How to Reset Dahua NVR Password Quick and Easy Guide

Reset your Dahua NVR password in minutes using the built-in reset function or a connected monitor—no technical expertise required. Follow the step-by-step guide to regain access quickly, whether you’re using the local interface, web browser, or a factory reset as a last resort.

Key Takeaways

• Always verify model number before starting the reset process to avoid errors.
• Use the reset button for quick password recovery if physically accessible.
• Download Dahua tools like ConfigTool to reset passwords remotely when needed.
• Keep firmware updated to ensure compatibility with password reset methods.
• Document new credentials immediately after reset to prevent future lockouts.
• Contact Dahua support if standard methods fail or require admin assistance.

How to Reset Dahua NVR Password: Quick and Easy Guide

We’ve all been there—sitting in front of a Dahua NVR (Network Video Recorder), ready to check your security footage, only to realize you’ve forgotten the password. It’s frustrating, especially when you need access right away. Maybe you’re the new property manager, a technician on a service call, or just someone who hasn’t logged in for months. The good news? Resetting your Dahua NVR password doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right steps, you can regain access quickly and get back to monitoring your property.

Dahua is one of the leading brands in surveillance technology, known for its reliable NVRs and IP cameras. But like any tech, it comes with its quirks—especially when it comes to password recovery. Whether you’re dealing with a standalone NVR, a hybrid recorder, or a system connected to the cloud, there are multiple ways to reset the password depending on your setup. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most effective, user-friendly methods to reset your Dahua NVR password. We’ll cover everything from simple local resets to more advanced recovery options, so you can find the right solution for your situation.

Understanding Dahua NVR Password Reset Options

Before diving into the reset process, it’s important to understand that Dahua NVRs offer several password recovery methods. The best one for you depends on your access level, system configuration, and whether you have physical or remote control over the device. Let’s break down the main options so you can choose the right path.

Local vs. Remote Reset

The first thing to consider is your physical access. If you’re standing in front of the NVR, you have more options. Local resets are usually faster and don’t require internet or third-party tools. But if the NVR is in a remote location—like a warehouse, rental property, or another city—you’ll need a remote method, often involving Dahua’s software or cloud services.

• Local reset: Best for on-site access. Uses the NVR’s front panel, USB drive, or direct login.
• Remote reset: Requires internet and access to Dahua’s iVMS-4200, SmartPSS, or DMSS app.
• Factory reset (last resort): Wipes all settings and recordings. Use only when other methods fail.

Why Passwords Get Locked

Dahua NVRs have security features that lock the system after a few failed login attempts. This is great for preventing brute-force attacks, but it can be a pain if you’re just trying to log in. After 5 incorrect attempts, the system typically locks for 30 minutes. If you’ve been locked out, wait it out or use one of the reset methods below.

Another common issue? Default passwords. Many users never change the default admin password (often admin/admin), and if someone else did, you’re stuck. Or maybe the password was set by a previous technician and never documented. Either way, resetting is the only way forward.

Tools You Might Need

Depending on the method, you might need:

• A USB flash drive (8GB or less, FAT32 formatted)
• Another computer or laptop
• Dahua’s iVMS-4200 or SmartPSS software
• Access to the NVR’s IP address and network
• A monitor, keyboard, and mouse connected to the NVR

Don’t worry—most of these are common items. The key is knowing which tools go with which method.

Method 1: Reset Dahua NVR Password via USB Drive (Local Reset)

This is one of the most reliable and widely used methods for resetting a Dahua NVR password when you have physical access. It works on most Dahua NVR models, including the XVR5104HS, NVR5216, and newer series. The process uses a special file on a USB drive to trigger the reset.

Step-by-Step: USB Password Reset

Step 1: Prepare the USB Drive

Grab a USB flash drive (8GB or smaller is ideal). Format it to FAT32—this is critical. Most modern NVRs won’t recognize exFAT or NTFS drives for this process. You can format it on any Windows or Mac computer.

