When your Lorex security system cannot find the network host, it means the DVR or NVR is having trouble connecting to your network. This issue can disrupt remote viewing and access to your camera feeds. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the “cannot find the network host” error.
Introduction to Lorex Systems
Lorex security systems, including DVRs (Digital Video Recorders) and NVRs (Network Video Recorders), rely on a stable network connection to provide remote access to surveillance footage. However, one common issue users face is the “cannot find the network host” error, which indicates that the system cannot detect or connect to the network.
Common Causes of Network Host Errors
Several issues can cause a Lorex system to fail to connect to the network host, such as:
- Network Connection Problems: Your internet or Wi-Fi connection may be weak or unstable.
- Router or Modem Malfunctions: Sometimes, a simple router reset can resolve connectivity issues.
- Incorrect IP Configurations: If your Lorex device’s IP address is set incorrectly or conflicts with other devices on the network, it may be unable to connect.
Identifying the root cause can make the troubleshooting process more efficient.
Checking Physical Connections
Before diving into network settings, it’s important to ensure all cables and hardware are connected properly.
- Ethernet Cable: Make sure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into both your Lorex DVR/NVR and the router.
- Power Supply: Verify that the DVR/NVR has power, as indicated by the lights on the device.
- Network Indicator: Check if the DVR/NVR’s network indicator light is on or blinking, which shows the system is connected to the network.
Verifying Network Settings on the Lorex System
Accessing the network settings on your Lorex system allows you to ensure the DVR/NVR is configured properly.
How to Check IP and Network Settings
- Access the Main Menu: Use the connected monitor and Lorex’s main menu to find “Network Settings.”
- Check the IP Configuration: Verify that the IP address, subnet mask, and gateway are set correctly. If necessary, switch from dynamic (DHCP) to a static IP to avoid future issues.
- Ping Test: Some Lorex models allow you to perform a “ping” test to check if the system can reach the router.
Restarting Your Router and Lorex Device
Restarting Your Router
- Locate the power button: This is usually found on the back or side of your router.
- Turn off the router: Press and hold the power button until the power light turns off.
- Wait for a minute: This allows the router to completely power down.
- Turn on the router: Press the power button again.
- Wait for the lights to stabilize: The lights on your router should come on and stabilize, indicating that it’s fully powered up.
Restarting Your Lorex Device
Note: The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your specific Lorex device model. Please refer to your device’s manual for precise instructions.
- Locate the power button: This is typically found on the back or side of your Lorex device.
- Turn off the device: Press and hold the power button until the power light turns off.
- Wait for a minute: Allow the device to completely power down.
- Turn on the device: Press the power button again.
- Wait for the device to boot up: The device’s lights or display should indicate that it’s initializing.
Additional Tips:
- Check for network connectivity: After restarting both devices, ensure that your Lorex device can connect to your network. Check the device’s settings or display for any network-related error messages.
- Update firmware: If your Lorex device has a firmware update available, installing it can often resolve connectivity issues or improve performance.
- Contact Lorex support: If you’re still experiencing problems after restarting both devices, reach out to Lorex’s customer support for further assistance.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve many common connectivity issues with your router and Lorex device.
Power Cycling the Router
- Unplug: Disconnect the router’s power cord from the outlet.
- Wait: Allow the router to remain unplugged for approximately 10 seconds.
- Replug: Reconnect the power cord to the outlet.
- Wait: Give the router a few minutes to fully restart and establish a network connection.
Rebooting the Lorex DVR/NVR
- Shut Down: Turn off the DVR/NVR using the on-screen menu or by unplugging it directly.
- Wait: Allow a brief pause before restarting.
- Restart: Power on the DVR/NVR and verify its connection to the network host.
Note: If you encounter persistent issues after power cycling and rebooting, consider checking the following:
- Network cable connections: Ensure that the network cables are securely plugged into both the router and the Lorex device.
- Firewall settings: Verify that your router’s firewall isn’t blocking communication with the Lorex device.
- Firmware updates: Check for available firmware updates for your router and Lorex device, as these can sometimes resolve connectivity problems.
If you continue to experience difficulties, contacting Lorex technical support may be necessary for further assistance.ur Router
- Turn Off the Router: Unplug the router’s power cord and wait for about 10 seconds.
- Plug It Back In: Reconnect the router and allow it a few minutes to fully restart.
Rebooting the Lorex DVR/NVR
Rebooting Your Lorex DVR/NVR
Rebooting your Lorex DVR/NVR can often resolve minor connectivity or performance issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Shut Down the System:
- Through the Main Menu:
- Navigate to the main menu of your Lorex DVR/NVR.
- Look for a “Shutdown” or “Power Off” option.
- Select it to initiate the shutdown process.
- By Unplugging:
- If you cannot access the main menu, locate the power button on the back or side of your DVR/NVR.
- Press and hold the power button until the device turns off.
2. Wait for a Few Seconds:
- Allow the system to cool down and for any residual power to dissipate. This typically takes a few seconds.
3. Restart the System:
- Power Button: Press the power button again to restart the DVR/NVR.
- Remote Control: If applicable, use your remote control to turn on the device.
- Wait for Boot-up: The system will go through its startup sequence, which may take a few minutes.
4. Check Network Connection:
- Once the system is fully booted up, verify that it has successfully connected to your network.
- Look for a network connection indicator light on the front panel or check the system’s on-screen menu for network status information.
Additional Tips:
- Firmware Updates: Ensure that your DVR/NVR has the latest firmware installed. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause issues.
- Network Settings: Double-check your network settings, including IP address, subnet mask, and gateway, to make sure they are correct.
- Cable Connections: Verify that all cables, including the power cord, network cable, and any external device cables, are securely connected.
