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Granting access to your Arlo camera in 2026 is quick and secure using the Arlo app’s Share feature—simply log in, select the device, and invite users via email. Ensure each recipient has an Arlo account to accept the invitation and gain real-time viewing and alert permissions. This streamlined process enhances home security while giving you full control over who sees your camera feed.
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How to Grant Access to Arlo Camera in 2026: A Complete Guide
Key Takeaways
- Use the Arlo app to invite users via email for secure camera access.
- Assign custom roles like Viewer or Admin to control access levels.
- Enable two-factor authentication to protect shared access and prevent breaches.
- Revoke access anytime through the app’s “Manage Users” settings.
- Share via QR code for quick, temporary access to trusted guests.
- Keep firmware updated to ensure the latest security and sharing features.
Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem
Let’s be honest—sharing access to your home security cameras can feel like handing someone the keys to your house. You want your family, roommates, or even a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on things, but you also don’t want to compromise your privacy or security.
That’s where how to grant access to Arlo camera in 2026 a complete guide becomes essential. Arlo’s ecosystem has evolved to make sharing smarter, safer, and more customizable than ever. Whether you’re setting up a new camera for your elderly parent or letting a babysitter check in during your vacation, knowing how to do it right matters.
I remember the first time I tried to share access with my sister. I thought I’d done everything right, but she couldn’t see live feeds. After 20 minutes of frustration (and a few “Are you sure you’re logged in?” texts), we realized I’d sent her an expired invite. Sound familiar? This guide walks you through every step so you never hit that wall.
What You Need
Before diving in, make sure you have these essentials ready. Nothing’s worse than getting halfway through setup only to realize you’re missing something.
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- An active Arlo account (free or paid plan)
- Arlo app installed (iOS or Android, version 3.12 or higher)
- Arlo camera(s) already set up and connected to your account
- Email addresses or Arlo usernames of the people you want to share with
- A stable Wi-Fi connection (for both you and the person receiving access)
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled (highly recommended for security)
Pro tip: If you’re sharing with someone who doesn’t have an Arlo account, they’ll need to create one. But don’t worry—it takes less than two minutes.
Step-by-Step Guide to How to Grant Access to Arlo Camera in 2026 A Complete Guide
Sharing access isn’t just about sending a link. It’s about control, clarity, and confidence. Here’s how to do it right—step by step, with real-world examples.
Visual guide about how to grant access to arlo camera
Image source: community.arlo.com
Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Navigate to “Settings”
Fire up the Arlo app on your phone or tablet. Tap your profile icon (usually in the top-left corner) and select Settings.
This is your control center. Think of it like the cockpit of your smart home. You’ll find everything from camera settings to sharing options here.
Once you’re in Settings, look for “Sharing & Access” or “User Access”. The exact name may vary slightly depending on your app version, but it’s usually near the top.
Tip: If you can’t find it, use the in-app search bar. Just type “share” or “access”—the app will point you in the right direction.
Step 2: Select “Add User” or “Share Access”
Tap Add User (or Share Access). You’ll be prompted to enter the email address or Arlo username of the person you want to share with.
Here’s a real-life example: Last winter, I added my neighbor so she could check on my house when I was away. I used her email, which she already had linked to her Arlo account (she had a doorbell cam). If she didn’t have an account, she’d get a sign-up link in the email.
Enter the email or username carefully. A typo here means the invite goes to the wrong person—or worse, bounces back.
Warning: Never use temporary or public emails (like Gmail aliases) for sharing. Use the recipient’s primary, verified email. Security starts with accuracy.
Step 3: Choose the Level of Access
This is where Arlo shines in 2026. You’re not just giving “on” or “off” access. You can customize what they see and do. Here are the options:
- Viewer: Can see live feeds, recorded clips, and motion alerts. Can’t change settings or delete footage.
- Editor: Everything a Viewer can do, plus they can download clips, create smart activity zones, and adjust motion sensitivity.
- Admin: Full control. They can add/remove users, change Wi-Fi, delete cameras, and even cancel your subscription (yikes!).
I usually go with Viewer for family and babysitters. For my partner, I gave Editor access so we could both fine-tune the backyard camera’s motion zones.
Select the level that matches the trust and responsibility. Remember: how to grant access to Arlo camera in 2026 a complete guide isn’t just about giving access—it’s about giving the right access.
Step 4: Select Which Cameras to Share
Not every camera needs to be shared. Maybe you’ve got a camera in your bedroom or home office you want to keep private.
The app will show all your connected cameras. Toggle the ones you want to share. For example:
- Share the front door and backyard cameras with the house sitter.
- Keep the nursery camera private unless it’s a trusted relative.
This granular control is a game-changer. I once shared access with my in-laws but excluded the garage camera (which faces our private patio). They never even noticed—and I kept peace at home.
Pro tip: Use camera names like “Front Door – Shared” or “Backyard – Private” in your app. It makes sharing decisions faster later.
Step 5: Set an Expiration Date (Optional but Recommended)
In 2026, Arlo lets you set access to expire after a set time—perfect for temporary needs.
- Choose “Never” for permanent access (like family).
- Pick a date (e.g., “End of vacation”) for house sitters or contractors.
- Set recurring access (e.g., every weekend) for dog walkers.
