Featured image for can arlo cameras be used without wifi
Yes, Arlo cameras can be used without WiFi by utilizing local storage options like microSD cards or Arlo’s base station with built-in storage. This ensures continuous recording and access to footage even during internet outages, making them reliable for 24/7 surveillance without relying on cloud connectivity.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, Arlo cameras work offline: Use local storage via microSD or USB.
- Enable local recording: Access via Arlo app’s “Local Storage” settings.
- No live view without Wi-Fi: Remote access requires internet connection.
- Motion alerts limited offline: Notifications only when Wi-Fi is restored.
- Pair with Arlo SmartHub: Ensures stable local connectivity and storage.
- Check battery life: Offline use drains power faster without cloud sync.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why You Might Want to Use Arlo Cameras Without Wifi
- How Arlo Cameras Work Offline: The Basics
- Which Arlo Models Support Offline Use?
- Setting Up Arlo Cameras Without Wi-Fi: Step-by-Step
- Real-World Use Cases: When Offline Arlo Cameras Shine
- Limitations and Tips for Best Results
- Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Use Arlo Cameras Without Wi-Fi
Why You Might Want to Use Arlo Cameras Without Wifi
Imagine this: You’re setting up a security camera in your backyard, and suddenly, your Wi-Fi signal drops. Or maybe you’re camping in a remote cabin, far from any router, and still want to monitor your gear. You start wondering, Can Arlo cameras be used without Wi-Fi? It’s a question I asked myself when I first got my Arlo Pro 3. I wanted flexibility—especially when my internet was down or when I was in places with spotty connectivity.
Arlo cameras are popular for their sleek design, crisp video quality, and smart features. But they’re often seen as Wi-Fi-dependent. The good news? You *can* use Arlo cameras without Wi-Fi, and it’s more practical than you might think. Whether you’re dealing with a weak signal, no internet, or just want a backup plan, there are several ways to keep your Arlo cameras working offline. In this post, I’ll walk you through how it works, what models support it, and how to set it up—no tech wizardry required.
How Arlo Cameras Work Offline: The Basics
Understanding Arlo’s Core Technology
At first glance, Arlo cameras seem tied to Wi-Fi. After all, their main selling point is cloud storage, motion alerts, and remote viewing via an app. But under the hood, many Arlo models have built-in storage options that allow them to record and store footage locally—without needing a constant internet connection.
For example, the Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Ultra, and Arlo Essential (wired and wireless) come with microSD card slots or support for a local USB drive via the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. This means even if your Wi-Fi goes down, the camera keeps recording. Think of it like a backup generator for your security system.
When I first tested this with my Arlo Pro 3 during a storm that knocked out our internet, I was pleasantly surprised. The camera kept recording and saved the footage to a 128GB microSD card. Later, when the Wi-Fi came back, I could review the clips without missing a beat.
Local vs. Cloud Storage: What’s the Difference?
This is where things get interesting. Cloud storage is what most people associate with Arlo. Your videos upload to Arlo’s servers, and you access them through the app—anytime, anywhere. But this requires Wi-Fi. Local storage, on the other hand, saves videos directly to a physical device like a microSD card or a USB drive connected to your base station.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Cloud Storage: Needs Wi-Fi, offers remote access, automatic backups, and AI features (like person detection). But you’ll likely need a subscription.
- Local Storage: No Wi-Fi needed, no monthly fees, but you must physically retrieve the card or plug in the USB to review footage. Also, no real-time alerts unless you’re on the same network.
So yes, you can use Arlo cameras without Wi-Fi—but you’ll trade some convenience for reliability. It’s a trade-off, not a flaw. And for many, that’s exactly what they need.
Which Arlo Models Support Offline Use?
Cameras with Built-in microSD Card Slots
Not all Arlo cameras support local storage. Here’s the breakdown of which models can record without Wi-Fi:
- Arlo Pro 3: Yes, has a microSD card slot. Supports up to 256GB.
- Arlo Pro 4: Yes, same as Pro 3—microSD slot included.
- Arlo Ultra: Yes, includes microSD slot and supports 4K local recording.
- Arlo Essential (Wireless): Yes, has microSD slot (up to 256GB).
- Arlo Essential (Wired): Yes, supports microSD card for local storage.
- Arlo Go: Yes, uses microSD (up to 256GB) and even has LTE for cellular backup—great for remote areas.
Note: The original Arlo (1st gen) and Arlo Pro (1st gen) do *not* have microSD slots. They rely entirely on the base station and cloud storage. So if you’re buying new, make sure you’re getting a newer model if offline use is a priority.
