How Do I Deactivate a Arlo Camera Quick and Easy Guide

Deactivating your Arlo camera is quick and simple—just open the Arlo app, select the camera, and tap “Remove Device” to disable it instantly. This process ensures your camera stops recording and disconnects from your account, ideal for troubleshooting or privacy. No tools or technical skills needed—complete deactivation in under a minute.

Key Takeaways

• Open the Arlo app to access camera settings and deactivation options.
• Select the camera you want to deactivate from your device list.
• Tap “Settings” then choose “Remove Device” to start deactivation.
• Confirm removal to fully disconnect the camera from your account.
• Physically power off the camera after deactivation for complete shutdown.
• Reactivate anytime by reconnecting and setting up the camera again.

Why You Might Need to Deactivate an Arlo Camera

Imagine this: You’ve just installed your brand-new Arlo camera system, excited to keep an eye on your home, your pets, or your front porch. But then, life changes. Maybe you’re moving to a new house, upgrading to a newer model, or simply realizing that one of your cameras is no longer needed. Suddenly, you’re asking, “How do I deactivate an Arlo camera?” It’s a common question—and for good reason. Whether it’s for privacy, security, or just simplifying your smart home setup, deactivating an Arlo camera is a smart move when the time comes.

Deactivating doesn’t mean throwing it away or leaving it running in the background. It’s about taking control. Maybe you’re concerned about someone accessing old footage, or perhaps you’re trying to free up space in your Arlo account for new devices. Whatever your reason, the process is simpler than you might think—but it does require a few careful steps to ensure you’re not leaving behind digital footprints or accidentally disrupting your entire system. Think of it like unplugging a smart speaker: you want it to stop working, but you don’t want it to mess up the rest of your setup.

Understanding the Difference: Deactivate vs. Delete vs. Uninstall

What Does “Deactivate” Really Mean?

Before we dive into the how, let’s clear up a common confusion: deactivating an Arlo camera is not the same as deleting it or physically uninstalling it. When you deactivate a camera, you’re essentially telling your Arlo account, “This device is no longer in use.” It stops recording, stops sending notifications, and is removed from your active device list. But—and this is important—it still exists in your account history, which can be useful if you ever want to reactivate it later.

For example, say you have a backyard camera that you only use during the summer. You don’t want it running in winter, but you plan to bring it back next year. Deactivating it keeps it on ice, so to speak, without losing your settings or history. This is different from deleting, which removes the camera from your account entirely (more on that later).

Deleting a Camera: When You’re Done for Good

If you’re certain you’ll never use the camera again—maybe it’s broken, outdated, or you’ve replaced it with a newer model—then deleting is the better option. This permanently removes the camera from your Arlo account, including its serial number, settings, and cloud storage history. Once deleted, you can’t reactivate it without re-adding it as a new device.

Tip: Before deleting, double-check that you’ve downloaded any important footage. Arlo stores recordings in the cloud for 7 to 30 days (depending on your subscription), but once the camera is deleted, that data is gone for good.

Physically Uninstalling: The Final Step

Deactivating or deleting the camera from your app doesn’t remove it from your wall. That’s a separate task. After digital deactivation, you’ll need to physically take down the camera, remove mounts, and store or dispose of it properly. If you’re reusing the camera elsewhere, keep the power adapter and mounting hardware handy. If not, consider recycling it through Arlo’s electronics take-back program (available in select regions).

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Deactivate an Arlo Camera

Step 1: Open the Arlo App or Log into Your Account

Start by opening the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the correct account—especially if you manage multiple homes or have shared access with family members. If you prefer, you can also use the Arlo web portal at my.arlo.com for a larger screen experience.

Pro tip: If you’ve enabled two-factor authentication (2FA), have your phone ready to verify your identity. It’s an extra security step, but it’s worth it to protect your devices.

Step 2: Navigate to the Device Settings

Once logged in, tap on the camera you want to deactivate. You’ll see its live feed (if it’s still online) and a gear icon (⚙️) for settings. Tap that gear icon to open the camera’s settings menu.

Here, you’ll see options like “Device Information,” “Video Settings,” and—most importantly—“Device Management.” This is where the magic happens.

Step 3: Select “Remove Device” or “Deactivate Device”

Look for the option labeled “Remove Device” or “Deactivate Device.” The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your Arlo model and app version, but it’s usually near the bottom of the settings menu.

