How to Add TruVision NVR 20 to Firewall Windows 10 in 2026

To add your TruVision NVR 20 to the Windows 10 firewall in 2026, create a custom inbound rule allowing its specific IP and port through the Windows Defender Firewall. This ensures seamless remote access while maintaining robust network security. Always verify the NVR’s firmware is up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues with modern Windows updates.

Key Takeaways

• Open Windows Defender Firewall: Access it via Control Panel or Windows Settings.
• Add TruVision NVR 20: Create a new rule under “Inbound Rules” section.
• Select Program Path: Browse to the NVR’s executable file location.
• Allow Connection: Choose “Allow the connection” for seamless access.
• Apply to All Profiles: Enable for Domain, Private, and Public networks.
• Name Rule Clearly: Use “TruVision NVR 20” for easy identification.
• Verify Access: Test connection to confirm successful firewall integration.

Understanding the TruVision NVR 20 and Windows 10 Firewall Compatibility

As surveillance technology continues to evolve in 2026, the TruVision NVR 20 remains a top-tier choice for both residential and commercial security setups. Offering high-definition video recording, remote access, and seamless integration with multiple camera systems, this Network Video Recorder (NVR) is designed for reliability and performance. However, one of the most common challenges users face is ensuring smooth communication between the TruVision NVR 20 and their Windows 10 computers—especially when the Windows Firewall blocks critical network traffic. Whether you’re accessing your NVR via the TruVision Navigator software, a web browser, or a mobile app, firewall interference can result in connection timeouts, video lag, or complete failure to connect.

The Windows 10 Firewall is a robust security feature designed to protect your system from unauthorized access. While it’s essential for safeguarding your computer, it can sometimes be too effective—blocking legitimate applications and devices like the TruVision NVR 20. This is especially true when the NVR uses specific ports, protocols, or dynamic IP addresses. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a comprehensive, step-by-step process to add TruVision NVR 20 to the Windows 10 Firewall in 2026, ensuring secure, uninterrupted access. We’ll cover everything from identifying the correct ports and services to configuring advanced firewall rules, troubleshooting connection issues, and maintaining optimal security. By the end of this post, you’ll have a fully functional, firewall-compliant surveillance setup.

Why the Windows 10 Firewall Blocks TruVision NVR 20

How the Windows Firewall Works

The Windows Firewall operates on a principle of default-deny, meaning it blocks all incoming and outgoing traffic unless explicitly allowed by a rule. This is a critical security measure, but it also means that any new network device or application—like the TruVision NVR 20—must be manually permitted to communicate through specific ports. Without proper configuration, the firewall treats the NVR as a potential threat and blocks its attempts to send or receive data. This can manifest as:

• Unable to discover the NVR on the local network
• Web interface not loading in browsers
• Live video feed failing to stream
• Remote access apps (like TVN Mobile) failing to connect

Common Ports and Protocols Used by TruVision NVR 20

To understand why the firewall blocks the NVR, you need to know which network services it uses. The TruVision NVR 20 relies on several standard and custom ports for different functions. Below are the most common ones:

• HTTP (Port 80): Default web interface access (e.g., http://192.168.1.100)
• HTTPS (Port 443): Secure web access (recommended for remote access)
• RTSP (Port 554): Real-Time Streaming Protocol for video feeds
• ONVIF (Port 8899 or 8000): Device discovery and configuration
• TCP/UDP (Port 8000, 8001, 8002): Internal services for video transmission, PTZ control, and device management
• Mobile App (Port 9000, 9001): Used by TVN Mobile and other remote clients

When these ports are blocked, the NVR cannot send video streams or respond to client requests. For example, if port 554 is blocked, your browser or app won’t be able to play live video, even if you can log in to the web interface. The Windows Firewall may also block outbound traffic if the NVR software on your PC tries to initiate a connection to the NVR’s IP address.

Dynamic IP vs. Static IP Challenges

Another issue is that many home networks use DHCP, assigning dynamic IP addresses. If your NVR gets a new IP address (e.g., after a router reboot), and your firewall rule was set for a specific IP, the rule becomes invalid. This is why it’s recommended to assign a static IP address to your TruVision NVR 20. This ensures that firewall rules and port forwarding configurations remain consistent over time. We’ll cover this in detail in the next section.

Step-by-Step Guide: Adding TruVision NVR 20 to Windows 10 Firewall

Step 1: Assign a Static IP to Your TruVision NVR 20

Before configuring the firewall, ensure your NVR has a static IP. This prevents IP changes from breaking your firewall rules.

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually http://192.168.1.1 or http://192.168.0.1).
2. Navigate to DHCP Settings or Address Reservation.
3. Find your NVR by MAC address (found on the device label or in the NVR’s network settings).
4. Assign a static IP (e.g., 192.168.1.100) and save the configuration.
5. Restart your router and NVR to apply changes.

