This is true for both their wireless and wired doorbells.
Because of this, if you have a temporary interruption of service, your Ring Doorbell will not work until both the internet and the WiFi signal are restored.
Once your internet and WiFi are back online, the doorbell will work normally.
Summary: Can You Use Ring Doorbell Without WiFi?
A Ring Doorbell requires WiFi to see the video, use two-way talk, and receive notifications, alerts, and updates. You can’t use a Ring Doorbell without both WiFi and a stable internet connection.Ring Video Doorbell models 1, 2, 3, and 4 are 100% wireless and powered by a battery. They connect to your smartphone, tablet, or computer via WiFi. Ring Doorbell Pro and Ring Doorbell Elite are hardwired and use an Ethernet cable for power and internet, but they still communicate with your wireless devices using WiFi. So even though the internet is provided to them via the Ethernet cable, you still need WiFi to control them with a smartphone.
There’s a difference between the internet and WiFi. Your internet service provides access to the internet by connecting a computer to a modem. But it’s not wireless. To make your internet signal wireless, you need a router. The internet signal broadcast by your router is called WiFi. This is how devices like smartphones, video game systems, TVs, and video doorbells work wirelessly. They connect to the home’s internet service by using WiFi. So, in addition to your internet service and a modem, you also need a router to create a WiFi signal.
So, can you use a Ring Doorbell without WiFi? No, Ring Video Doorbells require both internet and WiFi to communicate with your smartphone, PC, tablet, and other devices. However, there is one exception. You can use a wireless hotspot to substitute for WiFi and temporarily access your Ring Devices.
If you have any questions about a Ring Doorbell, email any time.
John Mazzuca | About | More Posts |
Custom Home Builder
John Mazzuca is a custom home designer and builder at Gambrick with over 25 years experience in the construction industry. John has designed, built and/or remodeled hundreds of homes, small buildings, and commercial projects. He writes about business, real estate, home building, and household electronics. His work has been featured in Fox Business, Better Homes & Garden, House Beautiful, and more.