How Do I Update My Arlo Camera Firmware Quickly and Easily

Updating your Arlo camera firmware ensures optimal performance, security, and access to the latest features. To update quickly, open the Arlo app, navigate to Device Settings > Firmware Update, and follow the on-screen prompts—most updates complete in minutes with a stable Wi-Fi connection.

Key Takeaways

• Check for updates regularly: Open the Arlo app to manually verify firmware updates.
• Stable Wi-Fi is critical: Ensure strong signal to avoid update interruptions.
• Update via app: Use the Arlo app’s Device Settings to trigger updates.
• Keep cameras powered: Maintain continuous power during updates to prevent failures.
• Auto-updates save time: Enable automatic updates in settings for hassle-free maintenance.
• Restart if stuck: Reboot cameras if an update freezes or fails to proceed.

Why Updating Your Arlo Camera Firmware Matters

Imagine this: You’re at work, glancing at your phone to check your Arlo camera feed, only to notice something strange. The video is choppy, the night vision isn’t kicking in, or worse—your camera isn’t responding at all. After a quick troubleshooting session, you realize the issue might be outdated firmware. Firmware is the hidden software that keeps your Arlo camera running smoothly, and just like your phone or laptop, it needs occasional updates to stay sharp.

Updating your Arlo camera firmware isn’t just about fixing bugs—it’s about unlocking new features, improving security, and ensuring your home stays protected. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned smart home enthusiast, keeping your Arlo cameras up to date is one of the simplest ways to get the most out of your investment. But how do you do it? And more importantly, how do you do it quickly and easily? That’s exactly what we’ll cover here. No jargon, no fluff—just practical, step-by-step advice to get your Arlo cameras running like new.

What Is Firmware, and Why Should You Care?

Firmware 101: The Brain Behind Your Camera

Think of firmware as the “operating system” of your Arlo camera. It’s the built-in software that controls everything: how the camera connects to your Wi-Fi, how it processes video, and even how it interacts with the Arlo app. Without firmware, your camera wouldn’t be able to record, send alerts, or stream footage to your phone.

Firmware updates are released by Arlo to address issues, patch security vulnerabilities, and add new capabilities. For example, a recent update might improve motion detection accuracy or add support for a new feature like package detection. Skipping updates means missing out on these improvements—and potentially leaving your home vulnerable.

The Risks of Outdated Firmware

Let’s be real: firmware updates aren’t the most exciting part of owning a smart home. It’s easy to ignore them, especially if your cameras seem to be working fine. But outdated firmware can cause more problems than you’d think:

• Security holes: Older firmware might have unpatched vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.
• Performance issues: Bugs in outdated firmware can lead to laggy video, false motion alerts, or even camera disconnections.
• Missing features: New features like color night vision or AI-powered object detection often require the latest firmware.

For example, one user I spoke with noticed their Arlo camera kept disconnecting during rainstorms. After digging into the issue, they realized it was a known bug fixed in the latest firmware update. A quick update later, and the problem was solved.

How to Check Your Arlo Camera’s Current Firmware Version

Step 1: Open the Arlo App (or Log In to the Web Portal)

Before you update, you need to know whether your camera is due for an update. The easiest way to check is through the Arlo app or web portal. Here’s how:

• On the app: Open the Arlo app, tap the Settings icon (gear symbol), then select My Devices. Tap the camera you want to check, and look for the Firmware Version under the device details.
• On the web portal: Log in to your Arlo account at my.arlo.com, click Settings, then My Devices. Select your camera and scroll down to the firmware info.

Pro tip: If you have multiple cameras, check each one individually. Arlo doesn’t always push updates to all devices at the same time.

Step 2: Compare with the Latest Firmware Version

Once you know your camera’s current firmware version, you’ll want to compare it with the latest version. Arlo doesn’t always list firmware versions publicly, but here’s how to find out:

• Check the Firmware Update section in the Arlo app. If an update is available, the app will prompt you.
• Visit Arlo’s official support site and search for your camera model. Look for release notes or firmware update announcements.
• Join Arlo’s community forums. Other users often discuss recent updates and their experiences.