When you tap it, the app will ask for confirmation. It might say something like: “Are you sure you want to remove this camera? This will stop all recordings and notifications.” Confirm by tapping “Yes” or “Remove.”

Note: On some older Arlo models (like the Arlo Pro 2), the option might be called “Unregister Device.” Same idea—just different wording.

Step 4: Wait for Confirmation

After confirming, the app will process the request. You’ll see a loading screen, and then—within a few seconds—the camera will disappear from your device list. The status light on the camera itself will typically turn off or change color (often to amber or blinking red), indicating it’s no longer connected to your account.

Important: If the camera is still showing as “online” after 60 seconds, try refreshing the app or restarting it. If it persists, check your Wi-Fi connection and ensure the camera is powered on during the process.

Step 5: Verify Deactivation

To make sure the camera is truly deactivated, go back to your main device list. The camera should no longer appear. You can also check your subscription usage—Arlo often shows how many devices are active. If you had a 4-camera plan and now only 3 are active, you’re good to go.

Bonus tip: If you’re deactivating multiple cameras, repeat these steps for each one. The process is the same, but don’t rush—take your time to avoid accidentally removing the wrong device.

Troubleshooting Common Deactivation Issues

Camera Still Shows as “Online” After Removal

It’s frustrating when a camera just won’t let go. If your Arlo camera still appears as “online” or “connected” after you’ve removed it, here are a few things to try:

• Restart the camera: Unplug it from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This forces it to reconnect to Wi-Fi and recognize the removal.
• Reset the camera: Use the reset button (usually a small pinhole on the back). Hold it for 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber. This restores factory settings and disconnects it from your account.
• Check for firmware updates: Sometimes, outdated firmware causes sync issues. Go to the Arlo app’s “Settings” > “My Devices” > “Firmware Update” and install any pending updates.

One user told me they spent an hour troubleshooting before realizing their camera was on a different Wi-Fi network (via a range extender). The camera was technically “online,” but not connected to the same network as the app. Switching it to the main network fixed the issue instantly.

“Device Not Found” or “Connection Failed” Errors

If the app says the camera can’t be found during deactivation, it’s likely because:

• The camera is powered off or has a dead battery (for wireless models).
• The Wi-Fi signal is weak or unstable.
• The camera has already been removed from another device (e.g., a family member’s phone).

Solution: Power the camera on, ensure it’s within range of your router, and try again. If it still fails, a factory reset (as mentioned above) is usually the quickest fix.

Can’t Find the “Remove Device” Option

Some users report that the “Remove Device” option is missing or grayed out. This usually happens because:

• You’re using a shared account with limited permissions.
• The camera is part of a multi-camera bundle with a base station (e.g., Arlo Ultra or Arlo Pro 3).
• You’re on a legacy app version that doesn’t support the feature.

In these cases, try logging in with the primary account owner credentials. If that doesn’t work, visit the Arlo support website and search for “remove device from base station” for model-specific instructions.

What Happens to Your Data When You Deactivate?

Cloud Storage and Subscription Impact

One of the biggest concerns when deactivating a camera is: What happens to my footage? Here’s the good news: Deactivating a camera does not delete your cloud recordings. They remain in your Arlo account for the duration of your subscription (typically 7, 14, or 30 days, depending on your plan).

For example, if you have a 14-day cloud plan and deactivate a camera on June 10, all footage recorded up to that date will still be available until June 24. After that, it’s automatically deleted—just like any other expired recording.

Tip: If you want to keep specific clips, download them to your phone or computer before deactivating. Use the “Download” button in the video playback screen. This is especially important if you’re involved in a security incident and need evidence.

Local Storage and SD Cards

Some Arlo models (like the Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Essential) support microSD card storage for local recording. If you’ve used an SD card, deactivating the camera doesn’t erase the card. You’ll need to manually remove it and format it (or keep it for later use).

Important: Never leave an SD card in a deactivated camera if you plan to store it. Over time, the card can degrade, or someone with access to the camera could retrieve your footage. Take it out and store it in a safe place.

