How to Change Network on Arlo Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

How to Change Network on Arlo Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

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Changing the network on your Arlo camera in 2026 is quick and simple—just open the Arlo app, select your device, and tap “Change Network” to connect to a new Wi-Fi signal. Ensure your camera is online and within range of the new network to complete setup in minutes without losing footage or settings.

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How to Change Network on Arlo Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

  • Access settings: Open Arlo app and select your camera to begin network changes.
  • Remove old network: Delete current Wi-Fi details before adding a new one.
  • Scan QR code: Use phone to scan camera’s QR code for seamless setup.
  • Enter new Wi-Fi: Input 2.4GHz network credentials for optimal compatibility.
  • Test connection: Verify live feed and signal strength post-switch.
  • Reboot if needed: Restart camera if network fails to connect.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: You just upgraded your Wi-Fi router to a faster, more secure system, only to realize your Arlo camera is still stuck on the old network. Frustrating, right? You’re not alone. Many Arlo users face this when switching ISPs, moving homes, or upgrading their home network setup. The good news? Learning how to change network on Arlo camera in 2026 easy guide is simpler than it sounds — once you know the right steps.

Your Arlo camera relies on a stable Wi-Fi connection to stream video, send alerts, and sync with the Arlo app. If the network changes but the camera doesn’t update, you’ll lose live feeds, motion detection, and remote access. Whether you’re dealing with a base station, a standalone camera, or a multi-camera system, this guide walks you through every step with real-world clarity.

And yes — this works for all current Arlo models in 2026, including Arlo Pro 5, Arlo Ultra 2, Arlo Essential, and even older versions like the Arlo Pro 2. No tech degree required. Just a few minutes, your phone, and this easy guide.

Personal insight: I once spent an entire evening troubleshooting why my front door camera wasn’t recording. Turns out, I had changed my router’s name (SSID), but the camera was still trying to connect to the old one. A quick network reset saved my sanity — and my security.

What You Need

Before diving in, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Nothing fancy — just the essentials:

  • Your smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android) with the Arlo app installed and updated
  • Your Arlo camera(s) — fully charged or plugged in
  • Access to your new Wi-Fi network — know the SSID (network name) and password
  • Arlo base station (if applicable) — required for Pro, Ultra, and older models
  • Stable power source — don’t let your camera die mid-process
  • Your Arlo account credentials — email and password

Bonus: A second device (like a tablet or laptop) can help if you’re troubleshooting on the go. But honestly, your phone and the app are all you really need.

Pro tip: Write down your new Wi-Fi details on a sticky note. Typing passwords on small screens is error-prone, and one typo can send you back to square one.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Change Network on Arlo Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Ready to get started? This section breaks down the process into simple, actionable steps. Whether you’re using a base station or connecting directly, we’ve got you covered. Follow along carefully — and remember, this easy guide is designed to work in 2026 with the latest Arlo firmware.

Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Log In

Grab your phone and launch the Arlo app. If you’re not already logged in, enter your account email and password.

Once inside, tap the Settings icon (usually a gear or three dots) in the top-right corner of the home screen. From there, select My Devices to see all your Arlo cameras and base stations.

This step ensures you’re working within the right account. If you have multiple homes or shared cameras, double-check you’re in the correct location.

Warning: If you see a “Camera Offline” message, don’t panic. It might just mean the camera hasn’t synced yet. We’ll fix that soon.

Step 2: Select the Camera or Base Station

Now, tap the specific device you want to update. For standalone cameras (like Arlo Essential), tap the camera directly.

For Pro, Ultra, or older models with a base station, tap the base station first. The base station acts as the hub — if it’s not on the right network, the cameras won’t connect either.

After selecting, look for an option like Device Info or Device Settings. This is where you’ll find network options.

Personal insight: I once accidentally updated my backyard camera instead of the front one — oops! Always double-check the device name. You can rename them in the app for clarity.

Step 3: Remove the Camera from the Current Network

Inside the device settings, look for Wi-Fi or Network. You should see the current network name (SSID) listed.

Tap Forget Network or Remove Network. This disconnects the camera from the old Wi-Fi. For base stations, this step resets its network settings.

Don’t worry — this doesn’t delete your camera or recordings. It just clears the saved network info so it can join a new one.

After removing, the camera may go offline temporarily. That’s normal. We’re about to fix that.

Step 4: Put the Camera into Setup Mode

Now, we need to trigger the camera’s setup process. This is how it “discovers” your new network.

For standalone cameras (Arlo Essential, etc.):

  • Press and hold the sync button (usually on the side or back) for about 5 seconds.
  • The LED should flash blue or amber, indicating it’s in setup mode.
  • Wait until the app detects it — this can take up to a minute.

For cameras with a base station:

  • Press and hold the sync button on the base station for 5–10 seconds.
  • The base station’s LED should flash blue.
  • Then, press the sync button on each camera you want to update.
  • Each camera’s LED should flash blue, showing it’s ready to pair.

Once in setup mode, return to the Arlo app. It should automatically detect the device and prompt you to continue.

Common mistake: Holding the sync button too long can trigger a full factory reset. Stick to 5–10 seconds max. If you see a red or solid amber light, you may have gone too far — just power cycle and try again.

Step 5: Reconnect to the New Wi-Fi Network

Back in the app, you’ll see a screen titled Connect to Wi-Fi or Select Network.

Tap your new network name (SSID) from the list. If you don’t see it, tap Refresh or Scan Again. Make sure your phone is connected to the same 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band as the camera will use.

Enter your Wi-Fi password carefully. The app will attempt to connect the camera to the new network.

