Arlo System Not Working? The Ultimate UK Troubleshooting Guide
When your Arlo security system isn't working, it can leave you feeling vulnerable. Whether your cameras are offline, you can't log in, or recordings are failing, many common problems can be solved without needing to call support.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most frequent Arlo issues and how to fix them.
## Problem 1: One or More Arlo Cameras are Offline
This is the most common issue. When a camera is offline, it cannot detect motion, record video, or stream live footage.
### Step 1: Check the Camera's Battery
Arlo cameras are often battery-powered. A dead battery is the simplest explanation.
- Check in the App: Open the Arlo app and check the battery percentage for the offline camera.
- Recharge/Replace: If the battery is low or dead, recharge it or replace it with a fully charged one. Give the camera a few moments to power back on and reconnect.
### Step 2: Check Your Wi-Fi and Internet Connection
Your cameras and SmartHub/Base Station need a stable internet connection to function.
- Is Your Home Internet Working? Use another device on the same Wi-Fi network to browse a website. If your internet is down, you'll need to restart your router or contact your ISP.
- Check the SmartHub/Base Station: Look at the lights on your Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. You should see a solid green light for power and a solid green light for the internet connection. If the internet light is amber or off, check the Ethernet cable connecting it to your router.
- Restart Your Network: Unplug your router and your Arlo SmartHub. Wait 60 seconds, then plug the router back in first. Once it's fully online, plug the SmartHub back in.
### Step 3: Check the Distance and Signal Strength
If the camera is too far from the SmartHub or your router (for Wi-Fi cameras), its connection will be unreliable.
- Bring it Closer: To test this, bring the offline camera within a few metres of the SmartHub/router. If it comes back online after you've inserted the battery, you've found the problem.
- Improve the Signal: You may need to move your SmartHub to a more central location or consider an Arlo-compatible range extender.
Problem 2: Can't Log In to the Arlo App or Website
Being locked out of your account is frustrating.
- Password Reset: The first step is always to use the "Forgot Password?" link on the login page. You'll receive an email with instructions to reset it.
- Check Your Email Address: Are you using the correct email address? It's easy to make a typo or forget which email you used to sign up.
- Check the Arlo Service Status: Occasionally, Arlo's own servers might have a problem. Search online for the "Arlo status page" to see if there are any reported outages affecting logins.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If you have 2FA enabled, ensure you are correctly entering the code sent to your phone or authenticator app.
Problem 3: Motion Detection Isn't Working or Recordings are Missing
If your camera is online but not recording events, check your settings.
### Check Modes and Rules
The most common reason for a lack of recordings is that the system is Disarmed.
- Check the Current Mode: Open the Arlo app. On the main dashboard, it will show the current mode (e.g., Armed, Disarmed, Schedule). If it's Disarmed, no motion will be detected.
- Edit the Armed Mode: Go to the "Mode" tab, select your Base Station, and tap the pencil icon next to "Armed". Ensure there is a rule for each camera that says "IF motion is detected THEN record video". Make sure this rule is active.
### Motion Sensitivity
- Adjust Sensitivity: In the camera's device settings, you can find a "Motion Detection Test". Use this to adjust the sensitivity slider. It might be set too low to pick up the activity you want to capture.
By methodically checking your batteries, network connection, and app settings, you can solve the majority of Arlo problems and ensure your security system is running as it should.