To connect your Arlo base station to wifi, you must first physically connect it to your router with an Ethernet cable before powering it on. This wired connection is the only way the base station can access your home network, as Arlo SmartHubs and Base Stations do not connect to Wi-Fi directly.
Before you connect your Arlo base station to wifi: prerequisites and requirements
Before starting, gather the required equipment: your Arlo base station, a router with an available Ethernet port, an Ethernet cable, and your Arlo cameras. The Arlo Secure App must be installed on a compatible device running iOS 15 or higher, or Android 9 or higher.
A high-speed internet connection is a fundamental requirement for the entire Arlo system to function correctly. Note that some newer Arlo camera models, such as Arlo Essential, Pro 4, and Pro 5, can connect directly to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network without needing a base station, so check your camera model if you are unsure whether a base station is necessary.
Step 1: Connect the base station to your router with an Ethernet cable
This step is critical and must be performed in the correct order. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station and the other end to an available Ethernet port on your Wi-Fi router. It is crucial to connect the Ethernet cable to the router before powering on the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station; otherwise, it might not connect to your network. Reversing this order may prevent the base station from establishing a network connection. To minimize potential Wi-Fi interference, place the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station a minimum of 6 feet (1.8 meters) away from your main Wi-Fi router.
Step 2: Power up your Arlo base station
Connect the AC power adapter to the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station and plug it into an electrical outlet. If you have an older model Arlo Base Station with an On-Off button, press it to turn the device on after plugging it into power. Wait for the LED indicator on the base station to stabilize; for SmartHubs or Base Stations with one LED, it should turn solid blue, and for those with three LEDs, the Power LED on the front should turn solid green. This confirms the base station is powered and ready for setup.
Step 3: Set up the base station using the Arlo Secure App
To begin the setup process, launch the Arlo Secure App on your mobile device. In the Arlo Secure App, tap "Devices," then the "Add" icon (+), and select "Base Station/Hub." Follow the remaining in-app instructions to complete the setup process for your Arlo system. The app guides you through the remaining configuration steps, including connecting the base station to your network.
Step 4: Sync your Arlo cameras with the base station
After the base station is set up, follow the app prompts to sync each camera. Place the camera within 3 to 10 feet of the base station during syncing to ensure a strong wireless signal. When instructed by the app, press the sync button on the camera. The LED lights on both the base station and camera will blink during the syncing process. Repeat this process for multiple cameras, syncing each one individually.
Troubleshooting common Arlo base station connection issues
If the LEDs don't show solid blue or green, verify the Ethernet cable is connected before power. If the base station won't connect to the internet, check that your internet connection is high-speed and functioning. If camera syncing fails, ensure the base station isn't too close to the router, remember to place it at least 6 feet away to minimize interference. Always confirm that the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both the base station and the router's Ethernet port.
