Can You Remote Enable an Arlo Camera Here Is How

Yes, you can remote enable an Arlo camera using the Arlo app or web portal, allowing you to monitor your property from anywhere with an internet connection. Ensure your camera is set to “Always On” or scheduled mode and connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network for seamless remote access and real-time alerts.

Key Takeaways

• Remote access is possible: Enable via Arlo app or web portal.
• Stable internet is crucial: Ensure strong Wi-Fi for smooth remote viewing.
• Two-factor authentication adds security: Activate it to protect your camera feed.
• Check subscription plans: Some features require Arlo Secure subscription.
• Motion alerts work remotely: Customize notifications in app settings.
• Firmware updates matter: Keep cameras updated for best performance.
• Guest access is shareable: Grant temporary access to trusted users.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and Remote Access Capabilities

Imagine this: you’re on vacation, sipping coffee on a beach, and suddenly you remember you left your front door unlocked. Instead of panicking, you pull out your phone, open an app, and check your front yard in real time. That’s the magic of remote enabling an Arlo camera. Arlo, a leader in smart home security, offers a suite of wireless, Wi-Fi-enabled cameras designed to give you peace of mind—no matter where you are. But can you truly remote enable an Arlo camera with ease? The short answer is yes, but the journey involves a few key steps, settings, and a bit of tech-savviness.

Remote access isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity in today’s world. Whether you’re checking in on pets, monitoring deliveries, or keeping an eye on your property while traveling, being able to view, control, and manage your Arlo camera from anywhere is a game-changer. But how does it work? Is it secure? What if your internet goes down? These are questions I’ve asked myself after setting up my own Arlo system. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned—from the basics of remote enabling to troubleshooting common issues, all while keeping things simple and relatable.

What Makes Arlo Cameras Remote-Ready?

Arlo cameras are built with remote access in mind. From the Arlo Essential Spotlight to the Arlo Pro 5S, most models connect to your home Wi-Fi and sync with the Arlo Secure app (available on iOS and Android). This app is your command center. It lets you live stream, record clips, receive motion alerts, and even speak through the camera’s two-way audio—all from your phone or tablet.

The key to remote access lies in how the camera communicates. Once set up, your Arlo camera connects to the internet via your router. The Arlo app communicates with Arlo’s cloud servers, which relay data between your device and the camera. This means you don’t need to be on the same Wi-Fi network to view your camera. As long as both your phone and the camera have internet, you’re golden.

One thing I love about Arlo is its flexibility. You can use it with or without a subscription. Without a plan, you get live streaming and basic motion alerts. With a paid plan (Arlo Secure or Secure Plus), you unlock features like AI-powered person detection, 30-day video history, and e911 emergency calling—all of which enhance remote usability.

Real-World Example: Checking In While Away

Last summer, I was visiting family in another state. My neighbor texted me about a suspicious person near my garage. Instead of calling the police blindly, I opened the Arlo app, tapped my backyard camera, and saw a raccoon rummaging through trash. Crisis averted! That moment showed me how powerful remote access can be. I didn’t need to be home to assess the situation—just a phone and a stable connection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remote Enable Your Arlo Camera

Now that you understand the “why,” let’s dive into the “how.” Remote enabling your Arlo camera isn’t rocket science, but it does require attention to detail. I’ve broken it down into a clear, step-by-step process based on my own setup and troubleshooting.

Step 1: Set Up Your Arlo Camera

Before you can access your camera remotely, it must be properly set up on your home network. Here’s how:

• Unbox your Arlo camera and charge it fully (if battery-powered).
• Download the Arlo Secure app from the App Store or Google Play.
• Create an Arlo account (or log in if you already have one).
• Tap “Add Device” and follow the in-app instructions to sync your camera with your Wi-Fi.
• Place the camera in your desired location—make sure it’s within Wi-Fi range (ideally within 100 feet of your router).

I made the mistake of placing my first camera too far from the router. The signal was weak, and remote streaming kept buffering. Lesson learned: test Wi-Fi strength at the camera’s location using a free app like WiFi Analyzer.

Step 2: Ensure Stable Internet Connection

Remote access depends on a strong, reliable internet connection. Here are a few tips:

• Use a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band (Arlo cameras don’t support 5 GHz).
• Restart your router if you notice lag or disconnections.
• Consider a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system if your home has dead zones.
• Check your upload speed—Arlo recommends at least 2 Mbps for smooth streaming.

