Do Arlo Cameras Work Without Internet A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo cameras can work without internet by using local storage options like microSD cards or a base station with built-in storage, allowing continuous recording and live viewing via a direct Wi-Fi connection. However, advanced features like cloud storage, remote access, and real-time alerts require an internet connection, so choosing the right setup depends on your security needs and connectivity.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras work offline: Record locally without internet using microSD or base station storage.
• No live alerts offline: Push notifications require Wi-Fi or cellular backup to function.
• Motion detection continues: Cameras detect activity and record, but cloud sync needs internet.
• Use base stations: Arlo Pro/Ultra models support local storage via hub for uninterrupted recording.
• Download footage offline: Retrieve videos via USB or microSD when internet is unavailable.
• Two-way audio limited: Real-time talk requires internet; pre-recorded messages work offline.
• Plan for outages: Pair battery-powered Arlo cams with local storage for full offline reliability.

Do Arlo Cameras Work Without Internet? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’ve installed your shiny new Arlo camera system to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. You’ve set it up, connected it to Wi-Fi, and everything’s working perfectly. But then, a storm rolls in, your power flickers, and—oh no—your internet goes down. Panic sets in. Are your cameras still recording? Can you access footage? Is your home still protected?

This is a common concern for homeowners relying on smart security systems. The good news? Arlo cameras are designed with flexibility in mind. While many features depend on internet connectivity, Arlo cameras do work without internet in several key ways. Whether you’re facing a temporary outage, living in a remote area, or simply prefer offline security, understanding how your Arlo system operates offline can save you from unnecessary stress. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what works, what doesn’t, and how to make the most of your Arlo cameras—with or without Wi-Fi.

How Arlo Cameras Store Footage Without Internet

One of the most critical questions people ask is: Can my Arlo camera still record when the internet is down? The answer is a resounding yes—but with a few caveats. Arlo’s offline functionality hinges on local storage options, which allow your cameras to continue recording even when they can’t connect to the cloud or your phone.

Local Storage Options: microSD Cards and Base Stations

Most Arlo cameras—especially the Pro, Ultra, and Essential series—support microSD card storage. This means you can insert a memory card directly into the camera or, in some cases, into the Arlo SmartHub or base station. When the internet is down, the camera will automatically switch to recording onto the card instead of uploading to the cloud.

For example, let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 4 with a 64GB microSD card. During a storm that knocks out your Wi-Fi, the camera keeps recording motion events and stores them locally. Once the internet returns, you can review the footage directly from the card using the Arlo app or by removing the card and reading it on a computer.

Some models, like the Arlo Ultra 2, require a SmartHub to use microSD storage. The SmartHub acts as a local hub, managing communication between cameras and storing footage on its internal or external memory. This is especially useful if you have multiple cameras, as it centralizes offline storage.

How Long Can You Record Offline?

The recording duration depends on:

• microSD card capacity (32GB, 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB)
• Video quality settings (720p, 1080p, 2K, or 4K)
• Motion detection frequency (how often the camera triggers)

For instance, a 64GB card recording 1080p video with moderate motion activity might store 7–10 days of footage. In 4K, that drops to 3–5 days. You can extend this by lowering the resolution or using motion zones to reduce false triggers.

Pro Tip: Set Up Local Storage in Advance

Don’t wait for an outage to realize you haven’t set up offline storage. Here’s how to prepare:

• Insert a high-quality, high-speed microSD card (Class 10 or UHS-I recommended).
• Format the card using the Arlo app under Camera Settings > Storage.
• Enable Local Recording and choose your preferred retention policy (e.g., overwrite oldest footage).
• If using a SmartHub, ensure it’s powered and connected via Ethernet for reliability.

With this setup, your Arlo cameras become true 24/7 guardians—even when the internet isn’t.

What Features Work Without Internet?

Now that we know your Arlo cameras can record offline, let’s explore which features remain functional during an internet outage. Not everything works the same, but several core security functions stay active.

Motion Detection and Alerts

Your Arlo camera’s motion sensors continue to work without internet. The camera detects movement, records the event to the microSD card (if available), and can even trigger the built-in siren or spotlight (on models that support it).

For example, an Arlo Pro 5 with a spotlight will still illuminate when it detects someone near your front porch—even offline. This is a huge deterrent and gives you peace of mind during outages.

