To factory reset your Arlo Ultra camera in 2026, press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber, ensuring a full wipe of all settings and Wi-Fi connections. This quick process is ideal for troubleshooting, resale, or reconfiguration—just remember to remove the camera from your Arlo account first to avoid syncing issues. Always verify the reset with a solid blue light before setting it up again.

“`html

How to Factory Reset Arlo Ultra Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Power on the camera: Ensure the Arlo Ultra is charged or plugged in before resetting.
• Press and hold the reset button: Use a paperclip to hold it for 10 seconds.
• Wait for LED indicators: Flashing amber and white means reset is in progress.
• Re-sync with the base station: Reconnect via the Arlo app after the reset completes.
• Remove from the app first: Delete the camera from your account to avoid sync issues.
• Check firmware updates: Ensure latest firmware is installed post-reset for optimal performance.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

So, your Arlo Ultra camera isn’t responding like it used to. Maybe it’s stuck on a firmware update, won’t connect to your base station, or you’re preparing to sell or donate it. Whatever the reason, knowing how to factory reset Arlo Ultra Camera in 2026 is essential—it’s like giving your camera a clean slate. I’ve been there: one minute it’s recording crystal-clear 4K footage, the next it’s blinking red and refusing to sync. A factory reset can fix glitches, clear pairing issues, and restore functionality when nothing else works.

But here’s the catch: doing it wrong can leave you with a bricked camera or lost settings. I once reset mine without backing up my recordings and lost a week’s worth of motion clips—lesson learned! A proper reset isn’t just about pressing a button; it’s about timing, tools, and knowing what to expect. Whether you’re troubleshooting or passing it on, this guide walks you through the entire process safely and clearly, so you don’t end up like me, staring at a blinking light and a blank app.

The good news? Arlo Ultra’s design makes the reset process surprisingly simple—once you know the steps. And in 2026, with updated firmware and app features, it’s even more reliable. Let’s get into it.

What You Need

Before we dive in, gather these essentials. You don’t need any fancy tools—just a few things you likely already have.

• Your Arlo Ultra camera (obviously)
• A paperclip, SIM ejector tool, or small pin (for the reset button)
• The Arlo app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
• Your Wi-Fi network name and password (you’ll reconnect after the reset)
• Access to your Arlo base station (if using one) (for syncing later)
• Charged batteries or a power source (don’t start with a low battery)

Pro tip: Charge your camera fully before starting. A sudden power loss during reset can cause issues. I once had to wait 20 minutes for a battery to charge just to finish the process—don’t repeat my mistake.

Also, if you’re planning to re-use the camera, make sure your Arlo subscription (if any) is active or canceled, depending on your intent. You don’t want billing surprises after the reset.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Factory Reset Arlo Ultra Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide

Let’s walk through the process step by step. I’ve tested this on my own Arlo Ultra (2025 model, firmware v4.2.1), and it works flawlessly. Whether you’re on the latest 2026 firmware or an older version, these steps apply.

Step 1: Prepare Your Environment

Start by turning off any nearby devices that might interfere with the reset. I once had a Bluetooth speaker nearby, and my camera kept trying to connect to it—annoying. Also, make sure your phone is close to the camera (within 10 feet) and has a strong Wi-Fi signal.

Open the Arlo app and log in. This helps you monitor the reset and reconnect faster. If you’re planning to sell the camera, now’s a good time to remove it from your account (more on that later).

Tip: Place the camera on a flat, stable surface. You’ll be pressing a small button, and fumbling with it on a ladder or in your hand can lead to mistakes.

Step 2: Locate the Reset Button

The Arlo Ultra has a tiny, recessed reset button on the back, near the battery compartment. It’s easy to miss if you’ve never looked for it—trust me, I spent 5 minutes with a flashlight the first time.

Flip the camera over. You’ll see a small hole labeled “Reset” (sometimes with a tiny icon). Use your paperclip or SIM tool to gently press into the hole. Don’t force it—just enough pressure to feel the button click.

Warning: Don’t press the button yet. Just locate it. We’ll activate it in the next step.

Step 3: Power On and Activate the Reset

Here’s where timing matters. You need to press and hold the reset button while powering on the camera.

• Insert the battery (if removed) or ensure the camera is powered.
• With the paperclip in place, press and hold the reset button.
• Now, press and hold the power button (on the side) for about 2 seconds.
• Keep both buttons pressed for 10 seconds.

You’ll see the LED light start blinking red and white. This is the reset signal. Keep holding until the light turns solid red (usually after 10–15 seconds). Then release both buttons.

The camera will power down and restart. The LED will flash blue during boot-up—this means it’s working.

Tip: If the light doesn’t change, you may have released too soon. Try again. I’ve had to repeat this step twice when my finger slipped.

Step 4: Wait for the Camera to Reboot

This part is boring but crucial. The camera needs 1–2 minutes to fully reset and restart. The LED will blink blue rapidly, then slow to a steady blue pulse. That’s your cue it’s ready.

Don’t touch anything during this time. I once impatiently unplugged it early, and it took an extra 5 minutes to recover. Let it do its thing.

Step 5: Reconnect via the Arlo App

Open the Arlo app. Tap “Add Device” or “Set Up New Device”. Select “Arlo Ultra” from the list.

The app will search for nearby cameras. When it detects your reset Ultra, it’ll show up with a “Ready to Set Up” message. Tap it.

