Reset your Arlo camera in just 5 simple steps to restore connectivity and fix performance issues fast. Whether you’re troubleshooting or preparing to resell, a factory reset clears all settings and reconnects your device like new. Follow the quick button-press method or use the Arlo app for a seamless reset—no technical skills needed.

How to Reset Your Arlo Cameras in 5 Easy Steps

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole on your Arlo camera for the reset.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button firmly with a paperclip.
• Hold for 10 seconds: Keep the button pressed until the LED flashes amber.
• Wait for reboot: Allow the camera to restart and return to factory settings.
• Reconnect to Wi-Fi: Set up the camera again via the Arlo app.
• Update firmware: Check for updates post-reset to ensure optimal performance.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Picture this: You’re setting up your new Arlo camera, and suddenly—nothing. The app won’t connect, the LED blinks red, or maybe it’s just stuck in setup mode. Sound familiar? I’ve been there. Whether you’re troubleshooting connectivity issues, prepping to sell your camera, or just starting fresh, knowing how to reset your Arlo cameras in 5 easy steps can save you time, stress, and a call to support.

Arlo cameras are smart, reliable, and packed with features. But like any tech, they sometimes need a fresh start. A reset clears glitches, erases old settings, and gives you a clean slate. It’s not about fixing a broken camera—it’s about giving it a second chance. And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard to do it.

Whether you’re resetting a single camera or an entire system, this guide walks you through the process step by step. No jargon, no fluff—just clear, practical advice to get your Arlo back on track.

“I reset my Arlo Pro 4 after it stopped streaming—took 10 minutes and fixed the issue. Wish I’d done it sooner!” – Real user, Reddit thread

What You Need

Before you dive in, gather these essentials. Don’t worry—you likely already have everything on hand.

• Your Arlo camera (any model: Arlo Pro, Ultra, Essential, etc.)
• The Arlo app (installed on your smartphone or tablet)
• A stable Wi-Fi connection (2.4 GHz band recommended for older models)
• A paperclip, pin, or SIM ejector tool (for physical resets)
• Access to your Arlo account (email and password)
• Your base station or SmartHub (if using one—skip if using Wi-Fi directly)
• Optional: A second device (like a tablet) to monitor the app while resetting

Pro tip: Charge your camera fully before starting. A low battery can interrupt the reset process, especially if it’s a wireless model. I once tried resetting a camera with 10% battery—it died mid-process and took twice as long to fix.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset Your Arlo Cameras in 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Identify Your Arlo Camera Model

Not all Arlo cameras reset the same way. The method depends on your model. Here’s how to tell:

• Arlo Essential (wireless): Small, no base station, connects directly to Wi-Fi.
• Arlo Pro 3/4/5: Requires a base station or SmartHub. Has a sync button.
• Arlo Ultra/Ultra 2: High-end, uses a SmartHub, has a sync button.
• Arlo Go: Cellular model—reset differs slightly (covered in FAQs).

Why this matters: The reset process varies. For example, wireless models like the Essential use the app, while Pro/Ultra models use a physical button. Knowing your model ensures you follow the right steps—saving time and avoiding frustration.

To check your model, look at the camera’s back or bottom. It’s printed on the label. Or, open the Arlo app, tap the camera icon, and check the “Device Info” section.

“I reset my Arlo Pro 3 like it was an Essential—wasted 20 minutes. Always check the model first!” – User tip from Arlo community

Step 2: Soft Reset via the Arlo App (Recommended First Step)

Before you press any buttons, try a soft reset. This removes the camera from your account without erasing its internal memory—perfect for re-pairing or troubleshooting.

1. Open the Arlo app and log in.
2. Tap the camera icon you want to reset.
3. Tap the gear icon (Settings) > Device Info.
4. Scroll down and tap Remove Device.
5. Confirm by tapping Remove.

The camera will disconnect from your account. Its LED may blink yellow or red—that’s normal. This step doesn’t factory reset the camera, but it’s a great first move. I use this when a camera won’t sync after Wi-Fi changes. It’s like “unplugging and plugging back in” for your smart home.

