Troubleshooting Why You Cant Go Live With Arlo Cameras

If your Arlo camera won’t go live, the most common culprit is a weak or unstable internet connection—ensure your base station or camera has strong signal strength and is within range. Check for firmware updates, restart your devices, and verify that the Arlo app and subscription plan support live streaming. Persistent issues may require re-syncing the camera or contacting Arlo support to rule out hardware or account-related problems.

Key Takeaways

• Check internet connection: Ensure stable Wi-Fi for live streaming.
• Update firmware regularly: Outdated software causes live feed failures.
• Verify camera power: Confirm the camera is properly powered on.
• Restart devices: Reboot cameras and router to resolve glitches.
• Review Arlo app settings: Incorrect permissions block live access.
• Contact support: Persistent issues may need Arlo’s technical assistance.

Understanding the Frustration: Why You Can’t Go Live With Arlo Cameras

Imagine this: You’re at work, and you want to check in on your home, maybe see if the dog is behaving or if the kids are home from school. You open the Arlo app, tap on your camera, and… nothing. The screen stays blank. The “Live” button just won’t work. You try again, and again, but still no live feed. Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, you’re not alone. Many Arlo users have faced the same issue—where they just can’t go live with Arlo cameras. It’s frustrating, especially when you rely on these cameras for peace of mind. Whether it’s a sudden disconnection, a frozen screen, or the app just not responding, the root cause can vary. But the good news? Most of these issues are fixable with the right troubleshooting steps.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common reasons why your Arlo cameras won’t go live, along with practical, easy-to-follow solutions. I’ve been there—staring at a blank screen, wondering if my camera died or if the app betrayed me. Over time, I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid the same mistakes. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and get your cameras back to working as they should.

Common Reasons Why You Can’t Go Live With Arlo Cameras

Wi-Fi Signal Weakness or Instability

Let’s start with the basics. Your Arlo camera relies on a stable Wi-Fi connection to stream live video to your phone or tablet. If the signal is weak or fluctuating, the live feed will either lag, freeze, or not load at all. This is especially common with outdoor cameras placed far from your router.

For example, I once had an Arlo Pro 3 mounted at the back of my yard, about 50 feet from the router. On sunny days, it worked fine. But as soon as the weather turned rainy, the signal dropped, and I couldn’t go live with Arlo cameras for hours. The issue? The rain weakened the already marginal signal strength.

Tips to improve Wi-Fi signal:

• Move your router closer to the camera (if possible).
• Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system to boost coverage.
• Check if your camera is connected to the 2.4 GHz band (Arlo cameras don’t support 5 GHz).
• Reduce interference from other devices (microwaves, cordless phones, etc.).

Outdated App or Firmware

Arlo regularly releases updates to fix bugs and improve performance. If your app or camera firmware is outdated, it can cause compatibility issues. For instance, after a recent iOS update, my Arlo app wouldn’t load any live feeds. A quick check revealed the app hadn’t been updated in weeks.

Similarly, if your camera’s firmware is old, it might not communicate properly with the latest version of the app. This is a classic case of “it worked yesterday, but not today.”

What you can do:

• Open your phone’s app store and check for Arlo app updates.
• In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Firmware Update to check for camera updates.
• Enable automatic updates if available (this prevents future issues).

Camera or Base Station Power Issues

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the network or software—it’s with power. Arlo cameras (especially battery-powered ones) can go into a low-power state, or the base station might be unplugged or malfunctioning. I’ve had a camera stop responding entirely after its battery drained completely, even though I thought it was charging.

Also, if your Arlo base station (like the SmartHub or Arlo Bridge) loses power, all connected cameras will go offline. This is a common oversight—people blame the camera, but the real culprit is the base station.

Quick fixes:

• Check if the camera’s battery is charged. Recharge or replace if needed.
• Verify the base station is plugged in and the power light is on.
• Restart both the camera and base station by unplugging them for 10 seconds, then plugging back in.

Network and Connectivity: The Invisible Culprits

Router or ISP Issues

Your home network is the backbone of your Arlo setup. If your router is overloaded, restarting frequently, or your internet provider is having outages, your cameras won’t stream live video. I once had a 24-hour outage where I couldn’t go live with Arlo cameras—not because of the cameras, but because my ISP was down due to a storm.

Other router-related issues include:

• Too many devices connected, causing bandwidth congestion.
• Router firmware bugs or security settings blocking Arlo traffic.
• Firewall or port forwarding misconfigurations (common with advanced users).

