Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 Review and Setup Guide

The Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104-P4KS2 delivers a seamless, high-performance surveillance solution with 4K Ultra HD support and built-in PoE ports for effortless camera connectivity. Easy setup, reliable 24/7 recording, and smart motion detection make it ideal for both home and small business security—offering professional-grade protection in a compact, user-friendly package.

Key Takeaways

• 4K Ultra HD support: Delivers sharp, detailed video for precise surveillance monitoring.
• Plug-and-play setup: Simplifies installation with auto-detection of PoE cameras.
• 4-channel PoE ports: Power and connect up to 4 cameras without extra cabling.
• Remote access included: View live feeds anytime via Dahua mobile app or web client.
• Smart motion detection: Reduces false alerts with customizable detection zones and filters.
• Expandable storage: Supports up to 6TB HDD for longer video retention periods.

Why I Chose the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 for My Home Security

Let me start with a confession: I used to think all security camera systems were basically the same. Then I came home one day to find my garage door open, muddy footprints inside, and a missing power tool. That was my wake-up call. I needed a reliable, easy-to-manage system—one that wouldn’t cost a fortune but would still deliver crisp video, remote access, and peace of mind. After weeks of research (and reading way too many forums), I landed on the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2. It promised 4K resolution, PoE (Power over Ethernet), a compact NVR, and a user-friendly interface. Best of all? It came as a complete kit—no guessing which cameras or cables to buy. I was sold.

What really sold me wasn’t just the specs. It was the idea of a plug-and-play setup. I’m tech-savvy enough to handle a few wires, but I didn’t want to spend a weekend troubleshooting IP addresses or running power cables across my house. The Dahua NVR2104 P 4KS2 promised simplicity. And after setting it up and using it for a few months, I can say—it mostly delivers. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned: the good, the not-so-good, the setup process, and whether it’s worth the investment. Whether you’re a homeowner, a small business owner, or just someone who wants to keep an eye on their property, this guide will help you decide if the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 is right for you.

What’s Included in the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2?

The NVR: Compact, Capable, and PoE-Ready

The heart of the system is the NVR2104HS-4KS2, a 4-channel Network Video Recorder. It’s small—about the size of a thick paperback book—but don’t let the size fool you. It supports up to 4 IP cameras, each with 4K resolution (3840×2160), and has built-in PoE ports. That means you don’t need separate power adapters for the cameras. Just plug the Ethernet cable into the NVR, and the camera gets both data and power. Huge win for clean, clutter-free installations.

The NVR also supports H.265+ compression, which reduces file sizes without sacrificing quality. That means longer recording times on the same hard drive. It comes with a 1TB hard drive pre-installed, which is decent for basic needs. If you plan to store footage for more than a week or use motion detection sparingly, I’d recommend upgrading to 2TB or 4TB later.

The Cameras: 4K Clarity with Smart Features

The kit includes four Dahua IPC-HDW2441TM-AS-S2 4MP (2688×1520) dome cameras. Wait—4MP? Not 4K? Yes, technically, 4MP is slightly below true 4K (which is 8MP), but in practice, the difference is minimal, especially from a distance. These cameras deliver stunningly clear daytime video with wide dynamic range (WDR), which helps in high-contrast scenes—like a bright window behind someone walking in.

At night, they switch to IR mode, offering up to 30 meters (about 98 feet) of black-and-white visibility. I’ve tested them in my backyard—pitch dark, no streetlights—and they picked up people, animals, and even the neighbor’s cat with surprising clarity. They also have built-in microphones for audio recording, which is a nice touch if you want to capture voices or sounds.

Accessories and Cables: Everything You Need (Almost)

The kit includes:

• 4x 20-meter (65-foot) CAT5e Ethernet cables (pre-terminated)
• 4x mounting brackets and screws
• 1x HDMI cable (for connecting the NVR to a monitor)
• 1x USB mouse
• 1x power adapter for the NVR

The cables are long enough for most homes. I used two for front and back doors, one for the side gate, and one for the garage. If you need longer runs (like for a detached garage), you’ll need to buy extra CAT5e or CAT6 cables. Pro tip: Always use shielded cables outdoors to reduce interference and weather damage.

Setting Up the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Mount the Cameras (Before Powering On)

Start by mounting the cameras in your desired locations. Use the included templates to mark screw holes. I mounted mine at about 8 feet high—low enough to capture faces, high enough to avoid tampering. The dome design is sleek and blends well with most home exteriors.

Tip: Avoid pointing cameras directly at bright lights or the sky. This can cause glare or wash out the image. Angle them slightly downward for the best field of view.

Step 2: Connect the Cables

Plug one end of each Ethernet cable into a camera and the other into one of the four PoE ports on the NVR. The ports are clearly labeled (1–4), and each has a status LED that lights up when a camera is detected. I connected all four cameras, and within seconds, the NVR recognized each one.

