How to Reset Arlo Video Doorbell
If your Arlo Video Doorbell is offline, unresponsive, or stuck during setup, a reset is often the fastest way to get it working again.
This guide explains how to reset Arlo video doorbell models safely, what each reset type does, and how to reconnect the device afterward.
When Should You Reset an Arlo Video Doorbell?
Resetting is useful when troubleshooting persistent problems that basic fixes do not solve.
Common reasons include failed Wi-Fi pairing, delayed notifications, frozen live view, repeated motion detection issues, or ownership changes before giving the doorbell to someone else.
- The doorbell will not connect to the Arlo Secure app
- Status LED keeps blinking without finishing setup
- Audio, video, or night vision stops working correctly
- You need to remove personal settings before transferring the device
- The doorbell becomes unresponsive after a firmware update
Before You Reset: Try These Quick Fixes First
Before performing a reset, check the simplest causes of failure.
A full reset should be a troubleshooting step, not the first step, because it removes some settings and requires setup again.
- Confirm your Wi-Fi network is online and uses the correct password
- Make sure the doorbell battery is charged, if your model uses battery power
- Restart your router and modem
- Close and reopen the Arlo Secure app
- Move closer to the router during setup to improve signal quality
- Check that your Arlo account still has the device assigned
What Kind of Reset Does an Arlo Video Doorbell Need?
Arlo devices generally support different levels of reset, and the right one depends on the issue.
The two most common actions are a soft restart and a factory reset, and they do not do the same thing.
Soft restart
A soft restart power-cycles the device without removing it from your account.
Use this when the doorbell is temporarily frozen, not detecting motion reliably, or failing to respond in the app.
Factory reset
A factory reset restores the doorbell to its default state.
This is the better option when you are re-adding the device, fixing setup failures, or preparing it for a new owner.
How to Reset Arlo Video Doorbell Using the Reset Button
Most Arlo Video Doorbells include a physical reset button or pinhole reset control on the device body.
The exact placement varies by model, but the process is similar across Arlo wired and battery doorbells.
- Remove the doorbell from its mount if needed so you can access the reset control.
- Locate the reset button or pinhole on the back or side of the doorbell.
- Press and hold the reset button using a paperclip or similar tool.
- Keep holding it for about 10 to 15 seconds, or until the LED behavior changes.
- Release the button and wait for the doorbell to restart.
After the reset, the device should re-enter setup mode.
Open the Arlo Secure app and follow the pairing prompts to reconnect it to your Wi-Fi network.
How to Reset Arlo Video Doorbell Through the Arlo Secure App
Some Arlo settings can be changed in the app, but the app does not always perform a full factory reset by itself.
Still, it is the best place to confirm device status, remove the doorbell from your account, and prepare for reinstallation.
- Open the Arlo Secure app and sign in.
- Go to Devices and select your Video Doorbell.
- Open Device Settings.
- Look for options such as remove device, transfer ownership, or restart.
- If available, follow the app instructions to complete the process.
If the app cannot reach the doorbell, use the physical reset button instead.
That method is more reliable when the device is offline or stuck.
How to Reconnect the Doorbell After a Reset
Once the reset is complete, the next step is setup.
A successful reconnection depends on using the correct account, stable Wi-Fi, and the right device mode during pairing.
- Open the Arlo Secure app and tap Add New Device.
- Select your specific Video Doorbell model.
- Scan the QR code if prompted.
- Connect the doorbell to the same Wi-Fi network used by your home router.
- Follow the in-app instructions until the LED and audio prompts confirm success.
If setup fails, move the doorbell closer to the router temporarily, then try again.
For dual-band routers, use the network band recommended by Arlo for your model.
Common Problems After Resetting
Even after a reset, some issues can continue if the root cause is external.
Knowing what to check next can save time and prevent repeated resets.
Doorbell will not join Wi-Fi
Check router security settings, network password accuracy, and signal strength at the installation location.
Mesh networks, VPN settings, and firewall restrictions can sometimes interfere with pairing.
Doorbell stays offline
Verify that your internet service is active and that the router is not blocking new smart home devices.
If the doorbell is battery-powered, low charge can also prevent a stable connection.
Notifications do not work
Open app permissions on your smartphone and confirm that motion alerts, push notifications, and background activity are enabled for the Arlo Secure app.
Model-Specific Tips for Arlo Video Doorbells
Arlo has released multiple Video Doorbell models over time, including wired and battery versions.
While the reset process is broadly similar, small differences in LED status, button placement, and setup steps can apply depending on the model number.
- Check the label on the back of the doorbell for the exact model name
- Use the official Arlo support instructions for your hardware revision
- Keep the installation wires or charging cable available during setup
- Update the Arlo Secure app before pairing the device again
If you are unsure which model you have, compare the shape, mounting style, and power source against the product details in your Arlo account.
How to Reset Arlo Video Doorbell Safely
Resetting is straightforward, but handling the device carefully matters.
Power down the system if your installation includes wired power, avoid forcing the reset pin, and do not interrupt the setup process once pairing starts.
- Use a non-damaging tool for the reset pinhole
- Do not press the button longer than necessary
- Wait for the device to fully reboot before trying setup again
- Keep your Wi-Fi password handy before beginning
- Have your Arlo account login ready for reactivation
If the doorbell still will not respond after a factory reset, the issue may involve hardware damage, wiring problems, or router incompatibility rather than software.
Reset vs. Remove Device: What Is the Difference?
Many users confuse removing a device from the app with resetting the hardware.
Removing the doorbell deletes it from your Arlo account, while resetting clears the device itself back to default behavior.
For a clean reinstallation, both steps may be needed.
| Action | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Restart | Reboots the doorbell without erasing account data | Temporary glitches and frozen behavior |
| Remove from app | Detaches the device from your Arlo account | Ownership changes or re-adding the device |
| Factory reset | Restores default device settings | Persistent setup issues or transfer to a new user |
What to Do If the Reset Does Not Work
If you have followed the reset procedure and the Arlo Video Doorbell still fails to operate normally, the next step is to isolate whether the issue is with the device, network, or installation.
Try a different Wi-Fi network if possible, inspect wiring or transformer compatibility for wired models, and test the Arlo app on another smartphone.
You can also review Arlo support resources for firmware updates, LED error codes, and model-specific repair guidance.
In some cases, a reset will not resolve a failing battery, damaged circuit board, or weak transformer, and the device may need replacement.
