Netgear Arlo Camera Keeps Going Offline? (SOLVED)

Netgear Arlo Camera Keeps Going Offline? Here's the Fix

An Arlo camera that is frequently offline can be a major source of frustration, undermining the reliability of your security system. The wire-free nature of Arlo cameras means their connection depends on two critical factors: a stable Wi-Fi link to the base station and sufficient battery power.

This guide will walk you through the most common reasons why your Netgear Arlo camera keeps going offline and provide clear, actionable solutions to create a more stable and reliable connection.

Understanding the Arlo Connection

Unlike many Wi-Fi cameras that connect directly to your router, most Arlo cameras connect to an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. This station then connects to your router. The critical link we need to troubleshoot is the one between the camera and the base station.

Common Symptoms of an Offline Arlo Camera

• The camera appears greyed out with an "Offline" message in the Arlo app.
• You are unable to start a live stream.
• The camera is failing to detect motion or record any new clips.
• The LED light on the camera may be off or blinking amber slowly.
• You receive a notification that the camera has lost its connection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Offline Arlo Camera

Let's start with the simplest and most common solutions first.

1. Check the Camera's Battery

A low or faulty battery is a primary cause of offline issues.

• Check Battery Level: Open the Arlo app and check the battery percentage for the offline camera.
• Recharge Fully: Even if the battery shows a small amount of charge, it may not be enough to maintain a stable connection. Remove the battery and charge it until it is 100% full. For some models, you may need to bring the camera itself to the charger.
• Reseat the Battery: Once fully charged, re-insert the battery into the camera, ensuring it makes a firm connection. A poorly seated battery can cause intermittent power loss.

2. Assess the Wi-Fi Signal Strength

This is the most common reason for Arlo cameras going offline. The connection that matters is between the camera and the base station, not the camera and your router.

• Bring the Camera Closer: As a test, take the offline camera and bring it into the same room as the Arlo base station. If it comes back online after a few minutes, you have confirmed the issue is a weak Wi-Fi signal in its original location.
• Check Base Station Placement: Your Arlo base station should be in a central location in your home, away from other electronic devices (like cordless phones, microwaves) and not tucked away in a cabinet.
• Minimise Obstructions: Every wall, floor, or large piece of furniture between the camera and the base station will weaken the signal. The fewer obstructions, the better. Concrete, brick, and metal are particularly bad for Wi-Fi signals.
• Consider a Second Base Station: For larger properties, you may need a second base station or a mesh Wi-Fi system to provide adequate coverage for all your camera locations.

3. Power Cycle Your Network Equipment

A simple reboot can often resolve temporary glitches that are causing your camera to go offline.

1. Unplug the Arlo Base Station: Disconnect the power adapter from the wall.
2. Unplug Your Router: Disconnect your main internet router from power as well.
3. Wait: Leave both unplugged for at least 60 seconds.
4. Reconnect: Plug your router back in first. Wait for it to fully restart (all lights should be stable and green).
5. Power Up the Base Station: Once your internet is back, plug the Arlo base station back in. Wait for its power and internet lights to turn solid green.

Your cameras should now automatically try to reconnect to the station.

4. Re-Sync the Camera

If the camera is still offline after trying the steps above, you may need to re-sync it with the base station.

1. Bring the camera close to the base station.
2. Press the Sync button on the base station for about two seconds, then release it.
3. Press the Sync button on the camera for about two seconds, then release it.
4. A blue LED on the camera will blink rapidly to confirm a successful sync.

If the camera still refuses to come online, you may need to remove it from your Arlo account via the app and then re-add it as a new device.