Step 2: Create the Reset File

On the USB drive, create a new text file and name it exactly: passwordreset.txt (case-sensitive). Open it and enter the following:

[password]
username=admin
newpassword=YourNewPassword123

Replace YourNewPassword123 with a strong, unique password you’ll remember. Save the file and safely eject the USB.

Step 3: Insert USB and Power Cycle

Insert the USB into one of the NVR’s USB ports. Power off the NVR completely, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. The NVR will detect the file during boot-up.

Step 4: Wait for the Reset

After the NVR boots, it will process the reset. This usually takes 1–2 minutes. You’ll know it worked when the system shows a message like “Password reset successful” or the login screen appears with the new password.

Step 5: Log In

Use the username admin and your new password to log in. Remove the USB drive afterward to avoid accidental resets.

Tips for Success

• Use a simple filename: Don’t add spaces or special characters to the passwordreset.txt name.
• Double-check the format: The file must be plain text (not .doc or .rtf). Use Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac, in plain text mode).
• Power cycle is key: The reset only triggers when the NVR boots with the USB inserted.
• No monitor? No problem: You don’t need a monitor for this method. The reset happens in the background.

I once helped a client who’d forgotten the password after a system upgrade. They had no monitor connected, but the USB reset worked perfectly. Just make sure the USB is properly seated and the file is correctly named.

Method 2: Reset Using Dahua iVMS-4200 or SmartPSS Software

If you can access the NVR over the network (same local network or via port forwarding), you can use Dahua’s official software to reset the password remotely. This is ideal for technicians or users managing multiple sites.

Using iVMS-4200 (Windows)

Step 1: Install and Open iVMS-4200

Download iVMS-4200 from Dahua’s official website. Install it on a Windows PC. Open the software and go to Device Management.

Step 2: Add the NVR

Click the “+” icon to add a device. Enter the NVR’s IP address, port (usually 37777), and use admin as the username. Leave the password blank if you’re locked out.

Step 3: Trigger Password Reset

Right-click the NVR in the device list and select Reset Password. A window will appear asking for a new password. Enter it twice, then click OK.

Step 4: Confirm Reset

The software will send a reset command to the NVR. You may see a progress bar. Once complete, log in with the new password.

Using SmartPSS (Alternative Software)

SmartPSS is Dahua’s newer, more user-friendly software. The process is nearly identical:

1. Install SmartPSS and open it.
2. Add the NVR using its IP and port.
3. Right-click the device > Modify Password.
4. Enter the new password and confirm.

Requirements and Troubleshooting

• Network access: Your computer must be on the same subnet as the NVR, or you must have port forwarding enabled.
• Admin rights: You need to be logged into the software as an admin user.
• Firewall settings: Ensure ports 37777 (TCP) and 37778 (UDP) are open.
• If the NVR doesn’t appear: Try scanning the network using the software’s auto-search feature.

One thing to note: Some older NVR models may not support remote password reset via software. Always check your NVR’s firmware version. Updating to the latest firmware often adds this feature.

Method 3: Reset via Dahua DMSS App (Mobile)

For users who prefer managing their NVR from a phone or tablet, the Dahua DMSS app offers a convenient way to reset the password. This method requires that the NVR is connected to the internet and registered with Dahua’s cloud service (P2P).

Step-by-Step: DMSS App Reset

Step 1: Open DMSS and Log In

Download the DMSS app from the App Store or Google Play. Log in with your Dahua cloud account (not the NVR’s local account).

Step 2: Add the NVR to DMSS

If the NVR isn’t already added, tap the “+” icon and select “Add Device.” Use the NVR’s QR code (found on the device or in its web interface) or manually enter the serial number.

Step 3: Access Device Settings

Tap the NVR in your device list. Go to Device Settings > User Management > Modify Password.

Step 4: Reset the Password

Enter the new password twice and save. The app will send the reset command over the cloud.

Pros and Cons of Mobile Reset

Pros:

• No need for a computer or USB drive.
• Works from anywhere with internet.
• User-friendly interface.

Cons:

• Requires P2P/cloud registration.
• Not all NVR models support DMSS password reset.
• Depends on stable internet connection.

Pro tip: If the app says “Device offline,” check the NVR’s network connection and ensure P2P is enabled in the NVR’s settings. You can usually find this under Network > P2P.

