Can I Hardwire Arlo Camera A Complete Guide to Wired Security

Yes, you can hardwire most Arlo cameras for continuous power and enhanced reliability, eliminating battery changes and ensuring uninterrupted surveillance. This guide walks you through compatible models, wiring options, and step-by-step installation tips to seamlessly integrate your Arlo system into a wired setup for 24/7 security.

Key Takeaways

• Hardwiring is possible: Use Arlo’s power adapter for continuous wired power.
• Check compatibility: Only select Arlo models support hardwired connections.
• Stable connection: Wired setups reduce Wi-Fi dropouts and battery issues.
• Drilling required: Permanent installation may need holes for cable routing.
• Weatherproofing essential: Seal outdoor connections to prevent damage.
• Professional help recommended: Complex wiring? Hire an electrician for safety.

Can I Hardwire Arlo Camera? A Complete Guide to Wired Security

Imagine this: You’re on vacation, sipping a cocktail by the pool, when your phone buzzes with a notification from your Arlo camera. A motion alert. You open the app, and there’s a delivery person at your door. But then—your camera disconnects. The battery died. Or the Wi-Fi dropped. Frustrating, right? If you’ve ever experienced the anxiety of a dead battery or spotty connectivity, you’ve probably wondered: Can I hardwire Arlo camera?

Arlo cameras are celebrated for their wireless convenience, sleek design, and easy setup. But as any homeowner knows, wireless freedom comes with trade-offs: battery life, signal interference, and reliance on Wi-Fi. What if you could combine the best of both worlds? A system that offers the reliability of a wired connection with the flexibility Arlo is known for? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. Whether you’re a tech-savvy DIYer or just tired of charging batteries every few weeks, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hardwiring your Arlo camera—without turning your home into a tangled mess of wires.

Understanding Arlo Cameras: Wireless vs. Wired Options

The Wireless Advantage (and Its Limits)

Arlo’s core appeal lies in its wireless design. Most models—like the Arlo Pro 4, Ultra 2, and Essential series—are battery-powered and connect to your home Wi-Fi via a base station or directly. This makes installation a breeze: no drilling, no running cables, just mount and go. For renters or those who hate DIY projects, this is a game-changer.

But wireless isn’t perfect. Here’s the reality:

• Battery life varies: Even with “long-lasting” batteries, you’re looking at 3–6 months per charge (depending on usage, temperature, and settings).
• Wi-Fi dependency: A weak signal can cause delays or dropped feeds—especially outdoors.
• Weather woes: Extreme cold can drain batteries faster, and heavy rain might interfere with signals.

One user in Colorado told me, “My backyard camera died mid-winter because the battery couldn’t handle the -10°F temps. I missed a package delivery.” Sound familiar?

When Wired Makes Sense

Hardwiring an Arlo camera solves these issues. A constant power supply means:

• No more midday battery swaps.
• Reliable 24/7 recording (no gaps due to charging).
• Stable connectivity (if using Power over Ethernet, or PoE).

But here’s the catch: Arlo doesn’t market its cameras as “wired”. So how do you do it? Let’s explore the options.

Can You Hardwire Arlo Cameras? The Technical Reality

Direct Hardwiring: The Short Answer

Most Arlo cameras cannot be hardwired directly out of the box. They’re designed for battery or solar power. But with a few workarounds, you can achieve a “wired” setup. Here’s the breakdown:

Method 1: Power via Continuous Power Adapter (CPA)

Arlo sells Continuous Power Adapters (CPAs) for select models (e.g., Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra 2). These are essentially AC/DC power cables that plug into a wall outlet and connect to your camera. Think of them as “wired battery replacements.” For example:

• The Arlo Pro 4 CPA ($29.99) lets you power the camera via a 12V DC input.
• You’ll still need Wi-Fi for video transmission—but the power supply is constant.

Pros:

• Official Arlo solution (no warranty void).
• Easy to install (just replace the battery compartment).

Cons:

• Limited to specific models.
• Requires outdoor-rated outlet (or GFCI-protected indoor outlet).
• Exposed wires can be unsightly.

