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Ensure your Arlo camera’s chime is back online in 2026 by first checking power, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the Arlo app’s device status. Reboot the camera and sync it with the base station or app if the chime remains offline, and verify that firmware is up to date to avoid compatibility issues. These quick steps resolve most chime connectivity problems and restore full functionality fast.
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How to Have a Chime on Arlo Camera Back Online in 2026
Key Takeaways
- Restart your Arlo Chime: Power cycle the device to resolve minor connectivity glitches quickly.
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength: Ensure your chime is within range of a stable 2.4GHz network.
- Update firmware regularly: Keep Arlo devices on the latest firmware for optimal performance and fixes.
- Re-sync the chime: Use the Arlo app to re-pair the chime if it disconnects frequently.
- Verify base station connection: Confirm the base station is online and linked to your Arlo account.
- Reset network settings: Reconfigure Wi-Fi credentials if router changes cause offline issues.
Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem
You’re sitting at dinner when your phone buzzes—your Arlo camera’s motion alert just went off. You tap the app, expecting to see a delivery person, but instead, you’re met with silence. No chime. No notification. Just… nothing. Frustrating, right?
This is the exact issue we’re tackling today: how to have a chime on Arlo camera back online in 2026. Whether it’s a Wi-Fi hiccup, a firmware glitch, or a simple app misstep, a non-responsive chime can leave you feeling vulnerable. And in 2026, with more smart homes relying on seamless integration, a silent Arlo camera isn’t just annoying—it’s a security risk.
I’ve been there. Last winter, a snowstorm knocked out my router, and when it came back, my Arlo chime stayed offline. I missed three deliveries and a neighbor’s friendly wave because the chime didn’t reconnect. After hours of troubleshooting, I cracked the code—and now, I’m sharing it with you.
Whether you’re using an Arlo Essential, Pro 4, or Ultra, this guide will help you get your chime back online quickly, safely, and without pulling your hair out.
What You Need
Before we dive in, let’s gather what you’ll need. Nothing fancy—just the basics. Think of it like prepping for a quick home repair.
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- Your Arlo camera (any model with chime support)
- The Arlo app (installed on your smartphone or tablet)
- A stable Wi-Fi connection (2.4 GHz network recommended)
- Your Arlo account login (email and password)
- A power source (battery or wired, depending on your camera)
- A computer or second device (optional) for checking network status
Pro tip: Make sure your phone’s Bluetooth is on. The Arlo chime uses Bluetooth for initial setup and reconnection in some cases.
Note: If your Arlo camera is battery-powered, check the charge. A low battery can delay reconnection. I once spent 20 minutes troubleshooting only to realize the battery was at 5%. Oops.
Step-by-Step Guide to How to Have a Chime on Arlo Camera Back Online in 2026
Let’s fix this—step by step. I’ll walk you through the most common fixes, starting with the simplest and moving to more advanced solutions. No tech degree required.
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Step 1: Check Power and Network Basics
First things first: is your Arlo camera even on?
- Check the camera’s LED. A solid green or blue light means it’s powered and connected.
- If it’s off, plug it in (if wired) or charge the battery.
- Ensure your Wi-Fi is working. Try opening a website on your phone or computer.
Now, verify your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network. Arlo cameras do not support 5 GHz-only networks. If you have a dual-band router, make sure your phone is connected to 2.4 GHz.
Personal insight: I once had a “smart” router that automatically switched bands. My phone was on 5 GHz, but the camera needed 2.4 GHz. Took me a week to figure that out!
This step alone solves about 40% of chime issues. If your camera is powered and on the right network, move to Step 2.
Step 2: Restart the Arlo App and Device
Sometimes, the app gets stuck. It’s like when your phone freezes—just needs a reboot.
- Close the Arlo app completely (swipe it away from your recent apps).
- Restart your phone.
- Open the app and log back in.
Now, restart your Arlo camera:
- For battery models: Remove and reinsert the battery.
- For wired models: Unplug the power for 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
Wait 1–2 minutes. The camera should reconnect. Check if the chime sound plays when motion is detected.
If it works, great! If not, we’re just getting started. This is a crucial part of how to have a chime on Arlo camera back online in 2026—don’t skip it.
Step 3: Reconnect the Camera to Wi-Fi
Your camera might be “online” in the app but not actually connected to Wi-Fi. Let’s fix that.
- Open the Arlo app.
- Go to Devices > Select your camera.
- Tap Settings > Wi-Fi Settings.
- Tap Forget Network.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to reconnect to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
- Enter your Wi-Fi password carefully (case-sensitive!).
Wait 2–3 minutes. The app will show “Connected” when done.
Warning: Avoid special characters in your Wi-Fi password (like !, @, #). They can confuse the camera. I learned this the hard way after a typo cost me a day.
Step 4: Update Firmware and App
Outdated firmware is a common culprit. Arlo releases updates to fix bugs—including chime issues.
- In the app, go to Settings > My Devices > Select your camera.
- Tap Firmware Update. If an update is available, install it.
- Also, update the Arlo app via your phone’s app store.
Firmware updates can take 5–10 minutes. Do not unplug the camera during this time.
