How Do I Reset My Arlo Camera Quick and Easy Guide

To reset your Arlo camera quickly, press and hold the reset button for 10–15 seconds until the LED flashes amber, restoring it to factory settings. This simple process resolves connectivity issues, forgotten passwords, or setup errors—no app or tools required. Always re-pair the camera via the Arlo app afterward to resume normal operation.

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole on your Arlo camera for the reset.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button with a paperclip for 10 seconds.
• Wait for LED flash: Release when the LED blinks amber, indicating reset initiation.
• Re-sync your camera: Reconnect to the Arlo app post-reset to restore functionality.
• Check power source: Ensure camera is powered during reset to avoid interruptions.
• Update firmware: Always update firmware after reset for optimal performance and security.

How Do I Reset My Arlo Camera? Let’s Get This Sorted

Ever had that moment when your Arlo camera just… stops working? Maybe it’s frozen, refusing to connect to Wi-Fi, or acting like it’s forgotten you exist. I’ve been there. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re relying on it to keep your home safe. But here’s the good news: resetting your Arlo camera is often the quick fix you need. And no, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Whether you’re a tech newbie or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the process step by step—no jargon, no headaches.

Resetting your camera isn’t just about fixing glitches. It’s also a smart move if you’re handing it off to someone else, selling it, or troubleshooting persistent connectivity issues. But here’s the catch: not all resets are the same. Some are quick and gentle; others are more thorough (and permanent). By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which reset to use, when to use it, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Think of this as your friendly, no-nonsense guide to getting your Arlo back in action—fast.

Why You Might Need to Reset Your Arlo Camera

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Not every camera hiccup requires a reset, but here are the most common scenarios where it’s worth trying:

• Wi-Fi connection issues: If your camera keeps dropping offline or won’t connect to your network, a reset can refresh its settings.
• Firmware glitches: Sometimes, a firmware update doesn’t install properly, leaving your camera stuck in a loop.
• Forgotten login credentials: If you’ve lost access to your Arlo account, resetting the camera can help you start fresh (though you’ll need to re-pair it).
• Preparing to sell or gift: A full reset erases all your data, making it safe to hand over to someone else.
• Camera unresponsive: If the app can’t communicate with the camera or it’s frozen mid-recording, a reset is often the only fix.

Real-Life Example: The Wi-Fi Dropout

Last winter, my Arlo Pro 4 suddenly stopped recording. The app showed it as “offline,” even though the power light was on. After checking the router (which was fine), I realized the camera had somehow lost its Wi-Fi credentials. A quick reset my Arlo camera and re-pairing fixed it in under 10 minutes. Moral of the story: don’t assume the worst—start with a reset.

When *Not* to Reset

Resets aren’t a cure-all. If your camera has a hardware issue (like a cracked lens or faulty battery), a reset won’t help. And if you’re in the middle of a critical recording (e.g., a break-in), wait until you’ve backed up the footage first. Pro tip: Always check the app’s troubleshooting section before resetting. Arlo often suggests fixes that are less drastic.

Types of Arlo Camera Resets (And When to Use Each)

Not all resets are equal. Arlo offers two main types: a soft reset (gentle, quick) and a factory reset (thorough, permanent). Here’s how they differ:

Soft Reset: The Quick Fix

A soft reset is like restarting your phone. It refreshes the camera’s connection without deleting any data. Use this if:

• Your camera is frozen or unresponsive.
• It’s briefly offline but usually works.
• You want to avoid reconfiguring settings later.

How it works: Most Arlo cameras have a physical reset button (usually a small hole near the base). Press and hold it for 5-10 seconds until the LED flashes amber. The camera will reboot and reconnect to your network automatically.

Factory Reset: The Nuclear Option

A factory reset wipes everything—Wi-Fi settings, paired devices, recordings, and custom names. Use this if:

• You’re selling or gifting the camera.
• You’re troubleshooting a persistent issue (e.g., won’t pair after multiple tries).
• You’ve forgotten your Arlo account password and need a fresh start.

How it works: Press and hold the reset button for 15-20 seconds until the LED flashes white. This triggers a full erase. Note: You’ll need to re-pair the camera with your Arlo account afterward.