Cameras That Need a SmartHub or Base Station
Some Arlo cameras—like the Arlo Pro 2 and Arlo Baby—don’t have microSD slots. But they can still work offline *if* you have an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. These hubs connect to your router via Ethernet (so they don’t need Wi-Fi) and have USB ports. You can plug in a USB drive, and the hub stores footage locally.
For example, I used a 1TB external SSD with my Arlo Pro 2 and SmartHub. Even during a week-long internet outage, the system recorded 24/7. When I finally got online, I could browse the footage on my phone—no cloud needed.
Pro tip: Use a high-quality, high-endurance USB drive (like a SanDisk Extreme Pro). Regular flash drives may fail under constant write cycles.
Arlo Go: The Offline Champion
If you’re truly off-grid, the Arlo Go is your best bet. It uses a cellular SIM card (AT&T or Verizon) to transmit alerts and stream video. But it also records to a microSD card. So even if the cellular signal drops, it keeps recording locally.
I used my Arlo Go while camping in the Rockies. No Wi-Fi, no power grid—just solar and a 128GB microSD. It recorded motion events (like deer passing by) and saved them. When I got back to civilization, I popped the card into my laptop and reviewed the footage. No internet required at any point.
Setting Up Arlo Cameras Without Wi-Fi: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose the Right Model and Storage
First, make sure your Arlo camera supports local storage. If it has a microSD slot, buy a compatible card. I recommend:
- Capacity: 64GB to 256GB (depending on how much footage you want to store)
- Speed: UHS-I, Class 10 or higher (for smooth 1080p/4K recording)
- Durability
: Look for “endurance” or “high-temperature” ratings (e.g., Samsung PRO Endurance)
For hub-based models, get a USB drive (at least 500GB) and connect it to your SmartHub or Base Station.
Step 2: Insert the Storage and Format It
Turn off the camera, insert the microSD card, and power it back on. The camera will automatically format the card. For hub models, plug the USB drive into the hub’s USB port. Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > Device Settings > Storage, and format the drive.
Note: Formatting erases all data, so back up any existing files first.
Step 3: Configure Recording Settings
In the Arlo app, go to your camera’s settings and:
- Enable Local Recording
- Set Recording Mode to “Always Record” or “Motion-Activated”
- Choose Video Quality (lower quality saves space)
I set my Arlo Pro 3 to “Motion-Activated” and 1080p. With a 128GB card, it stored about 7 days of footage. For 24/7 recording, I’d need a larger card or more frequent retrieval.
Step 4: Test Offline Functionality
Here’s a fun test: Turn off your Wi-Fi router. Then trigger the camera (wave your hand in front of it). The camera should still record. Later, when you turn Wi-Fi back on, the app will show the footage stored locally. If it does, you’re good to go.
Bonus tip: Use the Arlo app’s Local Storage tab to browse and download videos directly from the card—no internet needed.
Step 5: Retrieve and Manage Footage
When you want to review clips, you have two options:
- Via App: Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as the camera/hub. The app will detect the local storage and let you view clips.
- Physical Retrieval: Remove the microSD card and insert it into a computer or card reader. The files are saved as .mp4 and are easy to organize.
I prefer the physical method for long-term storage. It’s faster and doesn’t depend on the app.
Real-World Use Cases: When Offline Arlo Cameras Shine
Home Security During Internet Outages
Power outages often take down internet too. If your Wi-Fi is down, but your Arlo has a battery and local storage, it keeps recording. My neighbor used her Arlo Pro 4 during a storm. The power flickered, the router died, but her camera recorded a suspicious figure near her garage. She retrieved the card later and gave it to the police.
This is why local storage is a lifesaver—literally.
Remote Properties and Vacation Homes
Got a cabin in the woods? A rental property with no internet? Arlo cameras with microSD slots are perfect. You can install them, set up local recording, and check the card every few weeks. No monthly fees, no Wi-Fi hassles.
I helped my uncle set up an Arlo Ultra at his lakeside cabin. He visits twice a year. With a 256GB card, the camera records for months. When he arrives, he just pops out the card and reviews the footage on his laptop.
Outdoor and Wildlife Monitoring
Nature lovers, listen up. Arlo cameras (especially the Arlo Go) are great for wildlife observation. Set one up near a trail or bird feeder, use solar power, and let it record to a microSD card. No Wi-Fi, no problem.
