Mount your Arlo Pro 2 camera outdoors securely and hassle-free in 2026 using the included adjustable magnetic mount and weather-resistant hardware. Ensure optimal coverage by positioning the camera 7–10 feet high, angled slightly downward, and within range of your Wi-Fi signal for reliable connectivity. No drilling? No problem—use the adhesive mount for renter-friendly installation on smooth surfaces.

How to Mount Arlo Pro 2 Camera Outdoor in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Choose optimal height: Mount 7-10 feet high for best coverage and security.
• Use weatherproof housing: Ensure all components are protected from rain and debris.
• Secure mounting screws: Tighten screws firmly to prevent camera misalignment or theft.
• Test Wi-Fi signal: Verify strong connection before finalizing outdoor placement.
• Angle for motion detection: Position to cover high-traffic zones and minimize blind spots.
• Regularly clean lenses: Wipe monthly to maintain clear video quality and performance.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest: setting up home security cameras can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces. You buy a sleek Arlo Pro 2 camera—great battery life, 1080p video, night vision—but then you’re left staring at the mounting kit, wondering, “Where do I even start?”

I’ve been there. Last winter, I tried to install one on my back porch. It looked fine… until a heavy rainstorm hit, and the camera slipped halfway down the wall. Not only did it miss the delivery person, but it also started recording the side of the house instead of the gate. Classic rookie mistake.

That’s why this How to Mount Arlo Pro 2 Camera Outdoor in 2026 Easy Guide exists. Whether you’re protecting your front door, backyard, or garage, mounting your Arlo Pro 2 properly isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about reliability, coverage, and peace of mind.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to position, secure, and optimize your Arlo Pro 2 for outdoor use in 2026, no handyman skills required. And yes, you *can* do it in under 30 minutes.

What You Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need. Don’t worry—most of this is already in your Arlo Pro 2 box. If not, it’s easy to pick up.

• Arlo Pro 2 Camera – Duh, right? Make sure it’s charged or connected to the solar panel (if you have one).
• Mounting bracket and screws – Comes in the original packaging. Includes a swivel ball mount, wall plate, and two small screws.
• Drill with 1/8” drill bit – For pilot holes. A cordless drill works best, but a manual screwdriver is okay for softer materials like wood.
• Screwdriver (Phillips head) – For tightening the bracket. A magnetic tip helps avoid losing tiny screws.
• Measuring tape or ruler – To ensure even spacing and optimal height.
• Pencil or marker – For marking drill points.
• Level (optional but highly recommended) – A $5 bubble level from the hardware store prevents crooked camera syndrome.
• Wall anchors (if not included or for drywall/stucco) – The original kit works for wood and brick, but drywall or stucco may need plastic anchors.
• Smartphone with Arlo app installed – For live testing and positioning.

Pro Tip: If you’re mounting on stucco, vinyl siding, or metal, consider using outdoor-rated adhesive mounts (like 3M VHB tape) as a no-drill alternative. Works surprisingly well—I used it on my garage door last year, and it’s still rock solid.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Mount Arlo Pro 2 Camera Outdoor in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

This is the most important step. A poorly placed camera is worse than no camera at all. You want to cover high-traffic areas—front doors, driveways, backyards—but also avoid blind spots.

Ask yourself: What do I need to see? Is it the package drop-off spot? The side gate? The garage entrance? Once you know, scout the area during the day and at night.

Here’s what to look for:

• Height: Mount 7–9 feet high. Low enough to catch faces, high enough to avoid tampering. I learned this after my first camera got “accidentally” knocked down by my neighbor’s kid with a hockey stick.
• Angle: Aim for a 30–45 degree downward tilt. This gives you a clear view of people’s upper bodies and reduces glare from the sun or porch lights.
• Wi-Fi signal: Test your phone’s signal at the spot. Arlo Pro 2 needs a solid connection to sync with the base station. I once mounted one in my backyard shed—great view, but it kept disconnecting because of thick concrete walls.
• Weather protection: Avoid direct rain exposure. Under an eave, soffit, or covered porch is ideal. The Arlo Pro 2 is weather-resistant, not waterproof. A little cover goes a long way.

Warning: Don’t point it at neighbors’ windows or private areas. It’s not just rude—it could violate privacy laws in some states. Keep the view focused on your property.

