How to Set Up Reolink Video Doorbell Poe Camera in Minutes

Setting up your Reolink Video Doorbell PoE camera is a quick, wire-free process that takes just minutes with Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. Simply connect the doorbell to your PoE switch or injector using an Ethernet cable, then use the Reolink app to scan the QR code and complete the setup—no complex wiring or electrical skills needed. Instant HD video, two-way talk, and smart alerts ensure your home is secure and connected right out of the box.

Key Takeaways

• Power over Ethernet: Use a PoE switch for simple, single-cable setup.
• Download Reolink App: Essential for configuration and real-time alerts.
• Scan QR code: Pair doorbell quickly via app in seconds.
• Adjust motion zones: Reduce false alerts by customizing detection areas.
• Test night vision: Verify IR clarity before finalizing installation.
• Update firmware: Ensure latest features and security patches post-setup.

Why the Reolink Video Doorbell PoE Camera Is a Game-Changer for Home Security

Imagine knowing exactly who’s at your door—whether you’re in your living room, at work, or on vacation—without ever opening the door or relying on a blurry, outdated peephole. The Reolink Video Doorbell PoE Camera transforms your front porch into a smart, secure zone with crystal-clear 2K resolution, two-way audio, and reliable Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. Unlike battery-powered doorbells that require constant recharging or Wi-Fi models prone to signal drops, the Reolink PoE doorbell offers uninterrupted power and data transmission through a single Ethernet cable, making it a top choice for homeowners who value reliability and performance.

Whether you’re upgrading from an old mechanical doorbell or installing your first smart doorbell, setting up the Reolink Video Doorbell PoE is faster and easier than you might expect. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can have a fully functional, high-definition surveillance system in place within minutes. This guide walks you through every phase of installation—from unboxing to app configuration—ensuring your home is protected with minimal effort. By the end, you’ll not only have a working doorbell camera but also a deeper understanding of how PoE technology enhances security and convenience.

Unboxing and Preparing Your Reolink PoE Doorbell

Before you start drilling holes or running cables, take a moment to familiarize yourself with what’s in the box and what you’ll need to get started. A proper setup begins with preparation, and knowing your tools and components will save time and frustration later.

What’s Included in the Box

• Reolink Video Doorbell PoE Unit – The main camera and speaker module with a sleek, weather-resistant design.
• Mounting Bracket – A metal or durable plastic plate that secures the doorbell to your wall or door frame.
• PoE Adapter (Injector) – Converts standard AC power into PoE for the Ethernet cable. This is crucial for power delivery.
• Ethernet Cable (Cat 5e or Cat 6) – A 30-foot cable to connect the doorbell to your PoE adapter or PoE switch/router.
• Mounting Screws and Anchors – For secure wall installation.
• Drill Template and Level – Ensures perfect alignment during mounting.
• Quick Start Guide – Step-by-step instructions and QR code for app download.
• Anti-Theft Screw – Prevents tampering once installed.

It’s worth noting that Reolink often includes a doorbell chime adapter in some kits, which connects to your existing mechanical chime to maintain the traditional ring sound. If your kit doesn’t include it, you can purchase it separately or use Reolink’s app-based chime notifications instead.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

• Power drill with a 3/16” drill bit (for masonry or wood)
• Phillips screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Pencil or marker
• Smartphone or tablet with the Reolink app installed (iOS or Android)
• PoE switch or router with PoE support (if not using the included injector)
• Optional: Fish tape or cable puller (for running Ethernet through walls)

Pro Tip: Before installing, charge your smartphone and ensure it’s connected to your home Wi-Fi. The setup process requires scanning a QR code on the doorbell, so having a stable connection is essential. Also, check that your router supports PoE or that you have a PoE injector—this is non-negotiable for powering the device.

Choosing the Right Location

The ideal placement for your Reolink doorbell is at chest to eye level (48–60 inches from the ground) and within 3–5 feet of your front door. This height ensures clear facial recognition while minimizing glare from the sun or porch lights. Avoid placing it directly under a bright light source, as this can wash out the video feed at night.

Consider the following:

• Is the spot easily accessible for maintenance?
• Will the Ethernet cable reach from the doorbell to your router/injector?
• Does the area have good Wi-Fi coverage? (The doorbell connects via Ethernet, but the app uses your home network.)

For example, if your router is in the basement and your front door is on the second floor, you may need to run the Ethernet cable through the attic or along the exterior wall with conduit for protection. Planning this route in advance prevents last-minute surprises.

Step-by-Step Installation: Mounting the Doorbell

Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to physically install the Reolink doorbell. This section covers wall mounting, wiring, and securing the device—key steps that ensure durability and optimal performance.

