Why Can't I Access My Ring Video Doorbell on My Network?
Many homeowners are curious about why they can't access their Ring Video Doorbell on their own network, but are able to view it from other networks, such as a guest network or even from the internet. This issue is not uncommon and can often be resolved with some adjustments to your router settings and network configurations. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this issue and the steps you can take to troubleshoot it.
The Problem: Internal vs. External IP Addresses
When you try to access your Ring Video Doorbell directly from a device on your home network, it can sometimes encounter difficulties. The primary issue often lies in how your router handles internal forwarded addresses. For example, if your router has issues with internal forwarded addresses, it may not be able to properly route traffic back to your Ring Video Doorbell. This is a common problem with older or less sophisticated routers.
Accessing the Ring Video Doorbell Using the Internal IP
If your router is having trouble with internal forwarded addresses, you can try accessing the Ring Video Doorbell directly using its internal IP address instead of its external IP address. Here’s how you can find and use the internal IP address of your Ring Video Doorbell:
Step 1: Open your web browser and enter your router's IP address into the URL bar. Step 2: Log in to your router's admin interface. Step 3: Navigate to the device list or similar section where you can see the connected IP addresses. Step 4: Locate the IP address of your Ring Video Doorbell. Step 5: Use this internal IP address to access your Ring Video Doorbell via a web browser.Using the External IP Address
Another approach is to connect to the Ring Video Doorbell using its external IP address. This method involves port forwarding configuration on your router to ensure that incoming traffic from the internet is correctly forwarded to your Ring Video Doorbell. Here’s a detailed guide on how to set this up:
Step 1: Find Your External IP Address
To find your external IP address, you can visit a website such as This will help you determine your public IP address, which is required for port forwarding.
Step 2: Configure Port Forwarding on Your Router
Step 2.1: Log in to your router's admin interface.
Step 2.2: Navigate to the port forwarding or forwarding rules section.
Step 2.3: Create a new forwarding rule for your Ring Video Doorbell.
Port Range: This typically involves both the incoming and outgoing ports. Use the default range (80 or 8080 for HTTP/HTML and 443 for HTTPS) or the custom ports specified in your Ring Video Doorbell's manual. IP Address: Enter the IP address of your Ring Video Doorbell as assigned by your router. Description: Name the forwarding rule for easy identification.Step 2.4: Save the changes and restart your router if necessary.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If you've tried both of the above methods and are still facing issues, consider these additional troubleshooting tips:
Disable Parental Controls: Sometimes, your router's parental controls or security features can interfere with network traffic to your Ring Video Doorbell. Ensure these features are not blocking the necessary ports. Update Firmware: Make sure your router’s firmware is up to date. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause issues with network forwarding and traffic routing. Check Network Security: If your network uses a strong encryption or firewall, it might be blocking traffic to your Ring Video Doorbell. Check your network security settings and make necessary adjustments. Contact Your Internet Service Provider: If the problem persists, it might be related to your internet service provider. Reach out to them to ensure there are no restrictions or issues on their end.Conclusion
Not being able to access your Ring Video Doorbell on your home network can be frustrating, but it is typically a solvable issue with some adjustments to your router settings and network configurations. By understanding the problem and following the steps outlined above, you should be able to regain access to your Ring Video Doorbell from within your home network. If you still encounter troubles, consulting a professional or the manufacturer’s support can be beneficial.