Changing the time on your Arlo camera in 2026 is quick and easy—just use the Arlo app to sync with your local time zone automatically. For manual adjustments, navigate to Device Settings > Time Zone and select your region to ensure accurate timestamps. This simple update prevents scheduling errors and keeps your security system running smoothly.

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How to Change the Time on Arlo Cameras in 2026: A Quick Guide

Key Takeaways

• Open the Arlo app to access camera settings and time adjustments.
• Sync time automatically via your phone’s timezone for accuracy.
• Manual override available if automatic sync fails or is unavailable.
• Update firmware regularly to ensure time settings function correctly.
• Check NTP server settings for advanced time control and reliability.
• Restart the camera after changes to apply new time settings.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Picture this: You’re reviewing footage from your Arlo camera, only to realize the timestamp says 3:00 AM when it was actually 3:00 PM. Frustrating, right? Time accuracy isn’t just about convenience—it’s critical for security, evidence, and peace of mind. Whether you’ve recently moved across time zones or your camera’s clock drifted due to a glitch, knowing how to change the time on Arlo cameras in 2026: a quick guide is essential.

Arlo cameras sync time via your home network, but things can go sideways. Daylight Saving Time shifts, Wi-Fi hiccups, or even a firmware update can throw off the clock. And when your camera’s time is wrong, it can mislabel events, confuse recordings, and even affect motion detection alerts. Let’s fix that—step by step.

What You Need

Good news: You don’t need a toolbox or a tech degree. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Your Arlo camera(s) (Pro, Ultra, Essential, or any model)
• A smartphone or tablet with the Arlo app (iOS or Android)
• Your Arlo account login (email and password)
• A stable Wi-Fi connection (your camera must be online)
• Access to your router settings (only if troubleshooting network time issues)
• Patience (seriously, it takes 5 minutes—no rush!)

No special cables, no software downloads. Just your phone, your camera, and a few minutes. That’s the beauty of this how to change the time on Arlo cameras in 2026: a quick guide—it’s designed for real people, not IT pros.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Change the Time on Arlo Cameras in 2026 A Quick Guide

Let’s walk through the process. I’ll keep it simple, with real-life tips from my own Arlo setup. I’ve done this with my backyard Pro 3 and my front door Essential—same steps, zero drama.

Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Log In

Grab your phone and open the Arlo app. If you’re already logged in, great. If not, enter your email and password. (Pro tip: Use Face ID or fingerprint login if your phone supports it—saves time every time.)

Once in, you’ll land on the Devices tab. You should see your camera(s) listed with live thumbnails. Make sure the camera you want to adjust is online (green dot or “Online” status).

If your camera shows “Offline,” check its battery, Wi-Fi signal, or restart it. No time sync can happen if it’s not connected!

Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings

Tap the camera you want to adjust. This opens the camera’s live view. Now, look for the gear icon (settings) in the top-right corner. Tap it.

You’ll see a menu with options like Video Settings, Audio Settings, and Device Info. Scroll down until you find Time Zone or Date & Time—this varies slightly by app version, but it’s always in the main settings.

For example, on my Arlo Pro 3, it’s labeled Time Zone. On my Essential, it’s under Device Settings > General > Date & Time. The key is to find where time is managed.

Step 3: Adjust the Time Zone (Primary Fix)

Tap Time Zone. You’ll see a list of time zones. Scroll to find yours. Arlo uses standard IANA time zones (e.g., “America/New_York”), so pick the one that matches your location.

Here’s a personal tip: Don’t just pick “Eastern Time.” Use the full region (e.g., “America/New_York”). This ensures Arlo handles Daylight Saving Time automatically—no need to adjust twice a year.

Once selected, tap Save or Done. The app will send the new setting to your camera. Wait 10–30 seconds. You’ll see a confirmation message like “Time Zone Updated.”

Warning: If you’re traveling or using Arlo in a different country, set the time zone to match your current location. Your camera will sync accordingly.

Step 4: Enable Automatic Time Sync (Critical!)

After setting the time zone, look for an option called Automatic Time Sync or Set Time Automatically. Make sure this is ON.

This is where most people miss the point. Arlo doesn’t let you manually set the time (like 3:47 PM) because it’s designed to pull accurate time from your Wi-Fi network. If this is off, your camera might show the right time zone but the wrong clock time.

When enabled, Arlo uses your router’s NTP (Network Time Protocol) server to sync the clock. It’s like having a digital atomic clock in your home.

Step 5: Verify the Time on Your Camera

Now, go back to the live view. Look at the timestamp in the corner. Does it match your phone’s time? If yes, great! If not, wait 1–2 minutes. Sometimes it takes a moment to sync.

Still off? Try this: Force-close the Arlo app, reopen it, and check again. Or, restart your camera (press and hold the sync button for 10 seconds until it blinks).

You can also check recorded clips. Play a recent event. The timestamp should now be accurate.

Step 6: Check All Cameras (If You Have Multiple)

If you have more than one Arlo camera, repeat Steps 2–5 for each. I learned this the hard way—my backyard camera was on Pacific Time while the front was on Eastern. Not ideal when reviewing footage!

Arlo doesn’t sync time across cameras automatically. Each one needs its own settings adjusted. But once set, they’ll stay accurate as long as your Wi-Fi is stable.