Note: If the app shows “Device Offline,” wait a few minutes. The camera may take time to respond. Or, try restarting the app.

After this, you can re-add the camera as if it’s brand new. But if issues persist, move to the next step: a full factory reset.

Step 3: Factory Reset Using the Sync Button (Physical Reset)

This is the full reset—erasing all settings, Wi-Fi passwords, and paired devices. Use this when the soft reset fails, or you’re selling the camera.

For Arlo Pro, Ultra, and models with a sync button:

1. Locate the sync button on the camera. It’s usually on the side or bottom.
2. Press and hold the sync button for 10–15 seconds. Use a paperclip or pin.
3. Watch the LED: It will blink blue and yellow alternately. This means the reset is starting.
4. When the LED turns solid blue (or green on some models), release the button.
5. Wait 1–2 minutes. The camera will restart and enter setup mode.

For Arlo Essential (no sync button):

1. Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds.
2. The LED will blink red, then turn off.
3. Wait 10 seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.
4. The LED will blink blue—this means it’s ready to pair.

Important: Don’t release the button too early. I once held it for only 8 seconds—the camera just restarted, but didn’t reset. The 10–15 second rule is critical.

Also, keep the camera close to your base station or Wi-Fi router during the reset. Weak signal can cause failures.

Step 4: Reconnect to Your Base Station or Wi-Fi

Now that the camera is reset, it’s time to pair it again.

If using a base station or SmartHub:

1. Ensure the base station is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Open the Arlo app > tap + > Add Device.
3. Select your camera model.
4. Press the sync button on the base station once. The LED will blink blue.
5. Within 2 minutes, press the sync button on the camera once.
6. The app will detect the camera and guide you through setup.

If using Wi-Fi directly (Arlo Essential, Arlo Go, etc.):

1. In the Arlo app, tap + > Add Device.
2. Select your model.
3. The app will prompt you to connect to the camera’s Wi-Fi network (e.g., “Arlo-XXXX”).
4. On your phone, go to Wi-Fi settings and connect to that network.
5. Return to the app. It will ask for your home Wi-Fi name and password.
6. Enter them. The camera will connect to your home network.

Tip: Use a strong Wi-Fi signal. I set up an Arlo Essential in my backyard shed, but the signal was weak. The camera kept disconnecting. I moved it closer to the house—problem solved.

Step 5: Test and Troubleshoot

Don’t assume the reset worked just because the app says “Connected.” Test it thoroughly.

• Check the live feed in the app. Is the video clear? Is there audio?
• Trigger motion detection by walking in front of the camera. Does it record?
• Test night vision (if applicable). Turn off the lights. Is the image visible?
• Verify notifications. Does your phone alert you when motion is detected?

If something’s off:

• No video? Check Wi-Fi signal strength. Move the camera closer to the router.
• No motion alerts? Go to Settings > Alerts and ensure motion detection is enabled.
• Camera offline? Restart the base station or router. Wait 5 minutes.
• Still not working? Repeat the factory reset. Sometimes it takes two tries.

I once reset an Arlo Pro 4, and it wouldn’t detect motion. I checked the settings—motion detection was off. Easy fix, but I almost thought the reset failed.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tip: Label your cameras after resetting. I have three Arlo Pros in the backyard. Without labels, I kept forgetting which was which. Now I name them “Back Gate,” “Deck,” and “Shed.” Saves so much confusion.

Warning: Don’t reset during bad weather. I reset an outdoor Arlo during a storm. The camera got wet, and the reset failed. Wait for clear weather—especially if the camera is exposed.

Pro Tip: Use the same Wi-Fi band. Older Arlo models (like Pro 3) only work on 2.4 GHz. If your router uses 5 GHz by default, create a separate 2.4 GHz network. My neighbor had this issue—his camera wouldn’t connect until he switched bands.

