How to Disable Individual Arlo Cameras for Privacy Control

Yes, you can disable individual Arlo cameras directly through the Arlo app or web interface, giving you precise privacy control without affecting your entire system. This feature is ideal for temporarily muting cameras in sensitive areas while maintaining security elsewhere—simply toggle the camera off, and it stops recording and streaming instantly.

Key Takeaways

• Disable cameras instantly via the Arlo app for quick privacy control.
• Schedule downtime to automatically turn off cameras during specific hours.
• Use geofencing to disable cameras when you’re home for added privacy.
• Check camera status in real-time to confirm disabled settings.
• Re-enable easily with a tap to restore surveillance when needed.

Why You Might Want to Disable an Arlo Camera

Let’s face it—smart home security is amazing, but sometimes you just don’t need a camera watching your every move. Maybe you’re hosting a private dinner, working from your backyard, or simply want to step away from the digital eye for a bit. That’s where disabling individual Arlo cameras comes in handy. Unlike turning off the entire system, which leaves your home unprotected, selectively disabling specific cameras gives you privacy control without sacrificing security.

I remember the first time I realized I needed this feature. I was hosting a small birthday gathering in my backyard. The Arlo camera mounted under the patio eave had been great for spotting delivery drivers and raccoons, but now it felt like Big Brother was watching my friends laugh over cocktails. I didn’t want to turn off all my cameras—what if someone broke into my garage? But I also didn’t want my guests feeling like they were being recorded. That’s when I discovered how to disable individual Arlo cameras. It was a game-changer.

How to Disable Individual Arlo Cameras: Step-by-Step Guide

Using the Arlo App (iOS & Android)

The easiest way to disable a single Arlo camera is through the Arlo mobile app. Here’s how:

• Step 1: Open the Arlo app and log in to your account.
• Step 2: On the home screen, you’ll see all your connected cameras. Tap the camera you want to disable.
• Step 3: Look for the toggle switch labeled “Camera On/Off” or “Status.” Slide it to “Off.”
• Step 4: Confirm the action if prompted. The camera will go offline, stop recording, and won’t send motion alerts.

Pro Tip: You can also disable multiple cameras at once by using the “Select” option at the top of the home screen. Just tap the checkboxes next to the cameras you want to turn off, then hit the power icon.

Via the Arlo Web Portal (Desktop)

If you prefer using a computer, the web portal offers the same functionality:

• Step 1: Go to my.arlo.com and log in.
• Step 2: Click on “Devices” in the left sidebar.
• Step 3: Find the camera you want to disable. Click the three-dot menu (⋮) next to it.
• Step 4: Select “Turn Off.” The camera will immediately stop recording and disconnect from the live feed.

Note: Disabling a camera this way doesn’t delete it from your account. You can re-enable it anytime with just a click.

What Happens When You Disable a Camera?

When you turn off an individual Arlo camera, here’s what actually happens behind the scenes:

• The camera’s live feed stops.
• Motion detection is disabled (no alerts).
• Scheduled recordings (if enabled) won’t occur.
• The camera won’t upload clips to the cloud or local storage.
• The device remains connected to your Wi-Fi but in a low-power “sleep” mode.

One thing to keep in mind: disabling a camera doesn’t erase existing footage. Any clips stored in your library before turning it off remain intact and accessible.

When to Disable Individual Cameras (Real-Life Scenarios)

Hosting Gatherings or Private Events

Let’s say you’re throwing a surprise party for your partner. The last thing you want is the Arlo camera in the living room recording every hug and toast. Instead of disabling your entire security setup, just turn off the cameras in the areas where guests will be. For example:

• Disable the indoor camera in the living room.
• Keep the front door and backyard cameras active to monitor for unexpected visitors.

This way, you maintain perimeter security while respecting the privacy of your guests. After the party, re-enable the camera with one tap.

Working from Home with Sensitive Meetings

Many of us now work remotely, and some meetings (like HR discussions or client calls) require confidentiality. If your home office has an Arlo camera, you can disable it during sensitive calls. For instance:

• Turn off the camera 5 minutes before your Zoom meeting starts.
• Re-enable it once the call ends.

I do this every time I have a performance review. It’s a small step, but it gives me peace of mind knowing my employer isn’t accidentally getting a “behind-the-scenes” view of my home.

Children’s Play Areas or Nurseries

Parents often use Arlo cameras in nurseries to monitor babies. But what about playtime? If your child is having a tantrum or playing in their room, you might not want every moment recorded. Disabling the camera during play hours lets you step back while still keeping other areas (like the front yard) secure.

Tip: Use the “Schedule” feature (covered later) to automatically disable the nursery camera during daytime hours when your child is awake and active.

Advanced Control: Scheduling & Geofencing for Automatic Disabling

Create Custom Schedules for Cameras

Instead of manually turning cameras on and off, you can set up schedules to automate the process. This is perfect for routines, like disabling indoor cameras during work hours or at night.

Here’s how to set a schedule:

• Step 1: In the Arlo app, go to “Settings” > “Schedule.”
• Step 2: Tap “+” to create a new schedule.
• Step 3: Name your schedule (e.g., “Work Hours”).
• Step 4: Set the days and times (e.g., Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM).
• Step 5: Under “Cameras,” select the ones you want to disable during this time.
• Step 6: Save. The cameras will automatically turn off at 9 AM and back on at 5 PM.