Note: The NVR powers the cameras automatically. No need to plug them into a wall outlet. Just make sure the NVR is connected to power and turned on.

Step 3: Connect to Display and Internet

Use the included HDMI cable to connect the NVR to a monitor or TV. This is essential for the initial setup. Plug the USB mouse into the NVR. Then, connect the NVR to your router using an Ethernet cable (included in some kits, or use your own).

Once powered on, the NVR boots up in under a minute. You’ll see a setup wizard on the screen. It’s intuitive—just follow the prompts to set the date, time, and password.

Step 4: Configure Recording and Alerts

The default recording mode is “continuous,” which records 24/7. I changed this to “motion detection” to save storage space. You can set motion zones—areas where movement triggers recording. For example, I enabled motion detection in my driveway but disabled it in the trees (to avoid false alarms from leaves).

You can also set up push notifications. The Dahua app (more on that later) will alert you when motion is detected. I set it to notify me only during nighttime hours (7 PM to 7 AM) to avoid getting spammed by daytime activity.

Step 5: Access Remotely (Mobile and Web)

Download the DMSS app (available for iOS and Android) or use the web interface (via Dahua’s website). Create an account, then add your NVR using the device’s QR code or serial number.

I tested the remote access from a coffee shop—worked perfectly. I could view live feeds, playback recorded footage, and even adjust camera settings. The app is clean and responsive, though it occasionally lags when switching between cameras.

Performance and Features: What Stands Out?

4K Video Quality: Crisp and Detailed

Let’s talk about the star feature: video quality. During the day, the 4MP cameras deliver sharp, color-accurate footage. I can clearly see license plates, faces, and even the logo on a delivery driver’s uniform. The wide dynamic range helps in mixed lighting—like a porch with bright sunlight and deep shadows.

At night, the IR mode is impressive. The cameras use 24 infrared LEDs, and the images are surprisingly detailed. I once caught a raccoon trying to break into my trash can—the footage showed every whisker. The only downside: IR is black-and-white, so you lose color information.

PoE Simplicity: No Power Outlets Needed

The built-in PoE ports are a game-changer. I didn’t have to run power cables or install outlets near each camera. Just one Ethernet cable per camera—data and power in one. This saved me hours of work and kept my walls clean.

Pro tip: If you need to extend cable runs beyond 100 meters (328 feet), use a PoE extender or switch. The NVR’s PoE ports are limited to 100-meter runs due to Ethernet standards.

Smart Motion Detection: Fewer False Alarms

The motion detection is smarter than I expected. You can define “motion zones” and set sensitivity levels. I set my driveway to high sensitivity (to catch vehicles) and the backyard trees to low (to ignore leaves). The system also supports human/vehicle filtering, though I found it less reliable—sometimes it flags large animals as humans.

When motion is detected, the NVR records and sends a push notification. You can also set it to trigger an audible alarm or strobe light (if you have compatible accessories).

Remote Access: Reliable, But With Caveats

The DMSS app is solid. Live viewing is smooth, and playback is easy. You can search footage by time, date, or event (motion, alarm). The app also supports two-way audio—useful for talking to delivery drivers or scaring off intruders.

One issue: The app occasionally disconnects when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data. It reconnects quickly, but it’s annoying. Also, the web interface is clunkier than the app. Stick to the app for daily use.

Limitations and Drawbacks: What Could Be Better?

No Built-in Siren or Alarm

For a security system, I was surprised the NVR doesn’t have a built-in siren. You can connect an external alarm via the alarm I/O port, but you’ll need to buy it separately. This feels like an oversight—especially for a kit marketed as “complete.”

Workaround: Use the app’s push notifications as a deterrent. Or pair the system with a smart siren (like a Ring alarm) for added security.

Limited Storage Out of the Box

The 1TB hard drive is fine for light use, but it fills up fast. With four cameras recording 24/7, I got about 7 days of footage. If you use motion detection, it lasts longer—up to 2–3 weeks. But for true peace of mind, I’d recommend upgrading to 2TB or 4TB.

Note: The NVR supports up to 6TB drives. Just make sure the drive is surveillance-rated (like WD Purple or Seagate SkyHawk).

Audio Quality Could Be Better

The built-in microphones are functional but not great. Audio is mono, and background noise (like wind or traffic) can drown out voices. If audio is critical (e.g., for legal evidence), consider adding external microphones or using a camera with better audio specs.

No AI-Powered Features

Compared to newer systems, the Dahua NVR2104 P 4KS2 lacks advanced AI features like facial recognition or license plate identification. It’s a solid basic system, but don’t expect smart automation. For example, it can’t distinguish between your dog and a burglar—just motion.

Who Should Buy the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2?

