If your Arlo camera isn’t connecting to WiFi, it could be due to incorrect WiFi credentials, weak signal strength, or compatibility issues with the router. Ensure you’re using a 2.4GHz network, place the camera closer to the router, and reboot both the camera and router for troubleshooting.
Why is My Arlo Not Connecting to WiFi?
If your Arlo camera isn’t connecting to WiFi, several factors could be causing the issue. Here are some common reasons and troubleshooting tips:
- Incorrect WiFi Credentials: One of the most common issues is entering the wrong WiFi password during the setup. Double-check that you’re using the correct password for your 2.4GHz network (Arlo cameras do not support 5GHz networks).
- Weak Signal Strength: If your camera is too far from the router or obstructed by walls or other barriers, it may struggle to maintain a connection. Try moving the camera closer to your router or use a WiFi extender to boost the signal.
- Router Compatibility: Some routers may have settings that prevent the camera from connecting, such as MAC address filtering or security protocols that aren’t compatible. Make sure your router’s security settings (like WPA2) are set correctly.
- Network Congestion: If there are too many devices connected to your network, it may cause congestion, slowing down your WiFi and impacting the camera’s connection. Try disconnecting other devices temporarily.
- Firmware Updates: Ensure both your camera and router have the latest firmware updates. Outdated firmware can lead to connection problems.
If none of these steps work, try rebooting both the camera and the router.
How to Fix Arlo Won’t Connect To Wifi
If your Arlo camera won’t connect to WiFi, it can be frustrating, especially when you rely on the camera for home security. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to troubleshoot this issue and get your camera back online. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common reasons your Arlo camera might not be connecting to WiFi and how to fix them.
1. Ensure You’re Using the Correct WiFi Network
Arlo cameras are designed to work with 2.4GHz WiFi networks, not 5GHz networks. One of the most frequent connection issues occurs when users try to connect their camera to a 5GHz network, which is incompatible with Arlo systems.
How to Check Your WiFi Network:
- Step 1: On your router’s settings page, confirm that you’re connected to a 2.4GHz network. Most routers provide both 2.4GHz and 5GHz options.
- Step 2: If you’re not sure which frequency your WiFi is using, access your router’s admin settings. Many modern routers allow you to rename the 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks separately, which makes it easier to differentiate.
- Step 3: Try to connect your Arlo camera to the 2.4GHz network specifically.
Solution: If your router is using a 5GHz network, switch to the 2.4GHz one before attempting to reconnect your camera.
2. Double-Check WiFi Password
Entering the wrong WiFi password is another common reason why Arlo cameras fail to connect. It’s easy to overlook a typo or error when inputting your WiFi credentials during setup.
How to Verify Your Password:
- Step 1: Make sure the password is entered correctly, including all capital letters, special characters, and numbers.
- Step 2: You can try connecting another device, such as your phone or laptop, using the same password to ensure it works.
Solution: If you’ve confirmed the password is correct and the camera still isn’t connecting, you may want to reset your password in your router’s settings and try again.
3. Check for Signal Interference or Weak WiFi Signal
WiFi connectivity issues with your Arlo camera can also stem from a weak signal or interference from other devices. Arlo cameras, like other smart devices, perform better when the WiFi signal is strong.
How to Check for Signal Strength:
- Step 1: Check the proximity of your camera to the router. Arlo cameras should be within range of the router to establish a stable connection. Ideally, keep the camera within 300 feet of the router, though walls and other obstacles can shorten this range.
- Step 2: Reduce interference from other devices. Microwaves, cordless phones, and other electronics operating on a 2.4GHz frequency can disrupt the WiFi signal.
Solution: Move your camera closer to your WiFi router, and minimize obstacles like walls between the two devices. Alternatively, consider using a WiFi range extender to boost the signal to hard-to-reach areas.
4. Restart Your Arlo Camera and Router
A simple restart of both your Arlo camera and your WiFi router can resolve many temporary connectivity issues.
How to Restart:
- Step 1: For your Arlo camera, press and hold the sync button for about 10 seconds to reset it.
- Step 2: For your router, unplug it for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and wait for it to reboot fully.
5. Update the Firmware
Firmware is the software that operates your Arlo camera, and keeping it up to date is crucial for maintaining proper functionality. Sometimes connection issues arise when your camera or router is running outdated firmware.
