How to Add Arlo Doorbell to App

Adding your Arlo doorbell to the app is quick and easy with the right steps. This guide walks you through setup, pairing, and troubleshooting to ensure your smart doorbell works flawlessly from day one.

Key Takeaways

• Download the Arlo app: Available on iOS and Android, this is your control center for all Arlo devices.
• Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal: Place your doorbell within range of your router for reliable connectivity.
• Use the correct power source: Arlo doorbells require either wired power or a rechargeable battery, depending on the model.
• Follow in-app pairing instructions: The app guides you step-by-step through setup with visual and audio cues.
• Test notifications and live view: Confirm everything works after setup to avoid future issues.
• Update firmware regularly: Keep your doorbell running smoothly with the latest software updates.
• Contact support if needed: Arlo’s customer service can help resolve persistent connection or setup problems.

How to Add Arlo Doorbell to App: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve just unboxed your brand-new Arlo doorbell and you’re ready to connect it to your smartphone. Great choice! Arlo doorbells offer crystal-clear video, motion detection, two-way audio, and smart alerts—making them one of the top picks for modern home security. But before you can enjoy all these features, you need to add your Arlo doorbell to the app. Don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of adding your Arlo doorbell to the Arlo app, whether you’re using a wired or battery-powered model. We’ll cover everything from downloading the app to troubleshooting common issues. By the end, you’ll have your doorbell up and running, sending you real-time alerts whenever someone approaches your door.

Let’s get started.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before diving into the setup, make sure you have the following items ready:

• Your Arlo doorbell – Make sure it’s fully charged (if battery-powered) or properly wired.
• A smartphone or tablet – Either an iPhone (iOS 12 or later) or Android device (Android 7.0 or later).
• The Arlo app – Download it from the App Store or Google Play Store.
• A stable Wi-Fi connection – Your doorbell needs to connect to your home network. A 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band is required; 5 GHz is not supported.
• Your Arlo account credentials – If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create a free Arlo account.
• A ladder (if installing at height) – For safe and proper mounting.
• Basic tools – Such as a screwdriver, drill, and wire strippers (for wired models).

Having these ready will save you time and frustration during setup.

Step 1: Download and Install the Arlo App

The Arlo app is the heart of your smart security system. It’s where you’ll view live video, receive alerts, adjust settings, and manage all your Arlo devices.

How to Download the App

Open your device’s app store:

• On iPhone: Open the App Store and search for “Arlo”.
• On Android: Open the Google Play Store and search for “Arlo”.

Look for the official app published by Arlo Technologies, Inc. It should have a blue and white icon with the word “Arlo” in bold.

Tap Install or Get, and wait for the download to complete.

Create or Log In to Your Arlo Account

Once the app is installed, open it. You’ll be greeted with a welcome screen.

If you’re new to Arlo:

• Tap Create Account.
• Enter your email address, create a strong password, and confirm it.
• Agree to the terms and conditions.
• Tap Create Account to finish.

If you already have an Arlo account:

• Tap Log In.
• Enter your email and password.
• Tap Log In.

After logging in, you’ll be taken to the app’s home screen, where you can begin adding your doorbell.

Step 2: Prepare Your Doorbell for Setup

Now that the app is ready, it’s time to prepare your doorbell. This step varies slightly depending on whether you have a wired or battery-powered model.

For Wired Arlo Doorbells (e.g., Arlo Essential Wired Doorbell)

If your doorbell connects to existing doorbell wiring:

• Turn off power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock.
• Remove your old doorbell from the wall.
• Check that your existing wiring has enough voltage (typically 8–24V AC). Arlo doorbells require at least 8V to function properly.
• If your current transformer is too weak, you may need to upgrade it. Arlo recommends a 16V, 10VA transformer for optimal performance.
• Connect the wires to the Arlo doorbell’s terminals (usually labeled “Front” and “Trans”).
• Secure the doorbell to the wall using the provided mounting bracket and screws.
• Turn the power back on at the breaker.

