The Arlo SmartHub protects your recordings by adding a secure, personal network to your router. The SmartHub also helps regulate Wi-Fi traffic, improves battery life and has local storage (microSD cards sold separately). If you want continuous video recording (CVR), you can also get this via the base station with a power supply via a separately available charging cable. A SmartHub is required for compatibility with Apple HomeKit. With an Arlo Secure service plan, the SmartHub also covers audio detection, including smoke/carbon alarms, and can alert you to the smoke detector's activity by sending a message to your smartphone.