How to Fix Ineffective Netgear Arlo Activity Zones
One of the most powerful features of Netgear's Arlo security cameras is the ability to set Activity Zones. This function allows you to define specific areas within your camera's field of view where you want motion to be detected, effectively ignoring movement elsewhere. When it works correctly, it dramatically reduces the number of unwanted notifications.
However, if you're getting alerts for cars driving by when you've specifically excluded the street, or for a neighbour's cat when you only want to monitor your garden path, it can be incredibly frustrating. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix your Arlo Activity Zones to ensure you only get the alerts that matter.
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
Before diving into troubleshooting, it's important to understand the conditions under which Activity Zones operate.
- Arlo Secure Subscription: Cloud-based Activity Zones are a premium feature. You must have an active Arlo Secure subscription for them to function. Without a subscription, your camera will detect motion across its entire field of view.
- Power Source (for some models): On certain older Arlo cameras (like the Arlo Pro/Pro 2), Activity Zones may only work when the camera is plugged into a mains power source. The video analysis required is too battery-intensive. Check the specifications for your particular model.
- Camera Model: Ensure your camera model supports the feature. All modern Arlo cameras support Activity Zones with a subscription.
Step 2: Correctly Configure Your Activity Zones
The most common reason for failure is improper setup. A poorly drawn zone will not perform as expected.
Best Practices for Drawing Zones
- Be Precise: When creating a zone, use as many points as needed to tightly outline the desired area. For example, trace your driveway or walkway accurately.
- Avoid Overlapping: While you can create multiple zones, try not to have them overlap in confusing ways.
- Don't Go to the Edge: Avoid drawing the zone right to the very edge of the video frame. Leave a small buffer, as distortion at the edge of the lens can sometimes affect detection.
- Keep it Simple: A simple, well-defined rectangle or polygon covering a key area is often more effective than a large, complex shape that tries to exclude too many small things.
How to Edit Your Zones
- Open the Arlo app.
- Tap on Devices and select the camera you want to adjust.
- Tap the Settings icon (gear).
- Tap on Activity Zones.
- Select an existing zone to resize or move it, or tap the '+' icon to create a new one.
- Drag the corners of the zone to define the exact area.
- Tap Save.
Step 3: Optimise Camera Placement and Settings
Where your camera is positioned has a huge impact on the effectiveness of Activity Zones.
Angle and Height
- Avoid Ground-Level Views: Placing a camera too low can cause shadows from passing cars or people to stretch into your activity zone, triggering a false alert.
- Optimal Placement: Position the camera from a higher vantage point (e.g., under an eave), angled downwards. This provides a clearer view of the target area and reduces interference from activity outside the zone.
Update Firmware and App
Ensure both your Arlo app and your camera's firmware are up to date. Manufacturers release updates to improve the performance and accuracy of AI-based features like motion detection.
- App: Check the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for updates.
- Firmware: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices, select your camera, and look for Device Info > Firmware. The app will usually prompt you if an update is available.
Reboot Your Camera and Base Station
A simple reboot can often resolve temporary software glitches.
- Unplug the power from your Arlo Base Station/SmartHub.
- Remove the battery from your camera (or turn it off via the app if it has an internal battery).
- Wait 60 seconds.
- Plug the Base Station back in and wait for it to come online.
- Re-insert the battery into your camera.
By ensuring you have an active subscription, drawing precise and simple zones, and optimising your camera's position, you can significantly improve the accuracy of your Netgear Arlo's motion detection and finally put an end to those frustrating false alerts.