Reconnect your Arlo camera to the internet in minutes by powering it down, restarting your router, and re-adding it via the Arlo app. This simple reset process often resolves connectivity issues caused by network changes or signal drops. Ensure your camera is charged and within range of the base station or Wi-Fi for a smooth reconnection.

How to Reconnect Arlo Camera to Internet in Simple Steps

Key Takeaways

• Restart devices first: Power cycle camera and router to resolve minor connection glitches.
• Check Wi-Fi signal: Ensure camera is within strong range of your router for stable connectivity.
• Use Arlo app: Follow in-app prompts to re-add camera if it disconnects unexpectedly.
• Update firmware: Keep camera firmware current to avoid compatibility issues with your network.
• Reset if needed: Factory reset as a last resort if reconnection fails repeatedly.
• Verify credentials: Double-check Wi-Fi password and network selection during setup.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Ever had that moment—you’re about to check your front door camera, and nothing loads? No live feed. No motion alerts. Just a spinning icon and a growing sense of unease. I’ve been there. One night, my Arlo Pro 4 just went dark. No warning. No reason. I was left wondering if the camera died… or if someone had cut the Wi-Fi.

The truth? Your Arlo camera isn’t broken. It’s likely just disconnected from your internet. This happens more than you think—power outages, router resets, Wi-Fi changes, or even a neighbor’s new network interfering with the signal. But here’s the good news: you can fix it. And you don’t need to be a tech wizard.

That’s exactly why I wrote this guide: how to reconnect Arlo camera to internet in simple steps. Whether you’re using a base station, a Wi-Fi extender, or the camera directly, this guide walks you through every option—clearly, calmly, and without jargon. No fluff. Just what works.

And yes, I’ll share the mistakes I made (like trying to reset the camera while standing in the rain). So you don’t have to.

What You Need

Before we jump in, let’s gather what you’ll need. Nothing fancy. Most of this is already in your home.

• Your Arlo camera (obviously). Know the model—Pro, Ultra, Essential, etc. This affects steps slightly.
• Smartphone or tablet with the Arlo app installed (iOS or Android). If you don’t have it, download it now.
• Your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password. Double-check it. Typos are the #1 reason reconnections fail.
• Access to your router or base station. You’ll need to be near it for pairing.
• A stable power source for the camera. Use the original charger or a high-quality USB cable.
• Optional: Wi-Fi extender or mesh system—if your camera is far from the router.

Pro tip: If your camera uses a base station (like Arlo Pro 3 or earlier), make sure it’s powered and connected to your router via Ethernet. The base station acts as a bridge—without it, the camera won’t talk to your Wi-Fi.

This isn’t about buying new gear. It’s about using what you already have. Now, let’s get your camera back online.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reconnect Arlo Camera to Internet in Simple Steps

Step 1: Check the Basics (Before You Panic)

Before you start unplugging things, let’s rule out the obvious. I’ve wasted 20 minutes once just because my phone was on mobile data.

• Open the Arlo app and check if other cameras are online. If yes, it’s likely this one’s Wi-Fi issue.
• Make sure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, not cellular. The app can’t talk to your camera over data.
• Look at the camera: is the LED blinking? Solid? Off? This tells you its status.

For most Arlo models:

• Solid blue = connected.
• Blinking blue = trying to connect.
• Solid amber = low battery or connection issue.
• Off = no power or deep sleep.

If the light is blinking blue or amber, your camera is trying to connect—but something’s blocking it. That’s where we come in. This is the first real step in how to reconnect Arlo camera to internet in simple steps.

Step 2: Restart the Camera and Base Station (If You Have One)

Sometimes, the simplest fix works. A quick restart clears glitches and refreshes the connection.

• For battery-powered cameras: Remove the battery, wait 10 seconds, then reinsert. The camera will power up and attempt to reconnect.
• For wired cameras: Unplug the power cable, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
• If using a base station: Power it off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. It takes about 2 minutes to fully boot.

After restarting, wait 2–3 minutes. The camera will try to reconnect automatically. Watch the LED.

