Can I Use a Camera Viewing Software With Arlo Find Out Now

Yes, you can use third-party camera viewing software with Arlo, but compatibility depends on the specific app and Arlo model. Most Arlo cameras work seamlessly with ONVIF-conforming software like Blue Iris or Milestone, offering advanced features such as motion detection and cloud-free storage—just ensure your Arlo model supports RTSP or ONVIF protocols.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo works best with its official app for full functionality and updates.
• Third-party software may offer limited compatibility but lacks advanced features.
• Check API access if integrating Arlo with custom or enterprise viewing tools.
• Local storage options allow use with some NVRs and desktop software.
• Always verify security before using third-party apps to protect your data.
• Cloud reliance means most features require Arlo’s subscription service.

Can I Use a Camera Viewing Software With Arlo? Find Out Now

Imagine this: You’re at work, and your phone buzzes. A motion alert from your Arlo security camera. You tap the notification, but instead of opening the Arlo app, you’re taken to a third-party camera viewer you’ve been testing. The video loads—crisp, clear, and in real time. For a moment, you forget you’re not using the official app. This scenario isn’t just a dream for tech-savvy homeowners. It’s a real possibility—but with caveats.

If you’re an Arlo user, you’ve likely wondered: Can I use a camera viewing software with Arlo? Maybe you’re tired of the Arlo app’s occasional lag. Or perhaps you want to monitor multiple Arlo cameras alongside other brands in one unified dashboard. Maybe you’re a developer or IT pro looking to integrate Arlo feeds into a custom security system. Whatever your reason, you’re not alone. Thousands of Arlo users search for alternatives every month. The answer isn’t a simple “yes” or “no.” It’s more like: “Yes, but here’s what you need to know.” In this post, we’ll explore the compatibility, risks, benefits, and practical workarounds—so you can make an informed choice without risking your security or violating Arlo’s terms.

Understanding Arlo’s Ecosystem and Limitations

Before diving into third-party software, it’s essential to understand how Arlo works. Arlo, owned by Netgear, is a cloud-based home security system. It relies on a closed ecosystem where cameras, base stations, and the Arlo app communicate through encrypted cloud servers. This design ensures reliability, remote access, and smart features like AI-powered motion detection (person, package, vehicle, animal).

How Arlo Cameras Connect and Communicate

Arlo cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi or a dedicated base station (for Pro models). The base station acts as a local hub, reducing Wi-Fi congestion. All video feeds are encrypted and sent to Arlo’s cloud servers. From there, the Arlo app (available on iOS, Android, web, and desktop) pulls the footage. This cloud-first approach means:

• Remote access from anywhere with internet.
• Smart features like activity zones, AI detection, and cloud storage.
• No direct RTSP or ONVIF support (more on this later).

This last point is crucial. Unlike many professional IP cameras, Arlo doesn’t natively support open streaming protocols. This is a major hurdle for third-party software.

Why Arlo Restricts Third-Party Access

Arlo’s closed system isn’t just about technology—it’s a business model. They monetize through:

• Subscription plans (Basic, Standard, Premium) for cloud storage and advanced features.
• App ecosystem (smart home integrations, notifications, firmware updates).
• Security and privacy (they claim closed systems reduce hacking risks).

Allowing third-party apps could undermine these revenue streams and introduce security vulnerabilities. For example, a poorly coded app might mishandle your camera credentials or expose unencrypted video streams.

User Frustrations That Drive the Search for Alternatives

Despite Arlo’s strengths, users often seek alternatives due to:

• App performance (lag, crashes, battery drain).
• Subscription costs (especially for multiple cameras).
• Lack of local storage (some users prefer saving footage on a NAS or SD card).
• Desire for unified monitoring (e.g., viewing Arlo, Ring, and Wyze cameras together).

These pain points are real. But before you jump to third-party software, know the risks.

The Technical Reality: RTSP, ONVIF, and Arlo’s Restrictions

The core issue with using third-party software is Arlo’s lack of support for open streaming standards. Let’s break this down.

What Are RTSP and ONVIF?

• RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol): An open standard for streaming video. Most IP cameras (e.g., Hikvision, Reolink) support RTSP, allowing direct access via VLC, Blue Iris, or Home Assistant.
• ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum): A protocol for device interoperability. ONVIF-compliant cameras can be managed by any ONVIF-compatible software (e.g., Milestone, Security Spy).

These standards are the backbone of third-party camera software. They let you bypass cloud apps and access feeds directly.

