Introduction
Setting up your home security hub is key to getting the most out of your Arlo system. In this guide, you’ll get a clear, step-by-step plan for installing and configuring the VMB5000 and VMB4540 SmartHubs. Whether you’re a newbie or upgrading your system, you’ll be ready in no time and if you need extra help, you can call +1–872–777–1190 or (833).800.3030 for direct assistance.
Why Choose the SmartHub & What They Do
A SmartHub is the heart of your Arlo camera ecosystem. It connects your cameras to your home network, allows local or remote video storage, and improves reliability over direct WiFi connections.
- The VMB4540 is a SmartHub designed for earlier Pro/Pro-3 systems.
- The VMB5000 supports dual-band WiFi (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), microSD card local storage, and works with newer Ultra/Pro cameras.
Using a SmartHub rather than just camera ↔ router WiFi improves range, reliability and gives you more options for video retention (local backup).
Pre-Installation Checklist
Before you start, make sure:
- You have an Ethernet port free on your router (or a powerline link).
- You have smartphone (iOS or Android) with the Arlo app installed.
- Your cameras are compatible with the hub model you have.
- You have access to your WiFi login if the hub uses it (especially for the VMB5000).
- If you plan local storage: for VMB4540 you’ll need a USB drive; for VMB5000 a microSD card.
How to Set Up Arlo VMB5000 and VMB4540 SmartHub
Step 1: Physical Connection
For both models:
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to your router. Then connect the other end to the LAN port on the SmartHub.
- Plug the SmartHub into power and turn it on (if there’s an on/off switch).
- Wait for the LED(s) to show the correct status: for example on the VMB4540 “Power and Internet should be green while the Camera LED should be off or solid amber” if cameras haven’t yet synced.
Specific Notes:
- VMB4540: Works as SmartHub for Pro 3 etc.
- VMB5000: Supports dual-band WiFi and local microSD backup.
Step 2: Setup via Arlo App
- Open the Arlo app. If you don’t already have an account, create one.
- Tap “Add New Device” (or similar) > Select SmartHub/Base Station.
- Follow the on-screen prompts: the app will detect the hub once it’s connected properly.
- Name the hub (e.g., “Main Hub – Living Room”) so you can easily identify it.
- Proceed to add any cameras: in the app choose Add Device > select your camera model and follow the syncing instructions.
Step 3: Configure Local Storage (Optional but Recommended)
For VMB4540:
- Insert a USB flash drive (or USB hard drive) into one of the USB ports on the back of the hub. In the app: Settings > My Devices > select your hub > choose Storage Settings.
- Format the drive in FAT32 if required. The hub may prompt.
- Enable “Automatic overwrite” if you want the oldest recordings to be auto-deleted when full.
For VMB5000
- Insert a microSD card in the slot provided for local backup.
- In the app: go to Hub Settings > Storage and select the microSD card.
- Set up how long to keep local footage (days) or whether to overwrite automatically.
Local backup gives you control over your data and ensures you still have access even if cloud service or internet is interrupted.
Step 4: Test the Setup & Optimize Placement
- From the app, view live feed from one of your cameras to confirm connectivity.
- Walk past the camera’s field of view to trigger motion detection and verify push notifications.
- Check the LED status on the hub: any amber/green indications may signal connectivity issues. For example, if the camera LED is solid amber it may mean the hub isn’t syncing properly.
Optimize hub placement:
- Keep it at least 1 ft off the floor.
- Avoid enclosing it in a cabinet or behind metal (which blocks signal).
- Make sure the router/hub has good ventilation and isn’t stacked under devices.
Update firmware if prompted by the app this ensures performance and security are up to date.
Step 5: Troubleshooting & Tips
- If the hub does not appear in the app: unplug power, disconnect Ethernet, reconnect Ethernet, then power on again. Some users report that powering first then plugging Ethernet fails.
- Ensure your router’s WiFi 2.4GHz band is enabled (some hubs require it during setup). Mesh systems sometimes cause issues — connect directly to the primary router node.
- Re-sync cameras by pressing their pairing button and following the app prompts.
- If local storage isn’t appearing, check drive formatting (FAT32) and that the hub supports >2 TB drives (some don’t).
- Keep your hub’s firmware and camera firmware up to date; this can resolve unexpected issues.
If you run into trouble and cannot get things resolved through the app or online troubleshooting, our support team is ready to assist: +1–872–777–1190.
Step 6: Finalizing & Best Practices
- Label your hub and any cameras clearly in the app (e.g., “Front Door”, “Back Patio”).
- Enable notifications for motion/people alerts — but fine-tune sensitivity so you don’t get overwhelmed.
- Set up schedules/arming times so your system is active when you want it to be (e.g., always when you’re away).
- Perform a monthly check: look at stored footage, verify recording paths (cloud vs local), test motion detection.
- Consider enabling 2-factor authentication on your Arlo account for extra security.
- Put the hub on an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) if power outages are common in your area — especially if local storage is critical.
Summary
Setting up your Arlo SmartHub whether the VMB4540 or the VMB5000 doesn’t have to be complicated. With these steps:
- Hook up Ethernet + power
- Use the Arlo app to add the hub
- Connect your cameras
- Configure local backup (optional but smart)
- Test and optimise placement
- Follow best practices for ongoing use and troubleshooting
And remember: if you encounter any difficulty or just want a guided walkthrough, call +1–872–777–1190 — our team is here to help you get it done smoothly.
You’ll be up and running with a smart, reliable home-security hub in no time.
