Granting access to your Arlo doorbell allows trusted individuals to view live video, receive alerts, and respond to visitors. This guide walks you through the process using the Arlo app, ensuring seamless and secure sharing.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Arlo app: All access sharing is managed through the official Arlo mobile app, not the web portal.
- Invite via email: You can only grant access by sending an invitation to a valid email address linked to an Arlo account.
- Choose permission levels: Assign either “Viewer” or “Admin” access depending on what the user should be able to do.
- Acceptance required: The invited person must accept the invitation and log in to their Arlo account to gain access.
- Manage access anytime: You can remove users or change their permissions at any time from your device settings.
- Ensure strong Wi-Fi: Shared users need a stable internet connection to stream video smoothly.
- Keep firmware updated: Regular updates improve security and compatibility for shared access features.
Introduction: Why Share Access to Your Arlo Doorbell?
Your Arlo doorbell isn’t just a security device—it’s a smart home hub that keeps your family connected and your property protected. Whether you’re on vacation, at work, or simply want your spouse, roommate, or trusted neighbor to keep an eye on things, granting access to your Arlo doorbell ensures someone else can see who’s at the door, receive motion alerts, and even speak through the two-way audio feature.
Sharing access doesn’t mean giving up control. With Arlo’s flexible permission system, you decide exactly what others can do. You can let them view live footage and recordings, or go further and allow them to adjust settings, add new devices, or manage notifications. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from sending an invitation to managing user permissions, so you can share access safely and confidently.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to invite users, set permission levels, troubleshoot common issues, and maintain security—all while keeping your Arlo doorbell running smoothly for everyone who needs it.
Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Log In
Visual guide about How to Grant Access to Arlo Doorbell
Image source: techgenuinely.com
The first step to granting access is opening the official Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re using the latest version of the app, as older versions may not support all sharing features.
Download or Update the Arlo App
If you don’t already have the app, download it from the Apple App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android). Search for “Arlo” and install the app developed by Arlo Technologies, Inc. Once installed, open it and log in using your Arlo account credentials—your email and password.
Verify Your Account
If you’ve recently changed your password or enabled two-factor authentication, make sure you’re fully logged in. You should see your home screen with a list of your connected devices, including your Arlo doorbell. If your doorbell isn’t showing up, ensure it’s powered on and connected to Wi-Fi.
Ensure Admin Access
Only the primary account holder (the person who set up the Arlo system) can grant access to others. If you’re not the admin, you’ll need to ask the admin to send the invitation. Confirm your role by checking your account settings—look for “Account Type” or “User Role” under your profile.
Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings
Once you’re logged in and on the home screen, you’ll need to access the settings for your Arlo doorbell.
Select Your Doorbell
Tap on the image or name of your Arlo doorbell from the device list. This will open the live view screen. From here, look for the gear icon (⚙️) or “Settings” button, usually located in the top-right corner of the screen.
Open Device Options
Tap the settings icon to enter the device configuration menu. You’ll see options like “Video Settings,” “Motion Zones,” “Audio,” and “User Access.” Scroll down until you find “User Access” or “Share Access”—this is where you’ll manage who can view your doorbell.
Check for Firmware Updates
Before proceeding, it’s a good idea to check if your doorbell’s firmware is up to date. Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with sharing features. Go to “Device Info” or “Firmware” and tap “Check for Updates” if available. Install any pending updates and wait for the device to restart.
Step 3: Invite a New User
Now that you’re in the right menu, it’s time to send an invitation to someone you trust.
Tap “Add User” or “Invite User”
In the “User Access” section, look for a button labeled “Add User,” “Invite User,” or “Share Access.” Tap it to begin the invitation process.
Enter the Recipient’s Email
You’ll be prompted to enter the email address of the person you want to grant access to. This must be a valid email associated with an existing Arlo account. If the person doesn’t have an Arlo account, they’ll need to create one before they can accept the invitation.
> Pro Tip: Use the same email the person uses for other smart home services to avoid confusion.
Choose Permission Level
Arlo offers two main permission levels:
- Viewer: Can view live video, watch recordings, and receive notifications. Cannot change settings or add/remove devices.
- Admin: Has full control, including the ability to modify settings, invite others, and manage subscriptions.
For most cases, “Viewer” is sufficient—especially for family members, roommates, or neighbors. Only assign “Admin” if you fully trust the person and want them to help manage your Arlo system.
Send the Invitation
After selecting the permission level, tap “Send Invitation.” The recipient will receive an email with a link to accept the invite. The email will come from “[email protected]” and include your name and the device they’re being invited to access.
Step 4: Recipient Accepts the Invitation
The person you invited must complete a few steps on their end to gain access.
Check Their Email
The recipient should check their inbox (and spam/junk folder) for the invitation email. The subject line typically reads: “You’ve been invited to view [Your Name]’s Arlo device.”