Key Differences: Soft vs. Factory Reset

Feature	Soft Reset	Factory Reset
Deletes data?	No	Yes
Time to complete	1-2 minutes	3-5 minutes
Re-pairing required?	No	Yes
Best for	Minor glitches, quick fixes	Severe issues, pre-sale prep

Pro Tip: Label Your Reset Button

The reset button on most Arlo cameras is tiny and easy to miss. I use a small piece of colored tape to mark it (red for factory, blue for soft). Saves time when you’re in a panic!

Step-by-Step: How to Reset Your Arlo Camera (All Models)

Now, let’s get to the meat of the guide. Below are the exact steps for resetting all major Arlo camera models, from the original Arlo Wire-Free to the latest Arlo Ultra 2. The process is similar, but there are subtle differences.

Arlo Wire-Free, Pro, Pro 2, and Go

1. Locate the reset button (tiny hole on the side or bottom of the camera).
2. Use a paperclip or SIM ejector tool to press and hold the button:
   • Soft reset: Hold for 5-10 seconds. LED flashes amber.
   • Factory reset: Hold for 15-20 seconds. LED flashes white.
3. Wait for the camera to reboot (LED turns solid green or blue).
4. For factory resets: Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices, and re-pair the camera.

Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, and Ultra Series

1. Find the reset button (usually under the battery compartment or on the base).
2. Press and hold:
   • Soft reset: 5-10 seconds. LED flashes amber.
   • Factory reset: 15-20 seconds. LED flashes white.
3. Wait for reboot. For factory resets, re-pair via the app.
4. Note: The Pro 4 and Ultra 2 have a “reset” option in the app. Go to Device Settings > Remove Device > Reset if the physical button fails.

Arlo Essential and Essential XL

1. Look for the reset button (side-mounted, near the USB-C port).
2. Hold for:
   • Soft reset: 5-10 seconds. LED flashes amber.
   • Factory reset: 15-20 seconds. LED flashes white.
3. Reboot and re-pair if needed.

Troubleshooting Common Reset Issues

• “The LED won’t flash!” Ensure the camera is powered (check batteries or USB connection). A dead battery can prevent resets.
• “It resets but won’t reconnect.” Your Wi-Fi password might have changed. Re-enter it in the app during pairing.
• “The reset button is stuck.” Use a softer tool (like a plastic toothpick) to avoid damaging the button.

Real-World Example: The Pro 3 “Stuck in Amber” Problem

My friend’s Arlo Pro 3 kept flashing amber after a soft reset, refusing to connect. After troubleshooting, we realized the camera’s firmware was outdated. We updated it via the app (Settings > Device Info > Update Firmware), then tried the reset again. Worked like a charm!

How to Reset Without Losing Your Settings (Pro Tip)

Let’s be real: factory resets are a pain. You lose custom names, activity zones, and recording schedules. But there’s a workaround: back up your settings first.

Step 1: Document Your Configuration

• Take screenshots of:
  • Camera names and locations (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”).
  • Activity zones (areas where motion triggers recordings).
  • Schedules (e.g., “Record only at night”).
  • Wi-Fi network name and password.
• Save these to your phone or cloud storage.

Step 2: Use the App to “Remove” Instead of Reset

Instead of a factory reset, try this:

1. In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices.
2. Select your camera, then tap Remove Device.
3. Choose Reset and Remove (this erases data but keeps your account linked).
4. Re-pair the camera. The app will guide you through setup, and you can restore your saved settings.

This method preserves your Arlo account’s history (like subscription details) and is faster than a full factory reset.

When to Use This Method

• You’re troubleshooting connectivity but don’t want to lose settings.
• You’re switching Wi-Fi networks but keeping the same camera.
• You’re temporarily handing the camera to a neighbor (e.g., for pet monitoring) and want to restore your settings later.

Example: The “Moving to a New Wi-Fi” Scenario

Last year, I upgraded my Wi-Fi router. Instead of factory-resetting all my cameras, I removed them from the app, switched routers, and re-paired them. Took 15 minutes total—and my activity zones were still intact!

Advanced Reset: Using the Arlo App for Remote Troubleshooting

What if you can’t physically access your camera (e.g., it’s mounted on a high ceiling)? The Arlo app has a hidden reset feature for remote fixes.