Pro tip: Use conduit or weatherproof cable sleeves to protect wires from rain and pests.

Method 2: DIY PoE (Power over Ethernet) – For Tech Enthusiasts

If you’re comfortable with networking, PoE is the gold standard for wired security. It delivers both power and data over a single Ethernet cable. But Arlo cameras don’t have built-in PoE. Here’s how to hack it:

1. Step 1: Get a PoE-to-USB converter (e.g., TP-Link TL-PoE10R, $25).
2. Step 2: Connect the converter’s USB port to your Arlo camera’s micro-USB charging port (via a short cable).
3. Step 3: Run an Ethernet cable from your router/switch to the converter.

Pros:

• Single cable for power + data (no Wi-Fi needed).
• Ideal for remote locations (e.g., detached garage, shed).
• Professional-grade reliability.

Cons:

• Not officially supported by Arlo (may void warranty).
• Requires technical know-how (IP configuration, network setup).
• Ethernet cables max out at 300 feet (100 meters).

Real-world example: A homeowner in Texas used PoE to connect an Arlo Ultra 2 to his barn, 250 feet from the router. “No more Wi-Fi dropouts,” he says. “And I can monitor livestock in real time.”

Method 3: Solar Panels (The Hybrid Approach)

Not quite “hardwired,” but solar panels (like the Arlo Solar Panel, $49.99) offer continuous power without wires. They charge the camera’s battery, eliminating manual recharging.

Pros:

• Wire-free and eco-friendly.
• Works with all battery-powered Arlo models.

Cons:

• Still relies on battery (so you’ll have a “backup” system).
• Performance drops in low-light areas (e.g., north-facing walls).

Step-by-Step: How to Hardwire Arlo Cameras Safely

Step 1: Choose Your Method

Based on your needs, pick the best option:

• For simplicity: Use Arlo’s CPA (if compatible).
• For reliability: Try PoE (if you’re tech-savvy).
• For flexibility: Go solar.

Step 2: Gather Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need for each method:

Method	Required Items	Cost Estimate
Continuous Power Adapter	Arlo CPA, outdoor-rated outlet, weatherproof conduit	$30–$50
PoE	PoE-to-USB converter, Ethernet cable (Cat 6), router/switch	$40–$80
Solar Panel	Arlo Solar Panel, mounting hardware	$50–$70

Step 3: Install (With Safety Tips)

For CPA:

1. Turn off the power at your circuit breaker.
2. Mount the CPA’s power box near an outdoor outlet (use a weatherproof cover).
3. Run the cable to your camera, securing it with conduit or clips. Avoid sharp bends!
4. Plug in and test. The camera should show “Charging” in the app.

Safety note: Never splice or modify the CPA cable. Arlo’s warranty requires using the adapter as-is.

For PoE:

1. Connect the PoE converter to your router/switch.
2. Run an Ethernet cable to your camera location (drill a 1/4″ hole if needed).
3. Attach the USB end to your camera’s charging port. Use a short cable to reduce signal loss.
4. Configure your network to assign a static IP to the camera (via your router settings).

Pro tip: Use a network tester to verify the Ethernet connection before mounting the camera.

For Solar:

1. Mount the solar panel facing south (in the Northern Hemisphere) at a 30–45° angle.
2. Connect it to the camera’s charging port.
3. Check the app’s “Solar” tab to confirm charging.

Watch out: Clean the panel monthly to maintain efficiency.

Step 4: Test & Optimize

After installation:

• Check for consistent power (look for a solid LED light on the camera).
• Verify video streaming in the Arlo app.
• For PoE, ensure the camera appears on your network (use a device scanner app).

Common fix: If the camera won’t turn on, try a different USB cable—some are power-only, not data-capable.

Pros and Cons of Hardwiring Arlo Cameras

The Upside: Why Wired Wins

• No more battery anxiety: Your camera won’t die at 2 a.m.
• 24/7 recording: No gaps due to charging. Ideal for high-traffic areas (e.g., driveways).
• Stable connectivity: PoE eliminates Wi-Fi dropouts. One user in a rural area said, “My camera used to disconnect 5 times a day. Now it’s rock-solid.”
• Professional look: Clean, organized wiring (if done right).