For Battery-Powered Arlo Doorbells (e.g., Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell)

If your doorbell runs on a rechargeable battery:

• Remove the doorbell from the box and locate the battery compartment.
• Insert the provided rechargeable battery. Make sure it’s fully charged before use.
• Attach the mounting bracket to the wall using screws (or the adhesive strip for temporary mounting).
• Snap the doorbell onto the bracket.
• Ensure the doorbell is securely attached and level.

Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength

Your doorbell needs a strong Wi-Fi signal to function properly. Use your phone to check the signal strength at the installation location:

• Open your phone’s Wi-Fi settings.
• Look at the signal bars near where you plan to install the doorbell.
• If the signal is weak, consider using a Wi-Fi extender or relocating your router.
• Arlo recommends a minimum signal strength of -70 dBm for reliable performance.

A weak signal can cause delays, dropped connections, or failed setups.

Step 3: Add Your Doorbell in the Arlo App

Now comes the fun part—pairing your doorbell with the app.

Open the Arlo App and Start Setup

• Open the Arlo app on your smartphone.
• Tap the + (plus) icon in the top-right corner of the home screen.
• Select Add Device.
• The app will scan for nearby Arlo devices. Wait a few seconds.

If your doorbell is powered on and in pairing mode, it should appear on the screen.

Follow the On-Screen Instructions

The app will guide you through the setup process with clear prompts. Here’s what to expect:

• Select your doorbell model: Choose the correct Arlo doorbell from the list (e.g., Arlo Essential Wire-Free, Arlo Video Doorbell Wired, etc.).
• Confirm power source: The app will ask if your doorbell is wired or battery-powered. Select the appropriate option.
• Scan the QR code: Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the back of your doorbell or in the user manual. This links the device to your account.
• Connect to Wi-Fi: The app will prompt you to select your home Wi-Fi network and enter the password. Make sure you’re connecting to the 2.4 GHz band—Arlo doorbells do not support 5 GHz.
• Wait for pairing: The app will send the Wi-Fi credentials to the doorbell. This may take 30–60 seconds. You’ll see a progress bar and hear a chime from the doorbell when successful.

Name Your Doorbell

Once connected, the app will ask you to name your doorbell. Choose something descriptive, like “Front Door” or “Back Porch,” so you can easily identify it later.

Tap Done or Finish to complete the setup.

Step 4: Test Your Doorbell

After setup, it’s crucial to test your doorbell to ensure everything is working correctly.

Check Live View

• Open the Arlo app.
• Tap on your doorbell’s name to open the live feed.
• You should see a real-time video stream from your doorbell.
• If the image is blurry or delayed, check your Wi-Fi signal or move closer to the router.

Test Motion Detection

Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion detection:

• You should receive a push notification on your phone.
• The app will show a motion alert with a thumbnail image.
• Tap the notification to view the recorded clip.

If you don’t get an alert, go to the app’s settings and check that motion detection is enabled.

Test Two-Way Audio

• Tap the microphone icon in the live view.
• Speak into your phone—you should hear your voice through the doorbell’s speaker.
• Ask someone to stand near the doorbell and speak—you should hear them clearly on your phone.

If audio is choppy or delayed, it may be due to poor Wi-Fi or low battery.

Test the Doorbell Button

Press the doorbell button:

• You should hear a chime (if wired to a mechanical chime) or receive a notification.
• The app will show a “Doorbell Pressed” alert.
• You can answer the call directly from the app.

If the button doesn’t trigger a notification, check the wiring or battery level.

Step 5: Customize Your Doorbell Settings

Now that your doorbell is working, take a few minutes to personalize it.

Adjust Motion Zones

• Go to your doorbell’s settings in the app.
• Tap Motion Settings > Motion Zones.
• Draw zones on the video preview where you want motion detection to activate (e.g., the walkway, but not the busy street).
• This reduces false alerts from passing cars or animals.

