How to Set Up Arlo Camera With Samsung SmartThings Hub Easily

How to Set Up Arlo Camera With Samsung SmartThings Hub Easily

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Seamlessly integrate your Arlo camera with the Samsung SmartThings Hub by following a few simple steps to enable real-time alerts, live streaming, and automated smart home routines. Ensure both devices are on the same network and use the SmartThings app to discover and sync your Arlo camera in minutes, unlocking enhanced security and centralized control.

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How to Set Up Arlo Camera With Samsung SmartThings Hub Easily

Key Takeaways

  • Verify compatibility first: Ensure your Arlo camera model supports SmartThings integration.
  • Update firmware: Keep both Arlo and SmartThings Hub firmware current for seamless setup.
  • Use SmartThings app: Add Arlo via the “Devices” tab, not the Arlo app.
  • Sync via Wi-Fi: Connect Arlo to the same network as your SmartThings Hub.
  • Test automation: Create routines to trigger Arlo recordings with SmartThings sensors.
  • Check permissions: Grant SmartThings access to Arlo account during linking process.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—smart home setups can feel like solving a puzzle blindfolded. You’ve got an Arlo camera that promises crystal-clear surveillance, a Samsung SmartThings Hub that’s supposed to tie it all together, and yet… they’re not talking to each other. Frustrating, right?

I’ve been there. I bought my first Arlo Pro 3 to keep an eye on my front porch after a package went missing. I already had a SmartThings Hub for lights, locks, and temperature control. The dream? One app, one dashboard, full control. But when I tried to connect them? Nothing. Zilch. Nada.

That’s when I realized: How to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily isn’t just a search query—it’s a real need. Most guides either skip steps, assume tech fluency, or don’t account for firmware quirks. And that’s what this guide is for.

Whether you’re a smart home newbie or a seasoned tinkerer, this article walks you through a working, tested, and frustration-free method to integrate your Arlo camera with your SmartThings Hub. No fluff. No hype. Just clear, doable steps—like I’m sitting across from you with a cup of coffee.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you’ve got everything. I’ve seen too many setups fail because someone skipped one tiny piece. Here’s your checklist:

How to Set Up Arlo Camera With Samsung SmartThings Hub Easily

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  • Arlo camera (any model: Arlo Pro, Ultra, Q, Essential, etc.)
  • Arlo SmartHub or base station (if required by your model—most wired or battery-powered Arlo cams need this)
  • Samsung SmartThings Hub (v2 or v3, or SmartThings Station)
  • Smartphone or tablet with the Arlo app and SmartThings app installed
  • Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz only for SmartThings; 2.4 GHz recommended for Arlo)
  • Ethernet cable (optional, but recommended for SmartThings Hub to avoid Wi-Fi dropouts)
  • Power source for both Arlo base station and SmartThings Hub
  • Arlo account (free or paid subscription—motion alerts and cloud storage may require a plan)
  • SmartThings account (linked to your Samsung account)

Pro Tip: I always recommend connecting the SmartThings Hub via ethernet, not Wi-Fi. It’s more stable, especially when handling multiple devices. I once had a camera drop out mid-alarm because the hub lost Wi-Fi. Lesson learned.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Set Up Arlo Camera With Samsung SmartThings Hub Easily

Step 1: Set Up Your Arlo Camera First

Don’t try to connect to SmartThings before your Arlo camera is fully working. Think of this like building a house—you need a solid foundation.

Start by unboxing your Arlo camera and base station (if applicable). Most Arlo models require the base station to manage the camera and connect to your network.

  • Plug in the Arlo base station using the power adapter.
  • Connect it to your router via an ethernet cable (if possible) or ensure it’s within strong Wi-Fi range.
  • Download the Arlo app (iOS or Android).
  • Create an Arlo account or log in.
  • Follow the in-app setup: tap “Add Device,” scan the QR code on the base station, and name it (e.g., “Front Door Hub”).
  • Add your camera: press the sync button on the base station, then on the camera. Wait for the LED to flash blue, then solid green.
  • Test the camera: check the live feed, motion detection, and recording (if cloud or local storage is enabled).

Warning: If your camera doesn’t connect, check that your Wi-Fi is 2.4 GHz. Arlo does not support 5 GHz for base station connections. I once wasted 30 minutes troubleshooting because my router was broadcasting 5 GHz only. Oops.

Once your Arlo camera is streaming and recording, you’re ready for the next step. This is the foundation for how to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily.

Step 2: Set Up Your Samsung SmartThings Hub

Now let’s get your SmartThings Hub online and ready to talk to other devices.