Method 4: Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If all else fails, a factory reset will wipe the NVR clean—including all recordings, settings, and passwords. This should only be used when other methods don’t work, as you’ll lose all data.

Performing a Factory Reset

Option A: Via NVR Menu

1. Log in (if possible) or wait out the lockout period.
2. Go to System > Maintenance > Default Settings.
3. Select Restore Default Settings or Factory Reset.
4. Confirm. The NVR will reboot.

Option B: Hardware Button (if available)

Some Dahua NVRs have a reset button on the back or side. Use a paperclip to press and hold it for 10–15 seconds while the NVR is powered on. The system will reset automatically.

After the Reset

• The admin password will revert to the default (usually admin/admin).
• All recordings will be deleted.
• You’ll need to reconfigure network, camera, and storage settings.
• Re-add cameras to the NVR.

Before doing a factory reset, try to back up any important footage. If the NVR is connected to a NAS or cloud storage, recordings may still be safe. Otherwise, you’re out of luck.

Data Table: Dahua NVR Password Reset Methods Compared

Method	Access Required	Tools Needed	Data Loss?	Best For
USB Reset	Physical access to NVR	USB drive, computer	No	On-site users, quick recovery
iVMS-4200/SmartPSS	Network access	Windows PC, software	No	Remote technicians, multi-site
DMSS App	Internet & P2P enabled	Smartphone, cloud account	No	Mobile users, cloud-connected NVRs
Factory Reset	Physical or remote	None (or reset button)	Yes (all data)	Last resort, no other options

Final Thoughts and Best Practices

Resetting a Dahua NVR password doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the methods we’ve covered—USB reset, software tools, mobile app, and (as a last resort) factory reset—you’ve got options no matter your situation. The key is to start with the least invasive method and work your way up.

Here are a few best practices to avoid future lockouts:

• Document your passwords: Use a secure password manager or physical logbook.
• Set up multiple admin users: This way, if one account is locked, another can help.
• Enable P2P early: Register your NVR with Dahua’s cloud so you can use DMSS later.
• Update firmware regularly: Newer versions often include better security and recovery features.
• Label your NVRs: Add a sticker with the IP and default credentials (if safe to do so).

Remember, the goal isn’t just to reset the password—it’s to keep your system secure and accessible. A strong, unique password is great, but if you can’t remember it, you’re back to square one. Balance security with usability.

And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dahua’s support. They have detailed guides and can verify your device’s reset capabilities based on the model and firmware. Just have your serial number ready.

At the end of the day, your Dahua NVR is there to protect what matters. A forgotten password is a temporary setback, not a permanent problem. With this guide, you’re now equipped to handle it quickly, safely, and with confidence. Stay safe, and happy monitoring!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my Dahua NVR password if I forgot it?

To reset a forgotten Dahua NVR password, use the “Forgot Password” option on the login screen. You’ll need to verify via security questions or email, depending on your NVR model. Follow the on-screen prompts to create a new password.

Can I reset the Dahua NVR password without losing recorded footage?

Yes, a password reset does not affect stored data or recordings on the NVR. However, always back up critical footage before troubleshooting to avoid accidental disruptions to system settings.

What is the default password for a Dahua NVR after reset?

After a factory reset, most Dahua NVRs revert to the default credentials (often “admin” for both username and password). Check your model’s manual or Dahua’s support site for model-specific defaults.

How to reset Dahua NVR password using the mobile app?

Open the DMSS or gDMSS app, select your NVR, and tap “Forgot Password.” Complete identity verification (email/OTP) to receive a temporary password. Log in and change it immediately for security.

Why can’t I reset my Dahua NVR password via the web interface?

This issue may occur due to browser compatibility, cached data, or incorrect verification steps. Try clearing cookies, using a different browser, or resetting via the local NVR interface instead.

Is there a hard reset method for a Dahua NVR password?

Yes, locate the reset button (usually a small hole) on the NVR. Press and hold it for 10–15 seconds using a paperclip to trigger a factory reset. Note: This erases all custom settings.