How to troubleshoot:

• Restart your router and modem. Wait 2–3 minutes before testing the Arlo app.
• Check if other devices (like smart TVs or laptops) are online. If not, the issue is likely your internet.
• Log into your router and ensure UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) is enabled. Arlo uses this for seamless connectivity.
• Contact your ISP if the problem persists across all devices.

Arlo Server Outages

Here’s a less obvious but important point: Arlo’s cloud servers might be down. When this happens, no amount of local troubleshooting will fix the issue—your camera can be perfectly fine, but you still can’t go live because the app can’t reach Arlo’s servers.

I’ve experienced this during major holidays when Arlo’s servers were overloaded. The app would show “Connecting…” for minutes, then time out. A quick check on downdetector.com confirmed others were having the same problem.

What to do during an outage:

• Check Arlo’s official social media (Twitter/X) for service updates.
• Visit status.arlo.com (if available) for real-time status.
• Wait it out—most outages last 30 minutes to a few hours.

Local Network Conflicts

Sometimes, your home network has hidden conflicts. For example:

• Your camera’s IP address is in conflict with another device.
• Your router’s DHCP settings are misconfigured.
• Your camera is connected to a guest network instead of the main one.

A friend once had this issue. Her Arlo camera was on a separate VLAN (a network partition), which blocked it from communicating with the Arlo base station. The fix? Moving the camera to the main network.

Pro tip: Use your router’s admin panel to check connected devices. Look for your Arlo camera’s MAC address and ensure it’s on the correct network and has a stable IP.

App-Specific Problems and Fixes

App Cache and Data Corruption

Over time, the Arlo app can accumulate corrupted cache or data, leading to crashes, freezes, or failed live streams. This is especially common if you’ve had the app for years or frequently switch between multiple devices.

For example, I once had the app freeze every time I tapped “Live View.” Clearing the app’s cache and data (on Android) or deleting and reinstalling (on iOS) fixed it instantly.

Steps to clear app data:

• Android: Settings > Apps > Arlo > Storage > Clear Cache + Clear Data.
• iOS: Delete the app, restart your phone, then reinstall from the App Store.

Account and Login Issues

Sometimes, the problem isn’t the camera—it’s your account. If your Arlo account is locked, expired, or has syncing issues, you won’t be able to access live feeds. I’ve seen users get locked out after too many failed login attempts or after changing their password.

Other account-related issues:

• Subscription expired (Arlo requires an active plan for cloud storage and some features).
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) causing login delays.
• Account linked to a different email or region.

How to resolve:

• Reset your password via the “Forgot Password” link on the login screen.
• Check your subscription status in the app under Settings > Subscription.
• Log out and back in to refresh the session.

Device Compatibility and OS Bugs

Not all phones and tablets play nicely with the Arlo app. Older devices, outdated operating systems, or custom ROMs can cause compatibility issues. I once tried using the Arlo app on a five-year-old Android tablet—it crashed every time I tried to go live.

Tips to ensure compatibility:

• Use a device that meets Arlo’s minimum requirements (e.g., iOS 13+, Android 8+).
• Update your phone’s OS to the latest version.
• Avoid beta OS versions—they often have bugs that break third-party apps.

Hardware and Environmental Factors

Camera Placement and Obstructions

Where you place your Arlo camera matters. Thick walls, metal objects, or dense foliage can block Wi-Fi signals. I once had a camera mounted under a metal awning—great for weather protection, but terrible for Wi-Fi. The live feed would drop every time it rained, even though the camera was dry.

Best practices for placement:

• Mount cameras within 30–40 feet of the router or base station.
• Avoid metal, concrete, or water features near the camera’s Wi-Fi antenna.
• Use the Arlo app’s “Signal Strength” tool (under device settings) to find the optimal spot.

Weather and Temperature Extremes

Arlo cameras are weather-resistant, but extreme cold or heat can affect performance. In winter, batteries drain faster, and in summer, overheating can cause the camera to shut down temporarily. I’ve had a camera stop working during a heatwave when the internal temperature hit 120°F.

How to protect your camera:

• For cold climates: Use Arlo’s solar panel to keep batteries charged.
• For hot climates: Provide shade or ventilation to prevent overheating.
• Avoid placing cameras in direct sunlight for extended periods.

