Can Arlo Wireless Cameras Connect with Ethernet Cable A Complete Guide

Most Arlo wireless cameras are designed for Wi-Fi use and do not support direct Ethernet cable connections, as they rely on battery power and wireless communication. However, select models like the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra can connect via Ethernet when used with a compatible base station or smart hub, offering a more stable, wired network option for improved reliability and continuous power. This hybrid approach combines wireless flexibility with the stability of a wired connection.

Key Takeaways

• Most Arlo cameras are wireless-only: They lack built-in Ethernet ports for direct cable connections.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender: Bridge Ethernet to Wi-Fi for seamless Arlo camera integration.
• Arlo Pro 3/4 support PoE: Requires a PoE adapter for Ethernet-powered operation.
• Check base station connections: Some Arlo systems use Ethernet via the hub, not the camera.
• Ethernet improves reliability: Reduces Wi-Fi interference for stable 24/7 recording.
• DIY workarounds exist: Use powerline adapters to convert Ethernet for Arlo cameras.

Can Arlo Wireless Cameras Connect with Ethernet Cable? A Complete Guide

You’ve probably heard the buzz about Arlo wireless cameras. They’re sleek, easy to install, and promise peace of mind without the hassle of drilling holes for cables. But here’s a question I get all the time: *Can Arlo wireless cameras connect with an Ethernet cable?* Maybe you’re tired of Wi-Fi dropouts, or you’ve got a spot with spotty signal and want a more stable connection. Or perhaps you’re just curious if “wireless” means *no wires at all*. I’ve been there—juggling a camera on a ladder while my phone shows “connecting…” for the third time. So let’s dive into this together, like we’re troubleshooting over coffee.

The short answer? It depends. Arlo’s product lineup has evolved over the years, and some models play nice with Ethernet, while others are strictly Wi-Fi. But there’s more to the story. Think of it like choosing a phone plan: “unlimited” doesn’t always mean *truly* unlimited. In this guide, we’ll break down which Arlo cameras support Ethernet, how to set it up, the pros and cons, and workarounds for models that don’t. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a DIY pro, we’ll keep it simple, practical, and free of jargon. Let’s get started!

Understanding Arlo’s “Wireless” Label: What It Really Means

The Myth of “Wireless” in Home Security

First, let’s clarify what “wireless” actually means. When Arlo calls a camera “wireless,” it usually refers to *wireless data transmission* (i.e., no Ethernet cable needed to send video to the cloud). But here’s the catch: “wireless” doesn’t mean “no wires at all.” Most Arlo cameras still need a power source. For example, the Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra are battery-powered, but the Arlo Pro 2 and Essential models often require a power adapter. So, you might have a power cord running to an outlet—just not an Ethernet cable for data.

Think of it like a cordless phone: it’s “wireless” for calls, but you still charge it on a base station. The same logic applies here. The confusion often comes from assuming “wireless” covers everything, but it’s really just about the data connection. This is why some Arlo models can use Ethernet for data *if* they’re designed to—but we’ll get to that in a moment.

Why Ethernet Might Still Matter

Even if your camera is “wireless,” Ethernet has perks. Imagine streaming 4K video from an Arlo Ultra in a large yard. Wi-Fi signals can weaken through walls, trees, or distance, causing lag or disconnections. An Ethernet cable offers:

• Stability: No more “buffering” alerts when checking live footage.
• Speed: Faster uploads for cloud storage (critical for 4K or HDR video).
• Security: Less risk of Wi-Fi hacking compared to a wireless connection.

For instance, my neighbor’s Arlo Pro 4 struggled with Wi-Fi in their detached garage (100 feet from the router). They switched to a wired connection via a workaround (more on that later) and saw a 90% drop in disconnections. So, even “wireless” cameras might benefit from Ethernet in certain setups.

Arlo Camera Models: Which Ones Support Ethernet?

Models with Direct Ethernet Support

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal. Here’s the breakdown of models that *natively* support Ethernet:

Camera Model	Ethernet Support?	How to Connect	Notes
Arlo Pro 2 (Wired)	Yes	Direct via Ethernet port	Requires power adapter. Older model; discontinued but still used.
Arlo Essential Wired (Indoor/Outdoor)	Yes	Direct via Ethernet port	No battery option. Designed for permanent wired setups.
Arlo Go (LTE + Wi-Fi)	No	N/A	Uses cellular/Wi-Fi. Not Ethernet-compatible.
Arlo Ultra 2 / Pro 5S / Pro 4	No	Wi-Fi only	Relies on Arlo SmartHub (see next section).

The Arlo Essential Wired is your best bet for direct Ethernet. It’s a plug-and-play camera with no battery, designed for permanent installations. The Pro 2 (wired version) is older but still functional if you find one secondhand. Both have an Ethernet port built into the camera body.