Example: I use this for my backyard camera. It disables every evening from 6 PM to 8 PM when my family is outside grilling. No more accidental recordings of me dancing to ’80s music while flipping burgers!

Use Geofencing for Location-Based Disabling

Geofencing uses your smartphone’s location to control your Arlo cameras. When you leave home, it can automatically enable all cameras. When you return, it disables specific ones (like the one in your bedroom).

To set up geofencing:

• Step 1: Go to “Settings” > “Geofencing.”
• Step 2: Enable “Geofencing” and set your home location (the app will use your current GPS).
• Step 3: Under “When I arrive,” choose which cameras to disable (e.g., bedroom, living room).
• Step 4: Under “When I leave,” select cameras to enable (e.g., front door, backyard).

Note: Geofencing requires location permissions on your phone. It works best when your phone’s battery is above 20% and location services are on.

Limitations and Workarounds: What You Should Know

Cameras with Local Storage (Arlo Pro 3, Ultra, etc.)

If your Arlo camera has a built-in SD card slot (like the Pro 3 or Ultra), disabling it via the app won’t stop local recordings. The camera will still save footage to the card, even when “off” in the app. To fully disable local recording:

• Option 1: Remove the SD card physically (not ideal for frequent use).
• Option 2: Go to “Settings” > “Local Storage” and turn off “Record to SD Card.”

This is a common oversight. I once left my Pro 3 camera “disabled” for a week, only to find 500 clips on the SD card when I checked it. Lesson learned!

Smart Home Integrations (Alexa, Google Home)

If you’ve connected your Arlo cameras to Alexa or Google Home, disabling a camera in the Arlo app doesn’t automatically update voice commands. For example:

• Saying “Alexa, show me the living room camera” might still try to display a feed, even if the camera is off.
• The device status in Alexa/Google Home might not sync instantly.

Workaround: Manually update your smart home routines. In the Alexa app, go to “Devices” > “Cameras” and toggle the camera off. Or, say, “Alexa, turn off the living room camera.”

Firmware and App Updates

Occasionally, Arlo pushes updates that change how disabling works. For example, a 2023 update temporarily broke the “Select Multiple Cameras” feature in the app. To stay ahead:

• Enable automatic updates in the Arlo app (Settings > About > App Updates).
• Check the Arlo Community Forum for known issues.

Comparison: Disabling vs. Removing vs. Covering Cameras

When you want privacy, you have three options: disable, remove, or cover the camera. Here’s how they stack up:

Method	Best For	Pros	Cons
Disable via App	Temporary privacy (hours/days)	Quick, reversible, no hardware changes	Camera still draws power; local storage may still record
Remove Camera	Long-term privacy (weeks+)	100% privacy; no accidental recordings	Reinstallation is a hassle; may leave mounting holes
Cover Lens	Instant privacy (e.g., during a meeting)	Fastest option; no app needed	Camera still records (if local storage enabled); looks messy

My recommendation? Use disabling for most scenarios. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and control. Save removal for when you’re renovating or selling your home. And keep a small cloth or lens cap handy for emergencies (like when your in-laws show up unannounced).

Final Thoughts: Balancing Security and Privacy

Disabling individual Arlo cameras isn’t just about privacy—it’s about intelligent control. You’re not turning your back on security; you’re customizing it to fit your life. Whether it’s a dinner party, a work call, or just a quiet afternoon at home, the ability to disable specific cameras gives you the power to decide when and where you’re monitored.

From my experience, the key is to use these tools proactively. Set schedules for routines, use geofencing for daily comings and goings, and don’t forget to double-check local storage settings. And remember: technology should work for you, not the other way around. If your Arlo system feels too intrusive, take a moment to tweak it. A few taps in the app can make all the difference.

So next time you’re feeling watched, don’t unplug everything. Just disable the camera that’s in your way. Your privacy (and your peace of mind) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you disable individual Arlo cameras through the app?

Yes, you can disable individual Arlo cameras using the Arlo app. Navigate to the camera’s settings, select “Device Status,” and toggle it to “Offline” to disable it temporarily while retaining all settings.

How do I disable an Arlo camera for privacy without unplugging it?

To disable an Arlo camera without disconnecting power, use the “Disable Camera” option in the device settings via the Arlo app or web portal. This stops streaming and recording while keeping the camera powered and scheduled rules intact.

Is there a way to disable individual Arlo cameras remotely?

Absolutely. The Arlo app allows remote management, so you can disable individual cameras from anywhere. Log in to your account, select the camera, and toggle its status to disable it instantly for privacy or maintenance.

Can you disable individual Arlo cameras on a schedule?

Yes, Arlo’s scheduling feature lets you disable specific cameras automatically during set times. Use the “Modes” or “Schedules” tab in the app to define when cameras should turn off or go offline for privacy.

What happens when I disable an Arlo camera?

Disabling an Arlo camera stops live streaming, motion detection, and cloud recording, but the device remains powered and retains its settings. It can be re-enabled anytime via the app or web dashboard.

Does disabling an Arlo camera affect other cameras in the system?

No, disabling individual Arlo cameras only affects the selected device. Other cameras in your system continue operating normally, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring where needed while maintaining privacy for the disabled unit.