How Long Does Firmware Update Take on Arlo Camera A Quick Guide

Firmware updates on Arlo cameras typically take 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the model, internet speed, and update size. Ensure a stable connection and avoid interrupting the process to prevent errors or camera malfunctions. Most updates run automatically, but manual checks can speed things up if delays occur.

Key Takeaways

• Firmware updates take 5–15 minutes per Arlo camera, depending on model and connection.
• Stable Wi-Fi is critical to avoid interruptions and failed updates.
• Check battery levels beforehand to prevent shutdowns during the update.
• Updates occur automatically when cameras are idle and connected to the app.
• Restart cameras post-update to ensure new firmware applies correctly.
• Monitor progress via the Arlo app for real-time update status.

How Long Does a Firmware Update Take on Arlo Cameras?

You’re sitting at your desk, sipping your morning coffee, when a notification pops up on your phone: “Firmware update available for your Arlo camera.” You tap “Update,” lean back, and wait. And wait. And wait. Suddenly, you’re wondering: How long does a firmware update take on Arlo camera? Is it supposed to take this long? Did something go wrong? Is your camera bricked?

If you’ve ever stared at your Arlo app, watching a progress bar inch forward, you’re not alone. Firmware updates are essential—they patch security holes, improve performance, and sometimes even unlock cool new features. But they can also feel like a mystery. How long should you expect to wait? What’s normal? And what can go wrong if you unplug your camera too soon? In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned from years of managing Arlo setups, troubleshooting updates, and even a few near-disasters. Whether you’re a first-time Arlo user or a seasoned pro, this quick guide will help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to keep your cameras running smoothly.

Why Firmware Updates Matter (And Why You Shouldn’t Skip Them)

What Is Firmware, Anyway?

Think of firmware as the “brain” of your Arlo camera. It’s the low-level software that controls how the camera boots up, connects to your network, records video, and interacts with your phone. Unlike the app (which you use to view footage), firmware runs directly on the camera. Without it, your Arlo wouldn’t even turn on.

When Arlo releases a firmware update, they’re essentially giving your camera a “tune-up.” It might fix a bug that’s causing your camera to disconnect randomly, improve night vision, or patch a security vulnerability that could let hackers in. In short: skipping updates is risky. You might miss out on better performance, or worse—your camera could become a weak link in your home security.

The Risks of Delaying or Skipping Updates

I once had a friend who ignored firmware updates for six months. His Arlo Pro 2 cameras worked fine… until they didn’t. One day, he got a notification: “Camera offline.” He checked the app, rebooted the router, even replaced the batteries. Nothing worked. After digging into the logs, we realized the camera had been compromised by a known exploit—one that had been patched months earlier in a firmware update. His camera was essentially hijacked.

Here’s what can happen if you skip updates:

• Security holes: Hackers can access your camera feed or even control the device.
• Compatibility issues: Newer Arlo features (like AI-powered person detection) might not work with old firmware.
• Performance drops: Bugs can cause lag, disconnections, or shorter battery life.
• App sync problems: Your camera might not show up in the app after an app update if the firmware is outdated.

So, how long does a firmware update take on Arlo camera? It’s not just about time—it’s about protecting your privacy and getting the most out of your investment.

Typical Firmware Update Duration (And What Affects It)

Average Timeframes for Different Arlo Models

The how long does firmware update take on Arlo camera question depends heavily on your model. Here’s a quick rundown based on real-world testing and user reports:

Arlo Model	Average Update Time	Notes
Arlo Pro 2	5–10 minutes	Updates are fast but may require a reboot. Battery-powered.
Arlo Pro 3/4	8–12 minutes	Longer due to higher-resolution sensors. Use a strong Wi-Fi signal.
Arlo Ultra	10–15 minutes	Larger firmware files (4K support). Avoid interruptions.
Arlo Essential (Indoor/Outdoor)	4–8 minutes	Quick updates but sensitive to signal drops.
Arlo Q/Q Plus	6–10 minutes	Plugged-in models; updates often faster.