How to Update Firmware:
- Step 1: Open the Arlo app and go to the device settings for your camera.
- Step 2: If an update is available, you’ll see a prompt to install the latest firmware.
- Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Solution: After updating the firmware, restart your Arlo camera and router to ensure the changes take effect. Always ensure both your camera and router are running the latest versions.
6. Ensure Router Compatibility
Some routers are not fully compatible with certain smart home devices like Arlo cameras. This is more common with routers that use advanced security features, MAC filtering, or have other specific settings enabled.
How to Check Compatibility:
- Step 1: Consult your router’s manual to see if there are any compatibility issues with Arlo devices.
- Step 2: Disable MAC address filtering temporarily if it’s enabled, as this feature can block certain devices from connecting to your WiFi network.
- Step 3: Check your router’s security settings. Arlo recommends using WPA2 encryption, which is more secure and fully supported by its cameras.
Solution: If you discover that your router has compatibility issues, try adjusting the settings or consider upgrading to a more compatible router.
7. Clear Network Congestion
If too many devices are connected to your WiFi network, it could cause congestion, reducing the bandwidth available for your Arlo camera.
How to Clear Congestion:
- Step 1: Disconnect any unnecessary devices from your WiFi network, especially bandwidth-heavy devices like gaming consoles, streaming devices, and other smart devices.
- Step 2: Try running a speed test on your network to ensure your internet connection is fast enough to handle all your devices, including your Arlo camera.
Solution: By reducing the number of devices connected to your network, you can improve the available bandwidth and resolve any connectivity issues with your Arlo camera.
8. Reset Your Arlo Camera
If all else fails, resetting your Arlo camera to factory settings can help resolve persistent WiFi connection problems. This will erase any custom settings or saved preferences, but it may fix deeper issues within the camera’s system.
How to Reset:
- Step 1: Locate the reset button on your Arlo camera. It’s usually found on the base or back of the camera.
- Step 2: Press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds, or until the camera’s LED light starts blinking.
- Step 3: After the reset, go through the setup process again using the Arlo app to reconnect the camera to your WiFi network.
Solution: Once the camera is reset and reconnected to your WiFi, it should work without any further connection problems. Keep in mind that you’ll need to reconfigure any custom settings you had before the reset.
9. Contact Arlo Support
If none of the above solutions work, you may be dealing with a hardware issue or a more complex technical problem. In this case, contacting Arlo’s customer support may be the best course of action.
How to Contact Support:
- Step 1: Visit the Arlo support website at support.arlo.com and look for troubleshooting guides or live chat options.
- Step 2: You can also contact Arlo customer support directly for assistance. They may provide more advanced troubleshooting options or arrange for a replacement if your device is faulty.
Solution: If you’re still under warranty, Arlo may be able to replace your camera or provide a more tailored solution.
Conclusion
An Arlo camera not connecting to WiFi can be caused by a variety of factors, but the solutions outlined above should help you resolve most connection issues. Start by ensuring you’re on the correct 2.4GHz network and double-check your WiFi credentials. If problems persist, restart your devices, update the firmware, or check your router’s compatibility settings.
By following these steps, you can usually fix the issue without needing to contact support. However, if the problem remains unresolved, Arlo’s customer service is available to help with more advanced troubleshooting or hardware-related issues. A strong and stable WiFi connection is essential for your Arlo camera to function effectively, and ensuring your setup is correct will help you maintain a reliable home security system.
Solution: Once the camera and router are restarted, attempt to reconnect your Arlo device. This often resolves any temporary glitches that may have occurred.
FAQs on Arlo Won’t Connect to WiFi
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding Arlo cameras not connecting to WiFi and how to troubleshoot the issue:
1. Why won’t my Arlo camera connect to WiFi?
There are several reasons why your Arlo camera might not be connecting to WiFi, including:
- You’re trying to connect to a 5GHz network (Arlo only supports 2.4GHz).
- The WiFi signal strength is too weak.
- The WiFi password was entered incorrectly.
- The router has security settings like MAC filtering enabled.
- There’s interference from other wireless devices.
2. How can I tell if my Arlo is trying to connect to the correct WiFi network?
Arlo cameras are designed to work on 2.4GHz WiFi networks, not 5GHz. To ensure you’re using the correct network:
- Check your router’s network settings to verify it’s on a 2.4GHz band.
