Loss of access to a video surveillance system is one of the most common problems faced by users of security systems. A situation where video recorder When your device stops transmitting images to your smartphone or requires a code when attempting a remote connection, it can catch you off guard. This most often happens after changing providers, updating your router, or simply forgetting the settings you set up during the initial setup.
There are several ways to regain control of the system, depending on the device model and connection type. You don't need to call a technician, as in most cases, resetting or finding credentials takes no more than 10 minutes. However, it's important to understand the difference between a password and a password. WiFi networks the registrar itself (access point mode) and a password for entering the administrative panel or mobile application.
In this article, we'll detail the steps for popular brands, including physical reset methods and ways to view saved keys in your router settings. Remember: if you have changed the factory data, standard codes like "admin/admin" will not work, and a procedure (Hard Reset) will be required. Let's move from theory to the practice of access restoration.
Finding a saved password through the router settings
If the DVR has already been connected to your home network, its access key (or the key it uses to connect to the router) can often be found in the router's administrative panel. This is especially true for models that operate in client mode rather than creating their own network. First, you need to access your router's interface by entering its IP address in a browser.
Within the control panel, you should look for sections related to the wireless network or the list of connected clients. In some router models TP-Link or Keenetic You can view the password for the network the device is connected to if the router is automatically distributing the Wi-Fi. Otherwise, if the recorder is connected via cable and a Wi-Fi module is used for distributing the Wi-Fi, the password may be specified in the DHCP or static IP settings.
Users often confuse the WiFi router password with the DVR password. Make sure you're looking for the exact code the app requests when logging in remotely. If you can't find it in the router settings, try using the default factory settings.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces are constantly being updated. The layout of menu items may vary depending on your router's firmware version. If you can't find the section you need, consult your router manufacturer's manual.
Using factory default passwords
Many users never change security settings after purchase, relying on the factory defaults. If the device isn't new or you bought it used, there's a good chance the default combinations are still active. Manufacturers often use standard codes for entire hardware lines, which simplifies initial setup but creates security risks.
The most common account is login adminThe password for it can be empty, or also consist of the word adminFor Chinese OEM models without a brand, a combination is often used 123456 or 12345It is important to check this data first before resorting to drastic reset measures.
Below is a table with the most common factory combinations for popular manufacturers of video surveillance systems:
| Brand / Manufacturer | Default login | Default password | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hikvision | admin | 12345 | For older models |
| Dahua | admin | admin | Often requires changing upon first login |
| Xiaomi / Yi | admin | (absent) | The code from the sticker is used |
| Generic (China) | admin | 123456 | Universal code |
| Reolink | admin | (empty) | Password not set |
If none of the combinations work, the data has been changed by the previous owner or you. In this case, the only solution is a physical reset, which will be discussed in the following sections. Do not attempt to brute-force the password, as the security system may temporarily block access.
Physical reset (Hard Reset)
The most reliable way to regain access is to perform a full reset of the device to factory settings. This procedure erases all user configurations, including IP addresses, recording schedules, and, most importantly, forgotten passwords. After the reset, the recorder will behave as if it had just come off the assembly line.
To perform this operation, you will need physical access to the device's case. On most models, the reset button (Reset) is located on the rear panel, near the antenna and cable ports. Sometimes it may be hidden inside a small hole to prevent accidental pressing. In this case, you'll need to use a paper clip or a thin knitting needle.
The reset procedure is as follows:
- 🔌 Plug in your dash cam and wait for it to load (usually 1-2 minutes).
- 📍 Find the hole with the inscription
ResetorRST. - ⏱️ Press and hold the button inside the hole for 10-15 seconds.
- 🔊 Wait for the sound signal or the indicators on the case to reset.
☑️ Checklist before reset
After the device reboots, you will be able to enter the menu using the default factory data. Please note that some modern models Hikvision or Dahua Requires reset confirmation via your master password or the verification code sent to your email address upon registration. If you don't have access to your email address, the process may be more complicated.
Restoring access via a mobile app
Modern video surveillance systems often connect to cloud services via mobile apps. If you've forgotten the password for your recorder's local WiFi module but remember your app account credentials, recovery may be easier. Log in to the app from a phone that's already authorized.
