Ensure your Arlo camera is powered and within range of the base station or Wi-Fi network to resolve most offline issues in 2026. Restart the camera and sync it again using the Arlo app’s “Device Offline” troubleshooting tool for a fast, reliable reconnection.

How to Reconnect an Arlo Camera That Is Offline in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Restart your camera: Power cycle the Arlo camera to resolve temporary glitches.
• Check Wi-Fi signal: Ensure strong connectivity near the camera’s location.
• Update firmware: Install the latest Arlo app and camera firmware updates.
• Verify battery levels: Replace or recharge batteries if below 20%.
• Re-sync the base station: Press the sync button to reestablish connection.
• Test with another device: Confirm if the issue is device-specific or network-wide.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

We’ve all been there: you check your Arlo app, and suddenly one of your cameras is offline. Maybe it’s the one watching your front porch, or the one keeping an eye on the backyard while you’re away. Panic sets in. Did it get stolen? Is the battery dead? Is my security compromised?

Don’t worry—this happens more often than you’d think. In fact, reconnecting an Arlo camera that is offline in 2026 is a common issue, and it’s usually fixable with a few simple steps. Whether it’s a Wi-Fi hiccup, a power issue, or a sync problem, the root cause is rarely permanent.

Over the years, I’ve helped dozens of friends and family members troubleshoot their Arlo systems. Some were frustrated, others confused. But in nearly every case, the camera came back online after following a clear, step-by-step process. That’s why I wrote this guide: to give you a reliable, easy-to-follow method for how to reconnect an Arlo camera that is offline in 2026—no tech degree required.

We’ll cover everything from checking the basics to advanced troubleshooting, all while keeping it conversational and practical. Because your peace of mind matters more than flashy tech jargon.

What You Need

Before diving in, gather a few essentials. Nothing fancy—just what you likely already have at home. Here’s your quick checklist:

• Your smartphone or tablet with the Arlo app installed (iOS or Android)
• Access to your Wi-Fi network (and the password, if needed)
• A stable internet connection (your phone should be connected to the same network as your Arlo base station or directly to the camera, if it’s a Wi-Fi model)
• Fresh batteries (for wire-free models) or a working power adapter (for wired models)
• Your Arlo base station (if you have one—some newer models connect directly to Wi-Fi)
• A paperclip or small pin (for the reset button)
• Patience and 10–15 minutes of uninterrupted time

That’s it. No special tools, no expensive software. Just you, your gear, and a calm mindset. And if you’re missing one item—like the base station—don’t panic. We’ll adjust the steps accordingly.

Pro tip: If you’re using a battery-powered Arlo camera, check the battery level first. Low power is one of the most common reasons a camera goes offline.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reconnect an Arlo Camera That Is Offline in 2026

Let’s walk through the process together. I’ll keep it simple, clear, and grounded in real-world experience. Remember, the goal is to get your camera back online—not to overcomplicate things.

Step 1: Check the Arlo App for Clues

Open the Arlo app on your phone. Tap on the camera that’s showing as “Offline.” Look at the details.

Does it say “Low Battery”? “No Signal”? “Sync Failed”? These messages are your first hints. For example, a “Low Battery” warning means you need to swap in new batteries. A “No Signal” message suggests a Wi-Fi or base station issue.

This step is crucial because it helps you diagnose the problem before jumping into fixes. Think of it like checking a car’s dashboard before opening the hood.

Personal insight: I once spent 20 minutes troubleshooting a camera that was “offline”—only to realize the battery had died overnight. A quick glance at the app would’ve saved me time. Always start here.

Step 2: Power Cycle the Camera

For battery-powered models: Turn the camera off, remove the batteries, wait 10 seconds, then reinsert them. Turn it back on.

For wired models: Unplug the power adapter, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for the status light to blink (usually blue or green).

This is a classic “turn it off and on again” fix—but it works more often than not. It resets the camera’s internal state and forces it to reconnect to the network.