For example, if your Arlo Pro 4 is running firmware version 2.0.1.1234, but Arlo recently released version 2.0.1.1250, you’ll want to update. The higher the number, the newer the version.

Step 3: Look for Update Prompts

Arlo’s app is pretty good at notifying you when updates are ready. You might see a banner like “A firmware update is available” or a red notification badge on the Settings icon. If you don’t see any prompts, it’s still worth checking manually—sometimes notifications get missed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Arlo Camera Firmware

Method 1: Update via the Arlo App (Recommended for Most Users)

The Arlo app is the simplest and most reliable way to update your camera firmware. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Arlo app and tap Settings (gear icon).
2. Select My Devices, then choose the camera you want to update.
3. If an update is available, you’ll see a Firmware Update option. Tap it.
4. Tap Download & Install to start the process. The camera’s LED will flash amber during the update.
5. Wait for the update to complete (usually 5–10 minutes). Do not power off the camera or exit the app.

Pro tip: Make sure your camera is charged (for battery-powered models) or connected to power (for wired models). A power interruption mid-update can “brick” your camera, rendering it unusable.

Method 2: Update via the Web Portal (For Advanced Users)

If you prefer using a computer, the web portal offers the same functionality:

1. Log in to my.arlo.com and click Settings.
2. Select My Devices, then your camera.
3. Look for the Firmware Update section. If an update is available, click Download & Install.
4. Wait for the process to finish. You’ll see a confirmation message when it’s done.

One advantage of the web portal: it sometimes shows more detailed release notes, so you can see exactly what’s changing in the update.

Method 3: Force an Update (When the App Doesn’t Show One)

Sometimes, the app doesn’t detect an update even though one is available. Here’s how to force a check:

1. Unplug your Arlo base station (if you have one) for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
2. Wait for the base station to reconnect to your network (LED will turn solid green).
3. Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > My Devices.
4. Tap your camera, then tap Firmware Update (even if it says “Up to date”). The app will re-check for updates.

This method works because the base station acts as a bridge between your cameras and Arlo’s servers. Rebooting it forces a fresh sync with the update server.

Troubleshooting Common Firmware Update Issues

Issue 1: Update Stuck or Failing

Nothing’s more frustrating than an update that won’t finish. If your camera’s LED keeps flashing amber (or worse, turns red), try these fixes:

• Restart the camera: For battery-powered models, remove the battery for 10 seconds, then reinsert it. For wired models, unplug and replug the power.
• Move the camera closer to your router: Weak Wi-Fi can interrupt updates. If possible, bring the camera indoors or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Reset the base station: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. This often resolves communication issues.

Example: A user once told me their Arlo Ultra update kept failing. After moving the base station to a central location, the update completed in under 5 minutes.

Issue 2: Camera Not Appearing in the App After Update

If your camera disappears from the Arlo app post-update, don’t panic. This usually happens because the camera needs to reconnect to the network. Try these steps:

• Wait 1–2 minutes. Sometimes the camera takes time to reboot and reconnect.
• Check your Wi-Fi network. Ensure the camera is still connected (look for the Wi-Fi icon in the app).
• Remove and re-add the camera: Go to Settings > My Devices, tap the camera, then tap Remove Device. Follow the setup process again.

Note: Removing and re-adding won’t delete your recordings (if you have Arlo Smart or a subscription).

Issue 3: False “Update Available” Alerts

Occasionally, the Arlo app will show an update prompt even when your camera is already up to date. This is usually a glitch in the app. Try:

• Force-closing the Arlo app and reopening it.
• Clearing the app’s cache (on Android: Settings > Apps > Arlo > Storage > Clear Cache).
• Updating the Arlo app itself from your device’s app store.

Best Practices for Smooth Firmware Updates

Schedule Updates During Off-Peak Hours

Firmware updates can temporarily disrupt your camera’s functionality. To avoid missing important events, schedule updates when you’re less likely to need surveillance—like during the day when you’re home, or at night when activity is minimal.