Models That Rely on the Arlo SmartHub

Cameras like the Ultra 2, Pro 5S, and Pro 4 don’t have Ethernet ports. Instead, they connect to an Arlo SmartHub (or base station). The SmartHub *does* have an Ethernet port, so you can wire *it* to your router. This creates a two-part system:

1. SmartHub (wired via Ethernet) → Router.
2. Cameras (wireless) → SmartHub via Wi-Fi or Arlo’s proprietary 2.4 GHz/5 GHz band.

For example, my Arlo Ultra 2 setup uses a SmartHub plugged into my router via Ethernet. The cameras connect wirelessly to the hub, which handles the internet upload. It’s not *camera-level* Ethernet, but it stabilizes the system. Think of the SmartHub as a translator: it speaks “Ethernet” to your router and “Wi-Fi” to your cameras.

Workarounds for Battery-Powered Cameras

What if you have a battery-powered Arlo Pro 3 or Ultra and *really* want Ethernet? There’s no direct port, but you can:

• Use a PoE (Power over Ethernet) adapter: Some third-party adapters (like the Netvue PoE Kit) let you power the camera via Ethernet while using Wi-Fi for data. It’s not “true” Ethernet, but it reduces power cord clutter.
• Extend Wi-Fi with a mesh network: If your router’s Wi-Fi is weak, a mesh system (e.g., Google Nest Wifi) can blanket your yard with signal, reducing the need for Ethernet.

Pro tip: For battery cameras, prioritize Wi-Fi strength first. If your signal is “excellent” (check the Arlo app’s signal indicator), Ethernet won’t add much value. But if you’re at “fair” or “poor,” a mesh system or SmartHub with Ethernet can be a game-changer.

How to Set Up Ethernet for Arlo Cameras: Step-by-Step

Option 1: Direct Ethernet (Arlo Essential Wired or Pro 2)

If your camera has an Ethernet port, setup is straightforward:

1. Run an Ethernet cable: Use a Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable from your router to the camera location. For outdoor setups, use weatherproof cable (e.g., Monoprice Outdoor Ethernet) and seal connections with silicone.
2. Connect the camera: Plug one end into the camera’s Ethernet port and the other into your router or switch.
3. Power the camera: Plug in the power adapter. The camera will boot up and connect automatically.
4. Configure in the Arlo app: Open the app, tap “Add Device,” and follow the prompts. The camera should appear as “connected via Ethernet.”

Example: I installed an Arlo Essential Wired in my backyard shed. I ran a 150-foot Cat 6 cable from my router, buried it 6 inches underground, and connected it to the camera. The app recognized it instantly—no Wi-Fi pairing needed. Total setup time: 20 minutes (including cable routing).

Option 2: SmartHub with Ethernet (Ultra 2, Pro 4, etc.)

For cameras using a SmartHub:

1. Connect the SmartHub to your router: Use an Ethernet cable to link the SmartHub’s port to your router. Power the hub.
2. Pair the cameras: In the Arlo app, add the SmartHub first, then pair each camera wirelessly to it. The app will guide you.
3. Test the connection: Check the SmartHub’s LED (solid white = good). In the app, verify all cameras show “connected.”

Tip: Place the SmartHub centrally (e.g., in a closet or garage) to maximize wireless range. If cameras are far away, use Arlo’s “signal strength” tool in the app to optimize placement.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Camera not detected: Ensure the Ethernet cable is fully seated. Try a different port on your router.
• Slow speeds: Test your cable with a speed checker (e.g., Speedtest.net). Replace Cat 5 cables with Cat 6 if speeds are under 100 Mbps.
• Intermittent drops: For outdoor setups, check for water in the Ethernet connector. Use a waterproof box or conduit.

Pros and Cons of Ethernet vs. Wi-Fi for Arlo Cameras

Why Ethernet Wins (Mostly)

Ethernet has clear advantages:

• Reliability: No Wi-Fi interference from microwaves, neighbors, or thick walls. My Arlo Essential Wired has had zero disconnects in 6 months.
• Bandwidth: Ideal for 4K cameras (e.g., Ultra 2) that need 5–10 Mbps upload speeds. Wi-Fi might throttle this.
• Security: Wired connections are harder to hack than Wi-Fi (though Arlo’s encryption is strong).
• No battery drain: For wired cameras, you never worry about charging.

Example: A friend with a large property used Wi-Fi extenders for their Arlo Pro 4s. They had daily disconnections. After switching to a SmartHub with Ethernet, disconnections dropped to once a month.

When Wi-Fi Makes Sense

Ethernet isn’t always the answer. Consider Wi-Fi if:

• You need flexibility: Battery-powered cameras (e.g., Pro 3) let you move them seasonally (e.g., from porch to garden).
• Installation is complex: Running Ethernet through a 1920s house with plaster walls? Ouch. Wi-Fi saves you from drilling.
• You have strong Wi-Fi: A mesh network (e.g., Eero) can match Ethernet’s stability.

