Why Is My Arlo Camera Not Recording? A Troubleshooting Guide
An Arlo camera that doesn't record is a security blind spot. If you're getting motion alerts but find no video in your library, or if the camera isn't capturing events at all, it's a critical issue that needs to be fixed. This guide will cover the most common reasons for Arlo recording failures and how to resolve them.
Top Reasons for Arlo Recording Failures
Unlike cameras that use SD cards, Arlo's recording system is based on cloud storage and controlled by modes and rules within the app. A failure to record is almost always a settings or subscription issue.
- Inactive Arlo Secure Subscription: Cloud recording is a premium feature. If your trial has ended or your subscription has lapsed, recording will stop.
- Camera is "Disarmed": The camera's mode might be set to "Disarmed," which deactivates motion detection and recording.
- Incorrect Mode/Rule Settings: The active mode may not be configured to record video when motion is detected.
- Poor Internet Connection: A weak Wi-Fi signal can prevent the camera from successfully uploading the recorded video to the cloud.
- Motion Detection is Off: The motion detection feature for the camera may have been manually turned off.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Arlo Recording Issues
Let's systematically check each potential problem area to get your camera working again.
### Step 1: Verify Your Arlo Secure Subscription
This is the first and most important check.
- Open the Arlo Secure App: Tap on "Settings".
- Select "Subscription": Review your plan status. It should show an active Arlo Secure plan.
- Check for Expiration: If your plan has expired or the trial period has ended, you will need to subscribe to a paid plan to restore cloud recording functionality.
### Step 2: Check the System's Mode
The "Mode" function tells your Arlo system what to do. If it's disarmed, nothing will happen.
- Go to the "Mode" Tab: This is located on the main navigation bar at the bottom of the app.
- Select Your Base Station or Camera:
- Check the Active Mode: Ensure the selected mode is "Armed" or a custom schedule you have created. If "Disarmed" is selected, your cameras will not react to motion. Tap "Armed" to activate it.
### Step 3: Edit the Rules for Your Active Mode
Even if the system is armed, the rules for that mode might be wrong.
- In the "Mode" tab, tap the pencil icon (Edit) next to your "Armed" mode.
- Review the Rules: You will see a rule, such as "IF motion is detected on [Camera Name]".
- Check the Action: Under "THEN", make sure the "Record video" action is checked. If it's not, the camera will detect motion but won't be instructed to record. You can also set video recording length and other actions here.
- Save Your Changes.
### Step 4: Check the Camera's Individual Settings
It's possible for a single camera to be disabled even when the system is armed.
- Go to the "Devices" tab.
- Tap the settings (gear) icon for the camera that isn't recording.
- Check "Device Utilities": Use the "Motion Detection Test" to confirm the sensor is working.
- Ensure the camera is not turned off: In the main device settings, make sure the camera is enabled.
### Step 5: Check Connectivity
If all your settings are correct, the camera may be struggling to upload the video files.
- Check Signal Strength: In the camera's settings, find the "Connection" or "Wi-Fi" section to check its signal strength. One or two bars may be insufficient for reliable video uploads.
- Reboot Your System: Try power cycling your Arlo Base Station (if you have one) and your Wi-Fi router. Unplug them for 60 seconds and then plug them back in. This can often clear up temporary network glitches.
By methodically checking your subscription, system mode, rules, and camera settings, you can solve the vast majority of issues that cause an Arlo camera to stop recording.