Arlo Firmware Update Failed? Here's How to Fix It
Keeping your Arlo security cameras and SmartHub updated with the latest firmware is essential for new features, bug fixes, and critical security patches. However, sometimes the update process can fail, leaving your camera offline or stuck in a loop. This can be worrying, but it's usually a solvable problem.
This guide will provide you with a clear set of troubleshooting steps to resolve a failed Arlo firmware update and get your home security system back to normal.
## Key Reasons for Arlo Firmware Update Failures
Understanding why an update might fail can help you quickly pinpoint the cause. The most common reasons are:
- Low Battery: Arlo cameras require a certain battery percentage (typically above 20%) to even begin a firmware update. This is a safety measure to prevent the camera from dying mid-update.
- Poor Connection Strength: The update can fail if the connection is weak. This could be the Wi-Fi signal from your router to the SmartHub, or the proprietary wireless signal between the SmartHub and the camera itself.
- Internet Interruption: A momentary drop in your home internet connection during the firmware download can cause the entire process to fail.
- Power Outage: A brief loss of power to your SmartHub or camera (if plugged in) will interrupt the update.
## Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Follow these steps in order. Many issues can be resolved with the first few actions.
### 1. Check the Camera's Battery Level
This is the first and most important check for any wire-free Arlo camera.
- If the camera is still accessible in the Arlo app, check its battery percentage.
- If the camera is offline, take it down and either charge it or insert fresh batteries.
- Crucially, allow the camera to charge for a significant period. A fully charged battery is the best way to ensure the update has enough power to complete successfully.
### 2. Improve the Connection Signal
A stable connection is vital for the firmware file to download and install correctly.
- Bring the Camera Closer: For the duration of the update, move the affected camera to be within a few metres of your Arlo SmartHub. This strengthens the direct link between the two devices.
- Check Your SmartHub's Position: Ensure your SmartHub is not tucked away in a cabinet or surrounded by other electronic devices that could cause interference. It should have a strong, stable connection to your main Wi-Fi router.
- Reboot Your Network:
- Power off your Arlo camera(s) and unplug your Arlo SmartHub.
- Unplug your internet router from the power outlet.
- Wait for at least 60 seconds.
- Plug your router back in and wait for it to fully restart (all lights are stable).
- Plug your Arlo SmartHub back in and wait for it to come online.
- Power your camera back on.
This complete network refresh often resolves underlying connectivity issues and may automatically re-trigger the firmware update.
### 3. Re-Sync Your Arlo Camera
If the camera is still offline or the update won't restart, removing and re-adding the camera to your system will force it to check for new firmware as part of the new setup process.
- Remove the Device: Open the Arlo app, go to the settings for the problematic camera, and choose 'Remove Device'. You will have to be patient as this can sometimes take a while.
- Add the Device Again: Follow the in-app instructions to add the camera back to your system as if it were a new device. This involves pressing the 'Sync' button on the SmartHub and then on the camera.
- Allow Time for Updating: Once the camera is re-synced, leave it near the SmartHub. The system will detect that it needs an update, and the process should begin automatically. Be patient, as this can take 5-10 minutes.
### When to Contact Arlo Support
If you have followed all the steps above – you've fully charged the battery, moved the camera next to the SmartHub, rebooted your entire network, and re-synced the device – and the firmware update still fails, it's time to contact Arlo's official support. There may be a more complex hardware or account-specific issue that they can help diagnose and resolve. Provide them with a clear summary of the steps you have already taken to expedite the process.