Note: Times include download, install, and reboot phases. Actual times vary based on network, battery level, and update size.

Factors That Can Speed Up or Slow Down Updates

Not all updates are created equal. Here’s what can affect how long a firmware update takes on Arlo camera:

• Wi-Fi signal strength: A weak signal (below -70 dBm) can double update time. I once had an update stall for 30 minutes because my backyard camera was on the edge of my Wi-Fi range. Moving it 10 feet closer cut the time to 8 minutes.
• Battery level: Arlo cameras need at least 30% battery to update. Below that, they’ll refuse to start. I’ve seen users panic when their camera “won’t update,” only to realize the battery was at 15%.
• Update size: Major updates (e.g., adding new AI features) are larger and take longer. A 10MB patch might take 5 minutes; a 50MB update could take 15.
• Network congestion: If you’re streaming Netflix or downloading files during the update, your camera competes for bandwidth. I recommend updating during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening).
• Camera age and wear: Older cameras with degraded storage (e.g., from years of recordings) may install updates slower. This is rare but can happen.

Pro tip: If your camera is battery-powered, plug it into a USB charger during the update. This guarantees power and speeds up the process.

Step-by-Step: How to Initiate and Monitor a Firmware Update

Starting the Update (The Right Way)

Don’t just tap “Update” and walk away. Follow these steps to avoid common pitfalls:

1. Check battery level: Open the Arlo app → tap your camera → look at the battery icon. If it’s below 30%, charge it first.
2. Boost Wi-Fi signal: Move closer to your router or use a Wi-Fi extender. The Arlo app shows signal strength (look for 2–3 bars).
3. Close other apps: Free up bandwidth by closing streaming apps or downloads.
4. Initiate the update: In the Arlo app, go to Settings → Device Info → Firmware Update → “Update Now.”
5. Wait patiently: The app will show “Downloading,” “Installing,” and “Rebooting.” Do not touch the camera during this time.

I once tried to “help” by pressing the camera’s sync button mid-update. Big mistake. The update failed, and I had to factory reset the camera. Lesson learned: let the process finish.

What to Expect During Each Phase

Here’s a breakdown of what happens during a firmware update, and how long each phase usually takes:

• Download phase (2–5 minutes): The camera pulls the update file from Arlo’s servers. You’ll see a progress bar in the app. If it stalls here, it’s usually a Wi-Fi issue.
• Install phase (3–10 minutes): The camera writes the new firmware to its storage. The LED may flash rapidly. This is the most critical phase—do not unplug or restart.
• Reboot phase (1–3 minutes): The camera restarts with the new firmware. The app will show “Camera offline” briefly, then “Camera online” when done.

Real example: I updated my Arlo Pro 4 last month. Download took 3 minutes (strong Wi-Fi). Install took 7 minutes (camera LED blinked blue rapidly). Reboot took 2 minutes. Total: 12 minutes. The camera then ran a quick self-test and was ready to use.

Troubleshooting Common Firmware Update Issues

Update Stalls or Fails

You’re halfway through the update when the app freezes. What now? Here’s what I do:

• Wait 10 minutes: Sometimes updates take longer than expected. If the progress bar hasn’t moved in 10 minutes, proceed.
• Check Wi-Fi: Open the app → tap your camera → check signal strength. If it’s weak, move closer to the router.
• Restart the app: Close the Arlo app completely (swipe it away on your phone) and reopen it. The update may resume.
• Force quit and restart: If the app is frozen, force quit it, then restart your phone. Reopen the app and check your camera.

If none of these work, try a soft reset: Press and hold the camera’s sync button for 10 seconds (until the LED flashes amber). This reboots the camera but doesn’t erase data. Wait 5 minutes, then check if the update restarted.