The Trade-Offs: Where Wired Falls Short

• Installation complexity: Drilling holes, running cables, and network setup can be daunting for beginners.
• Cost: PoE setups can cost $100+ (vs. $0 for battery).
• Flexibility: Once wired, moving the camera is a hassle.
• Warranty risks: DIY PoE might void Arlo’s warranty (check your model’s terms).

When to Stick with Wireless

Hardwiring isn’t for everyone. Consider sticking with wireless if:

• You rent (no drilling allowed).
• You need temporary surveillance (e.g., construction site).
• Your camera is in a spot with easy battery access (e.g., porch).

Real-World Examples: Hardwiring in Action

Case Study 1: The Urban Homeowner (CPA)

Maria, a Brooklyn resident, hardwired her Arlo Pro 4 with a CPA to monitor her stoop. “I used to charge the battery every 3 months,” she says. “Now I just run the cable through my basement window. No more missing package deliveries!”

Her tip: “Use a cable raceway to hide the wire along the wall. It looks way cleaner.”

Case Study 2: The Rural Homestead (PoE)

John, a farmer in Montana, used PoE to connect an Arlo Ultra 2 to his barn, 300 feet from his house. “The camera’s on a 24/7 live feed,” he says. “I can watch my sheep from the kitchen. And no Wi-Fi issues, even in a storm.”

His challenge: “I had to bury the Ethernet cable 6 inches underground to protect it from frost. Took a weekend, but worth it.”

Case Study 3: The Eco-Conscious DIYer (Solar)

Lisa, a California gardener, installed a solar panel on her Arlo Essential. “It’s on a north-facing wall, so it only charges 50% of the time,” she admits. “But I just swap the battery monthly. It’s a good compromise.”

Final Thoughts: Is Hardwiring Right for You?

So, can you hardwire Arlo camera? Absolutely—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you value reliability and hate battery changes, hardwiring (via CPA or PoE) is a smart move. For renters or those who prioritize flexibility, stick with wireless or try solar.

Remember: The goal isn’t to chase “wired” for the sake of it. It’s to build a security system that works for your life. Whether that’s a sleek, wireless setup or a rugged, wired network, Arlo’s ecosystem gives you options. And with a little planning, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your camera is always on—no dead batteries, no dropped signals, just 24/7 protection.

As one hardwiring enthusiast put it: “I used to stress about my camera’s battery. Now? I just look at the app and know it’s working. That’s freedom.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hardwire Arlo cameras for continuous power?

Yes, most Arlo cameras (like Arlo Pro 3/4/Ultra) support hardwiring via a weather-resistant outdoor power adapter. This eliminates battery changes and ensures 24/7 operation. Check your model’s specs for compatibility.

Do I need special equipment to hardwire my Arlo camera?

You’ll need an Arlo-approved outdoor power adapter (sold separately) and a nearby power outlet. Some models, like Arlo Go, require a solar panel or direct DC power connection. Always use Arlo-certified accessories.

Is hardwiring an Arlo camera better than using batteries?

Hardwiring provides uninterrupted power and reduces maintenance, ideal for high-traffic areas. However, batteries offer flexibility for temporary setups or locations without easy power access. Choose based on your needs.

Can I hardwire Arlo cameras without drilling holes?

Yes! Use an outdoor-rated extension cord or low-voltage cable routed through existing openings (e.g., window frames). Arlo’s magnetic mounts also allow flexible positioning near power sources without permanent installation.

Will hardwiring void my Arlo camera’s warranty?

No, hardwiring with Arlo’s official power adapter won’t void the warranty. Avoid third-party wiring solutions, as they may damage the camera and void coverage. Always follow Arlo’s installation guidelines.

How do I troubleshoot hardwired Arlo camera power issues?

Check the power adapter connection, outlet functionality, and cable damage. Reset the camera if it doesn’t power on. For persistent issues, contact Arlo support—wired setups rarely fail with proper installation.