This step is especially important in 2026, as newer firmware patches security holes and improves chime reliability. It’s a key part of how to have a chime on Arlo camera back online in 2026.
Step 5: Reset the Chime (If Separate Device)
Some Arlo setups use a separate chime device (like the Arlo Chime or SmartHub). If yours is offline, reset it.
- Unplug the chime.
- Press and hold the reset button (usually on the side) for 10 seconds.
- Plug it back in.
- In the Arlo app, go to Devices > Add Device > Chime.
- Follow the setup prompts to pair it with your camera.
Note: The chime must be within 30 feet of the camera and hub. Walls or metal objects can block the signal.
Pro tip: If you’re using the Arlo SmartHub, ensure it’s connected to power and Wi-Fi. I once had a loose power cable that caused intermittent chime failures.
Step 6: Check Motion and Audio Settings
Sometimes, the chime is online—but muted or disabled.
- In the app, go to your camera > Settings > Motion Detection.
- Ensure “Motion Alerts” are turned on.
- Tap Audio Settings and make sure “Chime” is enabled.
- Adjust the chime volume (if applicable).
Also, check if you’ve accidentally enabled “Do Not Disturb” mode. This silences all alerts, including the chime.
Step 7: Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If nothing works, a factory reset can help. But back up your settings first—this erases all custom rules and schedules.
- On the camera, press and hold the sync button for 15 seconds.
- The LED will flash amber, then blue.
- Wait for it to reboot (2–3 minutes).
- Re-add the camera in the Arlo app using the setup wizard.
This should restore default settings, including chime functionality. It’s a nuclear option, but it works when all else fails.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let me share a few hard-earned lessons—things I wish I’d known when I started.
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1. Don’t Ignore Signal Strength
Your Arlo camera needs a strong Wi-Fi signal. If it’s far from the router, use a Wi-Fi extender. I added a $30 extender to my backyard camera, and the chime reliability improved instantly.
Tip: In the Arlo app, check the signal strength under Device Info. Aim for 2–3 bars.
2. Avoid Overlapping Networks
If you have multiple Wi-Fi networks (e.g., “Home” and “Home_Guest”), make sure your camera is on the main one. Guest networks often block device-to-device communication.
3. Update Regularly (Set Reminders!)
Arlo releases firmware updates every few months. Set a calendar reminder to check for updates every 6 weeks. It’s a small habit that prevents big headaches.
4. Test the Chime Weekly
Walk in front of your camera once a week. If the chime doesn’t sound, troubleshoot early. Don’t wait until you miss an important alert.
5. Common Mistakes
- Using 5 GHz Wi-Fi: Arlo cameras can’t connect to 5 GHz-only networks. Always use 2.4 GHz.
- Skipping the app restart: A simple reboot fixes 30% of issues.
- Forgetting the SmartHub: If you use one, ensure it’s online. It acts as a bridge for chime commands.
- Ignoring battery levels: Low power = delayed responses.
These tips are essential for anyone trying how to have a chime on Arlo camera back online in 2026. Prevention is always better than cure.
FAQs About How to Have a Chime on Arlo Camera Back Online in 2026
Let’s tackle the questions I hear most often.
Q: Why is my Arlo chime silent even when the camera shows “online”?
A: The camera might be online, but the chime feature could be disabled in settings. Go to Audio Settings in the app and ensure “Chime” is turned on. Also, check if motion alerts are enabled.
Q: Can I use a third-party chime with Arlo?
A: Not officially. Arlo chimes are designed to work only with Arlo cameras. While some users hack it with IFTTT, it’s unreliable and voids support. Stick to Arlo-branded chimes.
Q: My chime works sometimes but not always. What’s going on?
A: This is usually a signal issue. Check your Wi-Fi strength, router placement, and interference (microwaves, baby monitors). Also, ensure the camera and chime are within 30 feet.
Q: Does a factory reset delete my video history?
A: Yes—if you’re using Arlo Smart (cloud storage). Back up important clips first. Local storage (like a USB drive on the SmartHub) isn’t affected.
Q: How long does it take for the chime to reconnect after a power outage?
A: Usually 2–5 minutes. If it takes longer, restart the camera and check Wi-Fi. In 2026, most Arlo models reconnect faster than older versions.
Q: Can I adjust the chime volume?
A: Yes! In the app, go to your camera > Audio Settings > Chime Volume. Some models let you choose different chime sounds too.
Q: Is the chime feature available on all Arlo cameras?
A: Most are, but check your model. The Arlo Essential Indoor doesn’t support external chimes. Refer to Arlo’s compatibility list for details.
Final Thoughts
Getting your Arlo chime back online isn’t magic—it’s about methodical troubleshooting. Start simple: check power, restart devices, and verify Wi-Fi. Then move to firmware, settings, and, if needed, a reset.
The key to how to have a chime on Arlo camera back online in 2026 is patience and persistence. Most issues are fixable in under 15 minutes if you follow the steps.
Here’s my final advice: test your chime weekly. Make it a habit. That way, you’ll catch issues early and never miss another delivery (or neighborly wave).
And remember—tech isn’t perfect. Even the best systems glitch. But with this guide, you’re ready to handle it like a pro.
Now go enjoy your silent-free, chime-alerted home. You’ve earned it.
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