After powering back on, give it 1–2 minutes to boot up and try to reconnect. Then check the app again.

Warning: Don’t skip the 10-second wait. It ensures the camera fully resets. Rushing this step can leave it stuck in a half-on state.

Step 3: Check the Base Station (If You Have One)

If your Arlo system uses a base station (like the Arlo SmartHub or Pro 3/4 base), make sure it’s powered on and connected to Wi-Fi.

Look at the base station’s lights:

• Green or blue light: Good—it’s connected.
• Red or flashing red: It’s offline or having connection issues.
• No light: Not powered.

If the base station is offline, power cycle it (unplug for 10 seconds, then plug back in). Wait 2–3 minutes for it to reconnect to Wi-Fi.

Once the base station is back online, your camera should automatically reconnect within a few minutes.

This step is essential for how to reconnect an Arlo camera that is offline in 2026—especially if you’re using older models that rely on the base station for internet access.

Step 4: Verify Your Wi-Fi Connection

Your camera needs a strong, stable Wi-Fi signal. Even if your phone shows full bars, the camera might be in a dead zone.

Here’s how to test:

• Move your phone to the same location as the camera and check the Wi-Fi signal strength in your phone’s settings.
• Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app (like NetSpot or WiFi Analyzer) to see signal strength in decibels (dBm). Aim for -60 dBm or higher.
• If the signal is weak, try moving the camera closer to your router or adding a Wi-Fi extender.

Also, check if your router is blocking the camera. Some routers have “client isolation” or “AP isolation” enabled, which prevents devices from talking to each other. Disable this feature temporarily to test.

If your camera is on a 5GHz network, consider switching to 2.4GHz. Arlo cameras work better on 2.4GHz because it has better range and wall penetration.

Real-life example: My backyard camera kept going offline until I realized it was trying to use 5GHz. Switching to 2.4GHz fixed it instantly.

Step 5: Restart the Camera’s Wi-Fi Connection

If the camera still won’t connect, it’s time to reset its Wi-Fi settings.

Here’s how:

• Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Device Info > Restart Device.
• Tap “Restart.” This forces the camera to disconnect and reconnect to Wi-Fi.
• Wait 2–3 minutes. The camera will blink its status light and attempt to reconnect.

If that doesn’t work, try removing the camera from the app and re-adding it:

• Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Remove Device.
• Follow the setup steps again, as if it’s a new camera.

This process clears any corrupted network settings and re-establishes the connection. It’s one of the most effective ways for how to reconnect an Arlo camera that is offline in 2026.

Note: Removing and re-adding the camera won’t delete your recordings if they’re stored in the cloud. But if you use a local storage option (like a USB drive on the base station), double-check that your footage is backed up first.

Step 6: Perform a Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If nothing else works, a factory reset might be necessary. This wipes all settings and returns the camera to its original state.

Here’s how:

• Locate the reset button on the camera (usually a small hole on the back or bottom).
• Use a paperclip to press and hold the button for 10–15 seconds.
• Wait for the status light to flash rapidly (this means the reset is complete).
• Re-add the camera to the Arlo app as a new device.

This step should only be used when all else fails. It’s like giving the camera a fresh start.

After the reset, you’ll need to reconfigure motion zones, alerts, and any other custom settings.

Personal insight: I’ve had to factory reset a camera only twice in five years. Both times, it was after a firmware update caused a sync issue. It worked, but it was a hassle to set everything up again. So, use this as a last resort.

Step 7: Update Firmware and App

Outdated firmware or app versions can cause connection problems.

Check for updates:

• In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Firmware Update.
• If an update is available, install it.
• Also, update the Arlo app on your phone via the App Store or Google Play.

Firmware updates often include bug fixes for connectivity issues. In 2026, Arlo has been rolling out patches specifically for offline camera problems, so staying current is key.

After updating, restart the camera and check if it reconnects.

Step 8: Contact Arlo Support (If All Else Fails)

If you’ve tried everything and the camera is still offline, it’s time to call in the experts.