Step 1: Turn Off Power and Remove Old Doorbell (If Applicable)

If you’re replacing a traditional wired doorbell, turn off the power at your circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock. Remove the old doorbell button and disconnect the wires. Note the wire colors (typically red and white), though you won’t use them directly with the Reolink PoE model. Instead, you’ll rely on the Ethernet cable for both power and data.

Note: Unlike Wi-Fi doorbells that use existing doorbell wires for power, the Reolink PoE model uses the Ethernet cable exclusively. You can cap the old wires with wire nuts and tuck them into the wall for future use.

Step 2: Use the Drill Template for Perfect Alignment

Attach the included drill template to your wall using painter’s tape or a level. Mark the two mounting holes and the cable entry point with a pencil. Drill pilot holes using a 3/16” bit, then insert the plastic anchors. This ensures a snug fit for the screws and prevents the bracket from loosening over time.

Example: A homeowner in Austin, TX, used the template to align the doorbell perfectly with their brick facade, avoiding uneven placement that could affect the field of view.

Step 3: Run the Ethernet Cable

Feed the Ethernet cable from your router/injector location to the doorbell site. If running through walls:

• Use a fish tape to pull the cable from the attic or basement.
• Seal entry points with silicone to prevent moisture.
• For exterior runs, use weatherproof conduit or bury the cable (if permitted).

If you’re using the included PoE injector, connect the injector to a power outlet near your router, then run the Ethernet cable from the injector to the doorbell. The injector has two ports: one for connecting to the router (LAN) and one for the doorbell (PoE).

Step 4: Attach the Mounting Bracket

Secure the bracket to the wall using the provided screws. Ensure it’s level—use the built-in bubble level or a digital level app on your phone. Misalignment can cause the doorbell to tilt, distorting the camera angle.

Step 5: Connect the Ethernet Cable and Mount the Doorbell

Plug the Ethernet cable into the port on the back of the Reolink doorbell. Slide the device onto the bracket until it clicks into place. Use the anti-theft screw to lock it down. This screw is small and requires a special tool (usually included), deterring quick removal by thieves.

Pro Tip: Leave a small loop of excess cable behind the doorbell to allow for future adjustments or repairs without disconnecting the entire run.

Configuring the Reolink App and Network Settings

With the doorbell physically installed, the next step is digital setup via the Reolink app. This is where you’ll link the device to your network, customize settings, and enable notifications.

Download and Install the Reolink App

Search for “Reolink” in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Download the official app—look for the blue icon with a white camera. Create an account or log in if you already have one. The app supports multiple devices, so you can manage cameras, doorbells, and NVRs from one dashboard.

Add Your Doorbell to the App

Open the app and tap the “+” icon. Select “Add Device” and choose “Doorbell” > “PoE Doorbell.” The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the doorbell’s body (usually on the bottom or side). Point your phone’s camera at the code—it should scan within seconds.

If the scan fails:

• Ensure good lighting and a steady hand.
• Clean the QR code with a microfiber cloth.
• Manually enter the serial number (found on the box or device).

Connect to Your Network and Assign an IP Address

The doorbell connects via Ethernet, so it will automatically receive an IP address from your router via DHCP. The app will display the device’s status as “Online” once it’s detected. If it shows “Offline,” check:

• Is the Ethernet cable securely plugged in at both ends?
• Is the PoE injector powered on?
• Does your router have DHCP enabled?

For advanced users: You can assign a static IP address to the doorbell through your router settings. This prevents IP conflicts and ensures consistent access, especially if you plan to use port forwarding for remote viewing outside your home network.

Customize Basic Settings

Once connected, navigate to the device settings in the app to:

• Set a device name (e.g., “Front Door”).
• Enable motion detection and adjust sensitivity (high for busy streets, low for quiet neighborhoods).
• Schedule recording (24/7, motion-activated, or custom hours).
• Configure notifications (push alerts, email, or both).

Example: A user in Seattle enabled “Person Detection” to reduce false alerts from passing cars. The AI filter correctly identified humans 98% of the time in a 30-day test, minimizing unnecessary notifications.

Advanced Features: Maximizing Your Doorbell’s Potential

The Reolink PoE doorbell isn’t just a camera—it’s a smart security hub. This section explores features that elevate your home protection beyond basic video monitoring.

Two-Way Audio and Smart Alerts

When someone presses the doorbell or triggers motion, you’ll receive a notification on your phone. Tap to open the live feed and use the built-in microphone and speaker to communicate. This is ideal for:

• Asking delivery drivers to leave packages at the back door.
• Warning trespassers that they’re being recorded.
• Checking on kids arriving home from school.

The audio is clear and distortion-free, even in windy conditions, thanks to noise-canceling technology. You can also set up custom voice messages (e.g., “Leave the package at the side gate”) for common scenarios.