- External Devices: If you have any external devices connected to the DVR/NVR, try disconnecting them temporarily to see if they are causing interference.
If you continue to experience problems after rebooting, please consult your Lorex DVR/NVR’s user manual or contact Lorex technical support for further assistance.
Checking IP Address Conflicts
Sometimes, two devices on your network may share the same IP address, leading to conflicts that prevent your Lorex system from connecting.
How to Check for IP Conflicts
- Log Into Your Router: Use a web browser to access your router’s configuration page (usually by entering 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
- Check the DHCP Client List: Look for any duplicate IP addresses assigned to different devices.
- Assign Unique IPs: If an IP conflict is found, assign a static IP address to your Lorex system to avoid future conflicts.
Configuring Your Router for Lorex
Port Forwarding for Remote Access
If you’re trying to access your Lorex system remotely, you may need to configure port forwarding on your router.
- Log Into the Router: Open the router’s settings page in a browser.
- Find Port Forwarding Settings: Navigate to the “Port Forwarding” or “Virtual Servers” section.
- Enter the Required Ports: Forward the necessary ports (typically HTTP Port 80, Media Port 35000, and HTTPS Port 443) for your Lorex system.
Enable DHCP on the Router
Ensure that DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is enabled, allowing the router to automatically assign an IP address to your Lorex DVR/NVR.
Updating Lorex Firmware
- Visit Lorex Website: Go to the official Lorex website.
- Search for Firmware: Look for a section dedicated to firmware updates or support.
- Find Your Model: Search for your specific Lorex device model.
- Download Firmware: Download the latest firmware file for your model.
- Install Firmware: Follow the instructions provided by Lorex to install the firmware update on your DVR/NVR. This may involve uploading the downloaded file through the web interface or using a USB drive.
Additional Tips:
- Backup Settings: Before updating firmware, create a backup of your Lorex system’s settings to safeguard your configurations.
- Internet Connection: Ensure that your DVR/NVR has a stable internet connection during the update process.
- Patience: Firmware updates can take some time to complete. Avoid interrupting the process.
- Check for Errors: After the update is finished, monitor your Lorex system for any errors or unexpected behavior.
By following these steps and considering the additional tips, you can keep your Lorex system’s firmware up-to-date and benefit from the latest improvements and bug fixes.
Firewall and Security Software Issues
Firewalls or security software on your network may block the Lorex system from accessing the network.
Ensuring Firewall Is Not Blocking Lorex
- Check Firewall Settings: Look at your router’s firewall settings to ensure it’s not blocking the Lorex system.
- Add Exceptions: Add your DVR/NVR’s IP address to the firewall’s whitelist or set port forwarding rules.
Resetting the Lorex System to Factory Settings
If all else fails, you may need to reset your Lorex system to its factory settings.
How to Perform a Factory Reset
- Go to System Settings: Access the system menu via the connected monitor.
- Select Factory Reset: Choose the factory reset option and confirm. Be aware that this will remove all configurations, so back up your settings if possible.
Checking Internet Speed and Bandwidth
- Check Internet Speed: Use an online speed test tool (e.g., Speedtest.net, Fast.com) to measure your internet connection’s upload and download speeds.
- Verify Minimum Requirement: Ensure that your upload speed is at least 5 Mbps, as recommended for most Lorex systems.
Additional Tips:
- Peak Usage Times: Be aware that internet speeds can fluctuate throughout the day. Test your speed during peak usage times to get a more accurate representation of your connection’s capabilities.
- Network Congestion: If your internet speed is consistently below the minimum requirement, consider factors like network congestion or interference that might be affecting your connection.
- Contact Internet Provider: If your internet speed is significantly lower than expected, reach out to your internet service provider to troubleshoot any underlying issues.
By following these steps and considering the additional tips, you can effectively assess your internet speed and determine if it’s adequate for the proper functioning of your Lorex system.
Using Lorex Technical Support
If you’ve tried all troubleshooting methods and still can’t resolve the issue, contact Lorex technical support.
Contacting Lorex Support
- Phone: Reach out to Lorex’s support line for real-time assistance.
- Online Support: Submit a support request through Lorex’s website or check their online forums for similar issues.
Preventing Future Network Host Issues
Maintaining your network and system properly can prevent future connectivity problems.
Tips for Network Stability
- Update Router Firmware: Regularly check for and install firmware updates for your router. This can often address bugs, security vulnerabilities, and improve overall performance.
- Use Wired Connections: Whenever possible, opt for wired Ethernet connections instead of wireless connections (Wi-Fi). Wired connections generally provide more stable and reliable network performance, reducing the likelihood of connectivity issues.
Troubleshooting Mobile Apps and Remote Access
If you are experiencing issues connecting to your Lorex system via the mobile app, reconfigure the app settings.
How to Fix Remote Access Issues
- Check Mobile Network: Ensure your phone has a stable internet connection.
- Reconfigure the App: Log out of the Lorex app, restart your phone, and log back in to refresh the connection.
FAQs
Why does my Lorex system lose connection intermittently?
Intermittent connection loss can be due to weak Wi-Fi signals, IP address conflicts, or network congestion.
Can I access Lorex cameras without internet?
Yes, you can view footage locally on the connected monitor without internet, but remote access requires an internet connection.
How do I assign a static IP to my Lorex DVR?
Go to your Lorex system’s network settings and select “Static” for the IP address. Manually input the IP, subnet mask, and gateway details.
What should I do if port forwarding doesn’t work?
Double-check the port numbers and your router’s settings. Make sure the IP address you’re forwarding to is correct.
How often should I update my Lorex system?
Check for firmware updates at least once every 6 months to ensure your system is up-to-date.
How do I check if my internet provider is blocking ports?
Contact your ISP or use a port scanning tool to verify if required ports are blocked.