Warning: Don’t restart too often. Frequent reboots can confuse the camera and delay reconnection. One restart is enough for now.

If the camera connects, great! You’re done. If not, don’t worry—we’ve got more tools. This step is often overlooked, but it’s a key part of how to reconnect Arlo camera to internet in simple steps.

Step 3: Check Your Wi-Fi Network

Your camera might be trying to connect, but your Wi-Fi could be the problem. Let’s check:

• Is your router working? Are other devices online?
• Did you recently change your Wi-Fi password or network name? If yes, your camera still has the old one—and that’s why it’s failing.
• Are you using 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz? Arlo cameras (except Ultra and newer Pro models) only work on 2.4 GHz. If your phone is on 5 GHz, switch to 2.4 GHz temporarily.

Here’s how to switch on your phone:

• Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Tap your network > Advanced > Frequency band > Select 2.4 GHz.
• iPhone: You can’t manually switch, but iOS usually connects to 2.4 GHz by default. Just make sure you’re on the right network.

If your router supports dual-band (2.4 and 5 GHz with same name), try splitting them temporarily. Name your 2.4 GHz network something like “Home-2.4” and connect to it. This forces the camera to use 2.4 GHz.

This step is critical. Many people skip it and wonder why the camera won’t connect. It’s not broken—it’s just looking for the wrong network.

Step 4: Remove and Re-Add the Camera in the Arlo App

This is the most reliable method. Think of it like “breaking up and getting back together”—but with better communication.

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Go to Devices and tap your camera.
3. Tap the three dots (⋮) > Remove Device.
4. Confirm removal. The camera will disappear from your account.
5. Now, go to + Add Device > Select your camera model.
6. Follow the setup prompts. You’ll need to:
• Press and hold the sync button on the camera (usually for 5 seconds) until the LED blinks blue.
• Wait for the app to detect it.
• Enter your Wi-Fi name and password (double-check spelling).
• Wait for pairing to complete (2–3 minutes).

The app will guide you through each step. If it fails, don’t panic—just try again. Sometimes it takes two tries.

Pro tip: Stand close to the camera during pairing. Hold your phone near it. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals are weak at a distance. I once failed three times because I was in the next room. Once I moved closer—boom, connected.

This method works for all Arlo models, whether they use a base station or connect directly. It’s the backbone of how to reconnect Arlo camera to internet in simple steps.

Step 5: Reset the Camera (If It Still Won’t Connect)

If the above didn’t work, it’s time for a factory reset. This erases all settings and puts the camera back to “new” mode.

• Locate the reset button. It’s usually a tiny hole on the side or back.
• Use a paperclip or SIM tool to press and hold it for 10–15 seconds.
• Release when the LED starts blinking rapidly (usually blue or white).

After resetting, the camera will act like it’s brand new. You’ll need to:

• Remove it from the app (if it’s still listed).
• Add it again using the + Add Device process.
• Re-enter your Wi-Fi details.

Warning: A reset erases all settings—motion zones, schedules, etc. You’ll need to reconfigure them later. Only use this if other steps fail.

This is a nuclear option, but sometimes it’s the only way. I used it once after a firmware update messed up the connection. Reset fixed it in 5 minutes.

Step 6: Check for Interference and Signal Strength

Even if your Wi-Fi works, the camera might not “hear” it well. Walls, appliances, and other devices can block signals.

• Move the camera closer to the router or base station temporarily. If it connects, signal strength was the issue.
• Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app (like Wi-Fi Analyzer for Android) to check signal strength at the camera’s location. Aim for -60 dBm or higher. Below -70 dBm is risky.
• Reduce interference:
• Keep the camera away from microwaves, cordless phones, and metal objects.
• Avoid placing it behind thick walls or concrete.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system if the signal is weak.

I once had a camera in my garage. It was 40 feet from the router. No extender. It kept disconnecting. Once I added a TP-Link extender halfway, it worked perfectly.

This step is often the real fix—especially for outdoor cameras. Don’t overlook it.