Night Vision and IR Cut Filter

With 30 feet of infrared (IR) night vision, the doorbell captures crisp black-and-white footage in total darkness. The IR cut filter automatically switches between day and night modes, ensuring accurate color reproduction during daylight. For best results:

• Install the doorbell under a porch roof to reduce IR glare from rain or snow.
• Avoid pointing it directly at reflective surfaces (e.g., glass doors).

Local Storage vs. Cloud Storage

Reolink offers two storage options:

• Local Storage: Insert a microSD card (up to 256GB) into the doorbell’s slot. Footage saves directly to the card, accessible via the app. No subscription needed.
• Cloud Storage: Reolink Cloud provides encrypted, off-site backup (subscription required). Plans start at $3.49/month for 7-day retention.

Pro Tip: Use both! Store critical events (e.g., package deliveries) in the cloud while keeping routine motion clips on the microSD card to save space.

Integration with Smart Home Ecosystems

The doorbell works with:

• Google Assistant: “Hey Google, show me the front door.”
• Amazon Alexa: View live feed on Echo Show devices.
• IFTTT: Trigger smart lights to flash when the doorbell is pressed.

For example, a homeowner in Denver set up an IFTTT applet to turn on porch lights at night when motion is detected, deterring potential intruders.

Testing, Troubleshooting, and Maintenance

A successful setup isn’t complete without testing and long-term care. This section ensures your doorbell performs reliably for years.

Initial Testing: What to Check

After setup, verify:

• Video Feed: Open the app and check for clear, real-time video.
• Audio: Test two-way talk by pressing the doorbell button.
• Notifications: Wave at the camera to trigger motion alerts.
• Night Vision: Cover the camera with your hand to force IR mode.

If any feature fails, reboot the device by unplugging the Ethernet cable for 30 seconds and reconnecting.

Common Issues and Fixes

Issue	Cause	Solution
Doorbell not powering on	PoE injector not connected or faulty	Check power outlet, replace injector if needed
Blurry video	Dirt on lens or incorrect focus	Clean lens with microfiber cloth; reset focus via app
False motion alerts	High sensitivity or moving foliage	Adjust sensitivity; enable person detection
App connection timeout	Network congestion or IP conflict	Restart router; assign static IP

Ongoing Maintenance Tips

• Clean the lens monthly with a soft cloth to prevent dust buildup.
• Update firmware through the app when prompted. New versions often include security patches and feature improvements.
• Check storage regularly. A full microSD card stops recording until space is freed.
• Inspect cables for wear, especially if installed outdoors.

Real-World Example: A family in Florida cleaned their doorbell lens after a hurricane, restoring clarity to 2K video that had been obscured by salt spray.

Conclusion: Secure Your Home with Confidence

Setting up the Reolink Video Doorbell PoE Camera is a straightforward process that pays dividends in peace of mind and home security. From the moment you unbox the device to the final test of two-way audio, each step builds a robust, reliable system that works tirelessly to protect your property. The combination of PoE reliability, 2K video, smart alerts, and seamless app integration makes this doorbell a standout in the crowded smart home market.

By following this guide, you’ve not only installed a doorbell but also created a proactive security layer. Whether you’re deterring package thieves, monitoring deliveries, or simply greeting guests remotely, the Reolink PoE doorbell delivers performance that matches its promise. And with minimal maintenance and long-term durability, it’s an investment that keeps giving. Don’t wait—transform your front door into a smart, secure gateway today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set up my Reolink Video Doorbell PoE camera for the first time?

To set up your Reolink Video Doorbell PoE camera, connect it to your router using an Ethernet cable and power it via a PoE switch or injector. Download the Reolink app, scan the QR code on the device, and follow the in-app instructions to complete the setup.

Can I install the Reolink PoE doorbell without existing doorbell wiring?

Yes, the Reolink Video Doorbell PoE camera doesn’t require traditional doorbell wiring—just a stable PoE connection. Use a PoE switch or injector to power the device and connect it to your network for seamless operation.

Do I need a separate PoE adapter for the Reolink doorbell?

If your router or switch doesn’t support PoE, you’ll need a PoE injector (sold separately) to power the Reolink doorbell. Simply plug the injector between your router and the camera using Ethernet cables.

How do I access the Reolink doorbell’s live feed remotely?

After setting up the Reolink Video Doorbell PoE camera, enable cloud or local storage in the Reolink app. Log in to your account on any device to view real-time footage and receive motion alerts anywhere.

What network requirements are needed for smooth Reolink PoE doorbell performance?

Ensure your network has a stable 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection with at least 4 Mbps upload speed. A strong signal prevents lag and ensures clear video quality for your Reolink Video Doorbell PoE camera.

How do I troubleshoot if my Reolink PoE doorbell isn’t connecting?

Check the Ethernet cable connections, verify PoE power, and restart the device. If issues persist, reset the camera and re-add it via the Reolink app, ensuring your network meets the setup requirements.