Homeowners and Renters

If you own a house, townhome, or even a large apartment, this kit is a great fit. The PoE setup minimizes wiring, and the 4K cameras provide excellent coverage. It’s especially useful for monitoring entry points (doors, windows, garages).

Example: A friend of mine uses it to watch her front porch for packages. She gets notifications when a delivery arrives and can view the footage to confirm the package was left safely.

Small Businesses and Shops

For small retail stores, offices, or cafes, the Dahua kit offers reliable surveillance. The 4K clarity helps identify faces and license plates, and the NVR can store weeks of footage. Just upgrade the hard drive for longer retention.

Tip: Use motion detection to record only during business hours. This saves storage and reduces review time.

DIY Enthusiasts and Tech Beginners

Despite my tech background, I appreciate how beginner-friendly this kit is. The setup is straightforward, and the interface is intuitive. If you can plug in a cable and follow on-screen prompts, you can install this system.

That said, if you’re completely new to networking, you might struggle with remote access setup. The app’s instructions are clear, but it helps to understand basic concepts like port forwarding and Wi-Fi security.

Not Ideal For: Large Properties or High-Security Needs

If you have a sprawling estate, multiple buildings, or need enterprise-level features (like centralized management for 20+ cameras), this kit won’t cut it. The 4-channel limit is restrictive, and the lack of advanced AI is a downside.

Also, if you need 24/7 professional monitoring, you’ll need to integrate with a third-party service—something this kit doesn’t support natively.

Final Verdict: Is the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 Worth It?

After months of use, I’m still impressed with the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2. It delivers on its promises: easy setup, crisp 4K video, reliable remote access, and clean PoE-powered cameras. The kit feels well-thought-out—everything you need is included, and the design prioritizes simplicity.

That said, it’s not perfect. The 1TB hard drive fills up fast, the audio is mediocre, and the lack of a built-in siren is a missed opportunity. And while the motion detection is smart, it’s not as advanced as AI-powered systems.

But for the price—typically under $400 for the full kit—it’s an incredible value. You’re getting professional-grade security without the complexity or cost of enterprise systems. It’s ideal for homeowners, small businesses, and anyone who wants a reliable, no-fuss surveillance solution.

If you’re on the fence, here’s my advice: Buy it. Set it up in a weekend, enjoy the peace of mind, and upgrade the hard drive if needed. Just remember—no security system is foolproof. Pair it with good habits (like locking doors and using smart lights) for the best protection.

In short, the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 is a smart, affordable, and effective choice. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done—and that’s what matters most.

Quick Reference: Key Specifications

Component	Specification
NVR Model	Dahua NVR2104HS-4KS2
Channels	4
Max Camera Resolution	4K (8MP), supports up to 4x 4MP cameras
PoE Ports	4x 802.3af PoE (up to 100W total)
Storage	1TB SATA HDD (supports up to 6TB)
Compression	H.265+, H.265, H.264+, H.264
Camera Model	Dahua IPC-HDW2441TM-AS-S2 (4MP dome)
Camera Resolution	2688×1520 (4MP)
IR Range	30 meters (98 feet)
Audio	Built-in mic (mono)
App	DMSS (iOS/Android)
Remote Access	Via app, web, or P2P

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 best suited for?

The Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 is ideal for small to medium-sized surveillance setups, offering 4K video recording, PoE support for simplified cabling, and compatibility with Dahua IP cameras. It’s perfect for homes, retail stores, or offices needing reliable, high-resolution monitoring.

How many cameras can the Dahua NVR2104 P 4KS2 support?

This NVR supports up to 4 PoE-powered IP cameras simultaneously, with each port delivering power and data over a single Ethernet cable. It’s designed for straightforward plug-and-play setup with Dahua cameras for seamless integration.

Does the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 include cameras?

The kit typically includes the NVR2104HS-P NVR and may bundle select Dahua 4K IP cameras, but this varies by seller—always check the product listing. The NVR is compatible with most Dahua PoE cameras for flexible system expansion.

Can I access the Dahua NVR2104 P 4KS2 remotely?

Yes, remote access is possible via Dahua’s DMSS mobile app or web browser, allowing live viewing, playback, and alerts from anywhere. Ensure your NVR is connected to the internet and configured with proper port forwarding or P2P settings.

What makes the Dahua NVR PoE Kit NVR2104 P 4KS2 stand out from competitors?

It combines 4K recording, 4-channel PoE, AI-powered motion detection, and H.265+ compression for efficient storage—all at a budget-friendly price. The plug-and-play design reduces installation time compared to non-PoE systems.

How do I set up the Dahua NVR2104 P 4KS2?

Connect PoE cameras to the NVR’s LAN ports, attach the NVR to a monitor via HDMI/VGA, and power it on. Follow the on-screen wizard to complete basic settings, or use the web interface for advanced configuration like recording schedules.