Schedule your Arlo cameras to record 24/7 effortlessly by enabling the “Always Record” feature in the Arlo app’s settings. This ensures continuous footage without gaps, ideal for high-traffic areas or round-the-clock surveillance. Customize schedules and storage options to optimize performance and never miss a critical moment again.

“`html

How to Schedule Arlo Cameras to Always Record Effortlessly

Key Takeaways

• Enable Always Record: Use the Arlo app to toggle continuous recording in camera settings.
• Schedule via App: Set custom recording schedules under the “Modes” tab for automation.
• Check Storage: Ensure sufficient cloud or local storage for uninterrupted recordings.
• Adjust Motion Zones: Minimize false alerts to optimize recording efficiency and storage.
• Firmware Updates: Keep cameras updated for latest features and scheduling stability.
• Use Activity Zones: Focus recording on key areas to reduce unnecessary footage.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: You’re on vacation, sipping coffee on a sunny beach, and suddenly remember—did I set my Arlo camera to record? Was it motion-activated, or did I miss something important?

If you’ve ever felt that pang of uncertainty, you’re not alone. Many Arlo users struggle with inconsistent recordings, missed events, or cameras turning off when they’re needed most. That’s why how to schedule Arlo cameras to always record effortlessly isn’t just a convenience—it’s peace of mind.

Whether you’re monitoring your home, a rental property, or keeping an eye on deliveries, consistent recording means never missing a beat. But here’s the catch: Arlo doesn’t default to 24/7 recording. You’ve got to set it up right.

And that’s exactly what we’re going to fix today. No tech headaches, no confusing menus—just a clear, step-by-step way to make your Arlo cameras work for you, not against you.

💡 Personal insight: I once missed a package theft because my Arlo was in “motion-only” mode. After setting up a schedule, I caught a delivery person leaving a package and a neighbor’s dog digging in my yard—both on video. Scheduling changed the game.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you have everything ready. The good news? You likely already have most of it.

• Arlo camera(s): Works with Arlo Pro, Ultra, Essential, and newer models. (Older Arlo Q models may have limitations.)
• Arlo app (iOS or Android): Download it from your app store if you haven’t already.
• Stable Wi-Fi connection: Your camera needs consistent internet to sync schedules.
• Arlo Smart subscription (optional but recommended): Required for 24/7 continuous recording. Without it, you’re limited to motion-triggered clips.
• Smart Hub or Base Station (if using wired/wireless systems): Needed for some models to access advanced features.
• Device with internet access: Your phone, tablet, or computer to manage settings.

⚠️ Warning: If you don’t have an Arlo Smart plan, you can still schedule motion-activated recording, but true 24/7 recording requires the subscription. We’ll cover both options.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Schedule Arlo Cameras to Always Record Effortlessly

Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Log In

Grab your phone and open the Arlo app. If you’re using a tablet or computer, go to my.arlo.com.

Log in with your Arlo account. Make sure you’re using the same account linked to your cameras. If you’ve shared access with family, ensure you’re the admin to change recording schedules.

This is your control center. Think of it like the dashboard of your home security system. Everything starts here.

Step 2: Navigate to Your Camera’s Settings

On the home screen, tap the camera you want to schedule. It’ll show a live view or last recorded clip.

Now, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. Tap it—this opens your camera’s settings menu.

Inside, you’ll see options like “Device Info,” “Video,” and “Activity Zones.” We’re looking for “Recording Schedule.”

💡 Pro tip: If you don’t see “Recording Schedule,” your camera model or subscription might not support it. Check if you’re on Arlo Smart (more on that later).

Step 3: Enable Continuous Recording (Requires Arlo Smart)

Here’s where the magic happens. Scroll down until you find “Continuous Recording” or “24/7 Recording.”

If you have an Arlo Smart subscription, toggle it ON. A prompt will ask if you want to start recording now. Tap “Yes.”

Now, your camera will record non-stop, storing footage to the cloud. This is the key to how to schedule Arlo cameras to always record effortlessly—because once enabled, it just works.

