Ring is a crime prevention and safety measure that comes highly recommended in the app store with 4.5 out of 5 stars.
It connects to everything from Ring doorbells, cameras, alarm systems, and also certain smart lights. But what do you do if the app has trouble connecting to a device?
When Ring keeps saying “activating device” with no success, open the app, and perform a device health test to check the connection status. Then, follow the prompts to fix the connection. You can also download the Rapid Ring app for network and app support or check the Ring Community for fixes.
The rest of this article will explain a few topics related to this question in detail, including the most likely reasons behind your activation issues, how to troubleshoot Ring video issues, reasons why activation is delayed, and offer links to Ring support help.
Common Activation Issues With Ring
Ring is a helpful app for making you feel more secure in your home. Petty and grand crimes alike are more likely to decrease and get solved through home surveillance systems like these.
However, even added security can come with technical difficulties, and some common errors reported by users include:
- Lengthy activation times
- Blurry video images
- Error messages
Some of the most common reasons for Ring activation issues are a result of poor internet connectivity, slow download and upload speeds, and poor router connections.
Despite the ethical concerns regarding user privacy with this technology, many users report a sense of ease in having the app.
In fact, according to The Guardian, home security apps like Ring can be accessed by 1 in 10 police departments without a warrant and potentially catch criminals quicker.
However, all of the potential benefits of home security are overshadowed when the device isn’t functioning the way it’s supposed to.
Thankfully, these common issues often have simple solutions.
How To Troubleshoot Ring Device Setup Issues
Nothing is more frustrating than technology that just won’t do what you want it to.
But, according to Ring Support pages, there are some pretty easy remedies to try when your app is loading for an extended time, showing blurry videos, or giving you error messages.
Another common complaint in the reviews of the Ring app is the length of time it takes to connect and activate their devices. But, again, the most likely reason behind your activation issues is a poor internet connection.
Check out the video below for more information on common setup issues:
This video recommends purchasing Ring Chime Pro, which will extend your current Ring network and boost performance. However, you can also try downloading the Rapid Ring App to support your Ring app devices better.
Move Your Router
One thing to try is to move your router out of the cupboard or closet that you have it hiding in and bring it to a more central area of the house.
If your router is not in an optimal location in your home – reasonably close to other devices – you could be having internet connectivity problems as a result.
For example, if your Ring device cannot connect because the router is too far away or not putting out a strong enough signal, you will continue to get error messages and long loading/activation times.
If moving the router is not an option, try using a WiFi extender, like this TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender from Amazon.com. It’s very affordable, can cover as many as 1200 square feet (111.48 square meters), and allows for up to 20 devices.
With an extender, you can boost your WiFi signal to your whole house.
If your router is in a centralized location, but you’re still having issues with your video quality or still receiving activation and other error messages, try downloading the Rapid Ring App.
Use the Rapid Ring App
Rapid Ring is an app built for speed and connection, making it the perfect companion for your Ring app.
In addition, there is no separate login information required for this app – simply use your standard Ring app credentials, and then you’ll have access to a simple notification system to help you keep an eye on your home.
The Rapid Ring app is a separate app that works in the background to support the primary Ring app. Check out this article from Ring Support for more details.
While this app doesn’t have a download cost, most reviewers gave it a 4.6 out of 5-star rating on the app store, unlike the Ring Chime Pro.
Reboot the Device and Router
If the Ring app seems to be working with other devices and only gets stuck with one specific device, try rebooting that device.
Most will have a reset button, or you may just need to power it down completely. That means you need to unplug it or remove the batteries.
Sometimes programs can become buggy over time, and that can keep them from working properly.
By rebooting it, you’ll wipe clean any issues, and it should work again.
The same goes for the router itself, though this is more for when the app doesn’t seem to be working for any Ring devices.
Ring Support and Customer Service
Sometimes, the problem can’t be fixed by repositioning your router, downloading support apps, or self-diagnostics in the app.
Although we always hope for a simple solution, sometimes we have to call in the experts.
If you’re struggling with the functionality of your Ring app, you should reach out to their customer service team for support.
They have phone numbers for every country of operation and an online chat option.
Also, Ring offers a forum for other Ring users to support each other.
Ring Community is a way for you to post about technical issues you may be having and get support from other users who may have overcome a similar problem.
Check out and join the Ring Community here.
Conclusion
While some individuals have raised concerns about Ring and other home security technologies and how they may compromise user privacy, most consumers report an added sense of peace of mind with these apps.
Unfortunately, technology doesn’t always work the way it’s intended to.
As discussed in this article, the most likely cause behind your Ring app’s dysfunction is a poor internet connection.
Sometimes this can be easily rectified with a quick router move or by downloading support apps.
But, sometimes, it is better to reach out to experts – like the customer service representatives at Ring Support.