Why is my Arlo Pro 5S recording stops randomly?

Common causes include software issues, connectivity problems, and settings misconfigurations. Follow our guide to fix your Arlo Pro 5S.

How do I fix Arlo Pro 5S recording stops randomly?

Start by restarting your device, checking connections, and updating firmware. Our step-by-step guide provides detailed instructions.

When should I call support for my Arlo Pro 5S?

If troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, or you encounter persistent errors, contact a certified Arlo technician.

Arlo Pro 5S Recording Stops Randomly

When your Arlo Pro 5S recording stops randomly, you miss critical security footage exactly when you need it most. This frustrating issue typically stems from power management settings, cloud storage limits, Wi-Fi connectivity problems, or outdated firmware. The good news: most causes are easy to diagnose and fix without replacing your camera. Follow this step-by-step guide to restore reliable, continuous recording to your Arlo Pro 5S.

Check Power and Battery Settings

Insufficient power is the leading cause of interrupted recordings. The Arlo Pro 5S aggressively conserves battery when charge drops, which can cause unexpected recording gaps.

Verify Battery Level: Open the Arlo Secure app, select your Pro 5S camera, and check the battery indicator. If below 20%, charge fully using the magnetic charging cable. Consider switching to continuous power via the outdoor charging cable if gaps persist during critical monitoring periods.

Adjust Power Manager Settings: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Power Manager. Disable "Optimized" or "Best Battery Life" modes temporarily. Select "Best Video Quality" or "Balanced" to reduce aggressive power-saving cutoffs that interrupt recordings mid-event.

Resolve Wi-Fi and Connectivity Issues

Unstable network connections frequently cause the Arlo Pro 5S recording stops randomly problem, as interrupted uploads terminate active recording sessions.

Test Signal Strength: Check your camera's Wi-Fi signal in the Arlo app under Device Health. If signal shows fewer than 2 bars or "Fair," move your SmartHub or router closer, eliminate physical obstructions, or add a Wi-Fi extender. Aim for "Excellent" signal for reliable recordings.

Reduce Network Congestion: Disconnect non-essential devices from your 2.4 GHz band. Access your router settings and enable band steering, or manually connect your Arlo SmartHub to 5 GHz if supported. Interference from microwaves, baby monitors, and neighboring networks commonly disrupts recording uploads.

Restart Your Network Equipment: Power cycle your modem, router, and Arlo SmartHub by unplugging for 60 seconds, then reconnect in order: modem first, router second, SmartHub last. Wait 2 minutes for full synchronization before testing recordings.

Update Firmware and Verify Storage

Outdated firmware contains bugs that cause recording failures, while storage limits silently block new captures.

Update Camera Firmware: In the Arlo app, navigate to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name] > Device Info. Compare your firmware version against Arlo's support site. If outdated, keep the camera plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi—updates install automatically overnight or can be triggered by restarting the camera.

Warning: Do not interrupt a firmware update by removing power or disabling Wi-Fi. Interrupted updates can brick your Arlo Pro 5S, requiring a full factory reset or replacement. Ensure battery is above 50% before updates begin.

Verify Cloud and Local Storage: Check your Arlo Secure subscription status in Settings > Subscription. Expired plans stop cloud recordings without clear warnings. For local storage, eject and inspect your microSD card in the SmartHub—replace if full or corrupted. Format the card through the app if recordings appear fragmented.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Arlo Pro 5S stop recording in the middle of motion events?

This typically occurs when "Auto Stop Recording" is enabled in your camera's motion detection settings, or when the camera enters power-saving mode due to low battery. Disable auto-stop in Settings > Motion Detection > Recording Length and set a fixed duration of 30-120 seconds depending on your needs.

Can extreme temperatures cause my Arlo Pro 5S to stop recording?

Yes. The Arlo Pro 5S operates between -4°F and 113°F (-20°C to 45°C). Outside this range, the battery protection circuit may disable recording to prevent damage. Install your camera under eaves or use the outdoor charging cable to maintain stable operating temperatures in extreme climates.

How do I know if my Arlo Pro 5S recording stops randomly due to hardware failure?

If recordings stop despite full battery, excellent Wi-Fi, updated firmware, and active storage, perform a factory reset: hold the sync button for 15 seconds until the LED blinks amber. Reconfigure the camera in the app. If the issue persists across multiple reset attempts, contact Arlo support for warranty evaluation—hardware failure usually shows consistent failure patterns rather than true randomness.