Modern home and office video surveillance systems increasingly rely on P2P (Peer-to-Peer) technology, which allows you to connect to a device without complex router configuration. However, to successfully activate this mode, you need to know the device's unique identifier. This code, often referred to as UID (Unique Identifier), serial number or simply ID, is the key that links the physical camera to the manufacturer's cloud server.
Many users encounter difficulties when the sticker on the camera case has worn off, the box has been lost, or the camera is already mounted on the ceiling and the rear panel is inaccessible. In such situations, searching Device ID This becomes a real problem, blocking remote access setup. We'll explore all possible methods for detecting this parameter, using both software and hardware.
Knowing where to find this data will save you hours of time and frustration. It's important to distinguish between the MAC address, IP address, and the UID itself, as different applications require different input formats. Below are proven methods that will help you restore access to your device or link it to a new account.
Find the identifier on the case and packaging
The most obvious and reliable way to find out unique number — This is a physical inspection of the device itself. IP camera manufacturers, such as Hikvision, TP-Link, Reolink or Xiaomi, an information label is almost always placed on the bottom or back of the case. This label contains critical information for initial equipment setup.
Typically, the value you're looking for is labeled as "UID," "ID," "Serial Number," or "S/N." Depending on the brand, the format may vary: it could be a long 16-character string, a combination of letters and numbers, or even a QR code. If the sticker is legible, you can simply scan the QR code using a mobile app, which will automatically enter the ID into the settings field.
If the camera isn't installed yet, it's also worth checking the bottom of the box. There's often a duplicate sticker with a barcode and serial number Adheres to the packaging. This is especially useful if you bought a used camera without a box, but the seller kept the label from the body.
⚠️ Warning: If the sticker on the case is partially worn or damaged, do not try to guess the characters. Even a single character error will make it impossible to connect to the P2P server.
Some outdoor camera models may have a rubber seal around the sticker to ensure water resistance. Carefully open the seal to view the data, being careful not to damage the seal.
Determining ID via a mobile app
If you don't have physical access to the camera, but it was previously connected to the network and linked to an account, the easiest way to find out is UID via the official mobile app. Most modern video surveillance programs, such as Tuya Smart, Tapo, Mi Home or V380, allow you to view detailed information about the device in the settings menu.
To do this, open the app on your smartphone, select the desired camera from the list, and go to the control menu (often a gear icon or three dots in the corner). Find the "Device Information," "About Camera," or "Device Info" section. The full Device ID, which can be copied to the clipboard.
In some cases, if a camera appears in the list but doesn't connect ("Offline"), the ID may still be visible in the device card. This allows you to relink the camera to another phone or transfer access to another user.
What should I do if the app shows "Device busy"?
If the app reports that the device is linked to a different account, you'll need to reset the camera to factory settings. This is usually done by long-pressing the Reset button on the camera body (10-15 seconds). After the reset, the old ID will be retained, but the link to the previous owner's account will be removed.
App interfaces are frequently updated, so menu locations may change. If you can't find the item you need, try searching through the settings within the app itself.
Using the web interface and IP address
For more advanced users and professional cameras (eg. ONVIF(compatible) A great way to log in is through a web browser. To do this, you'll need to know the camera's local IP address on the network. If you don't know the IP, use the utility ONVIF Device Manager or a network scanner on your computer.
Enter your IP address in the browser's address bar and log in. In the main menu or in the section Setup → System → Information (the path may differ depending on the firmware) displays full technical information. Here you will find MAC address, firmware version and, most importantly, Platform ID or UID.
This method is especially useful for cameras that don't have their own popular cloud apps but operate via standard protocols. The web interface often allows you to not only view the ID but also change P2P settings, enabling or disabling the cloud service.
| Parameter | Where is it used? | Data format |
|---|---|---|
| UID / P2P ID | Cloud connection, mobile applications | 16 characters (hex) or QR code |
| MAC address | Local area network, DHCP reservation | XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX |
| IP address | Access via browser, RTSP stream | 192.168.x.x |
| Serial number (S/N) | Warranty, technical support from the manufacturer | Alphanumeric string |
Remember that different identifiers are required for different purposes. To add to the application Cloud You need the UID, not the MAC address, even though they may look similar.
