Arlo cameras are popular for home and business security because they are easy to use and offer advanced features. However, sometimes users find that their Arlo camera is not recording when it should. This can be worrying, especially if you rely on your camera to keep your property safe. Understanding why your Arlo camera is not recording and how to fix it can give you peace of mind and ensure your security system works as intended. In this guide, you will learn the main reasons why your Arlo camera stops recording, practical solutions, and some tips that even experienced users sometimes miss.
How Arlo Cameras Record Footage
Before digging into problems, it helps to know how Arlo cameras capture and save video. Most models use motion detection to start recording. This means the camera does not record all the time but only when it senses movement. Some Arlo cameras can also record on a schedule or when you manually tell them to. The recorded videos are saved to the cloud (online storage) or to a local storage device if you have one connected.
Arlo cameras have different recording modes:
- Motion-activated recording (most common)
- Continuous video recording (CVR) on supported models
- Manual recording via the app
If your camera is not recording, the issue could be with the settings, the camera itself, your network, or your Arlo subscription. Let’s break down the main causes and how to fix each one.
Common Reasons Why Arlo Cameras Stop Recording
Several factors can stop your Arlo camera from recording. Some are simple, like a weak Wi-Fi signal, while others involve advanced settings or subscription issues.
1. Motion Detection Is Disabled Or Not Working
Arlo cameras mainly record when they detect motion. If motion detection is off or not working, your camera will not start recording.
- Check if motion detection is enabled in the Arlo app.
- Make sure the camera is armed and set to record when there is motion.
- Look at the camera’s view to see if it covers the area you want.
Non-obvious insight: Sometimes, motion zones are set up incorrectly. If the motion zone does not include the area where activity happens, the camera will not trigger recordings, even if it seems to cover the right spot.
2. Camera Is Not Armed
Arlo cameras need to be in “Armed” mode to record. If you set your camera to Disarmed or a custom mode that does not record video, it will not capture anything.
- Open the Arlo app and check the mode for your camera.
- Switch to “Armed” or a custom mode that includes recording.
3. Low Or Dead Batteries
Arlo wireless cameras run on batteries. If the batteries are low or dead, the camera will not record.
- Check the battery level in the app.
- Replace or recharge the batteries if needed.
4. Poor Wi-fi Connection
A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection can stop your camera from recording or uploading videos to the cloud.
- Test the Wi-Fi signal strength in the camera’s settings.
- Move the camera closer to the router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
Non-obvious insight: Even if live view works, the camera might not upload recordings if the upload speed is too slow. This is different from basic internet connectivity.
5. Arlo Smart Subscription Expired
Some Arlo features, like cloud recording, require an active subscription. If your subscription ends, the camera might stop saving recordings.
- Check your account status in the Arlo app or website.
- Renew your subscription if needed.
6. Incorrect Recording Schedule
If you use a custom schedule for recording, make sure the times are set correctly.
- Double-check the schedule in the app.
- Make sure the scheduled times match when you want the camera to record.
7. Local Storage Issues
Some Arlo models can record to a USB drive or microSD card. If there is a problem with the storage device, the camera might not record.
- Remove and re-insert the storage device.
- Format the device using the Arlo app.
- Make sure the device is compatible with your Arlo model.
8. Firmware Is Out Of Date
Arlo cameras need up-to-date firmware to work smoothly. Old firmware can cause bugs and recording failures.
- Check for firmware updates in the app.
- Install updates if available.
9. Camera Placement Problems
If the camera points at a wall, glass, or an area with no motion, it will not record. Placement affects both detection and recording.
- Adjust the camera angle to cover the right area.
- Avoid placing the camera behind glass, which can block motion sensors.
10. App Or Base Station Glitches
Sometimes, software bugs in the Arlo app or base station can stop recording.
- Restart the app and your phone.
- Power cycle the base station (unplug for 10 seconds, then plug back in).
Step-by-step Troubleshooting Guide
If your Arlo camera is not recording, follow these steps to find and fix the problem. Start with the simplest solutions and move to advanced ones if needed.
1. Check Camera Status In The App
Open the Arlo app and look at the status of your camera. If it shows “Offline,” you need to fix the connection before it can record.