Local Live View (via Base Station or SmartHub)

If you have an Arlo base station or SmartHub connected to your router via Ethernet, you can still access a local live view through the Arlo app—as long as your home network (router) is still running.

Here’s how it works: When you open the Arlo app and your phone is on the same Wi-Fi network (even if the internet is down), the app communicates directly with the base station. You can view live feeds, control lights, or trigger the siren—all locally, with zero internet dependency.

Tip: If your router loses power, use a battery backup (like a UPS) to keep the base station and router running during short outages.

Two-Way Audio and Siren

Cameras with built-in speakers and microphones (like the Arlo Essential or Pro series) can still use two-way audio during local live view. You can speak through the app to warn off intruders or communicate with a delivery person.

The siren also works offline. You can trigger it manually via the app (if on the same network) or set it to activate automatically with motion. This is a powerful tool when you’re home but the internet isn’t.

Smart Home Integrations (Limited)

Here’s where things get tricky. Smart integrations like Alexa, Google Assistant, or IFTTT require internet. If you say, “Alexa, show me the front door camera,” it won’t work offline. However, if you’re using a local automation (e.g., a Zigbee hub that doesn’t rely on the cloud), some limited control might still be possible.

Bottom line: Core security features—motion, recording, siren, local live view—work offline. Cloud-dependent features (remote access, AI detection, smart alerts) do not.

What Doesn’t Work Without Internet?

While Arlo cameras are impressively resilient offline, some features do require internet. Understanding these limitations helps you plan better and avoid surprises during outages.

Remote Access and Mobile Alerts

This is the big one. You cannot access your cameras remotely when the internet is down. No live view from work, no checking in while on vacation, and no push notifications on your phone.

For example, if you’re at the grocery store and your camera detects motion at home, you won’t get an alert until your internet returns. The footage is still recorded (if you have local storage), but you can’t see it until you’re back on your home network or the internet is restored.

Cloud Storage and AI Features

Arlo’s cloud plans (Arlo Secure) require internet to upload and store videos. If you rely solely on cloud storage, your footage won’t be saved during an outage unless you have a local backup.

Additionally, AI detection features—like person, package, animal, or vehicle recognition—run in the cloud. Without internet, your camera will only record motion events (like a tree branch moving in the wind), leading to more false alerts.

Pro Tip: Use motion zones to reduce false triggers. For example, exclude your driveway from detection if cars frequently pass by. This way, even without AI, your camera only records relevant events.

Firmware Updates and Syncing

Arlo cameras receive firmware updates via the internet. If you’re offline for weeks, your cameras won’t get security patches or new features. Similarly, if you add a new camera, you’ll need internet to sync it with your system.

Also, if you rely on Arlo’s geofencing feature (which arms/disarms based on your phone’s location), it won’t work without internet, as the app can’t communicate with the cloud to trigger the system.

Multi-User Access

Sharing camera access with family members or neighbors requires internet. Without it, only users on the same local network can view footage. This is a minor limitation for most, but important if you have a large household or rely on shared access.

Best Practices for Using Arlo Cameras Offline

Living with or planning for internet outages? Here are practical tips to maximize your Arlo system’s offline performance.

1. Use a Reliable Base Station or SmartHub

If you have a multi-camera setup, invest in a SmartHub (for Ultra/Pro models) or a base station (for older Pro models). These devices:

• Provide centralized local storage (via internal memory or microSD)
• Support local live view and two-way audio
• Offer Ethernet connectivity for more stable power and network

Tip: Connect the SmartHub to your router via Ethernet, not Wi-Fi. This ensures it stays online even if your Wi-Fi drops.

2. Choose the Right microSD Card

Not all memory cards are created equal. Use a high-endurance, high-speed microSD card designed for security cameras. Brands like SanDisk High Endurance or Samsung PRO Endurance are built to handle constant writing and last longer.

Avoid cheap cards—they may fail during critical moments or corrupt footage. A 128GB card gives you a good balance of capacity and cost for most users.

3. Optimize Recording Settings

To extend offline recording time:

• Lower video resolution (e.g., 1080p instead of 4K)
• Set shorter video clips (15–30 seconds instead of 60+)
• Use motion zones to exclude high-traffic areas
• Adjust sensitivity to reduce false alerts

For example, if your camera faces a busy street, exclude the road from detection. Only record when motion occurs on your lawn or porch.

