Can I Turn Arlo Cameras On to Monitor Your Home Effectively

Yes, you can turn Arlo cameras on to monitor your home effectively—anytime and from anywhere—using the Arlo app or web dashboard. With customizable motion detection, scheduling, and real-time alerts, Arlo gives you full control over when and how your cameras operate, ensuring reliable, 24/7 home surveillance at your fingertips.

Key Takeaways

• Enable motion detection: Set up alerts for real-time home monitoring.
• Use geofencing: Automate camera activation when you leave or arrive.
• Check power sources: Ensure cameras stay on with reliable power or batteries.
• Schedule recording times: Customize active hours to match your routine.
• Secure your network: Protect camera feeds with strong Wi-Fi encryption.

Understanding Arlo Cameras: The Basics

What Are Arlo Cameras?

Arlo cameras are wireless, smart security devices designed to monitor your home or business. Developed by Netgear, these cameras offer a range of features such as HD video recording, night vision, motion detection, and two-way audio. They come in various models—indoor, outdoor, doorbell, and floodlight—each tailored to specific monitoring needs. One of the standout features is their ability to operate wirelessly, making installation simple and flexible.

Whether you’re checking in on pets, ensuring your kids are safe after school, or keeping an eye on your property while traveling, Arlo cameras are built to provide peace of mind. But the big question is: can I turn Arlo cameras on to monitor effectively? The short answer is yes, but it’s not just about flipping a switch. How you use them, when you activate them, and how you integrate them into your routine makes all the difference.

How Arlo Cameras Work

Arlo cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi network through a base station or directly (in newer models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Ultra 2). They record video when triggered by motion or sound, and footage is stored either locally on an SD card (if supported) or in the cloud via a subscription plan. You can access live views and recorded clips through the Arlo app on your smartphone, tablet, or web browser.

One of the key features that enables effective monitoring is on-demand viewing—meaning you can manually turn on your camera and view a live stream whenever you want, not just when motion is detected. This is especially useful for checking in during the day, verifying deliveries, or just making sure everything is as it should be.

But here’s something many people don’t realize: Arlo cameras aren’t always “on” in the traditional sense. Instead, they use a combination of motion-triggered recording and on-demand live streaming to balance performance, battery life, and privacy. So, if you’re wondering, “Can I turn Arlo cameras on to monitor?” the answer lies in understanding both automated and manual control.

Can I Turn Arlo Cameras On Manually? Yes, and Here’s How

Accessing Live View in the Arlo App

Yes, you absolutely can turn Arlo cameras on to monitor manually. The easiest way is through the Arlo app. Open the app, tap on the camera you want to view, and press the “Live” button. That’s it. Within seconds, you’ll see a real-time feed from your camera, even if no motion has been detected.

I remember the first time I used this feature. I was at work and suddenly wondered if my dog had knocked over the trash again. I opened the Arlo app, tapped my kitchen camera, and there he was—sniffing around but (thankfully) not making a mess. That moment alone made the system worth it. It’s these small, everyday uses that highlight how powerful manual monitoring can be.

You can also use the web portal at my.arlo.com to access live views from your desktop or laptop. This is handy when you’re at work and want to keep an eye on things without pulling out your phone every five minutes.

Using Geofencing and Schedules for Smart Activation

While manual control is great, Arlo also offers smart automation tools that let you “turn on” monitoring in a more strategic way. One of the most useful is geofencing. When enabled, your phone’s location triggers your Arlo system to arm or disarm based on whether you’re home or away.

For example, when you leave the house, your phone detects the distance and automatically arms your cameras to start monitoring. When you return, they disarm. This means your cameras are effectively “on” when you’re not there—without you having to remember to turn them on manually every time.

Another smart option is scheduling. You can set your cameras to record or send alerts only during certain hours—like 9 PM to 7 AM, or when kids come home from school. This helps reduce false alerts during the day and ensures your cameras are focused on monitoring when it matters most.

Pro Tip: Combine geofencing with motion zones (see below) to create a powerful, automated monitoring system that feels like your cameras are always “on” when needed—even if they’re technically in standby mode.

Optimizing Your Arlo Cameras for 24/7 Monitoring

Setting Up Motion Zones and Detection Sensitivity

One of the biggest frustrations with smart cameras is false alerts—like a tree branch blowing in the wind or a passing car triggering your front door camera. That’s why Arlo lets you customize motion zones and detection sensitivity to fine-tune when your cameras record.

For example, if your backyard camera keeps alerting you to birds, you can draw a motion zone that only covers your back door and patio. This means the camera still monitors the areas that matter, but ignores the rest. You can adjust sensitivity levels too—lower for areas with frequent movement, higher for quiet zones.

I once had a camera pointing at my front gate. Every time the mailman walked by, I got an alert. After setting a motion zone that excluded the sidewalk, I only got notifications when someone actually approached my door. It made a huge difference in how useful the system felt.