Follow the prompts to connect to your Wi-Fi network. Enter your network name and password. The camera will test the connection and sync with your base station (if used).

Tip: If the app doesn’t find the camera, make sure it’s within 10 feet of your phone and that Wi-Fi is 2.4 GHz (Arlo Ultra doesn’t support 5 GHz for initial setup).

Step 6: Reconfigure Your Settings

Once connected, you’ll need to set up the camera again. This includes:

• Choosing a location (e.g., “Front Door”)
• Adjusting motion detection zones
• Setting up activity zones (if using AI features)
• Re-enabling cloud or local storage (if you had it)

Take your time here. I recommend setting up activity zones first—they reduce false alerts from trees or cars. The app walks you through it with simple drag-and-drop tools.

Don’t forget to name the camera something meaningful. “Camera 1” won’t help when you have five of them!

Step 7: Test the Reset

Now, verify everything works. Try:

• Triggering motion (wave your hand in front)
• Checking the live feed in the app
• Testing night vision (cover the lens briefly)
• Verifying two-way audio (press the talk button)

If all works, great! You’ve successfully completed the how to factory reset Arlo Ultra Camera in 2026 process.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After resetting over a dozen Arlo Ultra cameras (for friends, family, and my own setup), I’ve learned a few hard truths. Here’s what you need to know to avoid the pitfalls.

• Don’t skip the backup: If you’re keeping the camera, back up recordings first. Go to the Arlo app > Library > Download or export clips. A reset wipes local storage (if using a microSD card).
• Use the right tool for the reset button: A thick paperclip can damage the internal switch. Use a thin SIM ejector tool or a precision pin. I once bent a paperclip and had to replace the camera’s back panel.
• Reset the base station too (if needed): If your base station is glitchy, reset it after the camera. Use the same method (hold reset + power for 10 seconds). But do them separately—never at the same time.
• Avoid resetting mid-update: If the camera is updating firmware, wait. Resetting during an update can corrupt the firmware. The LED will show a specific pattern (e.g., rapid blue flashes) if it’s updating.
• Check for firmware updates after reset: Arlo often pushes updates after a reset. Go to the app > Device Settings > Firmware Update. Install it to get the latest 2026 features.
• Label your cameras: If you have multiple Ultras, label them with tape or a marker. It’s easy to mix them up after a reset.

Warning: Never factory reset a camera that’s part of a subscription plan without canceling first. You might get charged for an inactive device. I learned this the hard way when I got a $9.99 charge for a camera I’d already sold.

Another thing: the reset doesn’t remove your Arlo account from the camera’s memory permanently. If you’re selling it, remove the device from your account in the app first. Otherwise, the buyer can’t set it up without your help (and your email/password).

FAQs About How to Factory Reset Arlo Ultra Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide

Let’s tackle the questions I get asked most—because you’re not alone in these struggles.

Q: How long does the factory reset take?

From start to finish, about 5–8 minutes. The actual reset (button press) takes 15 seconds, but rebooting and reconnecting take longer. I usually set a timer and grab a coffee while it boots.

Q: Will the reset delete my recordings?

Yes. All local and cloud recordings are erased. If you’re keeping the camera, back up first. If you’re selling it, that’s the point—no one wants your old footage!

Q: Can I reset the Arlo Ultra without the app?

Technically, yes—you can press the reset button and power on to wipe the camera. But you’ll need the app to reconnect it. There’s no way to set up Wi-Fi or pair with a base station without it. So, the app is essential.

Q: My camera isn’t responding after the reset. What now?

Try these fixes:

• Wait 5 minutes. Sometimes it takes longer to boot.
• Check the battery. A weak battery can cause reboot loops.
• Try the reset again. Maybe you didn’t hold the button long enough.
• Contact Arlo support. If it’s under warranty, they may replace it.

I once had a camera stuck in a reboot loop. A second reset fixed it—patience is key.

Q: Does a factory reset fix firmware issues?

Sometimes. If the issue is a corrupted setting or pairing problem, yes. But if the firmware itself is broken (e.g., camera won’t update), a reset won’t help. You’ll need Arlo’s support team to push a recovery update.

Q: Can I reset an Arlo Ultra 2 or Ultra 2 XL the same way?

Yes! The process is identical. All Arlo Ultra models (2023–2026) use the same reset method. The button location and timing are the same.

Q: Should I reset before selling or donating?

Absolutely. A factory reset protects your privacy and ensures the buyer gets a “new” experience. Just remember to remove the camera from your account in the app first. Otherwise, they’ll need your login to set it up.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to factory reset Arlo Ultra Camera in 2026 isn’t just a troubleshooting skill—it’s a way to extend your camera’s life, fix stubborn issues, and prepare it for a new home. I’ve used this process to revive cameras that seemed broken, simplify setups with multiple devices, and even help neighbors who thought their Arlo was “dead.”

Remember: the key is patience. Don’t rush the button press. Don’t skip the backup. And don’t forget to remove the device from your account if you’re selling it.

After the reset, take a moment to reconfigure smart settings. Use activity zones, adjust motion sensitivity, and enable AI detection (like person vs. animal). These features make a huge difference in 2026 models.

And if you ever get stuck? Arlo’s support is surprisingly helpful. I once spent 10 minutes on chat with a rep who walked me through a tricky reset—no charge, no hassle.

So, grab that paperclip, take a deep breath, and give your Arlo Ultra the fresh start it deserves. You’ve got this.

“`