4. Keep a Backup Power Source

Wi-Fi routers and SmartHubs need power. During storms or outages, a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) keeps your network and cameras running for hours. Pair it with a battery-powered Arlo camera (like the Pro 4 or Essential), and you’ve got a robust offline security system.

5. Test Your Offline Setup

Don’t wait for an outage to discover flaws. Simulate an internet outage by unplugging your router. Then:

• Check if cameras record to microSD
• Verify local live view works on the app
• Test the siren and two-way audio

This “dry run” ensures everything works when you need it most.

Real-World Scenarios: When Offline Arlo Cameras Shine

Let’s look at practical examples of how Arlo cameras excel without internet.

Scenario 1: Power Outage During a Storm

You lose power and internet. Your Arlo Pro 4 (battery-powered) and SmartHub (connected to a UPS) stay online. Cameras record motion events to a 128GB microSD card. The next morning, you review footage and see a fallen branch—no intruders. You’re relieved and informed, all without internet.

Scenario 2: Rural Home with Unreliable Internet

You live off-grid with spotty Wi-Fi. You set up Arlo Essential cameras with microSD cards. They record 24/7 to local storage. You only need internet once a week to sync footage or update firmware. Your home stays secure year-round.

Scenario 3: Remote Cabin or Vacation Home

Your cabin has no permanent internet. You install Arlo Ultra 2 with a SmartHub and 256GB card. Cameras record motion events locally. When you visit, you plug in the card to review footage. No subscription fees, no internet needed—just peace of mind.

These examples show that Arlo’s offline capabilities aren’t just a backup plan—they’re a core strength for many users.

Comparison: Arlo vs. Other Brands Offline

Feature	Arlo (Pro/Ultra)	Ring (with Chime Pro)	Google Nest Cam (Wired)	Wyze Cam (v3)
Local Storage	microSD card (camera or hub)	microSD card (via Chime Pro)	None (requires Nest Hub)	microSD card (camera)
Local Live View	Yes (via base station)	Yes (via Chime Pro)	Yes (via Nest Hub)	Yes (via Wyze app on same network)
Offline Motion Recording	Yes	Yes	No (requires cloud)	Yes
Two-Way Audio Offline	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Siren Offline	Yes	Yes	No	Yes

As the table shows, Arlo holds its own against competitors. While Google Nest lacks local storage (a major drawback), Arlo, Ring, and Wyze offer strong offline options. Arlo’s advantage? A mature ecosystem, reliable SmartHub, and excellent app integration—even when the internet is down.

So, do Arlo cameras work without internet? Absolutely. They record, detect, alert, and protect—all while offline. By leveraging local storage, smart settings, and a solid hub setup, you can keep your home secure no matter what happens to your Wi-Fi. Whether you’re facing a storm, living off-grid, or just want a backup plan, Arlo delivers. The key is preparation: set up microSD cards, test your system, and trust in the technology. Your cameras are watching—even when the internet isn’t.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras work without internet for live viewing?

Arlo cameras can record and store footage locally using a microSD card or base station with built-in storage, but live viewing and real-time alerts require an internet connection. Without internet, you’ll only access recordings after manually retrieving them.

Can I use Arlo cameras without internet for 24/7 recording?

Yes, Arlo cameras work without internet for continuous recording if connected to a compatible base station (e.g., Arlo Pro 3/4/5 with SmartHub) or using local storage. However, cloud features like AI detection or remote playback won’t be available.

How do Arlo cameras work without internet for motion detection?

Motion detection works offline as it’s processed on the camera itself. Footage saves to local storage, but you won’t receive push notifications or email alerts without an internet connection.

Do Arlo cameras need Wi-Fi to connect to the Arlo app?

The Arlo app requires Wi-Fi or cellular data to sync with your cameras remotely. However, you can access locally stored footage via direct USB connection or base station without internet.

Can I access my Arlo camera’s SD card without internet?

Yes, Arlo cameras with microSD slots (e.g., Arlo Go) let you remove and read the card manually to view footage without internet. This is ideal for areas with unreliable connectivity.

What’s the difference between local and cloud storage for Arlo cameras without internet?

Local storage (base station/SD card) works offline but has limited capacity, while cloud storage requires internet and offers advanced features like AI filtering. Choose local storage for basic, internet-free recording.