Why Is My Netgear Arlo Camera Not Recording Continuously?
A common point of confusion for new Netgear Arlo users is the expectation of continuous, 24/7 recording. You might look at your timeline and see gaps between motion-triggered events, leading you to believe the camera isn't working correctly. However, in most cases, the camera is operating exactly as it was designed.
This guide explains how Arlo's recording system works, why most models don't offer continuous recording, and what you need to do to enable it on compatible cameras.
Understanding Arlo's Design Philosophy: Battery vs. CVR
The vast majority of Netgear's Arlo cameras are battery-powered. Their primary design goal is to offer flexible, wire-free placement while maximising battery life. To achieve this, the cameras exist in a low-power standby state, only waking up and recording when their sensors detect motion or sound.
- Motion-Activated Recording: This is the default behaviour for all battery-powered Arlo cameras. It saves immense amounts of power and focuses only on moments of activity.
- Continuous Video Recording (CVR): This is the feature that provides 24/7, uninterrupted recording. Due to the high power and data consumption, it is only available on select mains-powered Arlo cameras and requires a specific, paid subscription plan.
If you have a battery-powered Arlo camera, it is not capable of continuous recording. This is a hardware and power limitation, not a fault.
How to Get 24/7 Recording with Arlo
If you require an unbroken video history, you need to ensure you have the right hardware and subscription plan.
1. Check Your Camera Model's Compatibility
First, confirm you have a camera that supports CVR. As a general rule, if your camera can be used wire-free, it does not support CVR.
CVR-Compatible Models Include:
- Arlo Ultra series (when powered by AC)
- Arlo Pro series (Pro 2, 3, 4 - when powered by AC)
- Arlo Q and Arlo Q Plus
- Arlo Baby
Models that DO NOT Support CVR:
- Arlo Wire-Free
- Arlo Essential series (Spotlight, XL)
- Arlo Go
2. Connect to Mains Power
For a compatible camera like an Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra to use CVR, it must be connected to a continuous power source using its AC adapter. The feature will not work if the camera is running on its battery, even if the battery is fully charged.
3. Subscribe to a CVR Plan
CVR is a premium feature that is not included in the standard Arlo Secure subscription. You must purchase a separate CVR plan for each camera you want to record continuously.
- Open the Arlo Secure app or log in to the my.arlo.com web portal.
- Navigate to 'Settings' > 'Subscription'.
- Select the option to 'Add CVR Plan' or 'Manage' your existing plans.
- You can choose between 14 or 30 days of rolling CVR history.
- Assign the purchased plan to your compatible, mains-powered camera.
4. Enable CVR in Camera Settings
Once the plan is active and assigned, you may need to manually enable the feature.
- In the Arlo app, go to the 'Devices' tab.
- Select the desired camera and tap the settings (gear) icon.
- Go to 'Video Settings'.
- Look for a toggle switch for 'CVR' or '24/7 Recording' and make sure it is turned on.
Troubleshooting CVR Issues
If you have the right camera and plan but CVR is still not working:
- Check Power: Double-check that the camera is plugged in and the power outlet is working.
- Verify Subscription: Go back into your subscription settings and confirm the CVR plan is active and assigned to the correct camera.
- Check Internet Connection: CVR requires a stable, high-speed internet connection with good upload speeds. A poor connection can cause gaps or prevent the feature from working. Run a speed test to check your upload speed (Arlo recommends at least 2-4 Mbps per camera).
- Reboot: Try rebooting both your camera and your internet router to resolve any temporary connection issues.
By understanding the distinction between motion-based and continuous recording, you can ensure you have the right Arlo setup to meet your security needs.