How to Watch My Arlo Cameras on My Computer Easily

Yes, you can easily watch your Arlo cameras on your computer by accessing the Arlo web app through any browser—no extra hardware needed. Simply log in to your Arlo account at my.arlo.com to view live feeds, review recordings, and manage settings with full desktop functionality.

Key Takeaways

• Access via web browser: Log in to Arlo.com to view live feeds on your computer.
• Use the Arlo app: Download the desktop app for a seamless viewing experience.
• Check internet connection: Ensure stable Wi-Fi for smooth camera streaming on PC.
• Enable multi-camera view: Customize layouts to monitor multiple cameras simultaneously.
• Update firmware regularly: Keep cameras and apps updated for optimal performance.
• Leverage cloud/local storage: Review recorded footage anytime via cloud or microSD.

Why Watching Arlo Cameras on Your Computer Matters

Let’s be honest—life gets busy. You’re working from home, cooking dinner, or maybe just trying to relax with a movie, but you still want to keep an eye on your front porch, backyard, or the baby’s room. That’s where Arlo cameras come in. They’re smart, sleek, and designed to give you peace of mind. But what if your phone is charging, or you just prefer a bigger screen? Can you watch your Arlo cameras on your computer?

Yes, you absolutely can—and it’s easier than you might think. Whether you’re monitoring your home while working at your desk, reviewing footage for a package delivery, or just checking in on your pets, viewing your Arlo cameras on a computer offers a more immersive and efficient experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the how-to step by step, sharing real-life tips, personal experiences, and practical advice to make the process smooth, secure, and stress-free. No tech jargon overload—just clear, friendly guidance.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera System

Before we dive into the “how,” it helps to understand the “what.” Arlo offers a range of cameras—indoor, outdoor, floodlight, doorbell, and even baby monitors—all connected through the Arlo app and cloud-based platform. These devices use Wi-Fi to stream live video, record clips, and send alerts. But the real magic happens when you sync them with your computer, giving you a larger, more stable viewing experience.

What Makes Arlo Stand Out?

• Wire-free and easy to install: Most Arlo cameras are battery-powered and don’t require drilling or complex wiring.
• Cloud and local storage options: You can store clips in the cloud (with a subscription) or use a local storage device like a USB drive or microSD card.
• Smart alerts: Get notified about people, packages, animals, or vehicles—customizable to your needs.
• Night vision and two-way audio: See clearly in the dark and talk to visitors from anywhere.

I remember setting up my first Arlo Pro 4 in my backyard. It was a rainy Sunday, and I didn’t want to run cables. Within 15 minutes, the camera was mounted, synced to my phone, and streaming live. But when I tried to view it on my laptop later, I was stumped. That’s when I realized—most people don’t know how to watch Arlo cameras on their computer. And that’s exactly what we’re fixing today.

Compatibility: What You’ll Need

To watch your Arlo cameras on a computer, you’ll need:

• A computer (Windows or Mac) with internet access
• A web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge recommended)
• An active Arlo account (free or paid plan)
• Your Arlo cameras synced to your account
• For local viewing: a compatible base station or hub (like Arlo SmartHub or Arlo Base Station)

Don’t worry—if you’re using Arlo’s cloud service, you don’t need extra hardware. But if you’re using local storage (great for privacy and avoiding subscription fees), a base station is key. I switched to local storage after my cloud plan expired, and it was a game-changer. No more monthly bills, and my footage stayed on my own network.

Method 1: View Arlo Cameras via Web Browser (Cloud-Based)

This is the easiest and most common way to watch your Arlo cameras on a computer. It works with all Arlo models that support cloud recording, including Arlo Pro, Ultra, Essential, and Q series. All you need is a browser and your login details.

Step-by-Step: Logging into Arlo Web Portal

1. Open your preferred browser (I use Chrome, but Firefox works great too).
2. Go to my.arlo.com.
3. Enter your Arlo account email and password.
4. Click “Sign In.”

Once logged in, you’ll land on your Arlo dashboard. It looks just like the app—cameras are arranged in a grid, and you can click any one to view live feed, adjust settings, or review recorded clips.