- Make sure the camera is powered (batteries charged).
- Check if it is connected to Wi-Fi or the base station.
2. Test Motion Detection
Use the app’s “Test Motion” feature (available for most Arlo models):
- Stand in front of the camera and move.
- Look for a flashing LED or notification in the app.
If the camera does not detect motion, try:
- Adjusting the sensitivity in the settings.
- Repositioning the camera.
3. Verify Recording Settings
Go to the camera’s settings and check:
- Mode: Should be set to “Armed” or a mode that records.
- Actions: Should include “Record Video” when motion is detected.
- Schedule: Should match the times you want recording.
4. Review Storage Options
Depending on your Arlo model, recordings save to the cloud or local storage.
- For cloud: Check your subscription and available space.
- For local: Make sure the USB drive or microSD card is inserted and working.
5. Test Wi-fi Speed
Use a speed test app or website to check upload and download speeds near the camera. Arlo recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed per camera for smooth recording.
6. Update Firmware
Go to Device Settings > Firmware in the Arlo app and install any available updates.
7. Restart Devices
- Restart your camera (power off/on).
- Restart the Arlo base station or SmartHub.
- Restart your Wi-Fi router.
8. Remove And Re-add Camera
If nothing else works, remove the camera from the app and add it again. This can fix software glitches.
9. Contact Arlo Support
If the camera still does not record, contact Arlo Support for advanced help.
Comparing Different Arlo Camera Models And Recording Features
Not all Arlo cameras record in the same way. Here is a quick comparison to help you understand the differences:
| Model | Motion Detection | Continuous Recording (CVR) | Local Storage Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Pro 4 | Yes | No | Yes |
| Arlo Ultra 2 | Yes | Yes (with plan) | Yes |
| Arlo Essential | Yes | No | No |
| Arlo Q | Yes | Yes (with plan) | No |
Key takeaway: Some Arlo cameras, like the Essential series, do not support local storage. Others, like Arlo Ultra 2, offer more advanced recording options but require a subscription.
Advanced Troubleshooting For Persistent Issues
If basic fixes do not work, you may need to try advanced troubleshooting. This is especially important if your environment or network is complex.
Check Arlo Cloud Status
Sometimes, the problem is on Arlo’s side. Visit the official Arlo status page to see if there are ongoing outages affecting cloud recording. If so, wait until the service is restored.
Inspect Network Interference
If you live in an area with many Wi-Fi devices, signals can interfere with your camera.
- Change the Wi-Fi channel on your router to reduce interference.
- Move other wireless devices away from the camera and base station.
Look For Firmware Bugs
Occasionally, new firmware updates may introduce bugs. Check Arlo community forums or support articles to see if others have the same problem after an update.
Factory Reset The Camera
If everything else fails, perform a factory reset on your camera:
- Hold the reset button for 10 seconds (check your model’s instructions).
- Re-add the camera to your Arlo account.
Warning: Factory resetting removes all settings and recorded videos from the camera’s memory (not the cloud).
Example Scenarios And Solutions
Let’s look at a few real-life situations where Arlo cameras stopped recording, and how users fixed them.
Scenario 1: Camera Not Recording At Night
Sometimes, Arlo cameras do not record at night even though they work during the day. This often happens because motion sensors rely on heat (infrared), and some objects are harder to detect in cool temperatures. Other times, the area is too dark.
Solution:
- Enable night vision in the camera’s settings.
- Add a small light source in the area.
- Increase motion sensitivity at night.
Scenario 2: Camera Records Too Many Clips But Misses Important Events
If the camera makes a lot of short recordings but misses key events, the motion sensitivity or activity zones may need adjustment.
Solution:
- Reduce motion sensitivity to avoid false triggers (like leaves moving).
- Redefine activity zones to focus on important areas.
Scenario 3: No Recording After Changing Wi-fi Network
After switching your Wi-Fi network, the camera may stop recording if it is not reconnected.
Solution:
- Use the app to connect the camera to the new Wi-Fi network.
- Restart the camera after connecting.