Remote Soft Reset via App

1. Open the Arlo app and select the camera.
2. Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) > Device Settings.
3. Scroll to Advanced > Restart Camera.
4. Confirm. The camera will reboot in 1-2 minutes.

Limitations: This only works if the camera is online. If it’s offline, you’ll need a physical reset.

Remote Factory Reset (For Pro/Ultra Models)

1. In the app, go to Settings > My Devices.
2. Select the camera > Remove Device.
3. Choose Reset and Remove.
4. The camera will factory-reset and disconnect from your account.

Note: After this, you’ll need to re-pair the camera as if it were new.

When Remote Resets Fail: The “Offline Camera” Dilemma

• If the camera is offline, the app can’t trigger a reset. You’ll need to:
  • Physically access the camera for a button reset.
  • Check if it’s powered (e.g., battery dead, USB unplugged).
  • Verify Wi-Fi signal strength (use the app’s signal indicator).
• Pro tip: For outdoor cameras, consider a Wi-Fi extender to boost signal. A weak connection can mimic a “frozen” camera.

After the Reset: Reconnecting and Optimizing Your Camera

Resetting is just the start. To ensure your Arlo camera works flawlessly, follow these post-reset steps:

Step 1: Re-Pair with the Arlo App

1. Open the app and tap Add Device.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan the camera’s QR code (usually on the base).
3. Re-enter your Wi-Fi details and name the camera (use your backup screenshots!).

Step 2: Update Firmware

• Go to Settings > Device Info > Update Firmware.
• Install any pending updates. Outdated firmware is a common cause of glitches.

Step 3: Test and Optimize

• Trigger a motion event (e.g., wave at the camera) to verify recording works.
• Check the live feed for lag or pixelation.
• Adjust settings like sensitivity, night vision, and recording quality based on your needs.

Common Post-Reset Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping firmware updates: Always update after a reset. Old firmware can cause new problems.
• Reusing weak Wi-Fi passwords: If your network uses WEP or WPA (not WPA2/WPA3), the camera may disconnect. Upgrade your router’s security.
• Ignoring battery health: For battery-powered models, replace old batteries after a reset. Weak batteries can cause false “offline” errors.

Real-World Example: The “False Motion Alerts” Fix

After resetting my Arlo Pro 4, it started sending alerts for every leaf blowing in the wind. I adjusted the activity zones to exclude trees and lowered motion sensitivity in the app. Problem solved—and my sanity saved!

Resetting your Arlo camera doesn’t have to be a last resort. Whether you’re fixing a glitch or preparing to sell, knowing the right reset method—and when to use it—saves time and stress. Remember: start with a soft reset for minor issues, and save the factory reset for bigger problems. And if you’re ever unsure, document your settings first. That way, even a full reset won’t cost you your custom configurations.

The next time your Arlo camera acts up, take a breath. Pull out this guide, follow the steps, and you’ll have it back online in minutes. And hey, if you run into a snag? That’s normal. Tech isn’t perfect, but with a little patience (and maybe a paperclip), you’ve got this. Happy resetting!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my Arlo camera to factory settings?

To reset your Arlo camera, press and hold the sync button (located on the side or back) for 10–15 seconds until the LED flashes amber. This erases all settings and restores it to factory defaults.

Why would I need to reset my Arlo camera?

You may need to reset your Arlo camera if it’s malfunctioning, not syncing, or you’re preparing to sell or reuse it. A reset clears all configurations and resolves many connectivity issues.

How do I reset my Arlo camera without the app?

You can manually reset your Arlo camera by holding the sync button for 10–15 seconds. The LED will flash amber to confirm the reset, even without using the Arlo app.

Will resetting my Arlo camera delete my recordings?

No, resetting your Arlo camera only clears its local settings and Wi-Fi configuration. Cloud recordings stored in your Arlo account remain safe and unaffected.

How long does an Arlo camera reset take?

The physical reset process takes 10–15 seconds of holding the sync button, but full reconfiguration (reconnecting to Wi-Fi and the app) may take an additional 2–5 minutes.

Can I reset my Arlo camera remotely?

No, Arlo cameras require a physical button press to reset. Remote reset isn’t supported, so you must access the camera directly to complete the process.