Common Mistake: Skipping the soft reset. I used to jump straight to factory reset. Now I always try the app removal first. It’s faster and less disruptive.

Pro Tip: Reset all cameras at once if you’re troubleshooting a system-wide issue. I had two cameras acting up. Resetting them together fixed the problem—they were interfering with each other’s signals.

Warning: Don’t reset the base station unless necessary. It controls all cameras. If you reset it, you’ll have to re-pair every device. Only do this if the base station is frozen or unresponsive.

FAQs About How to Reset Your Arlo Cameras in 5 Easy Steps

Q: How do I reset an Arlo Go (cellular) camera?

Good question! The Arlo Go resets differently because it uses cellular data. Here’s how:

• Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds.
• The LED will blink red, then turn off.
• Wait 10 seconds, then press the power button to turn it back on.
• Wait 2–3 minutes for it to reconnect to the cellular network.
• Use the app to remove the device, then re-add it.

Note: The Arlo Go doesn’t have a sync button. Also, ensure your SIM card is active and has data.

Q: Will resetting erase my recordings?

It depends on where your videos are stored.

• Cloud recordings: If you have an Arlo Secure plan, your videos are safe. Resetting doesn’t delete cloud footage.
• Local recordings: If you use a microSD card (on Arlo Pro 4/5, Ultra), the card is erased during a factory reset. Backup your videos first!

I learned this the hard way. I reset my Arlo Pro 4 and lost a week of backyard footage. Now I back up my SD card monthly.

Q: Can I reset a camera without the app?

Yes—but only partially. You can do a factory reset using the sync button (Step 3), but you need the app to re-pair and set up the camera. The app is essential for configuration.

Exception: If you’re using a base station, you can pair the camera by pressing the sync buttons on both devices. But you’ll still need the app to adjust settings, view footage, or enable alerts.

Q: Why does my camera blink red after reset?

A blinking red LED usually means:

• Low battery (on wireless models). Charge it fully.
• No Wi-Fi or cellular connection. Move closer to the router or check your SIM.
• Sync failure. Try resetting again or restart the base station.

I had a camera blinking red for days. Turned out the Wi-Fi password had changed. Once I updated it in the app, the red light stopped.

Q: How often should I reset my Arlo camera?

Only when needed. Resetting too often can wear out the camera’s memory. Use it for:

• Troubleshooting connectivity issues
• Prepping to sell or gift the camera
• Switching to a new Wi-Fi network
• After a major app or firmware update

I reset my cameras once every 6–12 months—only if they act up. Regular resets aren’t necessary for maintenance.

Q: What if the reset doesn’t work?

If the camera won’t reset or re-pair, try these:

• Restart your router and base station.
• Update the Arlo app and camera firmware.
• Check for interference (microwaves, baby monitors, etc.).
• Contact Arlo support. They can remotely diagnose issues.

One user’s Arlo Ultra wouldn’t reset. Support found a firmware bug and pushed an update. Fixed in minutes.

Q: Can I reset an Arlo camera remotely?

Yes—via the app. Use the “Remove Device” function (Step 2) from anywhere. But a factory reset requires physical access to the camera (to press the sync button).

This is great for renters or vacation homes. I can remove a camera from my account while traveling, then reset it when I get home.

Final Thoughts

Resetting your Arlo camera isn’t scary—it’s empowering. Whether you’re fixing a glitch, upgrading your setup, or just starting fresh, knowing how to reset your Arlo cameras in 5 easy steps puts you in control.

Remember: Start with a soft reset (app removal), then move to a factory reset if needed. Test thoroughly, label your cameras, and don’t rush. A little patience goes a long way.

And if you hit a snag? Don’t stress. Most issues are fixable—often with a simple reset. I’ve reset over 20 Arlo cameras (yes, I’m a bit obsessed), and 95% of problems vanish after a fresh start.

Now grab that paperclip, open the app, and give your Arlo the reboot it deserves. Your smart home will thank you.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments. I’ll help you troubleshoot—just like a friend would.