Click the Accept Link
Inside the email, there will be a button or link that says “Accept Invitation” or “Join Arlo.” Clicking it will redirect them to the Arlo website or prompt them to open the Arlo app.
Log In or Create an Arlo Account
If they already have an Arlo account, they’ll log in with their email and password. If not, they’ll need to create a free account by providing their name, email, and a secure password. They may also be asked to verify their email address.
Confirm Access
Once logged in, they’ll see a confirmation screen showing they’ve been granted access to your doorbell. They can now open the Arlo app, and your doorbell will appear in their device list under “Shared With Me.”
> Note: It may take a few minutes for the device to appear. If it doesn’t show up, ask them to close and reopen the app or restart their phone.
Step 5: Test the Shared Access
After the invitation is accepted, it’s important to verify that everything is working correctly.
Have the Recipient Open the App
Ask the person you invited to open the Arlo app and navigate to the shared device. They should be able to see the live feed from your doorbell.
Test Live View and Audio
Have them tap the live view button and confirm the video loads without delay. If your doorbell has two-way audio, test it by speaking through the app—this ensures the microphone and speaker are functioning.
Check Notifications
Trigger a motion alert by walking in front of the doorbell. The recipient should receive a push notification on their phone (if notifications are enabled). This confirms they’re receiving real-time alerts.
Verify Recording Access
Ask them to go to the “Library” or “Recordings” section and play a recent clip. This ensures they can view past events, which is especially useful for reviewing deliveries or visitors.
Step 6: Manage User Permissions
You can change or revoke access at any time through the Arlo app.
Return to User Access Settings
Go back to your doorbell’s settings and open the “User Access” menu. You’ll see a list of all users who have access, along with their permission levels.
Change Permission Level
Tap on a user’s name to modify their access. You can switch them from “Viewer” to “Admin” or vice versa. This is useful if someone needs more control temporarily—like a house sitter during a long trip.
Remove a User
To revoke access, tap the user and select “Remove” or “Revoke Access.” Confirm the action when prompted. The user will immediately lose access to the doorbell and will no longer receive notifications or see the device in their app.
> Important: Removing a user does not delete their Arlo account—it only removes their access to your device.
Step 7: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, granting access doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are solutions to the most common problems.
Invitation Email Not Received
If the recipient hasn’t received the email:
- Check the spam or junk folder.
- Ensure the email address was entered correctly.
- Ask the recipient to add “[email protected]” to their contacts.
- Resend the invitation from the User Access menu.
“Device Not Found” Error
If the shared user can’t see the doorbell:
- Confirm the invitation was accepted.
- Ensure both devices are connected to the internet.
- Restart the Arlo app on both phones.
- Check that the doorbell is online (green status light).
Live Video Won’t Load
If the video is slow or won’t play:
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell location.
- Move the router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Reduce video quality in the app settings (temporarily).
- Update the Arlo app and doorbell firmware.
Notifications Not Working
If the recipient isn’t getting alerts:
- Open the Arlo app > Settings > Notifications.
- Ensure “Motion Alerts” and “Doorbell Press” are enabled.
- Check phone settings to allow Arlo notifications.
- Make sure Do Not Disturb mode is off.
Permission Level Not Applying
If a user still can’t access certain features:
- Log out and back into the Arlo app.
- Remove and re-invite the user with the correct permission.
- Contact Arlo support if the issue persists.
Best Practices for Secure Sharing
Sharing access is convenient, but it’s important to do it safely.
Only Share with Trusted Individuals
Avoid granting access to strangers, service providers, or temporary guests unless absolutely necessary. If you must, use “Viewer” access and remove them afterward.
Use Strong Passwords
Encourage all users to create strong, unique passwords for their Arlo accounts. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
Monitor Activity
Periodically check the “User Access” list to ensure no unauthorized users have been added. Arlo doesn’t notify you when someone logs in, so regular checks are wise.
Limit Admin Access
Only assign “Admin” to people you fully trust. Admins can change your subscription, remove devices, or invite others—giving them significant control over your system.
Update Regularly
Keep your Arlo app, doorbell firmware, and phone operating system updated. Updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities.
Conclusion: Share with Confidence
Granting access to your Arlo doorbell is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your home security and keep loved ones in the loop. Whether you’re sharing with a partner, a trusted neighbor, or a pet sitter, the process is straightforward when you follow the right steps.
By using the Arlo app to send invitations, choosing the appropriate permission level, and testing the connection, you ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved. And with the ability to manage or revoke access at any time, you maintain full control over who sees your front door.
Remember: security starts with trust, but it’s strengthened by smart practices. Keep your system updated, monitor user access, and only share with those you truly trust. With these tips, your Arlo doorbell will continue to protect your home—and keep your family connected—no matter where you are.