How to Troubleshoot and Manage a Full Arlo Storage System
An "Arlo storage full" notification can be concerning, as it may prevent your security system from recording new, important events. Understanding how Arlo's storage works—both in the cloud and locally—is the key to resolving this issue quickly. This comprehensive guide will explain why your storage is full and provide step-by-step instructions on how to manage it effectively.
Arlo systems primarily use cloud storage tied to an Arlo Secure subscription, but some setups also support local storage backups. We'll cover both scenarios to ensure your cameras keep recording.
Understanding Arlo Storage: Cloud vs. Local
It's crucial to know the difference between the two storage types.
- Arlo Cloud Storage: This is the primary storage method for all Arlo cameras. When your camera detects motion, the recording is uploaded to your personal, secure cloud library. The amount of storage and how long recordings are kept (e.g., 30 days) depends on your Arlo Secure subscription plan. You don't get a fixed gigabyte limit; instead, it's based on a rolling 30-day history.
- Arlo Local Storage: Some Arlo systems with a SmartHub or Base Station (like the Arlo Pro or Ultra series) allow you to connect a USB drive. This acts as a secondary, backup storage location. It can be configured to record simultaneously with the cloud or take over if your internet connection drops.
Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Arlo Storage
Follow these instructions to get your Arlo system back on track.
Step 1: Manage Your Arlo Cloud Library
Even though Arlo automatically deletes clips after 30 days, you might have older, non-expiring recordings or simply want to clean up your library.
- Log In: Open the Arlo Secure app or log in to the Arlo web portal.
- Navigate to the Library: This is where all your recorded video clips are stored.
- Filter and Select: You can filter your recordings by date, device, or mode to easily find what you need. Select the videos you wish to remove.
- Download First (Optional but Recommended): Before deleting, it is critical to download any clips you want to keep permanently. Once a video is deleted from the cloud, it is gone forever.
- Delete: Once you've saved your important clips, tap the delete icon to remove the selected videos from your cloud storage.
Step 2: Review Your Arlo Secure Subscription
If you are constantly running into issues, your plan might not be sufficient for your needs.
- Check Your Plan: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Subscription. Verify that your plan is active and provides enough video history for your requirements.
- Consider Upgrading: If you have many cameras or high-traffic areas, you might need a plan with a longer video history or higher resolution support to avoid losing important footage.
Step 3: Set Up and Manage Local Storage
If your system includes a SmartHub or Base Station, using a USB drive for local backup is an excellent way to add a layer of security.
- Insert a USB Drive: Use a compatible USB 2.0 drive (check Arlo's website for size limitations) and insert it into the USB port on your SmartHub or Base Station.
- Enable Local Storage Recording:
- Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > My Devices.
- Select your SmartHub/Base Station.
- Tap on "Storage Settings".
- Here, you can format the USB drive and enable video recording.
- Enable Overwrite: Within the "Storage Settings", you will find an option called "Automatic Overwrite". It is highly recommended to enable this feature. When turned on, the system will automatically delete the oldest recordings on the USB drive to make space for new ones, preventing it from ever becoming "full".
Step 4: Adjust Camera Recording Settings
You can reduce the amount of storage you use by optimising your camera's settings.
- Adjust Motion Sensitivity: Lowering the sensitivity can reduce the number of unnecessary recordings triggered by minor movements.
- Use Activity Zones: Define specific areas for motion detection (e.g., a pathway, not the busy street). This ensures your camera only records relevant events, saving storage space and battery life.
- Change Video Quality: While higher resolution is better, it uses more storage. If a particular camera is monitoring a low-risk area, consider reducing its video quality from 2K/4K to 1080p.
By actively managing your cloud library and properly configuring local storage with the overwrite feature, you can eliminate "storage full" errors and maintain a reliable and effective Arlo security system.