Pro tip: Bookmark my.arlo.com for quick access. I have it pinned to my browser bar so I can check my front door camera with one click during work meetings.

Navigating the Web Dashboard

• Live View: Click any camera to see real-time footage. You can zoom, pan (if PTZ), and toggle audio on/off.
• Library: Access saved clips by date and time. Filter by event type (motion, person, vehicle, etc.).
• Settings: Adjust motion zones, notifications, and camera names right from your desktop.
• Multiple Cameras: View up to 16 cameras at once in grid mode—perfect for large homes or businesses.

I once caught a delivery driver leaving my package in the rain (oops!) while I was on a Zoom call. I opened the Arlo web portal, checked the live feed, and called the driver to move it under the porch. All without leaving my desk. That’s the power of desktop viewing.

Limitations of Cloud Viewing

While convenient, cloud-based viewing has a few downsides:

• Internet dependency: If your internet goes down, you lose access to live and recorded footage (unless you have local backup).
• Subscription required for full features: Free plans offer basic motion alerts and 7-day cloud storage, but premium features (like person detection) need a paid plan.
• Latency: There’s a slight delay (1–3 seconds) between real-time action and what you see on screen.

Still, for most users, the cloud method is reliable and sufficient. I’ve used it for over two years with minimal issues.

Method 2: Watch Arlo Cameras Using Local Storage (No Cloud Required)

If you’re privacy-conscious or want to avoid monthly fees, local storage is a fantastic option. With a compatible base station (like Arlo SmartHub), you can record directly to a USB drive or microSD card and view footage without relying on the cloud.

Setting Up Local Recording

1. Connect your Arlo SmartHub to your router via Ethernet (recommended for stability).
2. Insert a USB drive (up to 2TB) or microSD card (up to 256GB) into the hub.
3. Log into the Arlo app or web portal.
4. Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your SmartHub] > Storage Settings.
5. Select “Local Storage” and format the drive.
6. Assign cameras to record locally.

Now, when motion is detected, footage saves directly to your drive. No internet needed for recording—just for live viewing.

Accessing Local Footage on Your Computer

Here’s the cool part: you can view local recordings in two ways:

1. Via the Arlo Web Portal (if connected to the same network):
Even with local storage, you can still use my.arlo.com to view live feeds and saved clips—as long as your computer and SmartHub are on the same Wi-Fi network. The system pulls data from the local drive through your home network.

2. Direct USB Drive Access (offline viewing):
Unplug the USB drive from the SmartHub, plug it into your computer, and browse the files. Arlo organizes clips in folders by date and camera. You’ll need a media player that supports H.264 video (like VLC or Windows Media Player).

I tested this during a power outage (with a battery backup for the router). The cameras kept recording locally, and I reviewed the footage the next day by plugging the USB into my laptop. It was a lifesaver after a break-in attempt.

Pros and Cons of Local Storage

Pros	Cons
No monthly subscription fees	Requires compatible SmartHub
Full privacy—no data sent to cloud	Setup is more complex than cloud
Works during internet outages	Physical access needed to retrieve drive
Unlimited retention (depends on drive size)	No remote access if not on same network

For me, the trade-offs are worth it. I use local storage for my backyard and garage cameras, and cloud for the front door (so I can check it from anywhere).

Method 3: Using Third-Party Software (Advanced Option)

If you’re tech-savvy and want more control, third-party tools can enhance your Arlo desktop experience. These apps integrate with Arlo’s API to offer features like continuous recording, advanced analytics, or multi-camera monitoring.

Popular Third-Party Tools

• Blue Iris: A powerful video security suite for Windows. It supports Arlo cameras via RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) or web API. You can create custom dashboards, set up alerts, and record 24/7.
• iSpy: Free and open-source. Connects to Arlo through the web portal and allows desktop-based motion detection and recording.
• Home Assistant: A smart home platform that integrates Arlo for automation (e.g., turn on lights when motion is detected).

How to Use Blue Iris with Arlo (Example)

1. Download and install Blue Iris on your Windows PC.
2. Open Blue Iris and click “+” to add a camera.
3. Select “IP camera” > “RTSP” (if your Arlo supports it) or “Web camera” > “Arlo.”
4. Enter your Arlo login credentials.
5. Configure recording schedules and alerts.

