How Do I Turn My Arlo Camera Back On Quick Fixes Inside

To turn your Arlo camera back on, simply press and hold the power button for 3–5 seconds until the LED lights up. If it doesn’t respond, check the battery charge or reconnect it to Wi-Fi via the Arlo app for a quick fix. For persistent issues, a factory reset or re-pairing may be required—solutions clearly outlined in our troubleshooting guide.

Key Takeaways

• Check power source first: Ensure your Arlo camera is properly plugged in or has charged batteries.
• Use the Arlo app: Reactivate your camera quickly via the app’s device settings menu.
• Restart the base station: Power cycle it to resolve connectivity issues affecting camera status.
• Verify Wi-Fi connection: A stable network is essential for remote camera reactivation.
• Factory reset if needed: Last resort—reset to restore default settings and responsiveness.
• Check for firmware updates: Updated software prevents glitches that may disable the camera.

How Do I Turn My Arlo Camera Back On? Quick Fixes Inside

We’ve all been there—you’re about to check your front porch or backyard via your Arlo camera, only to find it’s offline. Panic sets in. Did it run out of battery? Is it broken? Did a squirrel unplug the base station? (Okay, maybe not the last one, but you get the idea.) The truth is, turning your Arlo camera back on isn’t as scary as it seems. With a few quick checks and a little troubleshooting, you can often get your system up and running in minutes.

Arlo cameras are designed for ease of use, but like any tech, they sometimes need a little nudge to get back on track. Whether you’ve just installed a new camera, it’s been in storage, or it randomly went offline, this guide walks you through how do I turn my Arlo camera back on—step by step, with real-life examples and practical tips. No fluff, no sales pitch—just honest advice from someone who’s spent way too much time resetting cameras after a power outage (yes, that was me last winter).

Understanding Why Your Arlo Camera Went Offline

Common Causes of Camera Shutdowns

Before diving into fixes, it helps to know why your Arlo camera turned off in the first place. Understanding the root cause makes the solution faster and more effective.

• Low or depleted battery: Arlo’s wireless models (like Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra) rely on rechargeable batteries. If the battery drops below a certain level, the camera shuts down to preserve power.
• Power loss for wired models: Arlo cameras like the Essential Wired or Arlo Go require a constant power source. A tripped breaker, unplugged adapter, or storm-related outage can turn them off.
• Wi-Fi or base station disconnection: If your base station loses internet or power, connected cameras may appear offline—even if they’re still powered.
• Software glitch: Like any smart device, Arlo cameras can freeze or crash. A simple reboot often fixes this.
• Environmental factors: Extreme heat, cold, or moisture can trigger safety shutdowns, especially in outdoor models.

For example, I once had an Arlo Pro 3 in my garage that kept going offline during heatwaves. Turns out, the internal temperature sensor was shutting it down when temps hit 100°F. Moving it to a shadier spot solved the issue.

Signs Your Camera Is Actually Off vs. Just Unreachable

It’s important to distinguish between a camera that’s powered off and one that’s offline due to connectivity issues. Here’s how to tell the difference:

• Check the app: In the Arlo app, if your camera shows “Offline” but has a recent motion event, it’s likely a connectivity issue. If it shows “Disconnected” with no recent activity, it may be powered off.
• Look at the LED: Most Arlo cameras have a small LED light. A solid green or blue light usually means it’s powered and connected. A blinking amber light? That’s a warning—often low battery or Wi-Fi trouble. No light at all? Likely powered off.
• Listen for sounds: When powered on, Arlo cameras make a soft startup chime (if sound is enabled). If you don’t hear it after pressing the sync button, the battery might be dead.

One user on Reddit shared that their Arlo kept showing “Offline” after a storm. They assumed the camera died, but it was actually the base station that lost power. Once they plugged it back in, all cameras came back online—no need to reset anything.

Step-by-Step: How to Turn On Your Arlo Camera (Battery-Powered Models)

Step 1: Check the Battery Level

Start by opening the Arlo app and checking the battery icon next to your camera. If it’s empty or red, the battery needs charging.

• Remove the battery (if removable) and charge it using the provided USB cable and adapter.
• For non-removable batteries (like in Arlo Essential), plug the camera directly into a power source using the charging cable.
• Charging usually takes 3–5 hours. Use a wall outlet, not a laptop USB port, for faster charging.

Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry, use a fast-charger (10W or higher). I once charged an Arlo Pro 4 to 50% in 45 minutes using a 12W adapter—just enough to get through the night.

