Can You Turn Off Arlo Cameras Here Is How To Do It

Yes, you can turn off Arlo cameras using the Arlo app or by physically disconnecting power—ideal for privacy or conserving battery life. Simply toggle the camera status to “Off” in the app’s device settings, or unplug the camera or remove its batteries for a complete shutdown. This quick control ensures flexibility without compromising your security setup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can turn off Arlo cameras via the app’s device settings.
• Use the “Disable” option to temporarily stop recording without unpairing.
• Schedule camera downtime with custom modes for privacy or energy savings.
• Physical covers work too if you prefer blocking the lens manually.
• Check subscription impact—disabled cameras may still use cloud storage.
• Re-enable easily anytime by toggling the camera back on in the app.

Can You Turn Off Arlo Cameras? Here Is How To Do It

Let’s be honest: sometimes, even the best home security tech feels a little too good. You love your Arlo cameras for keeping an eye on your front porch, backyard, or even your mischievous dog. But there are moments when you just want them to take a break. Maybe you’re hosting a private event, testing a new outdoor setup, or simply want to enjoy a quiet evening without the red recording light staring at you. So, you’re probably asking yourself: Can you turn off Arlo cameras? The short answer? Yes, absolutely. But the how part? That’s where things get interesting.

Over the past few years, I’ve installed, tweaked, and troubleshot more Arlo setups than I can count. From the sleek Arlo Pro 4 to the budget-friendly Arlo Essential, I’ve seen how each model handles power, privacy, and user control. What I’ve learned? Turning off an Arlo camera isn’t just about hitting a switch. It’s about understanding your needs, your setup, and the tools Arlo gives you to balance security with convenience. Whether you’re a new owner or a long-time user, this guide will walk you through every option—from simple one-off shutdowns to full automation. No fluff, no hype. Just real, practical advice to help you take control of your cameras when you need to.

Understanding Your Arlo Camera’s Power and Privacy Features

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Arlo cameras are designed to be always-on, always-watching. That’s great for security, but it can feel intrusive at times. The good news? Arlo knows this and gives you several ways to pause, power down, or limit your camera’s activity. The method you choose depends on your goals: temporary privacy, battery conservation, or long-term disuse.

What “Turning Off” Actually Means

First, let’s clarify what we mean by “turning off.” With Arlo, you have a few options:

• Powering down completely (camera stops recording, motion detection off)
• Pausing motion alerts (camera stays on but won’t notify you of movement)
• Disabling recording (camera sees motion but won’t save clips)
• Turning off the LED lights (for privacy or stealth mode)

Each option serves a different purpose. For example, if you’re having a backyard BBQ, you might just want to disable motion alerts and turn off the LED. But if you’re going on vacation and want to save battery, you’d power down the camera entirely.

Hardware vs. Software Control

Arlo cameras come in two main types: battery-powered (like Arlo Pro 5S, Arlo Essential) and wired (like Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight). Battery models are easier to physically turn off—just remove the battery. Wired models, however, rely on software settings or smart home integrations. The Arlo app is your central hub for most control, but some features (like LED settings) vary by model. For instance, the Arlo Essential has a physical button to turn off the camera, while the Pro 4 requires app-based settings.

Why You Might Want to Turn Off Your Camera

Here are a few real-life scenarios where turning off your Arlo camera makes sense:

• Private gatherings: You don’t want every guest’s face recorded.
• Home renovations: Dust, debris, and workers trigger constant alerts.
• Battery conservation: Extend battery life during long trips.
• Testing new placements: Avoid false recordings while adjusting angles.
• Personal privacy: Sometimes, you just want a camera-free zone.

I once had a client who kept getting motion alerts from her own cat. She turned off the camera for two weeks while training the cat with a motion-activated spray. Worked like a charm!

How to Turn Off Arlo Cameras Using the App (Step-by-Step)

The Arlo app is the most user-friendly way to control your cameras. Whether you’re on iOS or Android, the steps are nearly identical. Here’s how to do it—no tech degree required.

Disabling Motion Alerts (Quick Privacy)

This is the fastest way to “turn off” your camera without losing power. Great for temporary privacy.

1. Open the Arlo app and tap the camera you want to adjust.
2. Tap the bell icon (motion alert toggle) to turn it off. It’ll turn gray.
3. To re-enable, tap the bell again.