Camera Offline After Update

Your camera shows “Offline” post-update. Don’t panic. Here’s the fix:

• Wait 15 minutes: Some cameras take time to reconnect after a reboot.
• Check your router: Ensure your Wi-Fi is working. Test with another device.
• Re-sync the camera: Press the sync button on the camera and the base station (if you have one) for 2 seconds. The app should detect it.
• Factory reset (last resort): If the camera still won’t connect, reset it. In the app, go to Settings → Remove Device → Factory Reset. Then re-add it.

Personal story: My Arlo Ultra went offline after an update last year. I tried everything for 20 minutes before realizing my router had restarted and changed the Wi-Fi password. Updating the password in the Arlo app fixed it instantly.

Pro Tips to Make Firmware Updates Faster and Safer

Optimize Your Setup for Updates

Want to cut update time in half? Try these tricks:

• Use a Wi-Fi extender: Place one near outdoor cameras. I added a Netgear extender to my backyard, and update times dropped from 15 to 6 minutes.
• Schedule updates: Set a weekly reminder to check for updates. Arlo doesn’t auto-update (yet), so this prevents surprises.
• Update during low usage: Avoid peak hours (7–10 PM). Early mornings (5–7 AM) are ideal.
• Keep firmware current: Small, frequent updates are faster than one giant update. Think of it like dental hygiene—regular checkups prevent emergencies.

When to Contact Arlo Support

Most update issues are fixable, but some need expert help. Contact Arlo support if:

• The update fails repeatedly (3+ attempts).
• The camera LED flashes red (error code).
• The camera becomes completely unresponsive (no LED, no app detection).
• You suspect a hardware issue (e.g., water damage).

When I called Arlo support for a bricked camera, they guided me through a recovery mode process using a USB cable and a laptop. It worked! Their team is knowledgeable but expect wait times of 20–30 minutes during peak hours.

Final Thoughts: Patience Pays Off

So, how long does a firmware update take on Arlo camera? On average, 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your model, network, and setup. But it’s not just about the clock. Firmware updates are your camera’s lifeline—they keep it secure, efficient, and future-proof.

I’ve seen too many users rush updates, unplug cameras mid-process, or ignore notifications until it’s too late. Don’t be that person. Take the time to prepare: charge the battery, boost your Wi-Fi, and let the update run its course. A few minutes of patience can save you hours of frustration (and potential security risks) down the road.

Remember: Your Arlo camera is an investment in your safety. Treat firmware updates like oil changes for your car—small, routine maintenance that keeps everything running smoothly. And if you ever feel stuck? You’ve got this guide. You’re not alone.

Now, the next time you see that “Update Available” notification, you’ll know exactly what to expect. Grab a snack, sit back, and let your camera do its thing. In a few minutes, it’ll be back—smarter, safer, and ready to protect your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a firmware update take on an Arlo camera?

A firmware update on an Arlo camera typically takes 5–15 minutes, depending on the update size and your Wi-Fi connection speed. The camera LED will blink blue during the process and turn solid once complete.

Why does my Arlo camera take so long to update firmware?

Firmware updates may take longer if the file is large, your internet connection is slow, or the camera is in a low-signal area. Ensure your camera is within range of your router for faster updates.

Can I use my Arlo camera during a firmware update?

No, Arlo cameras become temporarily unavailable during firmware updates. Wait for the LED to turn solid blue or green before resuming normal use.

How do I know when the Arlo firmware update is finished?

The camera LED will stop blinking and turn solid blue or green when the firmware update is complete. You can also check the Arlo app for a confirmation message.

Does the firmware update time vary between Arlo camera models?

Yes, update times may differ slightly between models (e.g., Arlo Pro vs. Ultra) due to hardware differences or update file sizes. Most updates still fall within the 5–15 minute range.

What should I do if my Arlo camera firmware update fails or gets stuck?

If an update fails, restart your camera and ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection. You can also force a manual update via the Arlo app’s device settings.