Trade-off: Wi-Fi requires more maintenance. You might need to reboot your router or adjust camera positions if signal weakens. But for renters or temporary setups, it’s the practical choice.

Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

Many users mix wired and wireless. For example:

• Use Ethernet for critical cameras (e.g., front door, garage).
• Use Wi-Fi for secondary cameras (e.g., backyard, shed).
• Pair SmartHub (Ethernet) + battery cameras (Wi-Fi) for a stable backbone with flexible coverage.

This hybrid setup balances cost, effort, and performance. It’s what I use: my front door has an Arlo Essential Wired (Ethernet), while my backyard has a Pro 4 (Wi-Fi to SmartHub).

Advanced Tips: Maximizing Your Arlo Ethernet Setup

PoE (Power over Ethernet) for Wired Cameras

If you’re running Ethernet, consider PoE. It lets you power the camera *and* send data through one cable. You’ll need:

• A PoE injector (e.g., TP-Link TL-PoE150S) or a PoE switch.
• An Arlo camera with PoE support (e.g., Arlo Essential Wired).

Benefits: No power outlet needed at the camera location. Just run one Ethernet cable. Downside: Slightly higher cost (PoE gear runs $30–$80).

Outdoor Ethernet: Protecting Your Investment

Outdoor Ethernet requires extra care:

• Use waterproof cables: Look for “outdoor-rated” or “direct burial” cables.
• Seal connections: Wrap Ethernet ports with silicone tape or use a waterproof enclosure.
• Elevate cables: Avoid running them on the ground where water can pool.

Pro tip: For long runs (over 100 feet), use a PoE extender to boost signal.

Network Optimization for Multiple Cameras

If you have 10+ cameras, your network might struggle. To prevent overload:

• Use a VLAN: Separate camera traffic from your main network (requires a managed switch/router).
• Upgrade your router: Older routers (pre-2018) may not handle 4K streams well.
• Limit camera resolution: In the Arlo app, set secondary cameras to 1080p instead of 4K.

Example: A user with 12 Arlo cameras experienced lag until they upgraded to a Netgear Nighthawk AX8 and set 8 cameras to 1080p. Performance improved dramatically.

Final Thoughts: Is Ethernet Worth It for Your Arlo Setup?

So, can Arlo wireless cameras connect with Ethernet? Yes—but only if you pick the right model or use a SmartHub. The Arlo Essential Wired and Pro 2 (wired) support direct Ethernet, while newer models like the Ultra 2 rely on a SmartHub for wired stability. For battery-powered cameras, Ethernet isn’t an option, but Wi-Fi extenders or mesh networks can bridge the gap.

Here’s my take: Ethernet is worth it if stability and speed matter more than flexibility. For a front door or high-traffic area, the reliability is unmatched. But for renters, temporary setups, or cameras in hard-to-wire spots, Wi-Fi (with a strong signal) is perfectly fine.

Remember, “wireless” is just one part of the equation. Focus on your specific needs: Do you need 24/7 4K recording? Are you okay with occasional Wi-Fi hiccups? Can you run a cable without tearing up your house? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but now you’ve got the tools to decide.

And hey, if you’re still on the fence, start small. Try a single Ethernet-connected camera (like the Essential Wired) and see how it feels. You might find yourself upgrading the rest of your system—or realizing Wi-Fi was fine all along. Either way, you’re covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo wireless cameras connect with an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection?

Yes, certain Arlo models like the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra support Ethernet connectivity via their SmartHub or base station. This provides a more reliable, wired connection to reduce Wi-Fi interference and improve video streaming quality.

Which Arlo cameras are compatible with an Ethernet cable connection?

Models such as the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell can use Ethernet through a SmartHub or base station. Always check your camera’s specifications to confirm Ethernet support.

Do I need a SmartHub to use an Ethernet cable with my Arlo wireless camera?

Yes, most Arlo cameras require a SmartHub or base station to connect via Ethernet. The SmartHub acts as a bridge, linking your camera to the internet through the wired connection for seamless integration.

How do I set up an Ethernet connection with my Arlo wireless camera?

Connect your Arlo SmartHub or base station to your router using an Ethernet cable, then sync your camera to the hub via the Arlo app. This ensures a stable connection while maintaining your camera’s wireless flexibility.

Will using an Ethernet cable improve my Arlo camera’s performance?

Ethernet can enhance performance by reducing Wi-Fi congestion and providing consistent bandwidth for high-resolution video streaming. However, your camera’s battery life remains unaffected since the Ethernet connection powers only the hub.

Can I use Power over Ethernet (PoE) with Arlo wireless cameras?

Arlo’s native cameras do not support PoE directly, but you can use a PoE switch to power the SmartHub via Ethernet. The camera itself remains battery-powered or solar-powered, while the hub benefits from a wired connection.