  • Place the SmartThings Hub near your router (ideally within 30 feet).
  • Power it on using the included adapter.
  • Download the SmartThings app (make sure it’s the current version).
  • Open the app and tap “Set up a device” > “Hubs” > “SmartThings Hub.”
  • Follow the prompts: scan the QR code on the hub, name it (e.g., “Main Hub”), and connect it to Wi-Fi or ethernet.
  • Wait for the LED to turn solid blue—this means it’s connected to the cloud.

Pro Tip: I always name my hubs based on location. “Downstairs Hub,” “Garage Hub,” etc. It helps when you have multiple devices and need to troubleshoot.

Once the hub is online, test it by adding a simple device—like a smart plug or light bulb. This confirms it’s working before we bring Arlo into the mix. A healthy SmartThings Hub is essential for how to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily.

Step 3: Enable Arlo Integration in SmartThings

Here’s the magic moment: connecting Arlo to SmartThings. But don’t worry—it’s not as scary as it sounds.

SmartThings doesn’t have a built-in Arlo “button,” but it uses a cloud-to-cloud integration. That means SmartThings talks to Arlo’s servers, not your local camera. It’s secure, but it means your Arlo account must be online.

  • Open the SmartThings app.
  • Tap the “+” icon in the Devices tab.
  • Select “Device” > “By brand”.
  • Search for “Arlo” and tap on the Arlo logo.
  • Tap “Connect Arlo account”.
  • You’ll be redirected to Arlo’s login page. Enter your Arlo email and password.
  • Grant SmartThings permission to access your Arlo account (it needs to read camera status, motion events, etc.).
  • Once authorized, SmartThings will scan your Arlo devices.

Note: You’ll only see Arlo cameras that are online and synced with your base station. If a camera isn’t showing, go back to the Arlo app and make sure it’s active.

After scanning, SmartThings will list your Arlo cameras. Tap “Add” next to each one you want to integrate.

Step 4: Customize Camera Names and Rooms

Now that your Arlo cameras are in SmartThings, let’s make them feel at home.

  • In the SmartThings app, go to Devices.
  • Tap on an Arlo camera.
  • Tap the pencil icon (edit).
  • Change the name to something meaningful: “Front Porch Camera,” “Backyard Cam,” etc.
  • Assign it to a Room (e.g., “Outdoor,” “Security”).
  • Save the changes.

Pro Tip: I create a room called “Security” and put all my cameras there. It makes it easy to turn off motion alerts at night or check all feeds at once during a storm.

This step is small but powerful. Good naming helps when you’re setting up automations later. It’s a key part of how to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily and keep it organized.

Step 5: Test Motion Detection & Alerts

Time to see if the integration actually works. This is where most people get nervous—but it’s usually smooth.

  • Open the SmartThings app.
  • Go to the camera you just added.
  • Tap the camera icon to open the live feed.
  • Wait for motion—wave your hand in front of the camera.
  • Check if:
    • The live feed shows movement.
    • A motion event appears in the History tab.
    • You get a push notification (if alerts are enabled).

Warning: SmartThings uses Arlo’s motion detection logic. If Arlo is set to ignore small animals, SmartThings will too. You can tweak sensitivity in the Arlo app under “Activity Zones” or “Motion Sensitivity.”

If you don’t see motion alerts, double-check:

  • Your Arlo subscription (some features require Arlo Secure).
  • SmartThings notifications are enabled in your phone settings.
  • The camera is not in “Privacy Mode” (Arlo’s version of “off”).

Once motion detection works, you’re golden.

Step 6: Create Automations (Optional but Powerful)

Here’s where your smart home becomes smart. With Arlo and SmartThings linked, you can create automations like:

  • When Arlo detects motion at night → Turn on porch light.
  • When front door camera detects motion → Send a notification and record video.
  • When no motion for 30 minutes → Arm the security system.

To set this up:

  • In SmartThings, go to Automations > + > Create new automation.
  • Choose “Device trigger”.
  • Select your Arlo camera > “Detects motion”.
  • Set conditions (e.g., “only after sunset”).
  • Choose actions: turn on lights, send a notification, start recording, etc.
  • Name it (e.g., “Porch Light on Motion”) and save.

Pro Tip: I have an automation that turns on my hallway light when the garage camera detects motion between 10 PM and 6 AM. It’s saved me from tripping over shoes more than once.

Automations are the real benefit of how to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily. It’s not just about seeing the camera—it’s about making your home react to it.

Step 7: Troubleshoot Connection Drops (If Needed)

Even after setup, things can go sideways. I’ve had cameras disappear after a SmartThings update or an Arlo firmware patch.

Here’s what to do if your Arlo camera vanishes from SmartThings:

  • Check Arlo app first: Is the camera online? Is the base station connected?
  • Re-authenticate the connection: In SmartThings, go to Settings > Connected services > Arlo > Disconnect, then reconnect.
  • Restart both hubs: Unplug the SmartThings Hub and Arlo base station for 30 seconds, then plug them back in.
  • Update apps: Make sure both Arlo and SmartThings apps are up to date.
  • Check for firmware updates: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > Firmware Update.