I tried Blue Iris for a month. It was overkill for my needs, but it’s perfect if you have 10+ cameras or want professional-grade monitoring. The learning curve is steep, though—took me a weekend to set up properly.

Important Notes

• Not all Arlo models support RTSP. Check Arlo’s compatibility list before buying.
• Third-party tools may violate Arlo’s terms of service if used improperly. Always follow guidelines.
• These tools often require a powerful computer and extra storage.

For most people, the web portal or local storage is enough. But if you’re building a home security command center, third-party software is worth exploring.

Tips for a Smoother Arlo Desktop Experience

Now that you know how to watch Arlo cameras on your computer, let’s make it even better with a few pro tips.

Optimize Your Internet Connection

Live streaming on a computer uses more bandwidth than the app. To avoid lag:

• Use a wired Ethernet connection for your computer.
• Place your Arlo base station close to your router.
• Reduce video quality in Arlo settings if needed (Settings > My Devices > [Camera] > Video Settings).

I once had a stuttering feed during a thunderstorm. Switching to a lower resolution (720p instead of 1080p) fixed it instantly.

Use Multiple Monitors for Full Coverage

If you have two monitors, open Arlo on one and keep your work on the other. I use this setup to monitor my backyard while editing videos. It’s like having a security guard on duty.

Schedule Recording and Notifications

• Set “Away” mode when you’re not home for full recording.
• Create custom motion zones to reduce false alerts (e.g., ignore swaying trees).
• Use “Do Not Disturb” hours to silence notifications during sleep.

Keep Your Software Updated

Arlo frequently releases firmware updates for cameras and base stations. Check for updates monthly via the app or web portal. Updates often improve stability and add new features.

I missed an update once and had a camera go offline for a week. Now I set a phone reminder to check every 30 days.

Secure Your Account

Your Arlo account is a gateway to your home. Protect it with:

• A strong, unique password
• Two-factor authentication (enable in Settings > Account > Security)
• Regularly review login activity

No one wants a stranger watching their front door. Security is non-negotiable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. Being able to watch your Arlo cameras on your computer isn’t just convenient—it’s empowering. Whether you’re working from home, managing a small business, or just want a better view of your property, desktop viewing gives you control, clarity, and confidence.

I’ve used Arlo for years, and switching to computer viewing was a turning point. I catch deliveries, monitor my dog’s antics, and even review footage with neighbors after suspicious activity—all from my desk. It’s changed how I think about home security.

Yes, there are a few hurdles. Cloud plans cost money. Local storage needs hardware. Third-party tools require tech know-how. But with the right setup, these are minor compared to the benefits.

So go ahead—log into my.arlo.com, plug in that USB drive, or try Blue Iris. Start small, experiment, and find what works for you. Your peace of mind is worth the effort.

And remember: the best security system is one you actually use. With Arlo on your computer, you’re not just watching cameras—you’re staying connected to what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch my Arlo cameras on my computer using the web app?

Yes, you can watch your Arlo cameras on your computer by logging into the Arlo web app in a browser. This lets you view live feeds, recordings, and adjust settings without needing a mobile device.

Is there a desktop application to watch my Arlo cameras on my computer?

Arlo doesn’t offer a standalone desktop app, but the web app (my.arlo.com) works seamlessly on Windows and Mac browsers. For a more app-like experience, you can pin the web page to your taskbar or dock.

How do I access my Arlo camera feeds on my computer for free?

Simply visit the Arlo web app and log in with your account—no extra software or fees are required. Basic features like live viewing and motion alerts are included with all Arlo subscriptions.

Can I watch my Arlo cameras on my computer if I have multiple cameras?

Absolutely. The Arlo web app lets you view up to four cameras at once in a grid layout. You can also switch between different camera groups or locations from the dashboard.

Why can’t I see my Arlo cameras on my computer?

This may happen if you’re logged into the wrong account or have browser issues. Ensure you’re using the correct Arlo login, clear your cache, or try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge).

Does watching my Arlo cameras on my computer require a subscription?

Live viewing is free, but accessing cloud recordings requires an Arlo Secure subscription. Without it, you can still view live feeds and use local storage options like microSD or USB drives.