I upgraded to a mesh system (Google Nest Wi-Fi) after struggling with signal drops. Now, my cameras stay connected even in the backyard, which is 30 feet from the main router.

Step 3: Enable Remote Access in the Arlo App

This is the core step to remote enable an Arlo camera:

• Open the Arlo app and select your camera.
• Go to Settings > Device Info > Remote Access.
• Toggle “Remote Access” to ON.
• Confirm your login credentials (this ensures only authorized users can access the feed).

Once enabled, you can access your camera from any device logged into your Arlo account. I tested this by logging in from my tablet at a coffee shop—worked perfectly!

Step 4: Test Remote Viewing

Don’t assume it’s working until you test it. Here’s what to do:

• Leave your home Wi-Fi (e.g., go to a friend’s house or use mobile data).
• Open the Arlo app and tap your camera.
• Check if the live feed loads within 10–15 seconds.
• Try recording a clip or enabling two-way audio.

My first test failed because my phone was still connected to a guest Wi-Fi network that blocked certain ports. Switching to mobile data solved it instantly.

Pro Tip: Use Arlo’s “Away Mode”

When you’re traveling, enable “Away Mode” in the app. This turns on motion alerts, schedules recording, and sends push notifications to your phone. It’s like having a virtual security guard.

Troubleshooting Common Remote Access Issues

Even with perfect setup, things can go wrong. I’ve faced my fair share of glitches—here’s how I fixed them (and what you can do too).

Issue 1: Camera Shows “Offline” in the App

This is the most common problem. Here’s what to check:

• Wi-Fi connection: Is the camera still connected? Restart it by holding the sync button for 10 seconds.
• Router issues: Power cycle your router and modem. Wait 2 minutes before turning them back on.
• Firmware updates: Outdated software can cause disconnections. Check for updates in the app under Settings > Device Info > Firmware.
• Power source: For wired models, ensure the adapter is plugged in. For battery models, check charge level.

One time, my camera went offline during a storm. A power surge fried the adapter. I switched to a surge protector—problem solved.

Issue 2: Slow or Buffering Stream

Frustrating, right? Try these fixes:

• Lower the video quality in Settings > Video Quality (e.g., switch from “HD” to “Standard”).
• Reduce motion detection sensitivity to avoid constant recording.
• Close background apps on your phone that might be using bandwidth.
• Upgrade your internet plan if your upload speed is below 2 Mbps.

I once streamed in 4K during peak hours (6–9 PM), and the feed kept freezing. Switching to “Standard” made it smooth again.

Issue 3: App Crashes or Won’t Load

• Update the Arlo app to the latest version.
• Clear the app’s cache (on Android: Settings > Apps > Arlo > Storage > Clear Cache).
• Reinstall the app if crashes persist.
• Check if your phone’s OS is compatible (Arlo supports iOS 14+ and Android 8.0+).

My old Android phone couldn’t run the latest Arlo update. Upgrading my device fixed the app issues.

Issue 4: Remote Access Disabled Automatically

This can happen after a firmware update. Always check:

• Log into the app and verify that “Remote Access” is still ON.
• Ensure your Arlo account hasn’t been logged out.
• Check for two-factor authentication (2FA) prompts—sometimes they block access.

After a recent update, I had to re-enable 2FA. Once I did, remote access worked again.

Security and Privacy When Remote Enabling Your Arlo Camera

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Is it safe to remote enable an Arlo camera? The answer is yes—if you take the right precautions. I’ve learned that convenience shouldn’t come at the cost of privacy.

How Arlo Protects Your Data

Arlo uses industry-standard encryption:

• End-to-end encryption (E2EE): Available with Arlo Secure plans. Your video feed is encrypted from the camera to your phone—no one, not even Arlo, can access it.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your account. I use an authenticator app (Google Authenticator) instead of SMS.
• Secure cloud storage: Videos are stored in encrypted servers. Even if someone hacks Arlo’s servers, they can’t view your footage.

I enabled E2EE after hearing about a friend’s camera being hacked. Now, I sleep better knowing my footage is truly private.