Personal Insight: I once had a camera drop out after a SmartThings app update. Reconnecting the Arlo account fixed it in 2 minutes. It’s not broken—it’s just a cloud handshake issue.

Don’t panic if this happens. It’s normal in the world of cloud integrations. The key is knowing how to fix it fast.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After setting up five Arlo cameras with SmartThings, here’s what I wish I knew from day one:

  • Use the same email for Arlo and SmartThings if possible. It avoids account confusion. I used different emails early on and spent 10 minutes trying to log in to the wrong one.
  • Don’t skip the Arlo base station. Even if your camera is Wi-Fi capable, the base station improves reliability. My Arlo Pro 3 works better with it than without.
  • Keep your Arlo subscription active. Some features (like 30-day cloud storage) are required for full SmartThings integration. Free accounts work, but with limits.
  • Test automations at different times. A “motion at night” rule won’t trigger at noon. I once thought my automation failed—it was just daytime!
  • Name your cameras clearly. “Camera 1” means nothing when you have six. Use locations: “Backyard,” “Driveway,” etc.
  • Check battery levels weekly. Arlo battery cams can drop offline without warning. I set a monthly reminder to check all batteries.
  • Use local recording (if available). Arlo’s microSD option means your video stays local—no cloud needed. Great for privacy and avoiding subscription costs.

Biggest Mistake: Assuming “it should just work.” Smart home tech is amazing, but it needs attention. I once ignored a firmware update for months. Then my cameras stopped working. Don’t be that person.

These tips will save you time, stress, and unnecessary support calls. They’re the secret sauce to how to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily—and keep it that way.

FAQs About How to Set Up Arlo Camera With Samsung SmartThings Hub Easily

Can I connect Arlo without a base station?

It depends. Some Arlo models (like Arlo Essential) are Wi-Fi-only and don’t need a base station. But for integration with SmartThings, you still need a working Arlo account and stable internet. The base station isn’t required for the SmartThings connection, but it helps with camera reliability. I’d still recommend it.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up in SmartThings?

Most likely: the Arlo account isn’t properly linked. Try disconnecting and reconnecting Arlo in SmartThings. Also check:

  • Is the camera online in the Arlo app?
  • Are you logged into the same Arlo account in both apps?
  • Is your SmartThings app updated?

I’ve seen this happen after an app update. Re-authentication fixes it 90% of the time.

Does this work with Arlo Q or Arlo Go?

Yes! Arlo Q (wired indoor cam) and Arlo Go (LTE camera) both integrate with SmartThings. The setup is the same. Just make sure your Arlo Go has LTE service and is online. I use an Arlo Go at my cabin—SmartThings alerts me when motion is detected, even though I’m 200 miles away.

Can I view Arlo video directly in SmartThings?

Yes, but with a catch. SmartThings shows a live preview of the camera feed. But for full features (zoom, playback, two-way audio), you’ll need to tap the feed to open the Arlo app. It’s not perfect, but it’s functional. I use it for quick checks, then switch to Arlo for details.

Do I need an Arlo subscription for this?

Not strictly, but it helps. Without a subscription, you’ll get:

  • Live view
  • Motion notifications (basic)
  • No cloud storage (videos won’t save automatically)

With Arlo Secure, you get 30-day cloud storage, person/animal detection, and activity zones. For full SmartThings automation potential, I recommend at least the basic Arlo Secure plan.

Is the connection secure?

Yes. SmartThings uses OAuth to connect to Arlo—no passwords are stored. Your data stays encrypted. I’ve never had a security issue in 3 years of using this setup. Just make sure your Arlo account has 2FA enabled.

What if I have multiple SmartThings Hubs?

SmartThings syncs across hubs automatically. Once you connect Arlo to one hub, it appears on all. But I recommend setting up automations on the hub closest to your cameras. It reduces latency. I have a “Downstairs” hub for indoor cams and an “Outdoor” hub for backyard cams—each handles its own automations.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Arlo camera with your Samsung SmartThings Hub doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right order, a few checks, and a little patience, you can have a seamless, automated security system that works for you, not against you.

The key to how to set up Arlo camera with Samsung SmartThings Hub easily? Start simple. Get Arlo working first. Then SmartThings. Then connect. Then automate. Don’t try to do it all at once.

And remember: technology fails sometimes. A dropped connection, a firmware glitch, a forgotten password. It’s not you—it’s the nature of connected devices. But now you know how to fix it.

So go ahead: set up that camera. Name it something fun (mine is “Sherlock”). Create an automation that turns on the lights when someone walks by. Get peace of mind.

Your smart home should make life easier. Not harder. And with this guide, it finally can.

Now, go enjoy your coffee—and let your cameras do the watching.

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