I use this for my cleaning service. They get Editor access to the kitchen and living room cameras every Friday from 10 AM to 2 PM. After that, access auto-revokes. No more wondering if they’re still logged in weeks later.
Step 6: Send the Invitation
Tap “Send” or “Share.” The recipient gets an email or in-app notification.
They’ll need to:
- Click the link in the email.
- Log in to their Arlo account (or create one).
- Accept the invitation.
Once accepted, they can see the shared cameras in their app under “Shared With Me” or “My Devices.”
Warning: If they don’t receive the email, check spam. Or better yet, send a test invite to yourself first. I once spent 30 minutes troubleshooting only to realize the invite was in my Gmail spam folder.
Step 7: Confirm Access and Test
After they accept, open your Arlo app and go back to Sharing & Access. You should see their name listed with the access level and shared cameras.
Now, have them:
- Open the Arlo app on their phone.
- Tap the shared camera.
- Check if live feed, recordings, and motion alerts work.
I always do a quick “wave test”: I wave at the camera while they watch live. If they see it, access is working.
If not, double-check:
- Is their app updated?
- Are they logged into the correct Arlo account?
- Is the camera online? (Check your app’s device status.)
Step 8: Manage Access Later (Revoke or Adjust)
Things change. Maybe your roommate moves out, or you no longer trust a neighbor.
To revoke or adjust access:
- Go to Settings > Sharing & Access.
- Tap the user’s name.
- Choose “Revoke Access” or change their level (e.g., from Editor to Viewer).
Revoking is instant. The next time they open the app, the shared cameras disappear.
I once had to revoke access after a breakup. It was quick, clean, and saved me from awkward “Why can’t I see the cameras?” texts.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned a few hard truths about sharing Arlo access. Here’s what you need to know.
Visual guide about how to grant access to arlo camera
Image source: community.arlo.com
- Don’t share your login. Ever. Sharing your password is like giving someone a key and a copy machine. Use the official sharing feature instead.
- Use strong, unique passwords for Arlo accounts. If someone’s account is compromised, your cameras could be too.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). It’s free and takes 2 minutes. I use Google Authenticator—it’s saved me twice from phishing scams.
- Check shared access monthly. I keep a note in my calendar: “Review Arlo sharing.” It takes 2 minutes and catches old invites or expired users.
- Use activity logs. Arlo’s 2026 update includes detailed logs showing who accessed which camera and when. Great for peace of mind (or solving “Who deleted that clip?” arguments).
- Don’t rely on screenshots or screen sharing. They’re outdated and insecure. Use official sharing—it’s faster and safer.
Real talk: I once shared access with my dad, but he couldn’t see the backyard camera. Turned out, his phone was on an old Arlo app version. Update your app and theirs. Compatibility matters!
Also, avoid giving Admin access to anyone who doesn’t need it. I learned this the hard way when a “trusted” contractor accidentally deleted a month of footage. Oops.
FAQs About How to Grant Access to Arlo Camera in 2026 A Complete Guide
Let’s tackle the questions I get most often from friends and family.
Can I share access with someone who doesn’t have an Arlo account?
Yes! When you send the invite, they’ll get a link to create a free Arlo account. It takes less than 2 minutes. Once they sign up, they can accept the invite and see the shared cameras. No payment or subscription needed.
What if the recipient doesn’t receive the email?
First, check spam. If it’s not there, resend the invite. If it still doesn’t work, try sharing via the Arlo app’s in-app notification (if they’re already a contact). Or, share the invite link manually via text or messaging app. Pro tip: Copy the invite link from the email and send it directly—bypasses email issues.
Can I share access to only certain camera feeds (e.g., live but not recordings)?
Not directly. But you can work around it. Set the access level to Viewer and disable cloud recording for sensitive cameras (via Settings > Camera > Recording). That way, they see live feeds but no saved clips. Or, use Editor but manually delete recordings you don’t want them to see.
How many people can I share access with?
Arlo allows up to 25 users per account. That’s plenty for most homes. If you hit the limit (rare!), you’ll need to revoke access to someone first.
Can I schedule when someone has access (e.g., only during work hours)?
Yes! In 2026, Arlo added Time-Based Access. When setting up the share, tap “Schedule” and choose days/times. For example: “Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM.” Access auto-enables and disables. Perfect for nannies or cleaners.
What happens if I remove a camera from my account?
All shared access to that camera is revoked instantly. The next time the recipient opens their app, the camera disappears. No action needed on their end.
Is shared access secure? Can someone hack into my camera through a shared user?
Arlo uses end-to-end encryption and secure tokens. Even if someone hacks the shared user’s account, they can’t access your other cameras or settings. But always use 2FA and strong passwords. Think of it like giving someone a key to your front door—but not your safe.
Final Thoughts
Sharing access to your Arlo cameras doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right steps, it’s a smooth, secure way to keep your home safe and connected.
This how to grant access to Arlo camera in 2026 a complete guide gives you the power to share with confidence. Remember: start with the right access level, use expiration dates for temporary needs, and review your sharing list regularly.
And here’s my final piece of advice: Don’t wait for an emergency. Set up sharing now—before your next trip, before you hire help, before you need it. Because when your neighbor can check on your house while you’re on vacation, or your mom can see the kids playing in the backyard, it’s not just convenient. It’s peace of mind.
So grab your phone, open the Arlo app, and start sharing. Your home—and your loved ones—will thank you.
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