How to Reset an Arlo Q Camera Quick and Easy Guide

Yes, you can reset an Arlo Q camera quickly and easily using the reset button on the device—just press and hold it for 10 seconds until the LED flashes. This simple process restores factory settings and resolves most connectivity or performance issues, making it ideal for troubleshooting or preparing the camera for a new setup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can reset your Arlo Q camera using the reset button or app.
• Locate the reset button on the camera’s base or side for physical resets.
• Press and hold the reset button for 10+ seconds until lights flash.
• Use the Arlo app for a software-based reset if hardware fails.
• Reconfigure Wi-Fi immediately after reset to restore connectivity.
• Factory reset erases all settings—back up configurations first.
• Contact support if issues persist after multiple reset attempts.

Why You Might Need to Reset Your Arlo Q Camera

Let’s be honest—technology doesn’t always play nice. You’ve set up your Arlo Q camera with high hopes of peace of mind, only to find it acting up. Maybe it’s stuck on a blinking light, refusing to connect to Wi-Fi, or the app keeps showing “offline” even though the power is clearly on. If you’ve tried turning it off and on again (yes, we’ve all done that), but the problem persists, it might be time to reset your Arlo Q camera.

Resetting isn’t a sign of defeat—it’s a smart troubleshooting step. Think of it like rebooting your phone when an app freezes. The Arlo Q, with its crisp 1080p video and two-way audio, is a powerful tool, but like any smart device, it can occasionally get confused. Whether you’re moving to a new home, changing Wi-Fi networks, or just trying to fix a glitch, knowing how to reset your Arlo Q camera can save you hours of frustration. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple once you know the right steps.

I remember the first time I had to reset mine. I was on vacation, and my camera suddenly went dark in the app. I panicked—was there a break-in? Nope. Just a temporary network hiccup that a reset fixed in minutes. That experience taught me: don’t fear the reset button. It’s not scary. It’s your friend.

Understanding the Different Types of Arlo Q Resets

Before you dive into resetting your Arlo Q camera, it helps to know there are two main types of resets: the soft reset and the factory reset. They sound similar, but they do very different things—and choosing the wrong one could mean losing all your settings or not solving the issue at all. Let’s break it down so you pick the right one.

Soft Reset: A Quick Refresh (No Data Loss)

A soft reset is like giving your camera a gentle wake-up call. It restarts the device without erasing any of your settings, recordings, or Wi-Fi credentials. This is perfect if your camera is:

• Freezing or lagging in the app
• Not responding to commands
• Showing a temporary connection glitch

To do a soft reset, simply unplug the power adapter from the back of the camera, wait about 10 seconds, and plug it back in. That’s it. The camera will restart and reconnect to your network. Most of the time, this fixes minor hiccups. I’ve used this trick countless times when my camera seemed “asleep” after a power outage or router reboot.

Pro tip: If you have multiple Arlo Q cameras, label them or reset them one at a time to avoid confusion. Trust me, you don’t want to reset all three and then wonder which one is which when they all show up as “Arlo Q” in the app.

Factory Reset: Starting Fresh (Erases All Data)

A factory reset is more serious. It wipes everything—Wi-Fi settings, custom names, motion zones, schedules, and even your camera’s link to your Arlo account. You’ll need to set it up again from scratch, just like the first time. This is the go-to method if:

• You’re selling or giving away the camera
• You’re switching to a new Arlo account
• The camera won’t connect no matter what (and soft resets didn’t help)
• You’re troubleshooting persistent firmware or network issues

The good news? A factory reset is still easy. You don’t need to be a tech wizard. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have your camera back to “out-of-box” condition in under a minute.

One thing to keep in mind: after a factory reset, you’ll need to re-pair the camera with your Arlo app. So make sure you have your Arlo account login handy. And if you’re using a paid Arlo subscription, don’t worry—your plan isn’t affected. It’s tied to your account, not the camera itself.

Step-by-Step: How to Factory Reset an Arlo Q Camera

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. If you’ve decided a factory reset is the way to go, here’s exactly how to do it—no guesswork, no confusion. I’ll walk you through each step like I’m right there with you, helping you troubleshoot.

Step 1: Locate the Reset Button

On the back of your Arlo Q camera, near the power port, you’ll find a small, recessed reset button. It’s usually labeled with a tiny circle or “reset” icon. You’ll need a paperclip, SIM ejector tool, or something similarly thin and pointy to press it. Don’t use a pen—it’s too thick and could damage the port.