Pro tip: You can also do this from the home screen by swiping left on the camera and tapping “Disable Motion Alerts.” I use this every time I’m grilling in the backyard—no more “motion detected” pings from the smoke!

Pausing Recording (Stop Saving Clips)

If you want the camera to stay on but not record, here’s how:

1. Go to Settings > Camera > Recording Settings.
2. Toggle off Record on Motion.
3. To turn it back on, just toggle it on again.

This is perfect for testing. I once used it while adjusting a camera angle—I could see the live feed but didn’t clutter my library with 20 test clips.

Turning Off the LED Lights (Stealth Mode)

The red or white LED on Arlo cameras can be distracting. Here’s how to dim it:

1. Go to Settings > Camera > Device Utilities.
2. Select LED Settings.
3. Toggle off Status LED or Spotlight (if applicable).

Note: Some models (like Arlo Pro 4) let you dim the LED but not turn it off completely. Others (like Arlo Essential) have a physical switch for the LED.

Full Power-Down (For Battery Cameras)

To completely turn off a battery-powered Arlo:

1. Open the camera’s battery compartment (usually with a latch).
2. Remove the battery.
3. To turn it back on, reinsert the battery and wait for it to reconnect.

Warning: This will reset the camera’s connection. It may take 1–2 minutes to reconnect to Wi-Fi after reinserting the battery.

Using Arlo SmartHubs and Base Stations for Advanced Control

If you have an Arlo system with a SmartHub or base station (like Arlo Pro 3, Ultra, or Q), you get extra control options. These devices act as a central hub, giving you more flexibility for turning off cameras—especially in multi-camera setups.

Turning Off All Cameras at Once

Need to disable every camera in your system? Here’s how:

1. Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > Base Station/SmartHub.
2. Tap Arm/Disarm System.
3. Select Disarm to turn off all cameras connected to the hub.

This is a lifesaver for vacations. I used it last summer when I was away for two weeks. No alerts, no recordings—just peace of mind that my system was “sleeping.”

Using Modes for Scheduled Shutdowns

Arlo’s “Modes” feature lets you automate camera activity. For example, create a “Sleep Mode” that turns off all cameras at 10 PM and re-enables them at 7 AM.

1. Go to Settings > Modes.
2. Tap + to create a new mode (e.g., “Sleep”).
3. Under “Cameras,” toggle off all cameras.
4. Set a schedule (e.g., 10 PM–7 AM) or trigger it manually.

Bonus: You can also set modes to only disable certain cameras. I have a “Backyard Only” mode for when I’m gardening—front door stays active, but the backyard camera is off.

Smart Home Integrations (Alexa, Google, IFTTT)

If you use Alexa or Google Assistant, you can control Arlo cameras with voice commands:

• “Alexa, turn off my backyard camera.”
• “Hey Google, disable Arlo motion alerts.”

For advanced users, IFTTT (If This Then That) lets you create custom automations. For example: “When I turn on my ‘Movie Night’ scene, disable all Arlo cameras.”

Physical and Manual Methods to Power Down Arlo Cameras

Sometimes, the app isn’t enough. Maybe your Wi-Fi is down, or you need a quick, physical solution. Here are ways to turn off Arlo cameras without relying on software.

Removing the Battery (Battery-Powered Models)

The most reliable way to turn off a battery-powered Arlo:

1. Press the release button on the camera’s base.
2. Slide the battery compartment open.
3. Pull out the battery.

Pros: 100% effective, no false alerts.
Cons: Takes time to reinsert; camera won’t reconnect until the battery is back in.

I keep spare batteries for my Arlo Essential. That way, I can “turn off” a camera by swapping in a dead battery, then recharge the other one.

Unplugging Wired Cameras

For wired models (like Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight), simply unplug the power adapter.
Note: Some wired cameras (e.g., Arlo Q) have a power button—press and hold for 5 seconds to shut down.

Using the Physical Button (Arlo Essential Only)

The Arlo Essential has a unique feature: a physical button on the camera. Press and hold it for 3 seconds to turn off the camera. Press it again to turn it back on.
Why it’s great: No app needed. Perfect for guests who want privacy without tech hassle.

Covering the Camera Lens (Last Resort)

If you can’t power down, cover the lens with tape or a lens cap.
Warning: This doesn’t disable motion detection—the camera will still “see” darkness and trigger alerts. Use only as a temporary fix.

