Beep beep! Imagine a world with no bridges. How much harder would it be to get around? That logic can be applied to home security systems. Can you use the Ring Spotlight Cam without the Bridge?
Many smart home security systems require the usage of a “bridge .” Essentially, this gadget serves as a hub for data transmission among your numerous devices. They may also use it to connect to the internet.
Users reported that there are other issues you might find such as your Ring Spotlight flashing on and off, but overall this camera is extremely well rounded and should give you little to no problems.
You don’t need a bridge while utilizing specific Ring devices on their own, but what about others, like the Ring Spotlight Cam? This article will go through the benefits of using the Bridge with your Ring Spotlight Cam and other devices.
Is it Possible to Use Ring Spotlight Without a Bridge?
Your Ring Spotlight Cam is more than a security camera; it’s a complete security system. It has a camera, a flashlight, and two-way audio. Additionally, it also deters trespassers and sends you real-time notifications.
It can’t accomplish any of these things, though, unless it’s connected to the Bridge. Ring Spotlight Cam may be used without the Bridge; however, the light will only function as a motion-activated light. You won’t get any notifications, and it won’t send any data.
You may use the Bridge to access Ring Spotlight’s whole array of services, including receiving notifications. If you don’t have the Bridge, you won’t be able to receive email alerts, connect it to other smart gadgets in your house, such as the Ring Camera which can be compatible with Vivint.
Other features you will lose includes access to real-time footage and the alarm sounding, which in my opinion, deters the need to buy the actual camera. A Ring Spotlight Cam without the Bridge is pointless as you miss out on so many of the features.
Keep in mind that the Bridge may or may not come with your first purchase, depending on the brand and model. For example, the Ring Smart Lighting Starter Pack includes everything you’ll need to set up and use your new system.
Why you should use the Ring Spotlight with the Bridge?
There are a few things to remember regarding your Ring Bridge and how it improves your user experience. A single bridge can connect up to 50 devices, and a monthly subscription to The Bridge is not required.
A subscription, on the other hand, may be beneficial if you want to acquire more features from your Ring system, such as extra storage, but regardless, your Bridge’s lights provide information about its functions.
Suppose your Bridge, for example, is flashing red. In that case, it implies that something is stopping your device from connecting to the internet. This communication between the user and the device can make fixing things and understanding way more effortless.
What to do if Bridge Isn’t Connecting to Ring Spotlight
You might be wondering if you can utilize Ring Spotlight Cam without the Bridge because your Bridge isn’t working. Here are several options for getting your Bridge up and running again:
Your Bridge Isn’t in Range.
If your devices are far from each other or the router, they might struggle to maintain a solid connection. Consider that your Ring Spotlight cannot be more than 250 feet away from the router, and the Bridge cannot be more than 1,000 feet away from the router.
These issues might prohibit your devices from communicating with each other, especially if you have a big property or if any impediments are blocking your router’s signal.
During the initial setup, try moving your devices closer together. After that, you may try putting them in different places after they’re linked.
Your devices aren’t connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
All of your Ring gadgets must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network to send and receive data. If not, they’re not going to communicate.
You can see what network your devices are connected to in the Ring App. After you’ve logged in, follow the steps below:
- Open the Ring app.
- At the top of the screen, tap the three dots.
- On the left-hand side, click “Devices.”
- Choose your Ring Spotlight device.
- Select “Device Health.”
From here, you can see what network your Ring Spotlight is connected to. If you need to, connect both to one single Wi-Fi. Do so.
You’ll need to update your firmware.
A computer code that allows your device to perform certain functions is known as firmware. It’s in everything from printers, computers, and remote controls. It may also be found in your Ring goods.
Most of the time, your gadget will update its firmware on its own. However, if this is not the case, you may need to force the update. The following steps will teach you how to do so:
- Using the Ring application, select the three lines in the upper left corner
- Locate and select your device
- Click on “Device Health”
- Look for “Firmware” in the “Firmware” folder.
- If there’s a number next to “Firmware,” it’s time to update it.
Final Thoughts
In short, Ring Spotlight Cam without the Bridge is still workable, but you won’t get what you paid for. It will be unable to perform many of the “smart” functions.
Thus, try your best to connect and set up the Bridge because it will get you places. There is no point in protecting your home and not using the Bridge; it makes the smart device dumb!