Tip: Use the “Person Detection” feature (available on most newer models) to reduce false alerts. It uses AI to distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles. So if your cat jumps on the porch, you won’t get a notification—but if a stranger appears, you will.

Enabling Continuous Recording (With a Caveat)

While Arlo cameras are primarily designed for motion-triggered recording, some models support 24/7 continuous recording—but only with an optional Arlo Secure subscription and a compatible base station (like the Arlo SmartHub).

This feature records video non-stop and stores it in the cloud. It’s ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, driveways, or garages where you want a full timeline of events, not just clips triggered by motion.

However, there’s a catch: continuous recording uses a lot of cloud storage. A single camera can generate 50+ GB per month. That means you’ll need a higher-tier Arlo Secure plan (like the Premier or Elite) to store that much data. For most users, motion-triggered recording is more practical and cost-effective.

When to use continuous recording:

• Monitoring a home office or business entrance
• Keeping a log of deliveries or service visits
• Investigating a recent incident where you need full footage

For everyday home monitoring, a mix of motion-triggered recording and on-demand live views usually works best.

Battery vs. Wired Arlo Cameras: Which Is Better for Monitoring?

Battery-Powered Arlo Cameras: Pros and Cons

Models like the Arlo Essential, Arlo Pro 3, and Arlo Ultra 2 come with rechargeable batteries. These are great for flexibility—you can install them anywhere, even under the eaves or in a tree, without worrying about wiring.

But here’s the downside: batteries drain faster when you use features like live viewing frequently or enable continuous recording. If you’re constantly turning your Arlo camera on to monitor, the battery may last only a few days instead of the advertised 3–6 months.

I learned this the hard way. I had a battery-powered Arlo on my back porch. I checked it every evening to see if my kids were playing safely. After two weeks, the battery died. I ended up buying the Arlo Solar Panel to keep it charged—problem solved.

Battery-saving tips:

• Reduce live viewing sessions—only check in when necessary
• Use motion zones to minimize unnecessary recordings
• Enable “Battery Saver” mode in the app (lowers video quality slightly)
• Pair with a solar panel for outdoor cameras

Wired and Plug-in Arlo Models: Always-On Monitoring

If you’re serious about turning Arlo cameras on to monitor consistently, consider wired models like the Arlo Wired Floodlight, Arlo Essential Wired Doorbell, or the Arlo Pro 5S (which supports both battery and plug-in power).

Wired cameras draw power directly from an outlet or existing wiring, so they don’t rely on batteries. This means they’re always ready to record and stream. You can check live views as often as you like without worrying about power.

They’re also better for features like continuous recording and AI-powered detection, which use more power. Plus, they tend to have faster response times when you open the app—no waiting for the camera to wake up from sleep mode.

Best for:

• High-traffic areas (front door, garage)
• Cameras you check frequently
• Users who want uninterrupted monitoring

While installation is slightly more involved (you may need to drill holes or hire an electrician), the reliability and performance are worth it for many users.

Integrating Arlo with Smart Home Systems for Smarter Monitoring

Using Arlo with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit

One of the best ways to “turn on” your Arlo cameras for monitoring is by integrating them with your smart home ecosystem. With Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, you can use voice commands to view live feeds on compatible smart displays or TVs.

For example, say, “Alexa, show me the backyard camera,” and your Fire TV will display the live feed. This is perfect for checking on kids playing outside while you’re cooking dinner. Or use “Hey Google, who’s at the front door?” to see your Arlo doorbell feed on your Nest Hub.

You can also set up automations. For instance, when your Ring alarm goes off, trigger your Arlo cameras to start recording and send a live feed to your phone. Or use IFTTT (If This Then That) to turn on your Arlo cameras when you leave the house and lock your smart door.

Real-life example: I set up a routine where, when I say “Goodnight” to Alexa, all my Arlo cameras arm themselves and turn on a soft spotlight. It’s a simple way to activate monitoring without lifting a finger.

Using Arlo with Smart Alarms and Sensors

Pairing Arlo cameras with other smart devices enhances your monitoring capabilities. For example, if you have a smart door sensor, you can set your Arlo camera to start recording the moment the door opens—even if no motion is detected.

Or use a water leak sensor in your basement. If it detects moisture, your Arlo camera can automatically turn on and record the area, giving you visual confirmation of the issue.

This kind of integration turns your Arlo system from a passive recorder into an active monitoring network. You’re not just waiting for motion—you’re using multiple data points to decide when to “turn on” your cameras.

Tip: Use the Arlo app’s “Automation” tab to create custom rules. For example: “When the garage door opens between 10 PM and 6 AM, start recording and send a notification.”

Real-World Use Cases: When and How to Turn Arlo Cameras On

Let’s get practical. Here are five common scenarios where knowing how to turn Arlo cameras on to monitor makes a real difference—and how to set it up for maximum effectiveness.