Impact on Your Arlo Subscription

Deactivating a camera frees up a “device slot” on your Arlo subscription. If you’re on a 4-camera plan and deactivate one, you now have room to add a new camera without upgrading your subscription. This is a great way to save money if you’re downsizing or replacing old devices.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how deactivation affects common Arlo plans:

Arlo Plan	Device Limit	Effect of Deactivation	Can You Reactivate?
Arlo Secure (Free)	1 camera	Frees up slot for new camera	Yes, within 30 days
Arlo Secure Plus (4 cameras)	4 cameras	Frees up 1 slot; no cost	Yes, anytime
Arlo Secure Pro (6+ cameras)	6 or more	Frees up slot; no impact on billing	Yes, but may require re-pairing
Arlo SmartHub (Unlimited)	Unlimited (with hub)	No impact on plan	Yes, easily

Note: Reactivating a deactivated camera is usually as simple as adding it back through the “Add Device” menu. Your settings and history will be restored, assuming it hasn’t been deleted.

Best Practices for Managing Your Arlo Cameras

Keep a Device Log

Whether you’re managing one camera or a dozen, keeping a simple log can save you headaches. Jot down:

• Camera name (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”)
• Model number
• Date installed
• Date deactivated (if applicable)
• Reason for deactivation
• SD card serial number (if used)

I keep a spreadsheet on my phone. It’s helped me track which cameras I’ve lent to family members and which ones I’ve recycled. It’s a small effort that pays off big when you need to troubleshoot or upgrade.

Use Naming Conventions

Instead of letting Arlo name your cameras “Camera 1,” “Camera 2,” etc., rename them to something meaningful. Tap the camera name in the app and change it to “Front Porch,” “Garage,” or “Kids’ Play Area.” This makes deactivation (and reactivation) much easier—especially when managing multiple devices.

Plan for Seasonal Use

Do you only use certain cameras during holidays, vacations, or bad weather? Deactivate them when not in use. This reduces false alerts, saves battery (for wireless models), and keeps your app clean. Just remember to reactivate them when needed!

Security Reminder: Wipe Before Disposal

If you’re selling, donating, or recycling a deactivated Arlo camera, make sure to perform a factory reset first. This erases all personal data, including Wi-Fi passwords, motion zones, and account links. You don’t want your neighbor accidentally seeing your backyard footage!

To reset: Press and hold the reset button (usually with a paperclip) for 10 seconds. Wait for the LED to flash amber, then release. The camera will restart in setup mode, ready for a new owner.

Final Thoughts: Deactivating Made Simple

Deactivating an Arlo camera might sound technical, but it’s really just a few taps away. Whether you’re streamlining your smart home, protecting your privacy, or making room for new tech, the process is designed to be user-friendly—once you know where to look.

Remember: Deactivation is not deletion. It’s a pause, not a full stop. Your camera can come back to life with your settings intact. And your data? It’s safe in the cloud—at least for a few weeks. Use that time wisely to download what matters.

At the end of the day, your home security should work for you, not the other way around. If a camera isn’t pulling its weight, don’t hesitate to deactivate it. It’s not about getting rid of tech—it’s about making smart choices. And now, with this guide, you’re equipped to do just that.

So the next time someone asks, “How do I deactivate an Arlo camera?”—you’ll know exactly what to say. And you’ll be able to walk them through it, one simple step at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I deactivate an Arlo camera using the app?

To deactivate an Arlo camera via the app, open the Arlo app, select the camera, tap the settings icon, and choose “Remove Device.” This will disconnect it from your account. Ensure the camera is powered off after removal.

Can I temporarily disable my Arlo camera without removing it?

Yes, you can disable your Arlo camera temporarily by turning off motion detection or scheduling “Do Not Disturb” hours in the app. This keeps the camera connected but inactive. It’s ideal for short-term privacy needs.

How do I deactivate an Arlo camera if I lost access to my account?

Contact Arlo Support directly for assistance with account recovery or deactivation. They’ll verify your identity and help remove or reset the camera. Keep your purchase details handy for verification.

What happens to recordings when I deactivate my Arlo camera?

Deactivating an Arlo camera stops all recording and deletes cloud footage (if using a subscription). Local storage (if enabled) retains clips until manually deleted. Back up important recordings first.

How do I factory reset my Arlo camera before deactivating it?

Press and hold the reset button on the camera for 10-15 seconds until the LED flashes. This erases all settings and prepares it for reactivation. Then proceed with deactivation via the app.

Is deactivating an Arlo camera the same as deleting it from my account?

Deactivating (removing) the camera severs its link to your account, but a factory reset is needed to fully erase its settings. Both steps ensure the camera is ready for reuse or resale.