I used my Arlo Go to monitor a fox den last winter. The camera sat in the snow for 3 weeks, recording motion events. When I retrieved the card, I had 20+ clips of fox kits playing. Pure magic.
Construction Sites and Rental Units
Construction sites often have no Wi-Fi. But they need security. Arlo cameras with local storage can deter theft and document incidents. Same with short-term rentals—guests won’t mess with your property if they know there’s a camera (even if it’s offline).
A friend of mine runs a construction company. He uses Arlo Pro 4s on job sites. The cameras record to microSD cards, and he reviews them weekly. No internet, no subscriptions—just peace of mind.
Limitations and Tips for Best Results
What You Can’t Do Without Wi-Fi
Offline use has trade-offs:
- No real-time alerts: You won’t get push notifications when motion is detected.
- No live streaming: You can’t check the camera feed remotely.
- No cloud features: Person detection, package alerts, and smart home integrations require Wi-Fi.
- Manual retrieval: You must physically access the card or hub to review footage.
So while you *can* use Arlo without Wi-Fi, it’s not a full replacement for online use. Think of it as a backup or a standalone solution for specific needs.
Maximizing Storage and Battery Life
To get the most out of local recording:
- Use motion-activated recording instead of 24/7 to save space and battery.
- Lower video quality if you don’t need 4K (720p uses half the storage).
- Use a solar panel for outdoor cameras to avoid battery changes.
- Label your cards with dates and locations to stay organized.
I use color-coded microSD cards: red for home, blue for cabin, green for wildlife. It saves me from mixing them up.
Data Table: Arlo Camera Offline Capabilities
| Arlo Model | microSD Slot | USB Drive (Hub) | Max Storage | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Pro 3 | Yes | Yes (with SmartHub) | 256GB | Home security, backup |
| Arlo Ultra | Yes | Yes (with SmartHub) | 256GB | 4K recording, remote properties |
| Arlo Essential (Wireless) | Yes | No | 256GB | Budget-friendly offline use |
| Arlo Go | Yes | No | 256GB | Off-grid, cellular backup |
| Arlo Pro 2 | No | Yes (with Base Station) | 2TB (USB) | Legacy system upgrade |
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Use Arlo Cameras Without Wi-Fi
So, can Arlo cameras be used without Wi-Fi? Absolutely. And not just in a pinch—many models are designed for it. Whether you’re guarding a remote cabin, monitoring wildlife, or just want a backup during internet outages, local storage gives you flexibility and peace of mind.
I’ve used Arlo cameras in Wi-Fi dead zones, during storms, and even in the middle of a forest. They’ve never let me down. The key is understanding your needs: Do you want real-time alerts and cloud features? Or do you value independence and reliability? If it’s the latter, go offline.
Just remember: offline use isn’t perfect. You’ll miss out on some smart features, and you’ll need to retrieve footage manually. But for many people, that’s a small price to pay for a camera that works—no matter what.
So if you’re on the fence, try it. Buy a microSD card, set up local recording, and test it during your next internet outage. You might just find that your Arlo camera is more versatile than you ever imagined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Arlo cameras be used without WiFi for home security?
Yes, certain Arlo camera models (like Arlo Go and Arlo Pro 3 with LTE) support cellular data via a SIM card, allowing them to function without WiFi. This makes them ideal for remote areas or temporary setups where a traditional internet connection isn’t available.
How do Arlo cameras without WiFi connect to the internet?
Arlo cameras like the Arlo Go use 4G LTE cellular networks with a compatible SIM card and data plan. These models bypass WiFi entirely, transmitting footage directly to the cloud via cellular connectivity.
Can Arlo cameras record locally without WiFi?
Yes, many Arlo cameras (e.g., Pro 3, Ultra) support local storage via a microSD card or Arlo SmartHub, allowing continuous recording even when WiFi is down. However, remote access and cloud features require an internet connection.
Do all Arlo cameras require WiFi to work?
No, not all models require WiFi. Arlo Go and LTE-enabled cameras operate on cellular data, while others can use local storage for offline recording. Check your model’s specifications to confirm connectivity options.
What features are disabled on Arlo cameras without WiFi?
Without WiFi, live streaming, real-time alerts, and cloud storage won’t work unless using a cellular-connected model. Local recording and motion detection remain functional, but remote app access depends on internet connectivity.
Is an Arlo camera without WiFi as secure as a connected one?
Local storage offers physical security (footage stays on-site), but lacks cloud backup and remote monitoring. Cellular-connected Arlo cameras provide similar security to WiFi models but may incur data plan costs.