How to Add NAS to Hikvision NVR in 2026 A Complete Guide

Adding a NAS to your Hikvision NVR in 2026 is a seamless way to expand storage and enhance backup reliability. By configuring the NAS via the NVR’s network settings and enabling iSCSI or NFS protocols, you unlock scalable, high-performance video retention—ideal for growing surveillance needs. This guide walks you through every step, ensuring a secure, plug-and-play integration.

Key Takeaways

• Verify compatibility: Ensure your Hikvision NVR and NAS support the same network protocols.
• Use Hik-Connect: Configure NAS storage via the Hik-Connect app for seamless integration.
• Set static IPs: Assign fixed IP addresses to avoid connection drops during recording.
• Enable SMB/NFS: Activate file-sharing protocols on your NAS for NVR access.
• Test backups: Regularly verify NAS recordings to confirm data integrity and reliability.
• Update firmware: Keep NVR and NAS firmware current for optimal performance and security.

Why Adding NAS to Your Hikvision NVR Is a Game-Changer in 2026

In today’s rapidly evolving surveillance landscape, businesses and homeowners alike are demanding smarter, more resilient security solutions. As video resolution continues to climb—think 4K, 8K, and even AI-powered panoramic feeds—the demand for storage capacity and data redundancy has never been higher. Enter the Hikvision NVR (Network Video Recorder), one of the most trusted names in IP surveillance, now more powerful than ever with advanced integration capabilities. But what happens when your NVR’s internal hard drives start filling up? Or when a drive fails, putting your entire video archive at risk? The answer lies in a simple yet transformative upgrade: adding NAS (Network Attached Storage) to your Hikvision NVR.

By integrating NAS into your Hikvision NVR setup, you’re not just expanding storage—you’re future-proofing your security system. NAS devices offer scalable, centralized, and often redundant storage solutions that can be accessed remotely, backed up automatically, and protected with RAID configurations. In 2026, with cyber threats on the rise and compliance regulations tightening (think GDPR, HIPAA, and industry-specific mandates), offloading critical surveillance data to a NAS isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Whether you’re managing a single-site retail store or a multi-location enterprise with hundreds of cameras, this guide walks you through every step to seamlessly connect your Hikvision NVR to a NAS, ensuring maximum uptime, data integrity, and operational efficiency.

Understanding the Role of NAS in Hikvision Surveillance Systems

What Is NAS and Why Use It with Hikvision NVR?

NAS, or Network Attached Storage, is a dedicated file storage device connected to a local network. Unlike traditional external hard drives, NAS units are built for 24/7 operation, offer remote access, and support multiple users and devices simultaneously. When paired with a Hikvision NVR, NAS acts as a secondary (or primary) storage repository for video recordings, alarm logs, snapshots, and metadata.

The primary benefit is scalability. Hikvision NVRs typically support 4–16 internal hard drives, but even high-end models can’t match the petabyte-level storage offered by modern NAS systems. For example, a 16-bay NAS from Synology or QNAP can house up to 320TB using 20TB drives—enough to store years of high-definition footage from a 100-camera deployment.

Key Advantages of NAS Integration

• Redundancy & Data Protection: NAS devices support RAID configurations (RAID 5, 6, 10), minimizing data loss during drive failure.
• Remote Access & Backup: Access recordings from anywhere using Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 or Hik-Connect app, even if the NVR is offline.
• Centralized Management: Consolidate storage across multiple NVRs into a single NAS for easier audits and compliance reporting.
• AI and Analytics Integration: Store metadata from Hikvision’s AcuSense or DeepinView cameras for forensic analysis.
• Cost-Effective Expansion: Add storage without replacing the entire NVR—ideal for growing businesses.

Common Use Cases

Example 1: A hospital uses Hikvision NVRs to monitor corridors, ERs, and parking lots. With 200 cameras running 24/7, internal storage fills in 30 days. By connecting to a 100TB NAS, they extend retention to 180 days, meeting HIPAA requirements.

Example 2: A retail chain with 10 stores uses NAS to centralize surveillance data. Each store’s NVR streams footage to a central NAS at HQ, enabling loss prevention teams to review incidents across locations.

Prerequisites: Hardware, Software, and Network Setup

Required Hardware

Before connecting NAS to your Hikvision NVR, ensure you have the following:

• Hikvision NVR: Any model supporting network storage (most post-2018 models do, including DS-76xx, DS-96xx, and newer).
• NAS Device: A modern NAS from Synology, QNAP, or Western Digital. Ensure it supports NFS, CIFS/SMB, and iSCSI protocols.
• Ethernet Cables (Cat 6+): For gigabit-speed data transfer. Avoid Wi-Fi to prevent latency or dropped frames.
• Switches (Optional): Use a managed switch with VLAN support for large deployments to isolate surveillance traffic.
• Hard Drives: NAS-compatible drives (e.g., Seagate IronWolf, WD Red) with 7200 RPM or higher for sustained write performance.

