How to set up Ring’s end-to-end video encryption
Ring has launched its end-to-end encryption (E2EE) service worldwide. Now, as well as using authentication methods such as SMS, customers can use a compatible authenticator app as a second method of verification when logging in to their Ring account.
Ring has moreinformation about authenticator appsin the support section of its website.
E2EE is not available on all devices and it’s not compatible with all the ways you may use your Ring security system, so – for the moment, at least – it’s an opt-in service.
Bear in mind that if you use E2EE, you won’t be able to share videos, watch your videos on other platforms including the Ring desktop app for Mac and the Ring Windows app. You also won’t be able to use some of the advanced features.
To see the full list of features that’ll be affected, visit theRing website. Ring plans to enable some of these features for use with E2EE in the future, but we don’t know when.
Here’s how to set it up.
Which Ring devices are compatible with the new E2EE?
First off, Ring battery-powered video doorbells and cameras won’t support E2EE.
Only these devices will:
What do I need to set up the new E2EE?
As well as one of the devices in the list above AND the Ring app, you’ll need a mobile phone that’s running at least iOS 12 or Android 8.
How to set up E2EE
1. Get the latest version of the app
Start by making sure you’ve got the latest version of the app. E2EE is supported on version 5.34 and above.
If you don’t know how to update the app, Ring hasan explaineron its website but here are the basics for Android and iPhone users.
If you’re aniPhone user, got to Apple’s App Store, click the ID icon in the top right corner and scroll down to check the available updates. If Ring is on the list, click the update button to make sure you have the newest version.
Android users should go to the Google Play Store, click on the three lines in the upper left corner, then choose ‘My Apps & Games’, then ‘Updates’. Find Ring on the list and give the update button next to it a tap.
2. Find the E2EE option
3. Set up encryption
ChooseGet Startedand follow the in-app instructions to set up E2EE on your account.
The next stage is to generate a new passphrase. It’s really important that you make a note of your new passphrase or store it in a password manager. If you lose your passphrase, you may lose access to videos you’ve already stored and you won’t be able to add more mobile devices to E2EE without starting the process from the beginning. The passphrase must be in all lowercase letters – you must include all hyphens and don’t add any spaces.
4. Add your mobile device
ChooseResume Setupand follow the in-app instructions.
5. Add your Ring devices
Again, chooseResume Setupand follow the in-app instructions.
6. Test E2EE
Once the update and setup are complete, press your doorbell or trigger your camera to initialise your Ring device.
7. Turning off E2EE
If you need more support, visit thehelp sectionon the Ring website.
If you’re looking for a new smart doorbell, check out ourround-up of the best we’ve tested, with reviews and ratings. And for more Ring advice, here’show to install the Ring doorbell app on an Amazon Fire Tablet.
Author: Emma Rowley, Group Home Tech Editor
Emma has been a journalist and copywriter for over 20 years and has been testing and writing about home tech and appliances for seven years. She tries out every appliance she writes about at home, and aims to recommend time- and energy-saving products that will last.