Searching through software network scanners
If the camera is connected to a router, but you don't know its IP or ID, specialized network scanning utilities will come to the rescue. Programs like Advanced IP Scanner, Angry IP Scanner or branded Search Tools from manufacturers (for example, SADP Tool For Hikvision) can detect a device even without knowing its address.
Launch the scanner on a computer connected to the same Wi-Fi or LAN network as the camera. The program will display a list of all active devices. Find the device by manufacturer name (e.g., IPCAM, HI3518 or brand). The extended information often displays Device ID or the possibility of its activation.
Some universal video surveillance programs such as VLC Media Player (via the "Local Network" menu) or ONVIF Device Manager, may also show the stream URI, which sometimes has an encrypted or device ID.
Usage network scanners — This is a professional approach that allows you to find a camera even if its IP address has changed due to a network conflict or a router reset.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your computer and camera are on the same subnet. If your router distributes addresses in the 192.168.1.x range, and your PC receives 192.168.0.x, the scanner will not see the camera.
ID specifics for different camera brands
Different manufacturers use different identification systems, and it's important to understand these nuances. For example, in the ecosystem Xiaomi / Mi Home The ID is often linked to a Mi account and is only displayed after initial setup via Bluetooth or QR code.
Cameras TP-Link Tapo They use a QR code binding, which is a unique encryption key. Without scanning this code (or manually entering the long key from the sticker), connection is impossible. Hikvision And Dahua The term "P2P ID" or "Access Code" is used and can be found in the camera's local configuration menu.
For cheap Chinese cameras running on platforms Tuya or Yoosee, the ID is often just a serial number printed on a sticker. However, in the application Yoosee It may be called "Device ID" and consist of 9 digits.
Knowing the specifics of your brand helps you navigate the interface more quickly and avoid confusing the network card's MAC address with the actual UID for the cloud.
What to do if the ID is lost or unreadable
The situation where the sticker has worn off, the box has been thrown away, and the camera doesn't show up in the app (or is linked to someone else's account) seems like a dead end. However, if you have physical access to the device, it's almost always possible to Hard Reset.
Find the hole with the inscription Reset or RSTIt's usually recessed into the body. Using a paperclip or needle, press and hold the button for 10-20 seconds (until the camera beeps or the indicator light flashes). This will reset the device to factory settings.
After resetting, the camera will enter pairing mode. In this state, it often creates its own Wi-Fi network (access point) with a name containing part of its ID, or it will begin blinking in a specific pattern, indicating it's ready for a new setup. You don't need to know the old ID to set up the camera again—you simply add it as a new device.
If the camera is needed for integration into a third-party system (for example, Home Assistant or Video LAN), where a static UID is required, and a reset cannot be done (so as not to disrupt the recording on the server), try connecting to it via the protocol Telnet or SSH (if enabled in settings). Commands like cat /etc/uid or viewing the configuration files may yield the string you are looking for.
☑️ What to do if you lose your ID
In extreme cases, when all else fails, the only option is to contact the manufacturer's technical support and provide proof of purchase. They can search for the device by MAC address in their database.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to change the UID or ID of the camera?
In 99% of cases UID (P2P ID)This is hardcoded by the manufacturer at the factory and is an immutable, unique identifier. It cannot be changed. However, you can change the camera access password and device name in the app for convenience.
What is the difference between MAC address and UID?
MAC address needed for working in a local network (Wi-Fi/LAN), it identifies the network adapter. UID needed for work via the cloud (P2P), allowing the application to find the camera via the Internet, even if it has a dynamic IP.
The camera shows "Device busy", what should I do?
This means that the camera is linked to a different account. You need to do the following: reset button on the case to break the connection with the old account and then add it again.
Where can I find the ID for a camera that works via ONVIF?
For ONVIF cameras, the IP address, login, and password are most often used. A UID may not be required for P2P. If you need one, look for it in the web interface under "Network" -> "P2P" or "Cloud."