In the device settings, you can often find an "About device" or "Network settings" section within the app. This can display the current connection status or even allow you to change the WiFi module password without physical access to the buttons. Some apps, such as Tuya Smart or V380 Pro, allow you to send new network settings directly to the camera if it is within range.
⚠️ Attention: The app-based recovery feature only works if the dash cam is currently connected to the internet. If it's offline, this method won't work.
Apps also often implement a "Forgot Password" feature for the account itself. By restoring access to your account via email or SMS, you automatically gain control over all linked devices, even if the local password is lost. This is another argument in favor of registering your equipment during initial setup.
What to do if the Reset button does not work?
If pressing and holding the button doesn't do anything, the reset function may be blocked in the device menu or the button may be physically faulty. In rare cases, disassembling the case and shorting the contacts on the board (UART) may be necessary, but this voids the warranty and requires soldering skills.
Reset specifics for popular brands
Different manufacturers implement their own security algorithms, so there is no universal "make good" button. For example, devices Xiaomi Often require simultaneously pressing the reset and power buttons, or holding the button for 30 seconds until a distinctive beep sounds. Ignoring the timing may only result in a reboot, not a reset.
For registrars Hikvision there is a special tool SADP Tool, which operates on a local network. It allows you to see a device even if its IP address is corrupted. However, resetting a password using this utility often requires an export file, which must be sent to technical support or generated using special date-dependent algorithms.
Brand devices Dahua have a "Security Question" feature. If you set one during initial setup, answering this question will allow you to reset your password through the login menu. If you didn't set a question, your only options are a hard reset or contacting a service center with your purchase receipt.
Problems with the WiFi module and the 2.4 GHz frequency
Users often think they've forgotten their password, when the problem lies in frequency incompatibility. Most budget DVRs and IP cameras only support the [band/ ... 2.4 GHzIf your router is distributing a 5 GHz network or combining both frequencies under a single name (Smart Connect), the recorder may simply not see the network or reject the connection, returning an "Incorrect Password" error.
The solution in this case is to separate the networks in the router settings. Create a guest network or a separate SSID specifically for the 2.4 GHz band and try connecting the recorder to it. This will eliminate compatibility issues between encryption protocols and frequency bands.
It's also worth checking the encryption type. Older models may not work with the modern standard. WPA3 or mixed mode WPA2/WPA3Switch WiFi security to clear WPA2-PSK (AES), which is the gold standard of compatibility for IoT devices.
Security measures after access restoration
Once you've regained access to the system, it's crucial not to leave the default passwords. DVRs are a popular target for hackers creating botnets. Changing the password is the first thing you should do after regaining control of the device.
Create a complex password using mixed-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Write it down in a safe place or use a password manager. It's also recommended to regularly update your device's firmware, as manufacturers patch vulnerabilities that can lead to authentication bypasses.
Remember that the security of your home network depends directly on the weakest link. If the DVR is left with the password "12345," an attacker can use it as an entry point into your entire local network.
What should I do if my dash cam beeps after a reset?
A beep usually indicates a hard drive (HDD) error. After a factory reset, the system may not recognize the drive or require formatting. Go to the menu Storage or HDD Management and perform a format (Initialize). This is safe if the disk contains no necessary entries, as resetting the password often requires data wiping anyway.
Is it possible to reset the password via Telnet or SSH?
Theoretically, yes, if ports 23 or 22 are open on the device and you know the root password for the console. However, on modern firmware, these ports are closed by default. Using exploits to open access is a complex procedure and can lead to permanent software bricking, so it is not recommended for regular users.
Will resetting the password erase the data on my hard drive?
A hard reset itself does not format the hard drive. Your video archive should be preserved. However, if you cannot log in, you will not be able to view the archive. In some cases, when performing a full factory reset, the system may request that you format the drive to ensure the new configuration functions correctly.
Where can I find the QR code to add a device?
The QR code is usually located on a sticker on the device's body (bottom or back) or on the packaging. It contains a unique ID and verification code. If the sticker has been removed, the code can be found in the device menu on the monitor screen (connected directly) under Network -> Platform Access or similar.