Integrating Arlo and Ring doorbell allows you to unify your smart home security setup, giving you centralized control and enhanced monitoring. This guide walks you through the process using compatible hubs, apps, and automation tools to create a cohesive system.
Key Takeaways
- Use a Smart Home Hub: Devices like Samsung SmartThings or Hubitat can bridge Arlo and Ring systems for unified control.
- Leverage IFTTT for Automation: Create applets to trigger actions between Arlo cameras and Ring doorbells, such as turning on lights when motion is detected.
- Sync Notifications: Configure both apps to send alerts to your phone, ensuring you never miss an event.
- Ensure Compatibility: Check that your Arlo and Ring devices support third-party integrations before starting.
- Optimize Placement: Position cameras and doorbells strategically to avoid blind spots and reduce false alerts.
- Test After Setup: Always test your integrated system to confirm alerts, recordings, and automations work as expected.
- Secure Your Network: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on both platforms to protect your data.
How to Integrate Arlo and Ring Doorbell: A Complete Guide
If you’re serious about home security, you’ve likely invested in smart devices like the Arlo camera system and the Ring doorbell. Both offer excellent features—Arlo excels in wireless, weather-resistant cameras with long battery life, while Ring provides reliable doorbell cameras with two-way audio and motion detection. But what if you could make them work together?
That’s where integration comes in. While Arlo and Ring don’t natively support direct integration, you can connect them using smart home platforms, automation tools, and third-party services. This guide will show you exactly how to integrate Arlo and Ring doorbell systems for a smarter, more responsive home security setup.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to sync alerts, automate responses, and manage both systems from a single interface. Whether you’re a tech beginner or a smart home enthusiast, these steps will help you create a seamless security ecosystem.
Why Integrate Arlo and Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Integrate Arlo and Ring Doorbell
Image source: blog.arlo.com
Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about why you’d want to integrate these two systems in the first place.
First, centralized control is a major benefit. Instead of switching between the Arlo and Ring apps, you can manage both from one dashboard. This saves time and reduces confusion, especially during an emergency.
Second, enhanced automation becomes possible. For example, when your Ring doorbell detects motion, it can trigger your Arlo cameras to start recording. Or, if an Arlo camera spots movement in your backyard, it can turn on your porch light—connected via Ring’s ecosystem.
Third, improved response time. Integrated systems mean faster alerts and more coordinated actions. If someone approaches your door, both your doorbell and outdoor cameras can activate simultaneously, giving you a full view of the situation.
Finally, integration supports better data tracking. You can review events across both platforms in a unified timeline, making it easier to spot patterns or investigate incidents.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before beginning the integration process, make sure you have the following:
- Arlo Cameras: Any model that supports the Arlo app (e.g., Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Essential).
- Ring Doorbell: Compatible models include Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell Pro, or Ring Doorbell Elite.
- Smart Home Hub (Optional but Recommended): Devices like Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat, or Home Assistant can act as a bridge.
- IFTTT Account: A free account at ifttt.com to create automation applets.
- Stable Wi-Fi Network: Both systems require a strong internet connection to function properly.
- Smartphone or Tablet: To install apps and configure settings.
Step 1: Set Up Your Arlo System
If you haven’t already, start by setting up your Arlo cameras.
Download the Arlo App
Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) and download the official Arlo app. Create an account or log in if you already have one.
Connect Your Arlo Base Station
Most Arlo systems use a base station that connects to your router via Ethernet. Plug it in, wait for the lights to stabilize, and follow the in-app setup instructions to pair it with your Wi-Fi.
Add Your Cameras
Turn on each Arlo camera and press the sync button. The app will guide you through pairing. Make sure each camera is within range of the base station.
Test Camera Functionality
Once connected, check live view, motion detection, and recording. Adjust sensitivity settings if you’re getting too many false alerts.
Enable Cloud Recording (Optional)
Subscribe to Arlo Smart for cloud storage, activity zones, and advanced AI detection (like person or vehicle recognition).
Step 2: Set Up Your Ring Doorbell
Now, let’s get your Ring doorbell ready.
Download the Ring App
Install the Ring app on your phone and create an account. You’ll need to verify your email and enable two-factor authentication for security.
Install the Doorbell
Follow the physical installation guide. Most Ring doorbells can be wired into existing doorbell circuits or powered by a rechargeable battery.
Connect to Wi-Fi
Open the Ring app, tap “Set Up a Device,” and select your doorbell model. The app will walk you through connecting to your Wi-Fi network. Use a strong 2.4GHz network for best results.
Test Features
Check live view, two-way audio, motion detection, and notifications. Adjust motion zones to focus on your porch and avoid areas like busy sidewalks.
Subscribe to Ring Protect (Optional)
For video recording and extended history, consider a Ring Protect plan.
Step 3: Use IFTTT to Connect Arlo and Ring
Since Arlo and Ring don’t integrate directly, IFTTT (If This Then That) is your best friend. IFTTT is a free automation platform that links apps and devices.
Create an IFTTT Account
Go to ifttt.com and sign up. You can use your Google or Apple account for quick access.
Connect Arlo to IFTTT
In the IFTTT app or website, search for “Arlo” and click “Connect.” Log in with your Arlo credentials and authorize the connection.
Connect Ring to IFTTT
Repeat the process for Ring. Search for “Ring,” click “Connect,” and log in with your Ring account.