For example, if you have an outdoor camera monitoring your front porch, avoid updating it right before you leave for work. Instead, do it during your lunch break when you can monitor the process.

Keep Your Base Station and Router Updated

Your Arlo base station (if you have one) also runs firmware that affects camera updates. Ensure it’s up to date by checking Settings > My Devices > Base Station > Firmware Update.

Also, make sure your router’s firmware is current. Outdated routers can cause Wi-Fi interference or connection drops during updates.

Maintain a Stable Internet Connection

Firmware updates require a strong, stable Wi-Fi connection. If your cameras are far from your router, consider:

• Using a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network system.
• Switching to a wired Ethernet connection for your base station (if supported).
• Placing the base station near a window or central location to improve signal reach.

Example: One user had constant update issues with their backyard camera. After adding a Wi-Fi extender, updates completed without a hitch.

Backup Your Settings (Just in Case)

While rare, firmware updates can sometimes reset camera settings like motion zones or activity schedules. To avoid reconfiguring everything:

• Take screenshots of your current settings before updating.
• Write down custom motion zones or recording schedules.
• For advanced users, use Arlo’s web portal to export settings (if supported).

Data Table: Arlo Camera Firmware Update Timeline

Camera Model	Average Update Time	Power Requirement	Wi-Fi Stability Needed	Notes
Arlo Pro 4	5–10 minutes	Battery or USB	High	Updates faster with USB power
Arlo Ultra 2	7–12 minutes	Wired (AC adapter)	Very High	Large firmware files; avoid weak Wi-Fi
Arlo Essential	3–8 minutes	Battery or solar	Medium	Updates may pause if battery is low
Arlo Go 2	10–15 minutes	Battery or LTE	LTE or Wi-Fi	Uses cellular data; monitor usage

Final Thoughts: Stay Updated, Stay Protected

Updating your Arlo camera firmware might seem like a small task, but it’s one of the most important things you can do to keep your smart home running smoothly. Think of it like changing the oil in your car—it’s easy to overlook, but skipping it can lead to bigger problems down the road. With the steps we’ve covered here, you can update your cameras quickly and easily, whether you’re using the app, the web portal, or a forced update method.

Remember: Firmware updates aren’t just about fixing bugs. They’re about staying ahead of security threats, unlocking new features, and ensuring your cameras work as intended. And if you ever run into issues? Don’t stress. The troubleshooting tips we’ve shared will help you get back on track in no time. So go ahead—open that Arlo app, check for updates, and give your cameras the refresh they deserve. Your future self (and your home’s security) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I update my Arlo camera firmware automatically?

Most Arlo cameras update firmware automatically when connected to the Arlo SmartHub or base station. Ensure your camera is online, and the Arlo app will notify you when updates are available. Automatic updates typically occur during off-peak hours to avoid disruptions.

How do I manually update my Arlo camera firmware using the Arlo app?

Open the Arlo app, go to “Device Settings” for your camera, and look for the “Firmware Update” option. If an update is available, tap “Update Now” and keep the camera powered on and connected to Wi-Fi during the process.

Why is my Arlo camera firmware update taking so long?

Firmware updates can take 10–30 minutes depending on file size and network speed. Avoid turning off the camera or interrupting the process, as this may cause errors. Stable Wi-Fi and proximity to the SmartHub/base station help speed up the update.

Can I update my Arlo camera firmware without the app?

No, the Arlo app or web portal is required to initiate firmware updates. The app ensures your camera downloads the correct firmware version and verifies the update process. Keep the app installed for seamless updates and notifications.

What happens if my Arlo camera firmware update fails?

If an update fails, restart your camera and check your internet connection before retrying. You may also need to reset the SmartHub/base station. Contact Arlo Support if the issue persists to avoid potential security risks.

How often does Arlo release camera firmware updates?

Arlo typically releases firmware updates every few months to improve performance, fix bugs, or add features. Enable notifications in the Arlo app to stay informed about new Arlo camera firmware versions and security patches.