Step 2: Power On the Camera

Once charged, it’s time to turn it on. Here’s how:

• Press and hold the Sync button (usually on the side or back) for 3–5 seconds.
• Listen for the startup chime and watch for the LED to turn solid green or blue.
• If the LED blinks amber, release the button and press it again briefly to enter pairing mode.

Note: Some models (like Arlo Ultra) have a physical power switch. Flip it to “On” if your camera has one.

Example: My neighbor’s Arlo Pro 3 wouldn’t turn on after a long winter. The battery was fully charged, but the camera was frozen. Holding the Sync button for 10 seconds (instead of 5) forced a hard reset—problem solved.

Step 3: Reconnect to the Base Station or Wi-Fi

If the camera powers on but stays offline, it needs to reconnect to your network.

• In the Arlo app, go to Device Settings > Add Device.
• Select your camera model and follow the prompts.
• When prompted, press the Sync button on the camera again to pair it.
• Wait 1–2 minutes for the app to confirm “Connected.”

Tip: If your home Wi-Fi is 5GHz-only, make sure your Arlo camera supports it (older models only work on 2.4GHz). I learned this the hard way when my Arlo Go 2 refused to connect to my new router—had to enable 2.4GHz mode in my router settings.

Fixing Wired Arlo Cameras That Won’t Power On

Check the Power Source

Wired Arlo cameras (like Arlo Essential Wired or Arlo Go) depend on a constant power supply. If they’re not turning on, start here:

• Verify the power adapter is securely plugged into the wall and camera.
• Test the outlet with another device (like a lamp) to rule out power loss.
• If using a power strip, make sure it’s switched on and not overloaded.
• Inspect the cable for damage (fraying, bent pins). Replace if needed.

Real-world fix: A friend’s Arlo Essential Wired kept shutting off. The power strip had a loose connection. Swapping to a direct wall outlet fixed it instantly.

Inspect the Base Station (If Applicable)

Some wired Arlo systems (like Arlo Pro 3 with a base station) require the base to be powered first.

• Check that the base station’s LED is on (solid green or blue).
• Restart the base by unplugging it for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in.
• Wait 2–3 minutes for it to reconnect to your Wi-Fi.
• Then try powering on the camera.

Note: The base station acts as a hub. If it’s down, cameras may not function even if powered.

Test the Camera’s Internal Power Button

Some wired models have a physical power switch (e.g., Arlo Go). If it’s flipped to “Off,” the camera won’t power on—even with electricity.

• Locate the switch (usually near the charging port).
• Flip it to “On.”
• Wait for the startup chime and LED.

Pro tip: If your camera has a power switch and you’re installing it in a hard-to-reach spot, flip it on before mounting it. I once had to climb a ladder three times because I forgot this step!

Resetting Your Arlo Camera: When a Hard Reboot Is Needed

When to Use a Factory Reset

If your camera powers on but still won’t connect, or behaves erratically (e.g., false alerts, frozen feed), a reset may be necessary. A factory reset erases all settings and returns the camera to “new” state.

Use this only if:

• The camera won’t sync with the app.
• It keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi.
• It’s stuck in pairing mode.
• You’re preparing to resell or gift the camera.

How to Factory Reset an Arlo Camera

For most models (Pro 4, Ultra, Essential, etc.):

• Press and hold the Sync button for 10–15 seconds.
• Wait for the LED to blink amber rapidly (about 1–2 minutes).
• When it turns solid green or blue, the reset is complete.
• Re-add the camera to your Arlo app.

For Arlo Go (cellular model):

• Hold the Power button (not Sync) for 10 seconds.
• Wait for the LED to flash red/green.
• Release and let it restart.

Example: My Arlo Pro 4 kept sending “motion detected” alerts every 2 minutes—even with no one around. A factory reset fixed the sensor calibration issue. No more false alarms!

Re-Pairing After a Reset

After resetting, you’ll need to re-add the camera:

• Open the Arlo app and tap Add Device.
• Follow the setup wizard.
• When prompted, press the Sync button on the camera.
• Wait for the app to confirm “Connected.”

Tip: Keep your Wi-Fi password handy. You’ll need to re-enter it during setup.

Advanced Troubleshooting: When the Usual Fixes Don’t Work

Check for Firmware Updates

Outdated firmware can cause startup issues. Arlo releases updates to fix bugs and improve performance.

• In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name].
• Look for “Firmware Update.” If available, tap Update Now.
• Wait for the update to install (don’t power off the camera).

Note: Some updates require the camera to be connected to Wi-Fi. If it’s offline, you may need to use a mobile hotspot temporarily.

