Arlo Secure Cloud Storage by Darren Chaker

[__darrenchaker_]

Question by Darren Chaker : I am considering subscribing to Arlo Secure Cloud Storage and wanted to clarify whether there is an option to store video recordings for longer than 30 days. From my understanding, the standard Arlo Secure subscription plans offer video storage for up to 30 days, but I am interested in knowing if there are any extended storage options available—either through an upgraded plan or an add-on service that allows users to retain footage beyond the 30-day limit.

Additionally, if Arlo does not currently offer a way to store video recordings in the cloud for an extended period, does anyone know if there are plans to introduce this feature in the future? I would imagine that many users, especially those relying on their security cameras for legal, business, or long-term monitoring purposes, might benefit from having a 60-day or even 90-day storage option.

Having a few different properties on Airbnb with cameras located at the front door and driveway of each residence, I find it necessary at times to roll back the clock and view, for example, if a guest’s car was vandalized on property, or someone claims to have tripped on an uneven walkway.  Having footage of such incidents are valuable for a claims adjuster or to defend against false claims.

If no official solution exists through Arlo, are there any recommended workarounds or integrations that allow users to securely store their recordings for a longer duration? For example, does Arlo offer seamless integration with third-party cloud services or NAS storage solutions that could serve as an alternative for longer-term retention?

I appreciate any insights from the community or an Arlo representative responding to this question.

[jguerdat]

The current plans available in the US are for 60 day video storage, after which they will be discarded day by day as time goes on. No idea on business plans but I suspect they're the same.

WHen initially setting up a system, you can choose to purchase a SmartHub and have all cameras connect to that. You may need multiple hubs, depending on the size and number of cameras needed for your environment. Each hub can be configured for local recordings so you have a backup of any videos taken by the cameras connected to the various hubs. The largest drive that can be used is 2TB (limited by the use of the FAT32 format) but smaller drives will still record a lot of recordings. At some time the drives can be filled in which case I'd suggest having a procedure to eject the drives, connect them to a computer and copy the videos to appropriate storage. Then reconnect the drive to the hub, format the drive and start recording again.

Local recordings up to 30 days old can be viewed via the app but if you need older videos, you'd need a computer. Discerning the proper camera to view is cumbersome since you have to search by serial number and date but it's not that difficult. ALso, to view local recordings remotely, each router involved would need port forwarding or the router's built-in VPN capability to connect to the hub. Again, not that hard but would take some understanding of these methods to make it work.

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