But what if you don’t have a subscription?

• No Arlo Smart? You can’t do true 24/7 recording, but you can schedule motion-activated recording. We’ll cover that in Step 4.
• On a budget? Consider the 7-day free trial of Arlo Smart. Test it for a week to see if continuous recording fits your needs.

Step 4: Set a Custom Recording Schedule (For Motion or Continuous)

Whether you’re using continuous or motion-only, scheduling gives you control over when your camera records.

In the same settings menu, tap “Recording Schedule.” You’ll see a weekly calendar grid (Monday to Sunday).

Tap any day to set a custom time block. For example:

• Set “Always On” from 8 PM to 6 AM (nighttime monitoring).
• Schedule recording during work hours (9 AM–5 PM) if you’re home at night.
• Turn off recording during parties or when you’re gardening.

To create a block, tap the time slot, set start/end times, and choose:

• Continuous Recording (if subscribed)
• Motion-Activated Recording (default)
• Off (camera sleeps)

You can add multiple blocks per day. For example: Record 7 AM–9 AM (kids leaving for school), then 4 PM–6 PM (after-school hours).

💡 Personal insight: I set my backyard camera to record only from 10 PM to 6 AM. Why? Most activity (squirrels, raccoons) happens at night. Saves cloud storage and reduces false alerts.

Step 5: Customize Motion Zones (To Reduce False Alerts)

Even with a schedule, your camera might record too much—like a tree swaying in the wind or a car driving by.

Go back to the camera settings and tap “Activity Zones.”

You’ll see a live preview. Draw boxes over areas you want to monitor (e.g., front door, driveway). Leave out irrelevant zones (street, trees).

This way, your camera only records when motion happens within the zones you care about. It’s like telling your camera: “Only wake me up for the important stuff.”

For continuous recording, this doesn’t stop the recording—but it helps you review clips faster later.

Step 6: Set Up Smart Alerts (Optional but Powerful)

Want to know exactly when something happens? Use Smart Alerts.

In the main app, go to “Alerts” (bottom menu) > “Smart Alerts.”

Enable features like:

• People Detection: Get notified only when a person is detected.
• Vehicle Detection: Alerts for cars or bikes.
• Package Detection: Perfect for delivery monitoring.

You can even set alert schedules. For example: “Notify me about people only at night, but all motion during the day.”

This pairs perfectly with your recording schedule. You’ll record 24/7, but only get alerts when it matters.

Step 7: Sync with Other Smart Home Devices (For Automation)

Here’s a bonus: Use IFTTT or Arlo’s built-in integrations to automate your schedule.

For example:

• When your smart door lock unlocks, start recording.
• When geofencing detects you’re away, switch to 24/7 mode.
• When smart lights turn off at night, start recording.

To set this up:

1. Open the Arlo app > “Settings” > “Smart Home” > “IFTTT” or “Works With”
2. Connect your smart devices (e.g., Philips Hue, August, Google Assistant)
3. Create an applet like: “IF I leave home, THEN start continuous recording on all cameras.”

This is how you make how to schedule Arlo cameras to always record effortlessly truly hands-free.

Step 8: Test Your Schedule

Don’t just set it and forget it. Test it.

Trigger a motion event during your scheduled time. Wave at the camera, walk by, or ask a neighbor to help.

Check the app: Did a clip appear? Was it recorded continuously (if enabled)? Did you get an alert?

If not, revisit your settings. Common issues:

• Wi-Fi dropped (check signal strength in app)
• Schedule not saved (tap “Save” or “Done”)
• Camera in “Off” mode (verify in Recording Schedule)

Testing once a week keeps your system reliable.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of using Arlo cameras, I’ve learned what works—and what doesn’t.