Test With a Different Power Source or Battery

Sometimes the issue is with the power supply, not the camera.

• Try a different USB cable or adapter (Arlo uses standard USB-A to micro-USB or USB-C).
• Swap in a fully charged battery (if using a model with interchangeable batteries).
• Test the camera in a different room or outlet to rule out electrical issues.

Real fix: A user on the Arlo community forum had a camera that wouldn’t turn on. They tried three different chargers before realizing their original cable was damaged. A $10 cable swap saved a $200 camera.

Contact Arlo Support (As a Last Resort)

If nothing works, Arlo’s support team can help. But before calling, gather this info:

• Camera model and serial number (on the back or box).
• App version and phone OS (iOS/Android).
• Screenshots of error messages.
• Steps you’ve already tried.

You can contact them via:

• Live chat (Arlo website).
• Email support@arlo.com.
• Phone (check Arlo’s support page for local numbers).

Tip: Arlo offers a 1-year warranty. If your camera is under warranty and unfixable, they may replace it.

Preventing Future Shutdowns: Pro Tips to Keep Your Arlo Running

Now that you know how to turn your Arlo camera back on, let’s keep it on for good. Here are practical, long-term fixes:

Optimize Battery Life

• Reduce motion sensitivity: In the app, lower the motion detection sensitivity to reduce false alerts and battery drain.
• Schedule activity zones: Set zones to monitor only high-traffic areas (e.g., front door, not the entire yard).
• Use a solar panel: Arlo sells solar chargers for battery-powered models. I installed one on my backyard camera—battery stays at 80% year-round.

Protect Against Power Outages

• Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for your base station and router.
• For wired cameras, install a battery backup (like a smart plug with power loss restart).
• Label your circuit breakers so you can quickly restore power after an outage.

Regular Maintenance Checks

• Monthly: Check battery levels and clean lenses with a microfiber cloth.
• Quarterly: Update firmware and test all cameras.
• Seasonally: Inspect outdoor cameras for moisture, debris, or animal nests.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Power & Reset Guide

Model	Power Source	On/Off Method	Reset Method	Average Battery Life (if applicable)
Arlo Pro 4	Battery (removable)	Hold Sync button 3 sec	Hold Sync 10 sec	3–6 months
Arlo Essential (Wired)	USB power	Plug in; no physical switch	Hold Sync 10 sec	N/A
Arlo Go	Battery + cellular	Flip power switch	Hold power button 10 sec	1–3 months
Arlo Ultra	Battery (removable)	Hold Sync button 3 sec	Hold Sync 15 sec	6 months
Arlo Pro 3 (Wired)	USB power + base station	Plug in; base must be on	Hold Sync 10 sec	N/A

So, the next time you’re stuck wondering, how do I turn my Arlo camera back on, remember: it’s usually a simple fix. Whether it’s a dead battery, a loose power cable, or a software glitch, the steps above cover 90% of cases. And if all else fails, Arlo’s support team is just a chat away.

The key is patience and methodical troubleshooting. Don’t panic—start with the basics (power, battery, Wi-Fi), then move to resets and updates. With a little care, your Arlo camera will keep watch over your home for years to come. And hey, if you’re still stuck? Just think of that time you fixed it last winter. You’ve got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I turn my Arlo camera back on after it shut down?

To turn your Arlo camera back on, ensure it’s charged or connected to power, then press and hold the sync button on the camera for 2–3 seconds until the LED flashes. The camera will reconnect to your Arlo SmartHub or base station automatically.

Why won’t my Arlo camera turn back on even after pressing the button?

This may indicate a low battery, connectivity issues, or a firmware glitch. Try recharging the camera fully, checking your Wi-Fi/SmartHub connection, or performing a reset via the Arlo app under device settings.

How do I turn my Arlo camera back on remotely using the app?

Open the Arlo app, select your camera, and tap the power icon to wake it remotely. Ensure the camera is in standby mode (not offline) and connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network for this feature to work.

What’s the quickest way to restart my Arlo camera?

For a quick restart, remove and reinsert the battery (if wireless) or unplug the power source for 10 seconds, then reconnect it. This often resolves minor software hiccups and turns the camera back on instantly.

How do I turn my Arlo camera back on after a firmware update?

After an update, the camera may appear unresponsive. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to reboot, then press the sync button to turn it back on. If issues persist, check the Arlo app for update completion status.

Can I schedule my Arlo camera to turn back on automatically?

Yes! Use the Arlo app’s “Schedule” feature under device settings to set specific times for your camera to turn on or off. This works for Arlo models with scheduling support, like Pro or Ultra series.