Best Practices for Secure Remote Access

• Use a strong password: Combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid “123456” or “password.”
• Enable 2FA: It’s free and takes 2 minutes to set up.
• Limit shared access: Only invite trusted family members. Remove access if someone leaves the household.
• Regularly update firmware: Security patches are often included in updates.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi: If you must use it, enable a VPN to encrypt your connection.

One mistake I made was sharing my login with my ex. I changed my password and revoked their access immediately. Lesson: treat your Arlo account like your email or bank login.

What If Someone Hacks Your Camera?

It’s rare but possible. If it happens:

• Change your Arlo password immediately.
• Check for unfamiliar devices in Settings > Account > Devices and remove them.
• Contact Arlo Support for help.
• Consider a local-only storage option (e.g., Arlo SmartHub with microSD card) to reduce cloud dependency.

I keep a microSD card in my Arlo base station as a backup. It’s not as convenient as the cloud, but it’s safer.

Advanced Features to Enhance Remote Control

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can take remote access to the next level. These features have made my Arlo experience even better.

1. Smart Home Integration

Arlo works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. I use Alexa to:

• Say, “Alexa, show me the front door camera” on my Echo Show.
• Automatically turn on lights when motion is detected (using IFTTT).
• Arm/disarm my system with voice commands.

My favorite trick: when I say, “Alexa, I’m leaving,” it arms my cameras and turns off lights. It feels like living in the future!

2. Custom Activity Zones

Not all motion is important. With activity zones, you can tell your camera to ignore trees, cars, or your neighbor’s yard. I created a zone focused on my front porch to catch deliveries and visitors—no more alerts from passing squirrels.

3. Geofencing for Automatic Arming

Arlo’s geofencing uses your phone’s location to arm/disarm cameras. When I leave home, my cameras automatically turn on. When I return, they turn off. It’s seamless—no manual toggling.

4. Cloud vs. Local Storage Options

Here’s a quick comparison:

Storage Type	Pros	Cons
Cloud (Arlo Secure Plan)	Accessible from anywhere, AI detection, 30-day history	Monthly fee, requires internet
Local (microSD card)	No subscription, encrypted, works offline	No remote playback, limited storage

I use both: cloud for remote access and local for privacy-sensitive areas (like inside my home).

Final Thoughts: Is Remote Enabling Worth It?

After months of using my Arlo cameras remotely, I can confidently say: yes, it’s absolutely worth it. The ability to check in from anywhere, receive instant alerts, and even talk to visitors (or scare off raccoons) has transformed how I think about home security. Remote enabling isn’t just a feature—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

But it’s not perfect. You need a reliable internet connection, a bit of patience for setup, and ongoing attention to security. The good news? Arlo makes it easier than ever. With clear app instructions, strong encryption, and smart integrations, you don’t need to be a tech genius to remote enable an Arlo camera.

My advice? Start simple. Set up one camera, test remote access, and gradually add more as you get comfortable. Don’t rush into subscriptions unless you need AI detection or extended video history. And always, always enable two-factor authentication—it’s a small step that makes a huge difference.

At the end of the day, remote access is about peace of mind. Whether you’re across town or across the world, knowing your home is safe—and being able to prove it with a live feed—is priceless. So go ahead, enable that camera, and enjoy the freedom of smart security. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you remote enable an Arlo camera from your phone?

Yes, you can remote enable an Arlo camera using the Arlo app on your smartphone. Simply log in to your account, select the camera, and toggle it on or off from anywhere with an internet connection.

How do I enable my Arlo camera remotely if it’s offline?

If your Arlo camera is offline, first check your Wi-Fi and base station connection. Once connectivity is restored, you can remote enable the Arlo camera via the app under the device settings.

Is remote enabling an Arlo camera secure?

Yes, Arlo uses encrypted connections for remote access, ensuring secure remote enabling and control. Always use strong passwords and two-factor authentication for added protection.

Can you remote enable an Arlo camera without the app?

No, the Arlo app or web portal is required to remote enable an Arlo camera. These platforms provide the necessary interface to manage device status and settings securely.

Why can’t I remote enable my Arlo camera even with internet access?

This could be due to outdated app firmware, account sync issues, or camera power problems. Update the app, restart the camera, and ensure it’s linked to your account correctly.

Does remote enabling an Arlo camera use data?

Yes, remote enabling an Arlo camera uses minimal data for commands, but live streaming or recordings consume more. Using Wi-Fi instead of cellular data is recommended to reduce usage.