Software and Firmware

• NVR Firmware: Update to the latest version via Hikvision’s official website. Older firmware may lack NAS support or have bugs.
• NAS OS: Ensure your NAS runs the latest DSM (Synology) or QTS (QNAP) firmware.
• Hikvision Software: Install iVMS-4200 or HikCentral for advanced management and NAS monitoring.

Network Configuration Essentials

Proper network setup is critical for stable NAS integration:

• Static IP Addresses: Assign static IPs to both the NVR and NAS (e.g., NVR: 192.168.1.100, NAS: 192.168.1.200).
• Subnet Alignment: Ensure NVR and NAS are on the same subnet (e.g., 255.255.255.0).
• Bandwidth Allocation: A single 4K camera can generate 8–12 Mbps. For 10 cameras, allocate at least 100 Mbps to the NAS connection.
• Firewall Rules: Open ports for NFS (2049), SMB (445), and iSCSI (3260) if using cross-subnet access.

Tip: Use a dedicated VLAN for surveillance traffic to reduce congestion and enhance security.

Step-by-Step Guide: Configuring NAS on Hikvision NVR

Step 1: Set Up the NAS Share (SMB/CIFS)

Begin by creating a shared folder on your NAS. For Hikvision, SMB/CIFS is the most reliable protocol:

1. Log into your NAS admin panel (e.g., Synology DSM).
2. Go to Control Panel > Shared Folder > Create New.
3. Name the folder (e.g., “Hikvision_Archive”) and assign it a quota (optional).
4. Enable SMB under File Services > SMB/AFP/NFS.
5. Create a user account (e.g., “hikvision_user”) with Read/Write permissions for the shared folder.
6. Note the NAS IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.200) and shared folder path (e.g., \\192.168.1.200\Hikvision_Archive).

Pro Tip: Avoid special characters in folder names. Use “Hikvision_Archive” instead of “Hikvision Archive!” to prevent path errors.

Step 2: Configure NVR Network Settings

1. On the Hikvision NVR, go to Main Menu > Network > Advanced Settings.
2. Set a static IP matching your network (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
3. Disable DHCP to prevent IP conflicts.
4. Set the Subnet Mask (e.g., 255.255.255.0) and Gateway (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
5. Click Apply and restart the NVR.

Step 3: Add NAS as Storage Device on NVR

1. Go to Main Menu > Storage > Network Storage > Add.
2. Select SMB/CIFS as the protocol.
3. Enter the NAS IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.200).
4. Enter the shared folder path (e.g., Hikvision_Archive).
5. Input the NAS username and password created earlier.
6. Click Test Connection. If successful, click OK.
7. Assign a Storage Mode:
   • Primary: All new recordings go to NAS.
   • Secondary: NAS stores overflow or backup footage.
8. Set Overwrite Policy (e.g., “Overwrite oldest files when full”).
9. Click Save.

Troubleshooting: If the test fails, verify:

• NAS SMB service is enabled.
• Firewall isn’t blocking port 445.
• Credentials are correct (case-sensitive).

Step 4: Verify and Optimize Recording Settings

1. Go to Main Menu > Storage > Schedule Settings.
2. For each camera, set Record Type to “All” (24/7) or “Event” (motion-triggered).
3. Under Storage Path, ensure NAS is selected.
4. Adjust Video Quality (e.g., “Main Stream: 4MP, 15fps”) to balance storage needs and clarity.
5. Enable Smart Recording (if available) to prioritize critical areas.

Example: A warehouse uses “Event” recording for aisles but “All” for loading docks. This reduces NAS load by 40% while maintaining coverage.

Advanced Configurations: iSCSI, RAID, and Redundancy

Using iSCSI for High-Performance Storage

For high-camera-count systems (50+), iSCSI offers lower latency than SMB. It treats the NAS as a local drive:

1. On the NAS, create an iSCSI LUN (e.g., 50TB) under Storage Manager > iSCSI LUN.
2. On the NVR, go to Storage > Network Storage > Add > iSCSI.
3. Enter the NAS IP and iSCSI target name.
4. Initialize the LUN on the NVR (takes 1–2 minutes).
5. Assign as primary/secondary storage.