- If your router broadcasts both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, make sure you select the 2.4GHz network during the Arlo camera setup.
3. What can I do if the WiFi signal is too weak for my Arlo camera?
If the signal is weak, the camera may have trouble staying connected to WiFi. Here’s how to strengthen the signal:
- Move your Arlo camera closer to the router.
- Use a WiFi range extender or mesh network to improve coverage.
- Avoid placing the camera behind thick walls or near devices like microwaves that can interfere with WiFi signals.
4. How do I reset my Arlo camera when it’s not connecting to WiFi?
To reset your Arlo camera:
- Press and hold the sync button on the camera for 10 seconds, or until the LED light blinks.
- After resetting, re-pair the camera with the Arlo app by following the initial setup steps.
5. Can the wrong WiFi password cause connection issues with my Arlo camera?
Yes, entering the wrong WiFi password is a common reason why Arlo cameras fail to connect. Double-check that the password is entered correctly, including all special characters and capital letters.
6. My Arlo camera won’t connect even after resetting. What should I do next?
If resetting your Arlo camera and double-checking your WiFi network settings don’t work, try the following:
- Restart your router and ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Update your camera’s firmware using the Arlo app.
- Check for any router compatibility issues, such as MAC address filtering, that might block the connection.
7. Can too many devices on my WiFi network cause Arlo not to connect?
Yes, too many devices on the same WiFi network can cause network congestion, reducing the bandwidth available for your Arlo camera. Try disconnecting other devices from the network temporarily to see if the camera connects.
8. What are some common router settings that could prevent my Arlo from connecting to WiFi?
Several router settings may block your Arlo camera from connecting:
- MAC address filtering: This setting can block the camera if its MAC address isn’t whitelisted.
- Security protocols: Ensure your router is using WPA2 encryption, which is compatible with Arlo cameras.
- Advanced firewalls: Certain firewall settings can interfere with the camera’s connection. Temporarily disable them to test.
9. Does Arlo work with mesh WiFi networks?
Yes, Arlo cameras are compatible with mesh WiFi networks. If you’re using a mesh system, make sure the node closest to the camera provides strong signal strength. You may also want to temporarily disable the 5GHz band on the node when setting up the camera.
10. How can I contact Arlo support if my camera still won’t connect to WiFi?
If none of the troubleshooting steps work, you can contact Arlo’s customer support through the following methods:
- Visit the Arlo Support website to access troubleshooting guides, live chat, or request a call.
- Use the Arlo app to open a support ticket.
- Check if your device is still under warranty for potential hardware replacement.
11. Can firmware issues cause Arlo to not connect to WiFi?
Yes, outdated firmware on your Arlo camera or router may cause connectivity problems. Always ensure your Arlo camera and router are running the latest firmware by checking for updates in the Arlo app or router settings.
12. My Arlo camera was working before but suddenly won’t connect. What should I do?
If your Arlo camera suddenly stops connecting, here’s what to check:
- Ensure there haven’t been any recent changes to your WiFi network, such as a password change or new router.
- Restart both the camera and the router.
- Check for any firmware updates that may need to be installed.
13. How far can my Arlo camera be from the router and still connect to WiFi?
Arlo cameras have an optimal range of up to 300 feet (91 meters) from the WiFi router in an open area. Walls, floors, and other obstacles can reduce this range, so keep the camera as close to the router as possible for a stable connection.
14. How can I fix connection issues when using a WiFi extender?
If you’re using a WiFi extender and still facing connection issues:
- Ensure that the extender is correctly configured to boost the 2.4GHz signal.
- Make sure the extender is positioned halfway between your router and the Arlo camera for maximum coverage.
- Disconnect and reconnect the camera to the WiFi extender to see if that improves performance.
15. Will rebooting my router help fix Arlo’s WiFi connection issues?
Yes, rebooting your router can clear any temporary glitches that might prevent the Arlo camera from connecting to WiFi. Unplug the router for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and allow it to fully restart before reconnecting your camera.
By addressing these common questions and solutions, you should be able to resolve most WiFi connection issues with your Arlo camera. If problems persist, contacting Arlo support can help you troubleshoot further or arrange for hardware assistance.
