Error code 4208 shows up when you try to update the firmware on Arlo cameras. The update may start but later on, it will fail.
If you keep trying you’ll run on the same error over and over and the cameras won’t sync. Even if you try automatic updates or manually. Still the same frustrating error message: Firmware could not be updated. Please try again later. (Error code: 4208).
Most of the time this error is related to network connection issues such as weak internet signal or power issues (not enough battery juice to perform the update). The device is not able to update the firmware.
Follow the steps below to fix this issue.
How to fix Arlo error code 4208?
To fix this issue you need to check (and improve) the network connection in the location and also that the camera has indeed enough battery.
First, you should try to remove the cameras from the app (this trick irons out a lot of errors).
To remove all the devices from the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices, remove the camera and add it back. It has been reported that most of the time, this method gets rid of error 4208.
If your Arlo cameras are battery-powered, ensure that they are fully charged. The cameras won’t be able to update the firmware if the battery is low or about to die. They need enough power to start the process.
Make sure your cameras have full signal strength to complete a firmware update. Turn off the WiFi and then turn it on again.
Ensure that your internet is stable and that you’re not having signal interruptions. You may try to open some random websites on your phone (or laptop) just to test out the connection
If you tried the steps above and the error 4208 still persists, we recommend rebooting your base station and waiting for the automatic update window that takes place between 3AM-5AM. So, let the camera self update according to the preset schedule.
Close the app on the phone and start it again. Make sure the app and phone as well are updated to the latest versions.
How to improve your internet connectivity?
It’s imperative to improve your network connectivity in the location. Arlos cameras need a stable and reliable internet connection in order to perform properly.
Upgrade or move the WiFi router close to the camera
Sometimes the Arlo camera and the WiFi router are simply too far away or there are considerable obstacles between them such as thick walls, ceilings, etc.
If your WiFi coverage is weak, then the camera won’t be able to establish a stable connection with the router. The internet will randomly drop, the camera will go on and off and the whole performance will be affected.
You can use tools such as Nesspot (on your laptop) to test out the WiFi coverage at various points of your location. If the strength shows weak, then that’s your answer.
Next, you can bring the router or the camera closer to each other and see if the devices connect and if the error 4208 disappears. If so, you may need to use WiFi repeaters or change the camera’s location to bring it under the right WiFi coverage.
Additionally, you may upgrade the WiFi router to an advanced one that provides stronger coverage at greater distances. That way the camera will get enough “juice”.
Change the WiFi router band and channel
Nowadays everyone has WiFi routers in their house or business and, obviously, there may be interference that causes the problem with the internet connectivity.
This problem has been studied and one quick method to reduce the interference is by using channels 1, 6, and 11 in your router. These channels are less used on average, and by choosing them, the interference will be drastically reduced.
Another smart way is to use the Netspot software on a laptop, PC, or phone, and the tool/app will scan your network and give you specific information about which channels are used and which ones are recommended. (Another similar tool is WiFi Analyzer).
The screenshot below shows cases of the WiFi services and the channels that are mostly used. You have to configure yours in a channel that has less prevalence on the NetSpot tool.
Smart routers are able to find the best channels automatically, but if you got a regular router you’ll have to switch it yourself manually on the router’s settings. Select one of the 1, 6, or 11 channels (don’t go for 2, 3, 5, 7).
These channels represent different bands where the WiFi router operates, by switching them you can utilize bands that have less interference, thus improving the quality of your internet connection and the general coverage.
The screenshot below shows various channels and bands on a Netgear router. For example, you can select channel 11 which operates on 2.462GHz.
Once you change the router, reboot it and then try to see if the connection is improved. Additionally, reboot the Arlo camera and base station and let it connect to the WiFi.
Final Word
Arlo error 4208 is related to the internet connection issues and can be fixed by improving the connectivity, bringing the camera and the router closer, getting a more powerful WiFi router, and changing the operating bands on the router’s settings.
Also, ensure that Arlo’s battery is working fine and has enough juice. Lastly, you may contact Arlo for further assistance,