Arlo cameras are a popular choice for home security due to their high-quality video, easy installation, and reliable performance. However, there may be times when you need to reset your Arlo camera to resolve issues or restore it to its factory settings. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of resetting your Arlo camera, ensuring it’s ready for a fresh start or new setup.
Why Reset Your Arlo Camera?
There are several reasons why you might need to reset your Arlo camera:- Troubleshooting Issues: Resolving connectivity problems, software glitches, or unresponsive behavior.
- Changing Networks: Connecting to a new Wi-Fi network or changing your router.
- Selling or Giving Away: Preparing the camera for a new user by erasing all personal settings.
- Starting Fresh: Clearing all settings and starting from scratch for a clean setup.
Types of Resets
There are two main types of resets for Arlo cameras:- Soft Reset: Reboots the camera without deleting any settings or data. Useful for minor issues.
- Factory Reset: Erases all settings and data, restoring the camera to its original factory state. Necessary for major issues or when changing ownership.
How to Perform a Soft Reset
A soft reset can help resolve minor issues without erasing any settings or data.Steps for a Soft Reset
- Locate the Reset Button: Depending on your Arlo camera model, the reset button may be on the side or back of the device.
- Press the Reset Button: Use a paperclip or similar tool to press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds.
- Release the Button: Once the LED indicator starts blinking, release the reset button. The camera will reboot and attempt to reconnect to the network.
How to Perform a Factory Reset
A factory reset is more thorough and will erase all settings and data, restoring the camera to its original state.Steps for a Factory Reset
- Locate the Reset Button: Find the reset button on your Arlo camera. It is typically a small, recessed button that can be pressed with a paperclip or pin.
- Press and Hold the Reset Button: Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button for about 15 seconds. The LED light will start blinking amber.
- Release the Reset Button: When the LED light starts blinking amber, release the reset button. The camera will reboot, and the LED will blink blue once it’s ready for setup.
- Remove the Camera from the Arlo App: Open the Arlo app and go to the "Devices" section. Select the camera you just reset and remove it from your account.
- Re-add the Camera to Your Account: Follow the setup process in the Arlo app to reconnect the camera to your Wi-Fi network and add it back to your account.
Detailed Steps for Different Arlo Camera Models
Arlo Pro and Arlo Pro 2
- Remove the Battery: Open the battery compartment and remove the battery.
- Press the Sync Button: While the battery is out, press and hold the sync button on the camera.
- Reinsert the Battery: Continue holding the sync button as you reinsert the battery.
- Hold Until LED Blinks: Hold the sync button until the LED blinks amber.
Arlo Ultra and Arlo Ultra 2
- Locate the Sync Button: The sync button is on the bottom of the camera.
- Press and Hold the Sync Button: Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the sync button for about 15 seconds.
- Release When LED Blinks: Release the button when the LED blinks amber.
Arlo Essential
- Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is on the bottom of the camera.
- Press and Hold the Reset Button: Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button for about 15 seconds.
- Release When LED Blinks: Release the button when the LED blinks amber.
Reconnecting Your Arlo Camera
After performing a factory reset, you’ll need to set up your camera again:- Open the Arlo App: Launch the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Add a New Device: Tap on "Add Device" and select your camera model from the list.
- Follow Setup Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your camera to your Wi-Fi network and complete the setup process.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Camera Not Responding to Reset
- Ensure Proper Procedure: Double-check that you are following the correct steps for your camera model.
- Check Power Source: Ensure the camera is properly powered, either by a charged battery or a functioning power adapter.
- Try Again: Sometimes, you may need to attempt the reset process multiple times.
Camera Fails to Reconnect
- Check Wi-Fi Credentials: Make sure you are entering the correct Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
- Move Closer to Router: Place the camera closer to your Wi-Fi router during the setup process to ensure a strong signal.
- Update Firmware: Ensure both the camera and the router have the latest firmware updates installed.