Step 2: Mark and Level the Mounting Spot

Now that you’ve picked the perfect spot, let’s get precise.

1. Hold the mounting bracket (the flat plate) against the wall where you want it.
2. Use a level to make sure it’s straight. A crooked camera looks unprofessional and can distort the field of view.
3. Mark the two screw holes with a pencil. I like to make a small “X” so it’s easy to see later.
4. If you’re using a solar panel, mark its position too. Most people mount the camera first, then attach the panel nearby.

Pro tip: If you’re mounting on brick or concrete, use a masonry bit (usually included in drill kits). For wood, the regular 1/8” bit works fine.

Also, consider cable management. If you’re using the optional outdoor power adapter (sold separately), plan where the cable will run. I once had a loose cable that got caught in a weed whacker—total disaster.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes

Now for the fun part—drilling!

1. Attach the correct drill bit to your drill.
2. Drill slowly into each marked spot. Go just deep enough for the screw to grip—about 1 inch.
3. For drywall or stucco, insert the plastic wall anchors first. Tap them in gently with a hammer until flush.
4. For brick or concrete, use the included masonry screws or heavy-duty anchors. These are stronger and won’t pull out.

Pro Tip: Use a vacuum or damp cloth to clean up dust after drilling. It makes the next steps easier and keeps your tools clean.

Don’t rush this step. A clean, snug hole means a secure mount. I once drilled too fast and cracked the stucco around the hole—ended up using epoxy to fix it.

Step 4: Attach the Mounting Bracket

Time to secure the base.

1. Align the mounting plate with the holes.
2. Insert the screws and tighten with a screwdriver. Don’t over-tighten—you could strip the plastic or damage the wall.
3. Give it a gentle wiggle test. It should feel solid, not loose.

The bracket has a ball joint on top. This lets you adjust the camera’s angle later. Make sure it’s facing the right direction before tightening fully.

If you’re using a solar panel, now’s the time to attach its mount nearby. Most kits use the same screws. Just make sure it’s angled toward the sun (south-facing in the Northern Hemisphere).

Step 5: Install the Camera on the Mount

Almost there!

1. Take your Arlo Pro 2 and locate the magnetic base on the back.
2. Align it with the ball joint on the bracket.
3. Press gently—it should click into place with a satisfying *snap*.

The magnetic mount is strong, but not indestructible. I’ve had mine survive strong winds, but I wouldn’t trust it in hurricane conditions without additional support.

Once it’s on, test the swivel. You should be able to adjust the camera up, down, left, and right easily. If it’s stiff, loosen the base screw slightly.

Step 6: Connect and Test with the Arlo App

Now for the tech part—don’t panic, it’s easier than it sounds.

1. Open the Arlo app on your phone.
2. Go to Devices > Add Device and follow the prompts to pair your camera.
3. Once connected, tap “Live View” to see the feed.

Check these things:

• Is the view clear and stable?
• Can you see the intended area (e.g., front door, driveway)?
• Is the Wi-Fi signal strong? (Look for the signal bars in the app.)
• Does night vision work? Test at dusk.

If the image is blurry, clean the lens with a microfiber cloth. If it’s dark, adjust the angle to avoid backlighting.

Pro Tip: Use the “Motion Test” feature in the app. Walk in front of the camera to see if it detects motion and starts recording. This saves you from discovering blind spots later.

Step 7: Fine-Tune and Secure (Optional)

This step is optional but highly recommended for long-term success.

• Adjust the angle: Swivel the camera until you get the perfect view. Use the app’s live feed to guide you.
• Tighten the base screw: Once the angle is set, give the screw at the base a final tighten. This locks the ball joint in place.
• Add a weather shield (optional): Arlo sells a Weather Resistant Cover that fits over the camera. It’s great for areas with heavy rain or snow.
• Secure the battery: The battery door should click shut. If it feels loose, press firmly around the edges.

I also recommend labeling your cameras in the app (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”). It saves so much confusion when you have multiple units.

Step 8: Set Up Alerts and Notifications (Bonus)

Your Arlo Pro 2 can do more than just record—it can alert you in real time.

1. In the app, go to Settings > Alerts.
2. Turn on Motion Alerts and customize the sensitivity.
3. Set up Activity Zones to ignore areas like tree branches or busy streets.
4. Enable Push Notifications and email alerts if you want extra security.

