Why Is My Netgear Arlo Camera Not Recording 24/7?
Netgear's Arlo security cameras are known for their wire-free convenience and motion-based recording. However, for situations where you need a complete, uninterrupted record of events, Arlo offers a feature called Continuous Video Recording (CVR). Unlike standard motion detection, CVR captures everything, 24/7, and stores it in the cloud.
If you've subscribed to a CVR plan but find that your camera is still only recording short clips when motion is detected, it can be confusing. This guide will clarify the specific requirements for CVR and walk you through the troubleshooting steps to get your 24/7 recording up and running.
Understanding Arlo's 24/7 CVR Requirements
The most common reason for CVR not working is a misunderstanding of its strict requirements. Before you start troubleshooting, ensure your setup meets these essential criteria:
- A CVR-Compatible Camera: Only specific, powered Arlo cameras can handle the demands of continuous recording. This includes models like the Arlo Ultra, Pro 3, and Pro 2. Battery-powered cameras cannot support CVR.
- AC Power Connection: The compatible camera must be plugged into a main power outlet. CVR will not work if the camera is running on battery power, even if it's a compatible model.
- A CVR Subscription Plan: You must have an active, paid Arlo Smart subscription plan that explicitly includes the CVR feature. The basic plan does not include it. You need to add the CVR plan to a specific camera.
- Sufficient Internet Upload Speed: CVR constantly streams video to the cloud, which requires a stable internet connection with a high upload speed (at least 2-4 Mbps per camera).
Troubleshooting Steps for No 24/7 Recording
If you've confirmed you meet all the requirements above, follow these steps to diagnose the problem.
1. Verify Your Arlo Smart Subscription
First, double-check that your subscription is active and correctly applied to the camera.
- Log in to your Arlo account on the web portal or in the app.
- Go to Settings > Subscription.
- Verify that you have an active plan that includes CVR.
- Confirm that the CVR plan has been assigned to the correct camera. It's possible to have multiple cameras but only pay for CVR on one or two.
2. Check Camera Power and Connection
Ensure the camera is constantly receiving power.
- Securely Plugged In: Check that the power cable is securely connected to both the camera and the power adapter, and that the adapter is firmly in a working wall outlet.
- Indoor vs. Outdoor Cable: If you are using CVR on an outdoor camera, ensure you are using the official Arlo outdoor-rated power cable, which is designed to withstand the elements.
3. Confirm CVR is Enabled for the Camera
Even with a plan, you may need to enable the feature for each camera.
- In the Arlo app, go to the Devices tab.
- Select the camera you want to record 24/7.
- Go into the camera's Settings.
- Look for the CVR option and ensure it is toggled on. If the toggle is greyed out, it means the camera does not meet the requirements (e.g., it's on battery power or not a compatible model).
4. Check Your Internet Upload Speed
A slow or unstable internet connection is a common cause of CVR failure or gaps in the timeline.
- Run a Speed Test: From a device on the same Wi-Fi network, run a speed test (using a service like Speedtest.net). Pay close attention to the upload speed.
- Analyse Results: If your upload speed is borderline, other devices on your network (like streaming TVs or gaming consoles) could be causing interruptions to the CVR stream.
5. Reboot Your Camera and Base Station
If all the settings appear correct, a simple reboot can often resolve communication glitches.
- Reboot Camera: Unplug the power from your CVR-enabled camera, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in.
- Reboot Base Station/SmartHub: If your camera is connected to a Base Station, reboot that as well.
After the devices come back online, check the app for the 24/7 timeline. It may take a few minutes to appear.
Contacting Netgear Arlo Support
If you have walked through all these steps, confirmed you have the right camera, power source, and subscription, and CVR is still not working, it's time to contact Arlo support. There may be an issue with your account provisioning or a more complex hardware problem. Be prepared to provide them with your account details and the troubleshooting steps you've already taken.