Monitoring Kids and Pets

Parents and pet owners often use Arlo cameras to check in during the day. With manual live viewing, you can see if your child got home from school safely or if your dog is napping (or chewing the couch).

Set up a camera in the living room or play area with two-way audio. When you turn it on, you can even talk to your kids or calm an anxious pet. Use motion zones to focus on high-traffic spots and reduce alerts when they’re not needed.

Keeping an Eye on Deliveries and Service Visits

Ever missed a package because you didn’t know it arrived? With Arlo, you can set a camera to monitor your front porch. When a delivery person appears (detected via person detection), you get an alert and can watch the live feed.

Or, if you’re expecting a plumber or cleaner, you can turn on your camera just before they arrive to verify their identity and ensure they don’t linger longer than necessary.

Travel and Vacation Monitoring

When you’re away, Arlo cameras are your eyes and ears at home. Enable geofencing so your system arms automatically when you leave. Use motion zones to ignore trees and animals, and focus on entry points.

Check in periodically with live viewing to make sure everything looks normal. Some users even set up a “virtual tour” by checking different cameras at set times to simulate activity and deter potential intruders.

Investigating Incidents

After a break-in, suspicious activity, or property damage, you’ll want to review footage. If you have a camera that supports continuous recording, you’ll have a full timeline. Otherwise, motion-triggered clips will help—especially if you’ve set up motion zones correctly.

You can also manually turn on cameras after an event to capture any lingering evidence, like tire marks or a dropped item.

Business and Rental Property Monitoring

For landlords or small business owners, Arlo cameras can monitor rental units, storage areas, or retail spaces. Use wired cameras for reliability, and enable person detection to identify tenants or employees.

Set schedules so cameras only record during business hours or after closing. Use the Arlo app to share access with property managers or staff without giving full account control.

Performance and Storage: What You Need to Know

Here’s a quick look at how Arlo handles video quality, storage, and performance—key factors when you’re turning cameras on to monitor.

Feature	Basic (Free)	Arlo Secure (Standard)	Arlo Secure (Premier/Elite)
Live Viewing	Yes (manual)	Yes	Yes
Motion Recording	7-day cloud, 30 clips	30-day cloud, unlimited clips	30-day cloud, unlimited clips
Person Detection	No	Yes	Yes
Continuous Recording	No	No	Yes (with SmartHub)
Video Quality	HD (720p or 1080p)	HD/4K (model-dependent)	4K (Arlo Ultra 2)
Max Cameras	5	10	10–20

As you can see, the free plan is decent for basic monitoring, but if you want to turn Arlo cameras on to monitor effectively—especially with features like person detection and longer storage—you’ll likely need a subscription.

Also, remember that 4K video uses more bandwidth and storage. If you’re constantly streaming live views, a 1080p camera may be more practical.

Final Thoughts: Can You Turn Arlo Cameras On to Monitor Effectively?

So, can you turn Arlo cameras on to monitor your home effectively? Absolutely. Whether you’re using manual live viewing, smart geofencing, motion zones, or integration with other smart devices, Arlo gives you multiple ways to stay in control.

The key is understanding your needs. If you want occasional check-ins, battery-powered cameras with manual viewing work great. If you need constant monitoring, wired models with continuous recording are the way to go. And if you want automation, smart home integration makes it effortless to “turn on” your cameras exactly when you need them.

I’ve found that the most effective monitoring isn’t about having cameras always recording—it’s about having them ready when it matters. A quick live view, a smart alert, or a well-timed recording can give you peace of mind without overwhelming you with data.

At the end of the day, Arlo cameras are tools. How you use them determines how well they serve you. So go ahead—open the app, turn one on, and see for yourself. You might just find that a little monitoring goes a long way in keeping your home safe, secure, and connected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn Arlo cameras on to monitor my home 24/7?

Yes, most Arlo cameras can be set to continuous recording or live monitoring via the Arlo app. However, continuous recording may require a subscription plan and sufficient storage capacity.

How do I enable live monitoring on my Arlo cameras?

Open the Arlo app, select your camera, and tap the “Live” button to start real-time monitoring. Ensure your camera is powered and connected to Wi-Fi for seamless access.

Can I schedule when my Arlo cameras turn on to monitor?

Absolutely! Use the “Modes” feature in the Arlo app to create custom schedules for when your cameras should actively monitor. This helps conserve battery life for wire-free models.

Do Arlo cameras record automatically when motion is detected?

Yes, Arlo cameras are designed to record and send alerts when motion is detected, provided you’ve enabled motion alerts and recording in the app settings. This feature works even if you’re not actively monitoring.

Can I turn Arlo cameras on remotely to check my home?

Yes, as long as your Arlo cameras are connected to the internet, you can access them remotely through the Arlo app from any location. This makes it easy to monitor your home on the go.

Are there privacy settings to control when Arlo cameras monitor?

Yes, Arlo offers privacy zones and geofencing to limit monitoring in specific areas or when you’re home. Adjust these settings in the app to balance security and privacy.