✅ Pro Tips

• Use geofencing for automatic schedules: When your phone leaves the house, Arlo can auto-start 24/7 recording. No manual setup. (Settings > Smart Home > Geofencing)
• Label your cameras clearly: “Front Door,” “Backyard,” “Garage.” Makes scheduling easier.
• Schedule “off” times during gatherings: No need to record your BBQ. Save storage and privacy.
• Check storage regularly: Arlo Smart plans offer 30-day rolling storage. Delete old clips or upgrade if you’re full.
• Use a local storage option (if available): Some models support microSD cards for backup. Great for areas with spotty Wi-Fi.

❌ Common Mistakes

🚫 Assuming “Always On” means 24/7: Without Arlo Smart, “Always On” only means motion-activated. You’ll miss gaps between events.

🚫 Ignoring Wi-Fi signal: A weak signal causes dropped recordings. Use the Arlo app’s “Signal Strength” tool (under Device Info) to check.

🚫 Forgetting to save schedules: Arlo sometimes doesn’t auto-save. Always tap “Save” or “Done” after changes.

🚫 Overloading activity zones: Too many zones = too many false alerts. Keep it simple: 1–3 zones per camera.

🚫 Not testing after updates: Arlo app updates can reset settings. Test your schedule after every update.

FAQs About How to Schedule Arlo Cameras to Always Record Effortlessly

Q: Can I schedule Arlo cameras without a subscription?

Yes, but with limits. Without Arlo Smart, you can schedule motion-activated recording. That means the camera records only when it sees motion. It won’t record continuously, so you might miss events between triggers. For true 24/7 recording, a subscription is required.

Q: How much cloud storage do I need for 24/7 recording?

Arlo Smart plans offer 30 days of rolling cloud storage. A single camera recording 24/7 uses about 15–20 GB per month. If you have 3 cameras, that’s ~60 GB. Most plans include multiple camera support, so check your plan details. Pro tip: Use activity zones to reduce unnecessary footage and save space.

Q: Will scheduling affect battery life?

Yes, for battery-powered models. Continuous recording drains batteries faster. Expect 2–4 weeks instead of 6–12 months. To extend life:

• Use shorter recording blocks (e.g., only at night).
• Reduce motion sensitivity.
• Use a solar panel (if supported).

Wired or AC-powered models aren’t affected.

Q: Can I schedule different cameras for different times?

Absolutely! Each camera has its own settings. Set your front door to record 24/7, but your backyard only at night. Or schedule your garage camera to turn off when you’re home. This is the power of how to schedule Arlo cameras to always record effortlessly—customization.

Q: What if my camera goes offline?

If Wi-Fi drops, your camera stops recording. The app will show “Offline” status. To prevent this:

• Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal (use a range extender if needed).
• Restart the camera or base station.
• Check for app updates.

Some models support local storage (microSD), so footage saves even if the internet is down. Syncs when reconnected.

Q: Can I schedule recording based on sunrise/sunset?

Not directly in the app, but you can use IFTTT or SmartThings. Create an applet like: “IF sunset, THEN start recording on Arlo cameras.” It’s a bit technical, but worth it for natural lighting schedules.

Q: Is my data secure when recording 24/7?

Arlo uses end-to-end encryption for cloud storage. Only you (or shared users) can access footage. Enable two-factor authentication (Settings > Account > Security) for extra protection. Local storage (microSD) is also secure—just keep the card safe.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Arlo cameras to record consistently isn’t about complex tech—it’s about smart habits. Whether you’re using motion-activated or 24/7 recording, the key is scheduling.

You’ve now got the tools to make how to schedule Arlo cameras to always record effortlessly a reality. No more missed deliveries. No more wondering if your home is safe. Just reliable, automated recording that works when you need it.

Start simple: Pick one camera, set a schedule for tonight, and test it. Once it works, expand to others. Use geofencing, activity zones, and smart alerts to refine it.

And remember: Technology should serve you, not stress you. If a setting feels confusing, take a breath. Revisit the steps. You’ve got this.

Now go enjoy that beach vacation—knowing your Arlo has your back, 24/7.

🔑 Actionable advice: Open your Arlo app today. Pick one camera. Set a recording schedule for tonight. Test it by walking in front of the lens. You’ll sleep better knowing it’s working.

“`