Arlo’s Lack of Native RTSP/ONVIF Support

Here’s the hard truth: Most Arlo cameras do not support RTSP or ONVIF. This includes:

• Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4
• Arlo Ultra, Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential, Essential XL
• Arlo Go, Go 2 (cellular)

There’s one exception: Arlo Wire-Free cameras (original models) can enable RTSP via a local-only firmware update. But this feature was quietly removed in newer firmware updates. If you have an old Arlo Wire-Free camera, you might find it in Settings > Advanced > RTSP. For others, it’s gone.

Why Doesn’t Arlo Support These Protocols?

It’s not a technical limitation—Arlo’s hardware is capable. The reason is strategic:

• Control: Arlo wants users locked into their app and subscription model.
• Security: They argue open protocols increase attack surfaces.
• Profit: Third-party software could reduce reliance on paid cloud storage.

This has sparked controversy. In 2020, Arlo faced backlash when they removed RTSP support via firmware update, breaking existing integrations. Many users felt betrayed.

Workarounds and Hacks (With Caveats)

Despite restrictions, some workarounds exist—but they come with risks:

• Reverse engineering: Developers have cracked Arlo’s API to pull feeds. Tools like arlo (Python library) can stream video locally. But this violates Arlo’s terms of service and could lead to account suspension.
• Screen scraping: Use automation tools (e.g., Tasker, IFTTT) to capture the Arlo app’s screen output. This is clunky and unreliable.
• Local recording via base station: Some Arlo base stations (e.g., Arlo Pro 3 SmartHub) allow local storage on a USB drive. You can access footage via FTP, but not real-time streaming.

None of these are perfect. And they may void your warranty.

Third-Party Software That (Sort Of) Works With Arlo

While direct integration is limited, a few third-party tools offer partial compatibility—usually by acting as a bridge between Arlo and other systems.

Home Assistant: The Most Powerful Option

Home Assistant is an open-source home automation platform. It doesn’t pull Arlo feeds directly, but it can:

• Access Arlo’s cloud API (with your credentials).
• Stream video to Home Assistant’s dashboard.
• Trigger automations (e.g., turn on lights when motion is detected).
• Store clips locally (if you have a USB drive in your Arlo base station).

Example: You set up Home Assistant to show your front door Arlo feed on a wall-mounted tablet. When the camera detects motion, it turns on the porch light and sends a notification. The feed is slightly delayed (5-10 seconds) due to cloud processing, but it works.

Pros:

• Highly customizable.
• Supports 1,000+ devices (Z-Wave, Zigbee, etc.).
• Local processing (no cloud dependency).

Cons:

• Steep learning curve (requires technical know-how).
• Video streaming relies on Arlo’s cloud (not direct RTSP).
• Setup takes 2-4 hours for beginners.

Blue Iris: For Power Users and IT Pros

Blue Iris is a Windows-based surveillance software. It doesn’t natively support Arlo, but you can:

• Use the Arlo2BlueIris plugin (community-developed).
• Stream Arlo feeds via Home Assistant (as a proxy).
• Record and analyze motion events locally.

Example: A small business uses Blue Iris to monitor their Arlo cameras. They save footage on a local NAS, reducing cloud costs. The software’s AI analyzes motion patterns, flagging unusual activity.

Pros:

• Robust motion detection and analytics.
• Local storage and processing.
• Supports multiple camera brands.

Cons:

• Windows-only.
• Plugin setup is complex.
• No direct RTSP (still cloud-dependent).

Other Tools: Limited but Useful

• IFTTT (If This Then That): Connect Arlo to 500+ services (e.g., turn on Philips Hue lights when motion is detected). No video streaming, but great for automations.
• Tasker + AutoRemote: Android automation tool. Can capture Arlo alerts and trigger actions (e.g., send a voice alert to Google Home).
• Arlo for Google Home/Alexa: Not third-party, but lets you view feeds on smart displays. A middle-ground solution.

Risks and Drawbacks of Using Third-Party Software

Before you install any third-party tool, consider these risks.

Security and Privacy Concerns

Sharing your Arlo login with third-party apps is risky. If the app is hacked, your:

• Camera feeds could be exposed.
• Home network could be targeted.
• Personal data (email, address) could be stolen.

Example: In 2022, a popular home automation app was breached, exposing 10,000+ user credentials. While not Arlo-specific, it highlights the risk.

Tip: Use a dedicated email for Arlo and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).

Violation of Terms of Service

Arlo’s terms prohibit reverse engineering, API scraping, or unauthorized access. Violations could lead to:

• Account suspension.
• Loss of warranty.
• Firmware updates that break third-party integrations.

Arlo has shut down third-party tools in the past. For example, in 2021, they blocked a popular RTSP proxy app.

Performance and Reliability Issues

Third-party tools may cause:

• Increased lag (due to cloud processing).
• Missed alerts (if the app crashes).
• Battery drain (on Arlo’s battery-powered cameras).