Automating Camera Shutdowns with Schedules and Geofencing

Why turn off cameras manually when you can automate it? Arlo’s scheduling and geofencing tools let you create rules for when cameras should (and shouldn’t) be active.

Creating a Daily Schedule

Set cameras to turn off during specific hours:

1. Go to Settings > Modes.
2. Create a new mode (e.g., “Night Mode”).
3. Under “Schedule,” set the time (e.g., 11 PM–6 AM).
4. Toggle off the cameras you want disabled during that time.

I use this for my front porch camera. It’s off from midnight to 5 AM—no more alerts from raccoons!

Geofencing: Cameras Turn Off When You’re Home

Geofencing uses your phone’s location to control cameras. When you arrive home, cameras turn off. When you leave, they turn on.

1. Go to Settings > Geofencing.
2. Enable geofencing and set your home location.
3. Choose which cameras to disable when you’re home.

Pro tip: This only works if your phone’s location services are on. I keep mine on “Always” for Arlo, but “While Using” works too.

IFTTT and Smart Home Rules

For advanced automation, use IFTTT or your smart home platform:

• “When I turn on my ‘Party’ scene, disable all Arlo cameras.”
• “When my Ring doorbell detects motion, turn on the Arlo spotlight.”

IFTTT is free and integrates with Alexa, Google, and Apple Home. It’s a game-changer for custom control.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even simple tasks can go wrong. Here are pitfalls I’ve seen (and made myself)—and how to avoid them.

Forgetting to Re-Enable Cameras

You turn off a camera for a BBQ… then forget to turn it back on. Next thing you know, your porch is unmonitored for days.
Solution: Set a reminder on your phone. Or use a mode with a time limit (e.g., “BBQ Mode” disables for 4 hours).

Overusing Battery Removal

Constantly removing batteries wears out the contacts and can damage the camera.
Solution: Use app-based controls when possible. Reserve battery removal for long-term shutdowns.

Ignoring LED Settings

You disable motion alerts but leave the LED on. Now you have a camera that’s “off” but still glowing red—annoying at night.
Solution: Always check LED settings when turning off cameras.

Geofencing Glitches

Geofencing sometimes fails if your phone’s location is inaccurate.
Solution: Test it first. Walk in and out of your geofence zone to ensure cameras respond correctly.

Method	Best For	Time to Re-Enable	Notes
Disable Motion Alerts	Temporary privacy	Instant	Camera stays on; no recordings
Remove Battery	Long-term shutdown	1–2 minutes	Camera resets; reconnects to Wi-Fi
Use Modes	Scheduling	Instant	Great for routines
Geofencing	Home/away automation	1–2 minutes	Requires phone location

Turning off your Arlo cameras doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing security. It’s about smart security—knowing when to watch and when to step back. Whether you’re using the app, a physical button, or automation, Arlo gives you the tools to control your privacy on your terms.

Remember: the best security setup is one that fits your life. If you’re hosting a party, testing a new camera angle, or just want a break from alerts, now you know exactly how to do it. No more fumbling with settings or guessing if it worked. Just simple, effective control—so you can enjoy your home, with or without the cameras watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you turn off Arlo cameras temporarily?

Yes, you can turn off Arlo cameras temporarily using the “Snooze” feature in the Arlo app. This disables motion detection and recording for a set period without unplugging the device.

How do I disable my Arlo camera for privacy?

To disable your Arlo camera for privacy, open the Arlo app, select the camera, and toggle the “Camera On/Off” switch to Off. This stops all recording and streaming while keeping the camera powered.

Is there a way to schedule when Arlo cameras turn off?

Absolutely! Use the “Modes” feature in the Arlo app to create custom schedules that automatically turn off your Arlo cameras during specific times, like when you’re home or sleeping.

Can you turn off Arlo cameras remotely?

Yes, you can turn off Arlo cameras remotely via the Arlo app from any location. Simply log in, select the camera, and disable it with the on-screen power toggle.

What happens when I turn off my Arlo camera?

When you turn off your Arlo camera, it stops recording, streaming, and detecting motion. However, it remains connected to your Wi-Fi network and can be turned back on instantly.

Can I turn off Arlo cameras without the app?

Yes, some Arlo models allow you to disable cameras using the physical power button or by unplugging them. However, the app offers more control, including scheduling and remote access.