Pro tip: Use “People Detection” (available with Arlo Smart subscription) to reduce false alerts from animals or cars.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After installing over a dozen Arlo Pro 2 cameras (and making every mistake in the book), here are my hard-earned insights:

Pro Tip #1: Always charge the camera fully before mounting. A low battery can cause connection issues during setup.

Pro Tip #2: Use the Arlo app’s “Signal Strength” tool to find the best spot. Walk around with your phone and check the bars before drilling.

Common Mistake #1: Mounting too low. It’s tempting to put it at eye level, but kids, pets, and vandals can easily cover or remove it. Stick to 7+ feet.

Common Mistake #2: Ignoring the sun. A camera pointed east or west can get blinded by sunrise/sunset. Use a hood or adjust the angle to avoid glare.

Common Mistake #3: Forgetting to test at night. Daylight looks great, but nighttime is when you need it most. Check IR performance and adjust if needed.

Pro Tip #3: For renters or temporary setups, use Arlo’s adhesive mounts or window suction cups. No drilling, no damage, and just as secure in most cases.

Pro Tip #4: Clean the lens every 2–4 weeks. Dust, bugs, and rain streaks can blur the image over time. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth keeps it sharp.

And one last thing: don’t over-mount. I once installed five cameras and ended up with overlapping views and motion fatigue. Start with 1–2 key spots, then expand as needed.

FAQs About How to Mount Arlo Pro 2 Camera Outdoor in 2026 Easy Guide

Here are the questions I get asked most often—answered honestly and simply.

Can I mount the Arlo Pro 2 on a tree or pole?

Yes, but it’s not ideal. Trees move in the wind, which can cause shaky footage. If you must, use a sturdy branch or install a metal pole (like a fence post). Use zip ties or a metal mounting strap to secure the bracket. Just make sure the camera isn’t in direct rain.

Do I need to drill into the wall?

Not always. If you’re on a rental or hate drilling, try adhesive mounts or window mounts. They work well on glass, vinyl, and smooth surfaces. Just clean the area first with alcohol wipes for better adhesion.

What if my Wi-Fi signal is weak outside?

This is a big one. The Arlo Pro 2 relies on a strong connection to the base station. If the signal is weak, try:

• Moving the base station closer to the camera (within 300 feet).
• Using a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network.
• Switching to a wired outdoor adapter (sold separately) for constant power and better stability.

I once used a $20 Wi-Fi extender and doubled my outdoor coverage. Worth every penny.

Can the Arlo Pro 2 survive snow and freezing temps?

Yes, but with caveats. The camera is rated for -4°F to 113°F. In heavy snow, ice can build up on the lens, blocking the view. Use a weather shield and clear snow regularly. Avoid mounting under gutters that drip icy water.

How do I remove the camera without damaging the wall?

Easy! Just pull the camera straight off the magnetic mount. The bracket stays on the wall. If you want to remove the bracket, unscrew it carefully. For drywall, use spackle to fill the holes. For stucco or brick, you can leave it—most people don’t notice.

Is the Arlo Pro 2 compatible with solar panels?

Absolutely. Arlo’s Outdoor Solar Panel (sold separately) keeps the battery charged year-round. Just make sure it gets 4+ hours of direct sunlight daily. I’ve had mine running for 18 months without a single recharge.

What’s the best height for mounting?

7 to 9 feet. This height:

• Captures faces without being too high.
• Is hard for kids or animals to reach.
• Provides a wide field of view (130°).

Too low? Tamper risk. Too high? You’ll only see the tops of heads.

Final Thoughts

Mounting your Arlo Pro 2 Camera Outdoor in 2026 doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tools, a little patience, and this How to Mount Arlo Pro 2 Camera Outdoor in 2026 Easy Guide, you can set up a reliable, high-quality security system in under an hour.

Remember: it’s not just about where you mount it—it’s about how you mount it. A secure, well-angled camera with a strong signal will do far more than a fancy model with poor placement.

Start small. Pick one high-traffic area, follow the steps, and test thoroughly. Once you see that crisp 1080p feed and get your first motion alert, you’ll feel that sweet sense of security.

And hey—if you run into trouble? Don’t sweat it. We’ve all been there. Just grab a cup of coffee, take a breath, and try again. Your home’s safety is worth the effort.

Now go get that camera up and running. You’ve got this.