Example: A user reported their Arlo Pro 4 camera drained in 2 days instead of 3 months after enabling a third-party app. The app was constantly polling the cloud, preventing the camera from entering sleep mode.

No Access to Arlo’s Smart Features

Third-party software can’t replicate Arlo’s:

• AI motion detection (person, package, etc.).
• Activity zones (ignore motion in specific areas).
• Cloud storage (unless you have a subscription).

You’ll miss out on these unless the third-party tool integrates with Arlo’s API—which most don’t.

Alternatives and Future-Proof Solutions

If third-party software isn’t ideal, what are your options?

Stick With the Arlo App (But Optimize It)

The Arlo app isn’t perfect, but it’s reliable. To improve it:

• Update regularly: Arlo fixes bugs in new versions.
• Use a dedicated device: Install the app on an old tablet or phone for 24/7 monitoring.
• Adjust settings: Lower video quality to reduce lag. Disable unnecessary notifications.

Switch to a More Open System

If you need RTSP/ONVIF, consider:

• Reolink: Supports RTSP and local storage. No subscription needed.
• Amcrest: ONVIF-compliant. Works with Blue Iris, Home Assistant.
• Ubiquiti G4: High-quality cameras with RTSP and local NVR support.

You can mix brands: Use Arlo for indoor cameras and Reolink for outdoor.

Future-Proofing: Arlo’s Local Storage Option

Arlo now offers local storage via USB drives in base stations (Pro 3, Ultra, etc.). While not real-time streaming, it:

• Reduces cloud dependency.
• Allows access via FTP or SMB (file sharing).
• Works with third-party tools (e.g., Home Assistant can pull clips).

This is Arlo’s compromise: You keep cloud access but get local backup.

Advocate for Change

Arlo listens to users. Join forums (e.g., Arlo Community) and request RTSP support. The more users ask, the higher the chance Arlo will reconsider.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

So, can you use a camera viewing software with Arlo? The answer is: It depends.

If you need a simple, secure solution, stick with the Arlo app. It’s not flashy, but it works. If you’re tech-savvy and want advanced features, Home Assistant or Blue Iris (with caveats) can help. Just understand the risks: security, reliability, and potential account issues.

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Use Case	Recommended Approach	Risks
Casual home monitoring	Arlo app + smart display (Google Home/Alexa)	Low
Multi-camera, multi-brand setup	Home Assistant (with Arlo integration)	Medium (cloud dependency)
Local storage and advanced analytics	Blue Iris + Arlo base station (USB storage)	Medium (setup complexity)
No cloud subscription	Switch to Reolink/Amcrest with RTSP	Low (but lose Arlo’s AI features)
Developer/IT professional	Custom API integration (with caution)	High (violates ToS)

Remember: Security is paramount. Never use a third-party tool that requires your Arlo password unless it’s reputable (e.g., Home Assistant). And always keep your firmware updated.

Arlo’s closed ecosystem is frustrating, but it’s not the end. With the right tools—and a bit of patience—you can get the best of both worlds: Arlo’s hardware and third-party software’s flexibility. Just tread carefully. Your security cameras protect your home. Make sure your software choices do the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use third-party camera viewing software with Arlo?

Arlo cameras are designed to work primarily with the official Arlo app and web portal, but some third-party software (like Blue Iris or Synology Surveillance Station) can integrate via RTSP or ONVIF protocols. However, compatibility depends on your Arlo model and firmware.

Does Arlo support ONVIF or RTSP for camera viewing software?

Select Arlo models, like the Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra, support RTSP streaming, enabling limited use with ONVIF-compatible software. Not all features (e.g., cloud storage) will work outside the Arlo ecosystem.

What’s the best camera viewing software for Arlo besides the official app?

Popular options include Blue Iris for advanced local recording, TinyCam Monitor for mobile viewing, or Milestone XProtect for professional setups. Ensure your Arlo model supports RTSP or ONVIF before choosing.

Can I use Arlo cameras with home automation software like Home Assistant?

Yes, Home Assistant integrates with Arlo via APIs or RTSP streams, allowing control within your smart home dashboard. Some features may require workarounds or community plugins.

Why won’t my Arlo cameras connect to third-party camera viewing software?

Connection issues often stem from unsupported protocols, outdated firmware, or Arlo’s cloud-based architecture. Verify your model’s RTSP/ONVIF compatibility and check firewall settings.

Is using camera viewing software with Arlo safe for privacy?

While third-party software can be secure, Arlo’s encryption and authentication may not fully transfer to external platforms. Always use trusted software and keep your network secure.