Step 7: Troubleshoot Network Time Issues (If Needed)

If your camera still shows the wrong time after all this, the issue might be your router’s time server. Here’s how to fix it:

• Open your router’s admin page (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
• Log in (check the router label or manual for default credentials)
• Find Time Settings or System Time
• Ensure it’s set to Automatic (NTP) and using a reliable server (e.g., time.google.com)
• Save and reboot the router

After the reboot, your Arlo camera should pick up the correct time within a few minutes. This step is rare but crucial if your home network’s clock is off.

This is the one time you’ll need router access. If you’re not comfortable, call your ISP—they can help.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping friends, family, and neighbors fix their Arlo clocks, I’ve seen the same issues pop up. Here’s what you need to know:

Pro Tip 1: Always Use the App, Not the Web Portal

The Arlo web portal (arlo.netgear.com) is great for viewing footage, but it doesn’t let you change time settings. Always use the mobile app. It’s more reliable and updated faster.

Pro Tip 2: Update Your Arlo App Regularly

I once missed a time sync because my app was two versions behind. The “Time Zone” option was moved in an update! Check your app store weekly for updates. It ensures you have the latest features and bug fixes.

Pro Tip 3: Don’t Rely on Phone Time

Your phone’s time is usually accurate, but it’s not a guarantee. If your phone is in airplane mode or has a dead battery, it might show the wrong time. Use a reliable source (like Google’s time) to double-check before adjusting your camera.

Common Mistake 1: Forgetting Automatic Time Sync

I can’t count how many people set the time zone but leave “Automatic Time Sync” off. The camera then uses the zone but picks a random time—like 12:00 PM, no matter what. Always turn this on.

Common Mistake 2: Ignoring Wi-Fi Stability

Arlo needs a strong, stable Wi-Fi signal to sync time. If your camera is in the garage or basement with weak signal, it might fail to sync. Use an Arlo Smart Hub or Wi-Fi extender if needed.

Common Mistake 3: Not Checking All Cameras

Like I said earlier, each camera is independent. If you have three Arlos, you need to check all three. Set a reminder on your phone to review time settings every 6 months.

Pro Tip 4: Use 24-Hour Format (If You Prefer)

Some Arlo models let you choose between 12-hour and 24-hour time in the app. If you’re reviewing footage for security, 24-hour format avoids AM/PM confusion. Find this under App Settings > Display.

FAQs About How to Change the Time on Arlo Cameras in 2026 A Quick Guide

1. Why does my Arlo camera show the wrong time even after I set the time zone?

Great question. If the time zone is correct but the clock is off, it’s likely because Automatic Time Sync is turned off. Go to your camera settings, find that option, and enable it. Your camera will then pull the exact time from your router’s NTP server. Also, check that your Wi-Fi is strong and stable—no sync can happen on a spotty connection.

2. Can I manually set the time on my Arlo camera?

Unfortunately, no. Arlo doesn’t allow manual time input. The system is designed to use automatic network time for accuracy. This prevents human error (like typing “3:47” instead of “3:48”). It’s a bit restrictive, but it ensures consistency across all cameras and recordings.

3. What if I travel and take my Arlo camera with me?

No problem! When you arrive at your destination, connect the camera to the local Wi-Fi. Then, open the Arlo app, go to settings, and change the time zone to match your current location. The camera will sync to the local time automatically. Just remember to switch it back when you return home.

4. Does Arlo adjust for Daylight Saving Time?

Yes—but only if you use the full time zone name (e.g., “America/New_York” instead of “Eastern Time”). Arlo uses IANA time zones, which include DST rules. If you pick a generic zone, it won’t adjust. So always use the full region name in settings.

5. My camera’s time is correct, but the recordings show the wrong date. What’s going on?

This is rare, but it can happen if the camera’s internal battery (for the clock) is failing. Arlo cameras have a small battery that keeps the clock running when the main power is off. If it’s dead, the date might reset. Try fully charging the camera or plugging it in. If the issue persists, contact Arlo support—it might need a hardware fix.

6. Can I change the time on multiple Arlo cameras at once?

Not directly. Each camera must be adjusted individually. But here’s a time-saver: Set the first camera, then use the same time zone for the others. The process is quick once you know the steps. I recommend doing them in one sitting to avoid inconsistencies.

7. What if I don’t have the Arlo app? Can I use the web portal?

The web portal lets you view footage and manage recordings, but it doesn’t support time zone or time settings. You must use the mobile app for this task. Download it from the App Store or Google Play—it’s free and essential for full control.

Final Thoughts

Changing the time on your Arlo camera isn’t rocket science, but it’s one of those things that can cause major headaches if ignored. Whether you’re a new Arlo owner or a long-time user, this how to change the time on Arlo cameras in 2026: a quick guide should save you time and stress.

Remember the key steps: Open the app, set the correct time zone, enable automatic time sync, and verify the time on all cameras. And if something’s off? Check your Wi-Fi and router settings—they’re often the silent culprits.

Here’s my final piece of advice: Treat this like a quick home maintenance task. Set a calendar reminder for every 6 months to review your camera settings. It takes 5 minutes, but it keeps your security system accurate and reliable.

Now go fix that clock—your future self (and your footage) will thank you.

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