Physical Damage or Tampering

Let’s not forget the obvious: if your camera is damaged, stolen, or tampered with, it won’t work. A friend once had a camera knocked down by a raccoon—it still powered on, but the lens was cracked, and the Wi-Fi antenna was bent.

Quick checks:

• Inspect the camera for visible damage.
• Check if the mounting bracket is secure.
• Ensure the lens is clean and unobstructed.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Now that we’ve covered the common causes, here’s a clear, step-by-step process to fix the issue when you can’t go live with Arlo cameras.

Step	Action	Expected Outcome
1	Restart the Arlo app and your phone/tablet.	Resolves temporary app glitches.
2	Check if the camera is powered and the base station is on.	Confirms hardware is operational.
3	Verify Wi-Fi signal strength (use app’s signal tool).	Identifies weak or unstable connection.
4	Update the Arlo app and camera firmware.	Fixes compatibility and bug issues.
5	Restart router, modem, base station, and camera.	Refreshes network and device connections.
6	Check for Arlo server outages (downdetector.com).	Confirms if issue is on Arlo’s end.
7	Clear app cache or reinstall the app.	Resolves app corruption.
8	Contact Arlo support if all else fails.	Escalates to technical assistance.

Follow these steps in order. Most issues are resolved by Step 5. If not, you’ll have a clear path to diagnose and fix the problem.

For example, last month, I couldn’t go live with my Arlo Ultra 2. I followed this guide:

• Restarted the app—no luck.
• Checked the base station—power light was on.
• Signal strength showed “Poor”—moved the camera closer to the router.
• Updated the app—fixed the issue.

Total time: 12 minutes. Problem solved.

Conclusion: Don’t Give Up on Your Arlo Cameras

Facing a “can’t go live with Arlo cameras” error is frustrating, but it’s rarely a sign that your camera is broken. More often than not, it’s a solvable issue—whether it’s a weak Wi-Fi signal, an outdated app, or a simple power glitch. The key is to stay calm, methodically work through the troubleshooting steps, and remember that these hiccups are part of the smart home journey.

Think of it like a car that won’t start. You don’t assume the engine is blown—you check the battery, the fuel, the spark plugs. Your Arlo camera is no different. With the right approach, you’ll get it back up and running in no time.

So next time you’re stuck with a blank screen, don’t panic. Use this guide as your go-to resource. Test your Wi-Fi, update your software, check your power, and restart everything. Most importantly, be patient. Smart home tech isn’t perfect, but with a little know-how, you can keep your Arlo cameras working smoothly—and your peace of mind intact.

And remember: you’re not alone. Thousands of Arlo users face the same challenges every day. The solution is often simpler than you think. Keep troubleshooting, keep learning, and keep watching what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I go live with my Arlo camera even though it’s connected to Wi-Fi?

This issue often occurs due to unstable Wi-Fi signals, incorrect network settings, or router firewall restrictions. Ensure your camera is within range of the router and that your network allows two-way communication for the Arlo app. Restarting your router and camera may also help resolve connectivity problems.

How do I fix the “Can’t Go Live” error on my Arlo camera?

First, check if your Arlo camera firmware and app are up-to-date. Then, verify the camera’s battery level (if wireless) and ensure it’s properly synced to the base station or Wi-Fi. Re-syncing the camera or rebooting the system often resolves the “can’t go live with Arlo cameras” issue.

Can my Arlo camera’s location affect its ability to go live?

Yes, physical obstructions, distance from the router, or interference from other devices can weaken the signal, preventing live streaming. Try relocating the camera closer to your router or removing obstacles like metal objects or thick walls to improve connectivity.

Does Arlo’s subscription plan affect live streaming?

While live streaming is available on all Arlo plans, some advanced features like extended live views or high-resolution streaming require a paid subscription. If you’re on the free plan, ensure you’re not exceeding the allowed live view duration (typically 3-5 minutes).

Why does my Arlo camera go live on Wi-Fi but not cellular data?

This could be due to data-saving settings on your phone or carrier restrictions. Disable low-data mode in your phone settings and ensure the Arlo app has permission to use cellular data. Also, confirm your plan includes enough high-speed data for video streaming.

How do I troubleshoot Arlo base station issues that prevent going live?

If your Arlo base station has a solid amber light or isn’t responding, it may not be communicating with the cameras. Power cycle the base station, check Ethernet connections, and ensure it’s connected to a 2.4 GHz network. A reset may be necessary if problems persist.