Go to Arlo’s support site and:

• Chat with a support agent online.
• Call their customer service (available in most regions).
• Submit a support ticket with your camera’s serial number and error logs.

They can check if there’s a network outage, a hardware defect, or a deeper software issue.

And if your camera is under warranty, you might qualify for a replacement.

Pro tip: When contacting support, have your account info, camera model, and a list of troubleshooting steps you’ve already tried. It speeds up the process.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve seen the same mistakes repeated. Here are the ones to watch for—and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the base station: If you have one, it’s the brain of the system. Don’t assume it’s working just because your phone is online.
• Using weak batteries: Rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time. Use fresh, high-quality batteries (like Duracell or Energizer).
• Overlooking Wi-Fi interference: Microwaves, baby monitors, and other electronics can interfere with 2.4GHz signals. Keep your camera away from them.
• Skipping the app’s status messages: The app often tells you exactly what’s wrong. Read it carefully before taking action.
• Resetting too soon: Don’t jump to a factory reset after one failed attempt. Try simpler fixes first.

Also, consider these pro tips:

• Label your cameras (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”) so you know which one is offline.
• Set up push notifications for camera disconnections. The app can alert you the moment a camera goes offline.
• For outdoor cameras, make sure they’re protected from rain and extreme temperatures. Moisture can damage internal components.

Remember, reconnecting an Arlo camera that is offline in 2026 isn’t just about fixing a tech issue—it’s about restoring your peace of mind. Take it one step at a time.

FAQs About How to Reconnect an Arlo Camera That Is Offline in 2026

Let’s tackle the questions I get asked most often.

Q: Why does my Arlo camera keep going offline?

Great question. Common causes include low battery, weak Wi-Fi, base station issues, or firmware bugs. In 2026, some users also report interference from smart home devices. The good news? Most of these are fixable with the steps above.

Q: Can I reconnect a camera without the base station?

Yes, if you have a Wi-Fi-enabled model (like the Arlo Essential or Ultra 2). These connect directly to your home network. Just follow Steps 1, 2, 4, and 5 in this guide. No base station needed.

Q: How long does it take to reconnect?

Usually 2–5 minutes after you fix the issue. Sometimes it’s instant. If it takes longer than 10 minutes, try restarting the camera or base station again.

Q: Will I lose my recordings if the camera is offline?

Not if they’re stored in the cloud. Arlo keeps your footage safe on their servers. But if you use a USB drive on the base station, recordings during the offline period won’t be saved. That’s why it’s important to reconnect quickly.

Q: My camera is offline but the light is on. What’s wrong?

A solid or blinking light means the camera is powered, but it might not be connected to Wi-Fi or the base station. Check your network, restart the camera, and verify the base station (if used). The light doesn’t always mean “online.”

Q: Can weather cause my camera to go offline?

Yes, especially extreme heat or cold. Arlo cameras are weather-resistant, but not weatherproof. If it’s below freezing or above 120°F, the internal components might shut down to protect themselves. Bring it indoors temporarily if possible.

Q: Is there a way to prevent this from happening again?

Absolutely. Here’s how:

• Use a Wi-Fi extender to improve signal strength.
• Set up battery alerts in the app.
• Update firmware regularly.
• Keep the camera in a dry, shaded spot outdoors.

Prevention is always easier than troubleshooting.

Final Thoughts

So, how to reconnect an Arlo camera that is offline in 2026? It’s not about having the fanciest tech—it’s about knowing what to check, in what order, and without panic.

Start with the app, then power, then network, then reset. Be patient. Try one thing at a time. And if you get stuck, remember: you’re not alone. Thousands of Arlo users face this every day.

Your home security matters. Don’t let a simple disconnect turn into a long-term vulnerability. Use this guide as your go-to resource. Bookmark it. Share it with family. And the next time a camera goes offline, you’ll know exactly what to do.

Stay safe, stay connected, and keep an eye on what matters.