Create Your First Applet
Now, let’s make them talk. For example:
- Trigger: Ring detects motion at the front door.
- Action: Arlo camera starts recording.
To do this:
- Click “Create” in IFTTT.
- Click “If This” and search for “Ring.”
- Select “Motion detected by a Ring device.”
- Choose your doorbell.
- Click “Then That” and search for “Arlo.”
- Select “Start recording on a camera.”
- Pick the Arlo camera you want to activate.
- Name your applet (e.g., “Ring Motion Triggers Arlo Recording”) and save it.
Test the Applet
Walk in front of your Ring doorbell. Check if your Arlo camera starts recording. You may need to wait a few seconds due to processing delays.
Step 4: Use a Smart Home Hub for Deeper Integration
For more advanced control, consider using a smart home hub like Samsung SmartThings or Hubitat.
Why Use a Hub?
Hubs can run local automations (faster than cloud-based IFTTT), support more devices, and offer better privacy. They also allow you to create complex routines.
Set Up SmartThings (Example)
- Download the SmartThings app and create an account.
- Add your Arlo cameras: Go to “Devices” > “Add Device” > Search for “Arlo.” Follow the pairing steps.
- Add your Ring doorbell: Search for “Ring” in the device list and connect it.
- Create an automation: Go to “Automations” > “Add Automation.”
- Set the trigger: “When Ring detects motion.”
- Set the action: “Turn on Arlo camera” or “Send a notification.”
- Save and test.
Alternative: Hubitat or Home Assistant
These platforms offer even more customization. Hubitat runs locally for faster response, while Home Assistant is open-source and highly flexible—but requires more technical know-how.
Step 5: Sync Notifications and Alerts
Even without full integration, you can ensure you get alerts from both systems.
Enable Push Notifications
In both the Arlo and Ring apps, go to Settings > Notifications and make sure push alerts are turned on.
Use a Unified Notification App (Optional)
Apps like Pushover or Home Assistant can collect alerts from multiple sources and send them to one place. For example, you can set up IFTTT to send all security alerts to Pushover.
Customize Alert Sounds
Assign different notification sounds for Arlo and Ring so you can tell which device triggered the alert.
Step 6: Optimize Device Placement
Integration works best when your devices are positioned correctly.
Doorbell Placement
Mount your Ring doorbell at chest height, about 4–5 feet from the ground. Angle it slightly toward the walkway to capture faces.
Camera Placement
Place Arlo cameras to cover entry points, driveways, and blind spots. Avoid pointing them at streets or neighbors’ properties to reduce false alerts.
Minimize Overlap
Don’t place Arlo and Ring devices too close—this can cause duplicate alerts. Instead, use them to cover different zones.
Step 7: Create Smart Automations
Now that everything is connected, let’s make your home smarter.
Example 1: Light Up When Motion Is Detected
Use IFTTT or SmartThings to turn on smart lights (like Philips Hue) when your Ring doorbell detects motion at night.
Example 2: Record When Doorbell Is Pressed
Set up an applet so that when someone presses your Ring doorbell, all Arlo cameras start recording.
Example 3: Send Alerts to Family Members
Use IFTTT to send a text or email to your spouse when motion is detected while you’re away.
Example 4: Arm/Disarm Based on Location
Use geofencing in the Ring or Arlo app to automatically arm your system when you leave home and disarm when you return.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix them.
IFTTT Applet Not Working
- Check that both Arlo and Ring are connected to IFTTT.
- Ensure your devices are online and have strong Wi-Fi.
- Reauthorize the connections in IFTTT.
- Test with a simple applet first (e.g., send a notification when motion is detected).
Delayed Alerts or Recordings
Cloud-based automations can take 10–30 seconds to trigger. For faster response, use a local hub like Hubitat or Home Assistant.
False Motion Alerts
Adjust motion zones in both apps. Reduce sensitivity during windy days or in areas with moving trees.
Devices Disconnecting
Restart your router and base station. Update firmware for Arlo and Ring devices. Ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong where devices are placed.
App Crashes or Freezes
Close and reopen the app. Update to the latest version. Restart your phone if needed.
Security and Privacy Tips
With multiple devices connected, security is crucial.
Use Strong Passwords
Create unique, complex passwords for your Arlo, Ring, and IFTTT accounts.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Turn on 2FA in both the Arlo and Ring apps. This adds an extra layer of protection.
Regularly Update Firmware
Check for updates in the apps and install them to patch security vulnerabilities.
Limit Third-Party Access
Only connect trusted services like IFTTT or SmartThings. Revoke access for unused apps.
Monitor Activity Logs
Review login and event history in both apps to spot suspicious activity.
Conclusion
Integrating Arlo and Ring doorbell systems might not be plug-and-play, but with the right tools and steps, it’s entirely achievable. By using IFTTT, smart home hubs, and careful configuration, you can create a unified security network that’s smarter, faster, and more responsive.
You’ll enjoy centralized alerts, automated responses, and peace of mind knowing your home is protected from every angle. Whether you’re triggering recordings, syncing lights, or just simplifying your app usage, the benefits are clear.
Start with the basics—set up both systems, connect them via IFTTT, and test your first automation. As you get comfortable, explore advanced options with hubs and custom routines.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to have more devices—it’s to have a smarter, more coordinated system that works for you. With this guide, you’re well on your way to a truly integrated smart home.