Note: iSCSI requires a dedicated network link (e.g., 10GbE) for optimal performance.

RAID Configuration for Data Redundancy

RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) protects against drive failures. Recommended setups:

RAID Level	Minimum Drives	Fault Tolerance	Storage Efficiency	Best For
RAID 5	3	1 drive failure	67–80%	Small to medium deployments
RAID 6	4	2 drive failures	50–75%	High-reliability systems
RAID 10	4	1 drive per mirror pair	50%	High-performance, mission-critical

Tip: Use RAID 6 for 8+ drive NAS to handle multiple failures. For 4-drive systems, RAID 10 offers faster rebuilds.

Backup and Disaster Recovery

• Local Backup: Schedule NAS-to-NAS syncs using Synology Hyper Backup or QNAP NetBak Replicator.
• Cloud Backup: Use Hikvision’s HikCentral to back up metadata to AWS or Azure.
• Failover NVR: In large systems, deploy a secondary NVR to take over if the primary fails.

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Best Practices

Routine Maintenance

• Monthly Checks: Monitor NAS health (drive status, RAID integrity) via DSM/QTS dashboard.
• Firmware Updates: Update NVR and NAS every 6 months.
• Log Audits: Review Hikvision’s system logs for NAS connection errors (e.g., “Network storage offline”).
• Storage Optimization: Delete old recordings or migrate to cold storage (e.g., LTO tape).

Common Issues and Fixes

• Connection Timeouts: Reboot NAS and NVR. Check Ethernet cables.
• Slow Recording: Ensure NAS uses RAID 10/6 and gigabit+ network.
• Authentication Errors: Reset NAS user password. Avoid special characters.
• Full NAS: Enable auto-overwrite or expand NAS capacity.

Best Practices for 2026 and Beyond

• Use VLANs: Isolate surveillance traffic to reduce latency.
• Enable Encryption: Use SMB 3.0 or iSCSI CHAP for secure data transfer.
• Monitor Bandwidth: Use tools like PRTG or Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 to track NAS usage.
• Plan for AI: Reserve NAS space for AI-generated metadata (e.g., face detection logs).
• Test Failovers: Simulate NAS failure to ensure NVR switches to internal storage.

Conclusion: Future-Proof Your Surveillance with NAS

Integrating NAS into your Hikvision NVR isn’t just about adding storage—it’s about building a resilient, scalable, and intelligent surveillance ecosystem. As we navigate 2026’s security challenges, from cyber threats to regulatory demands, a NAS-backed NVR system ensures you’re always one step ahead. Whether you’re a small business owner protecting your store or an enterprise managing a global camera network, the steps outlined in this guide empower you to leverage cutting-edge technology with confidence.

From configuring SMB shares to deploying RAID 6 for redundancy, every decision you make today shapes your system’s performance tomorrow. Remember: test connections thoroughly, update firmware regularly, and never underestimate the power of centralized, redundant storage. By following this guide, you’re not just solving a storage problem—you’re investing in a future where your surveillance data is always available, always secure, and always ready for whatever comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I add a NAS to my Hikvision NVR for extra storage?

To add a NAS to your Hikvision NVR, go to Storage > Network Disk in the NVR settings, then click “Add” and enter your NAS’s IP address, username, and password. Ensure the NAS supports NFS/SMB protocols and is on the same network.

Can I use a NAS as primary storage with a Hikvision NVR?

Yes, you can configure a NAS as primary storage by setting it up under Storage > Disk Management in your NVR. However, ensure your NAS has sufficient bandwidth and low latency to handle real-time video recording.

Why isn’t my Hikvision NVR detecting the NAS during setup?

This often happens due to network misconfigurations, firewall blocks, or incompatible protocols. Check that both devices are on the same subnet, and verify that your NAS allows access via NFSv3/SMB2, which Hikvision NVRs typically require.

What are the best NAS settings for Hikvision NVR integration?

For optimal performance, enable NFSv3 or SMB2 on your NAS, assign a static IP, and create a dedicated folder with read/write permissions. Avoid using RAID 5 or 6 to reduce write latency for how to add NAS to Hikvision NVR workflows.

Can I use multiple NAS devices with one Hikvision NVR?

Yes, most Hikvision NVRs support up to 8 network disks. Add each NAS individually via Storage > Network Disk, but monitor bandwidth usage to avoid overloading your network during peak recording times.

Is there a way to back up Hikvision NVR footage to NAS automatically?

Use the Event > Trigger Action settings to schedule automatic backups to your NAS. Configure motion-triggered or continuous recording to save clips directly to the NAS, ensuring critical footage is always duplicated.