Do I need a base station for Q and Pro cameras?

[andrebouchard]

i am looking to add a mix of Arlo Pro and Arlo Q cameras to my house. Do I need to also buy a base station for the cameras to work?

[jguerdat · Accepted solution]

Only for the Pro cameras. The Q essentially has a base built in.

[andrebouchard]

thank you. Will the base station WiFi network interfere with my home WiFi network? can i just add the Arlo cameras to my existing WiFi network? if not, why does it need the base station? Per specs, the base station WiFi is 300 ft line of sight, so how will that work if i add cameras to the second story part of my home? do i need to get a second base station?

thanks

Andre

[kmiller8821]

The Arlo Base station should not be placed directly next to your existing router because it is possible there could be interference. However, I have mine about 2 feet from my router without issue.  The wifi works similarly to your regular router wifi, but is a special low power wifi designed to maximize the camera battery.  You shouldn't need a second base, but depending on construction materials in your home it is possible.  How well does your regular wifi work upstairs? You can NOT add your arlo/arlo pro cameras to your existing router. They must connect to thier base due to the special low power mode.  The easiest way to answer these questions is to go pickup one and try it out.  If it doesn't work as expected or you determine it doesn't suit your needs, you can always return it.  

[andrebouchard]

thank you. 

[jguerdat]

Fwiw, my base is about 6 inches from my high-powered router with no issues. I've always just plugged it in and let it do its thing.