Set Up Activity Zones

Some Arlo models support activity zones, which let you define specific areas for alerts:

• Enable activity zones in the motion settings.
• Name each zone (e.g., “Driveway,” “Front Steps”).
• Choose whether to receive alerts for each zone.

Enable Smart Alerts

Arlo uses AI to distinguish between people, packages, and vehicles:

• Go to Smart Alerts in the settings.
• Turn on Person Detection, Package Detection, or Vehicle Detection.
• This helps reduce unnecessary notifications.

Set Notification Preferences

• Choose when to receive alerts: always, only during certain hours, or never.
• Enable sound, vibration, or silent notifications based on your preference.
• You can also set up email alerts or integrate with smart home platforms like Alexa or Google Assistant.

Schedule Modes

Use Arlo’s modes to automate your doorbell:

• Create a “Home” mode that disables motion alerts when you’re inside.
• Set a “Away” mode that enables full monitoring when you’re not home.
• Schedule these modes to activate automatically based on time or location.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even with the best preparation, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when adding your Arlo doorbell to the app.

Doorbell Not Appearing in the App

If your doorbell doesn’t show up during setup:

• Make sure it’s powered on. For wired models, check the circuit breaker. For battery models, ensure the battery is charged.
• Press and hold the doorbell button for 10 seconds to reset it and put it in pairing mode.
• Move closer to your Wi-Fi router to improve signal strength.
• Restart your phone and reopen the Arlo app.

Wi-Fi Connection Fails

If the app can’t connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi:

• Confirm you’re using the 2.4 GHz network. Arlo doorbells do not support 5 GHz.
• Double-check your Wi-Fi password—typos are common.
• Ensure your router isn’t blocking new devices. Check firewall or MAC filtering settings.
• Try rebooting your router and modem.
• If using a mesh network, connect the doorbell to the main router, not a satellite node.

Weak or Unstable Video Stream

If live view is laggy or keeps disconnecting:

• Check your internet speed. Arlo recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed for HD video.
• Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Reduce interference by keeping the doorbell away from microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.
• Update your doorbell’s firmware via the app (Settings > Device Info > Firmware Update).

Doorbell Button Doesn’t Trigger Alerts

If pressing the button doesn’t send a notification:

• Check that the doorbell is properly connected to Wi-Fi.
• Ensure notifications are enabled in the app and on your phone (check Do Not Disturb settings).
• For wired models, verify the chime is compatible. Arlo works with most mechanical chimes but may not support digital or wireless chimes.
• Reset the doorbell and re-pair it with the app.

Battery Drains Too Quickly

If your battery-powered doorbell dies fast:

• Reduce motion sensitivity or narrow motion zones to limit recordings.
• Turn off non-essential features like color night vision or continuous recording.
• Ensure the doorbell isn’t in a high-traffic area triggering constant alerts.
• Charge the battery fully and reinsert it properly.

Tips for a Smooth Long-Term Experience

Once your doorbell is set up, follow these tips to keep it running smoothly:

• Update firmware regularly: Arlo releases updates to improve performance and security. Enable auto-updates in the app.
• Clean the lens monthly: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and smudges for clear video.
• Check battery level: For wire-free models, recharge the battery every 2–6 months depending on usage.
• Review recordings: Periodically check your activity log to ensure everything is working as expected.
• Use a strong password: Protect your Arlo account with a unique password and enable two-factor authentication.

Conclusion

Adding your Arlo doorbell to the app is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. From downloading the app and preparing your doorbell to pairing it with Wi-Fi and customizing settings, this guide covers everything you need to know. With your doorbell now connected, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you can see and speak to visitors from anywhere.

Remember, a strong Wi-Fi signal, proper power supply, and regular maintenance are key to reliable performance. If you run into issues, don’t hesitate to consult the troubleshooting section or reach out to Arlo support.

Now go ahead—test that doorbell, answer a fake visitor, and enjoy your new smart home upgrade!