Credit: wasserstein-home.com
How To Set Up Arlo Camera Recording Properly
Setting up your Arlo camera the right way helps avoid problems with recording.
Choose The Right Location
- Place the camera so it can clearly see the area you want to monitor.
- Avoid pointing it at direct sunlight or reflective surfaces.
- Keep the lens clean for sharp video.
Set Up Motion Zones
- Use the app to draw motion zones on the camera’s view.
- Only select areas where you want to detect activity.
Adjust Sensitivity
- Start with a medium sensitivity setting.
- Test by walking through the area.
- Increase or decrease based on results.
Schedule Recording Times
- Use the app to set a schedule if you do not want the camera to record 24/7.
- Double-check the time zone settings.
Test Regularly
- Check your camera’s recordings weekly to make sure it is capturing what you need.
- Adjust as your needs change (for example, if you move furniture or add new outdoor lights).
Comparing Cloud And Local Recording
Which is better—cloud or local recording? Here’s a side-by-side look:
| Feature | Cloud Recording | Local Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | View from anywhere | Requires physical access |
| Security | Protected by Arlo servers | Vulnerable if device is stolen |
| Storage Limit | Depends on subscription plan | Depends on drive size |
| Cost | Monthly fee | One-time hardware cost |
| Reliability | Can fail if Arlo service is down | Can fail if drive is full/corrupted |
Pro tip: Many users set up both cloud and local storage for backup. If one fails, you still have a second copy.
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Security And Privacy Considerations
Your recordings are valuable and sensitive. Take steps to protect your privacy:
- Use strong passwords for your Arlo account.
- Turn on two-step verification in the app.
- Review and manage who has access to your cameras.
- Keep the app and firmware updated to patch security flaws.
Practical tip: If you share access with family or friends, make sure they use their own accounts. Never share your main password.
When To Replace Your Arlo Camera
Sometimes, if your Arlo camera is old or damaged, it may stop recording for reasons you cannot fix.
- If the camera is more than five years old, consider replacing it.
- Signs of hardware failure: Camera does not turn on, cannot connect to Wi-Fi, or fails to detect any motion despite multiple resets.
A newer model can provide better video quality, improved motion detection, and more reliable recording.
Keeping Your Security System Reliable
To make sure your Arlo camera always records important events:
- Check battery levels every month.
- Test recording and motion detection regularly.
- Update firmware whenever notified.
- Keep your account and subscription active.
- Review recent recordings to catch any problems early.
Real-world insight: Many users only discover their camera is not recording after a break-in or other event. Regular testing and maintenance help you avoid this risk.
Recommended Resources
For more details and help, visit the official Arlo Support Knowledge Base. It includes guides for every Arlo model, troubleshooting steps, and user forums.
Credit: www.reddit.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Arlo Camera Not Recording At Night?
At night, some Arlo cameras can struggle with motion detection because they use infrared sensors. If the area is too cold or too dark, the camera might not detect motion. Try turning on night vision in the app, adding a small light, or increasing the sensitivity.
Do I Need A Subscription For Arlo To Record?
Many Arlo cameras require a subscription for cloud recording. Some models support local storage, but features like advanced motion detection and activity zones may also need a subscription. Check your camera’s feature list to be sure.
Can I Make My Arlo Camera Record 24/7?
Only certain Arlo models support continuous video recording (CVR), and this usually requires a paid plan. Most models are designed for motion-activated recording to save battery and storage.
What Should I Do If My Arlo Camera Is Not Detecting Motion?
Check if motion detection is enabled in your settings. Make sure the camera is armed, the sensitivity is high enough, and the camera is aimed at the right area. Clean the lens and avoid placing the camera behind glass.
How Long Does Arlo Store Recordings?
The storage time depends on your subscription plan. Basic plans usually keep recordings for 7 days, while higher plans offer 30 days or more. Local storage depends on the size of your USB drive or microSD card.
Arlo cameras are a strong choice for home security, but they are not perfect. If your Arlo camera is not recording, use this guide to quickly find and solve the problem. Regular checks, good placement, and keeping your system updated will help you avoid missing important moments.
With the right setup and maintenance, your Arlo camera will give you reliable security day and night.