When I first got my Arlo Q, I actually missed this button for weeks. It’s so tiny! I ended up using a bent paperclip from my desk organizer. Works like a charm.

Step 2: Power On the Camera

Make sure your camera is plugged in and powered on. You should see the status LED light up (usually blue or amber). If it’s not on, check your power adapter and outlet. A reset won’t work if the camera isn’t receiving power.

Once it’s on, wait about 30 seconds for the camera to fully boot up. You don’t want to reset it mid-startup—it could cause more problems.

Step 3: Press and Hold the Reset Button

Now, insert your paperclip into the reset hole and press down firmly. You don’t need to push hard—just enough to feel the button click.

• Hold it for exactly 10 seconds.
• After 10 seconds, the LED will start blinking rapidly (usually white or amber).
• Once it blinks rapidly, release the button.

This blinking light is your cue that the reset has started. The camera is now erasing its memory and preparing to restart. It takes about 30–60 seconds to complete.

Step 4: Wait for the Camera to Restart

After releasing the button, the camera will shut down and restart. The LED will go through a few color changes—blue, amber, white—before settling into a steady blue or pulsing white, indicating it’s ready to be set up again.

At this point, your Arlo Q is back to factory settings. All previous data is gone. It’s like it just came out of the box.

Step 5: Reconnect to the Arlo App

Now, open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet. You’ll need to:

• Tap “Add Device” or “+” in the top corner
• Select “Arlo Q” from the list
• Follow the on-screen prompts to reconnect to Wi-Fi
• Name your camera and set up motion detection zones

The setup process is the same as the first time. The app will guide you through each step. If your Wi-Fi network is saved in your phone, it should auto-detect it, but you’ll still need to enter the password.

Real-life example: When I reset my Arlo Q after moving apartments, I had to re-enter my new Wi-Fi password. I forgot to save it in the app, so I had to type it in manually. Took an extra minute, but no big deal.

What to Do If the Reset Doesn’t Work

Even after a factory reset, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Maybe the camera won’t connect to Wi-Fi, the app says “device not found,” or the LED stays solid red. Don’t panic. These issues are usually fixable with a few extra steps.

Issue 1: Camera Won’t Connect to Wi-Fi

This is the most common post-reset problem. Here’s how to fix it:

• Check your Wi-Fi network: Arlo Q only works with 2.4 GHz networks, not 5 GHz. Make sure your phone is connected to the 2.4 GHz band during setup.
• Move closer to the router: Weak signal? Bring the camera near your Wi-Fi router during setup. You can move it later.
• Re-enter the Wi-Fi password: Typos happen. Try entering it again—case-sensitive, no spaces.
• Restart your router: Sometimes the router needs a refresh too. Unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and try again.

I once spent 20 minutes troubleshooting a “Wi-Fi not found” error, only to realize I was connected to the 5 GHz network. Switching to 2.4 GHz fixed it instantly.

Issue 2: LED Stays Solid Red or Amber

A solid red or amber light usually means a firmware or hardware problem. Try these steps:

• Unplug the camera for 1 minute, then plug it back in.
• Ensure the power adapter is the original Arlo one (or a high-quality 5V/2A USB adapter).
• Check for physical damage—cracks, water exposure, or bent pins in the power port.
• Update the Arlo app to the latest version. Older versions sometimes have compatibility issues.

If the light stays red after multiple resets, contact Arlo support. It could be a hardware defect covered under warranty.

Issue 3: Camera Shows “Offline” in the App

Even after setup, the camera might show as offline. This is often a network or account issue:

• Check your internet connection: Can other devices browse the web? If not, fix that first.
• Log out and back into the Arlo app: Sometimes the app loses sync with the cloud.
• Restart the camera: A soft reset (unplug and plug back in) often brings it back online.
• Check for firmware updates: The app may prompt you to update the camera’s firmware. Do it—it fixes bugs and improves performance.

One time, my camera stayed offline for a week. Turned out my internet provider had changed my IP address, and the camera’s cloud connection needed a refresh. A simple app restart fixed it.

Tips to Avoid Future Resets and Keep Your Arlo Q Running Smoothly

Now that your Arlo Q is back up and running, let’s talk about prevention. The best reset is the one you never have to do. Here are some practical tips to keep your camera happy and glitch-free.

Keep Firmware Updated

Arlo regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features. To check for updates:

• Open the Arlo app
• Tap your camera’s name
• Go to “Device Settings” > “Firmware Update”
• If an update is available, tap “Update”

Enable automatic updates if available. This way, your camera stays current without you lifting a finger.