Step 7: Update Firmware and App

Outdated software can cause connection bugs. Arlo releases updates to fix Wi-Fi issues.

• In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Device Settings > Firmware Update.
• If an update is available, install it. The camera will restart.
• Also, update the Arlo app on your phone. Outdated apps can’t communicate with newer firmware.

Firmware updates usually take 2–5 minutes. Don’t unplug the camera during this time.

After updating, try reconnecting. Many users report fixes after a simple update.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After helping friends and family fix their Arlo cameras, I’ve seen the same mistakes over and over. Here’s what to watch for:

Common mistake #1: Entering the wrong Wi-Fi password. I’ve done this twice. One typo—and the camera won’t connect. Always double-check. Use copy-paste if possible.

Common mistake #2: Using 5 GHz only. Remember: most Arlo cameras need 2.4 GHz. If you’re on a dual-band router, make sure your phone connects to 2.4 GHz during setup.

Common mistake #3: Not waiting long enough. Arlo cameras take 2–3 minutes to connect. If it fails, wait 5 minutes before trying again. Rushing leads to frustration.

Common mistake #4: Ignoring the base station. If you have one, it must be online. Check its lights. Solid green = good. Blinking or red = problem.

Pro tip: Label your camera in the app. If you have multiple, name them “Front Door,” “Backyard,” etc. It makes troubleshooting easier.

Pro tip: Use the Arlo app’s signal strength tool. In the camera’s settings, tap “Device Health.” It shows Wi-Fi signal, battery, and firmware status. Use it to diagnose issues.

Pro tip: If you move the camera, re-pair it. Walls and distance affect signal. Don’t assume it will work in a new spot.

These tips aren’t just helpful—they’re essential for how to reconnect Arlo camera to internet in simple steps without headaches.

FAQs About How to Reconnect Arlo Camera to Internet in Simple Steps

Q: Why does my Arlo camera keep disconnecting?

Usually, it’s Wi-Fi signal issues. Weak signal, interference, or router problems. Check the camera’s location, use a Wi-Fi analyzer, and consider an extender. Also, ensure your router isn’t restarting automatically (some do it at night).

Q: Can I reconnect my Arlo camera without the app?

No. The app is required for setup and reconnection. It handles the pairing process and Wi-Fi configuration. You can’t do it via web browser or manual IP settings.

Q: How long does it take to reconnect?

Most reconnections take 3–5 minutes. If it’s a factory reset, add 2 minutes for setup. Wait at least 5 minutes before assuming it failed.

Q: Does Arlo work with 5 GHz Wi-Fi?

Only some models. Arlo Ultra, Pro 4, and newer Essential cameras support 5 GHz. Older models (Pro 2, Pro 3) need 2.4 GHz. Check your model’s specs.

Q: What if my base station is offline?

If the base station isn’t connected to the router (Ethernet or Wi-Fi), the camera can’t reach the internet. Restart the base station, check cables, and ensure it’s powered.

Q: Can I use a different Wi-Fi network?

Yes, but you must remove and re-add the camera. The camera stores Wi-Fi settings. It won’t automatically switch networks.

Q: My camera is connected but not recording. What’s wrong?

That’s a different issue. Check your subscription (if you have one), storage (cloud or local), and motion detection settings. But the internet connection is working—so this guide doesn’t apply.

Final Thoughts

Reconnecting your Arlo camera isn’t magic. It’s a process—one that anyone can do. Start with the basics: check power, Wi-Fi, and restart. Then move to the app: remove, add, reset if needed. Finally, look at signal strength and firmware.

Remember: how to reconnect Arlo camera to internet in simple steps isn’t about being a tech expert. It’s about being patient, methodical, and willing to try one more time.

I’ve fixed dozens of Arlo cameras this way—mine and others’. The key? Don’t give up after the first try. Most issues are small: a typo, a weak signal, a forgotten restart.

So grab your phone, head to your camera, and start with Step 1. You’ve got this. And when that live feed pops up again? You’ll feel that quiet pride—knowing you fixed it yourself.

Now go check your front door. It’s waiting for you.