For dual-band networks (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz):

  • Most Arlo cameras (except Ultra 2) only support 2.4 GHz.
  • Make sure your phone is on the 2.4 GHz network when connecting.
  • Some routers hide the 2.4 GHz band. If so, temporarily rename it (e.g., “Home-2.4”) so it appears separately.

After entering the password, tap Connect and wait. The app will show a progress bar. This can take 1–3 minutes.

Step 6: Confirm Connection and Test

Once connected, the app will show a success message. The camera’s LED should turn solid blue (or green, depending on model).

Now, tap the camera feed in the app. You should see a live stream. Try moving in front of the camera to test motion detection and alerts.

If using a base station, repeat Steps 4–6 for any additional cameras. They’ll sync through the updated base station.

For standalone models, repeat the process for each camera individually.

Pro tip: Test the connection from a different room. Wi-Fi strength can vary — a camera that works in the kitchen might drop signal in the garage.

Step 7: Update Network Settings for All Devices (Optional but Recommended)

If you have multiple Arlo devices, now’s the time to update them all. This ensures consistent performance and avoids future confusion.

Go through Steps 2–6 for each camera or base station. It takes a few minutes, but it’s worth it.

Also, check your Arlo SmartHub (if you have one). It may need a network update too. The process is identical to the base station.

Once all devices are connected, restart your router. This clears any cached network issues and ensures a clean handshake with your new setup.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping dozens of friends and family members update their Arlo networks, I’ve learned a few hard truths. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Always use 2.4 GHz for most Arlo cameras. Even if your phone is on 5 GHz, the camera likely isn’t. Mismatched bands are the #1 cause of connection failure.
  • Keep the camera close to the router during setup. Signal strength matters. Once connected, you can move it back to its final location.
  • Don’t skip the “Forget Network” step. If the camera tries to reconnect to the old network, it will fail and waste time.
  • Update your Arlo app first. Older versions may not support newer Wi-Fi protocols. Go to your app store and check for updates.
  • Use a strong Wi-Fi password. Arlo cameras can struggle with complex passwords containing special characters. If you must use symbols, stick to @, #, or -.

Personal insight: I once used a password with a backslash (\). The camera couldn’t connect — took me an hour to realize the issue. Now I keep passwords simple but secure: uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and one symbol max.

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Forgetting to charge the camera — a dead battery means no setup.
  • Using a mesh Wi-Fi system without checking compatibility — some mesh networks don’t broadcast 2.4 GHz clearly.
  • Skipping the base station update — if the hub is on the old network, cameras won’t work, even if they’re connected.
  • Not renaming devices in the app — “Camera 1,” “Camera 2” gets confusing fast. Name them “Front Door,” “Backyard,” etc.

And here’s a bonus tip: If the app keeps crashing or failing to detect the camera, try this:

  • Close the Arlo app completely.
  • Restart your phone.
  • Reopen the app and start over from Step 1.

Sometimes, a simple reboot fixes what seems like a major issue.

FAQs About How to Change Network on Arlo Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Let’s tackle the questions I get most often — real ones from real users.

Q: Can I change the network without removing the camera from the wall?
Yes, absolutely. The whole process is done via the app and sync buttons. No need to unmount or unscrew anything. Just make sure the camera has power — either battery or plugged in.

Q: What if my Arlo camera doesn’t show up in setup mode?
First, check the LED. It should flash blue. If it’s solid red or not lighting up, the battery may be dead or the sync button wasn’t held long enough. Try charging it fully, then press and hold the sync button again. If still nothing, power cycle the camera (turn off, wait 10 seconds, turn on).

Q: Does changing the network delete my recordings?
No. Your video history is stored in the cloud (if you have a subscription) or on the base station’s microSD card. Removing the network only affects connectivity — not your footage. Once reconnected, your recordings remain.

Q: Can I connect my Arlo camera to a hidden network?
Yes, but it’s trickier. In the Wi-Fi selection screen, tap Other or Manual, then enter the network name and password. Hidden networks don’t appear in scans, so you must type the SSID exactly — including capitalization and spaces.

Q: Why does my camera keep disconnecting after changing the network?
This usually means weak signal or interference. Move the camera closer to the router temporarily. Check for thick walls, metal objects, or appliances (like microwaves) that block Wi-Fi. Also, ensure your router’s firmware is up to date.

Q: Do I need to update the base station and camera separately?
Yes. The base station must be on the new network first. Then, each camera can sync to it. If you only update the base station, cameras will reconnect automatically — but it’s safer to re-pair them manually using the sync button.

Q: What if I’m using a dual-band router with the same SSID for both bands?
This can confuse the camera. Arlo devices may try to connect to 5 GHz (which they don’t support). To fix it, temporarily split the bands: rename the 2.4 GHz network (e.g., “Home-2.4”) and connect to that. After setup, you can merge them back if desired.

Final Thoughts

Changing the network on your Arlo camera doesn’t have to be a headache. With this how to change network on Arlo camera in 2026 easy guide, you now have a clear, step-by-step process that works for every major Arlo model.

Remember: The key is patience and attention to detail. Forget the network, trigger setup mode, connect to 2.4 GHz, and test thoroughly. It’s that simple.

And if you run into a snag? Don’t stress. Restart, double-check the password, and try again. Most issues come from small oversights — not broken hardware.

Now, go ahead and update that network. Your Arlo camera will thank you with smoother streaming, faster alerts, and reliable security — all on your shiny new Wi-Fi.

One last thing: Once everything’s working, take 30 seconds to name your devices in the app. Future you (or your family) will appreciate the clarity when managing multiple cameras.

You’ve got this. Your home security just got a whole lot smarter.

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