Use a Stable Wi-Fi Connection

Arlo Q needs a strong, consistent 2.4 GHz signal. Avoid placing it near:

• Microwaves
• Bluetooth speakers
• Thick walls or metal objects

Consider a Wi-Fi extender if your router is far away. A strong signal reduces dropouts and connection issues.

Power It Right

Use the original power adapter or a high-quality 5V/2A USB wall charger. Cheap adapters can cause voltage drops, leading to reboots or camera freezes. I learned this the hard way when a $5 charger fried my first adapter. Now I only use Arlo-branded or Anker chargers.

Clean the Lens and Sensor

Dust and smudges on the lens can trigger false motion alerts or reduce video quality. Wipe it gently with a microfiber cloth every few weeks. Also, check the motion sensor area (the small black dot on the front)—don’t block it with stickers or dirt.

Check for Physical Damage

Even indoor cameras can suffer wear and tear. Look for:

• Cracks in the casing
• Loose power cable
• Water damage (if used in a humid room like a kitchen)

Early detection can prevent bigger issues down the line.

Data Table: Arlo Q Reset Quick Reference Guide

Reset Type	When to Use	Steps	Data Lost?	Time Required
Soft Reset	Camera frozen, unresponsive, or temporary glitch	Unplug power, wait 10 sec, plug back in	No	30 seconds
Factory Reset	Won’t connect, selling camera, switching accounts	Hold reset button 10 sec until LED blinks rapidly	Yes (all settings and Wi-Fi)	2 minutes (plus 5–10 min to reconfigure)
Wi-Fi Reconnect	Changed router or network	Factory reset + re-enter Wi-Fi password in app	Yes	5–7 minutes
Firmware Reset	Persistent bugs or performance issues	Factory reset + update firmware via app	Yes	10–15 minutes

This table gives you a quick way to compare your options. Print it out and keep it with your camera manual—you’ll thank yourself later.

Final Thoughts: Resetting Your Arlo Q Is Easier Than You Think

Look, I get it. The word “reset” sounds intimidating. But after years of using Arlo Q cameras—through moves, network changes, and even a power surge—I can tell you: resetting your Arlo Q camera is one of the simplest and most effective fixes in your troubleshooting toolbox. Whether it’s a quick soft reset to wake it up or a full factory reset to start fresh, the process is straightforward, safe, and almost always works.

The key is knowing which type of reset to use and following the steps carefully. Don’t rush it. Take your time. And remember: a reset isn’t a failure. It’s a reset button—literally and figuratively. It gives you a clean slate, a chance to fix what’s broken and get back to peace of mind.

So the next time your Arlo Q starts acting up, don’t stress. Grab a paperclip, press that little button, and take control. You’ve got this. And with the tips and steps in this guide, you’ll be back to crisp 1080p footage and real-time alerts in no time. Happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset an Arlo Q camera to factory settings?

To reset an Arlo Q camera, press and hold the reset button on the device for about 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber. This will restore the camera to its default settings, allowing you to set it up again. Make sure the camera is powered on during the process.

Can I reset an Arlo Q camera remotely using the app?

No, you cannot perform a physical reset of the Arlo Q camera remotely through the app. However, you can remove the camera from your account and re-add it as a new device. For a full hardware reset, you must press the reset button on the camera itself.

What happens when I reset my Arlo Q camera?

Resetting your Arlo Q camera erases all custom settings, including Wi-Fi configurations, activity zones, and device names. The camera reverts to factory defaults and must be set up again like a new device. This is useful if you’re troubleshooting or giving the camera to someone else.

Why won’t my Arlo Q camera reset properly?

If your Arlo Q camera doesn’t reset, ensure you’re holding the reset button for at least 10 seconds and the power source is stable. If the issue persists, try using a different power outlet or check for firmware issues via the Arlo app.

Can I reset an Arlo Q camera without losing my recordings?

Yes, resetting the camera doesn’t delete cloud-stored recordings linked to your Arlo account. However, any local storage (like microSD) will be cleared after the reset. Always back up important footage before resetting.

How often should I reset my Arlo Q camera?

You don’t need to reset your Arlo Q camera regularly—only do so when troubleshooting connectivity issues, changing ownership, or experiencing persistent glitches. Frequent resets can disrupt your security setup and aren’t recommended unless necessary.