Tip: Use an IP address outside your router’s DHCP range (e.g., if DHCP assigns 192.168.1.10–100, use 192.168.1.200) to avoid conflicts.

Step 2: Identify the TruVision Software Executables

Windows Firewall can allow or block applications by their executable files. The TruVision NVR 20 is accessed via several programs:

• TruVision Navigator.exe – Main desktop client
• TVN Mobile.exe – Remote access client
• TruVision Web Browser Plugin – For web interface (if using ActiveX or NPAPI)
• ffmpeg.exe or rtspclient.exe – Internal video streaming components (if installed)

Locate these files on your PC. They are typically found in:

• C:\Program Files\TruVision\TruVision Navigator\
• C:\Program Files (x86)\TruVision\TVN Mobile\

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure which files are used, check the installation directory or consult the user manual. You can also use Process Monitor (from Sysinternals) to monitor which executables access the network.

Step 3: Create Inbound Firewall Rules for the NVR

Now, let’s allow the NVR to send data to your PC. This is crucial for live video feeds and event notifications.

1. Press Windows + R, type wf.msc, and press Enter to open the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security.
2. Click Inbound Rules > New Rule.
3. Select Port > Next.
4. Choose TCP and enter: 80, 443, 554, 8000, 8001, 8002, 8899, 9000, 9001 > Next.
5. Select Allow the connection > Next.
6. Check all profiles (Domain, Private, Public) > Next.
7. Name the rule: TruVision NVR 20 Inbound Ports > Finish.
8. Repeat for UDP on ports 8000, 8001, 8002, 9000, 9001 (used for real-time video).

Note: If you’re only using local access, you can restrict the rule to Private networks for added security.

Step 4: Create Outbound Rules for TruVision Applications

Your PC must also be allowed to initiate connections to the NVR.

1. In the same Windows Firewall with Advanced Security, go to Outbound Rules > New Rule.
2. Select Program > Browse to TruVision Navigator.exe > Next.
3. Select Allow the connection > Next.
4. Check all profiles > Next.
5. Name: TruVision Navigator Outbound > Finish.
6. Repeat for TVN Mobile.exe and any other TruVision-related executables.

Example: If you use the web interface, you may also need to allow Chrome.exe or msedge.exe for outbound traffic on ports 80/443.

Step 5: Add IP Address-Based Rules (Optional but Recommended)

For maximum security, restrict rules to your NVR’s static IP.

1. Open the rule you just created (e.g., TruVision NVR 20 Inbound Ports).
2. Go to the Scope tab.
3. Under Remote IP addresses, select These IP addresses > Add > enter 192.168.1.100 (your NVR’s IP).
4. Click OK and apply changes.

This ensures only your NVR can use these ports, blocking external threats.

Advanced Firewall Configurations for Enhanced Security and Performance

Using Windows Defender Firewall with Custom Profiles

Windows 10 allows you to create custom firewall profiles based on network type. For example, you might want stricter rules on public Wi-Fi and relaxed rules on your home network.

• Open Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
• Click Private network > Windows Defender Firewall.
• Click Allow an app through firewall.
• Click Change settings > Allow another app.
• Browse and add TruVision Navigator.exe and TVN Mobile.exe.
• Ensure Private is checked, Public is unchecked (unless remote access is needed).

Why this matters: If you take your laptop to a coffee shop, the NVR apps won’t try to connect to your home NVR over public Wi-Fi, preventing failed connections and potential security alerts.

Configuring Port Forwarding (For Remote Access)

If you want to access your NVR remotely (e.g., from a smartphone while traveling), you’ll need port forwarding on your router and firewall rules.

1. In your router, forward external ports (e.g., 8080) to your NVR’s internal IP (192.168.1.100) on port 80 (HTTP) or 443 (HTTPS).
2. On your PC, create an inbound rule allowing traffic on the external port (e.g., 8080) from any IP.
3. Use a dynamic DNS service (e.g., No-IP, DynDNS) if you don’t have a static public IP.

Security Warning: Exposing your NVR to the internet increases risk. Always:

• Use HTTPS and strong passwords
• Enable two-factor authentication (if supported)
• Regularly update NVR firmware

Using Group Policy for Enterprise Environments

In business settings, IT administrators can use Group Policy to centrally manage firewall rules for multiple PCs accessing the same NVR.

• Open gpedit.msc (Local Group Policy Editor).
• Navigate to: Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Windows Firewall with Advanced Security.
• Create a new rule under Inbound Rules with the same ports and IP restrictions.
• Link the policy to organizational units (OUs) containing employee workstations.

This ensures consistent, secure access across the organization without manual setup on each PC.

Troubleshooting Common Firewall and NVR Connection Issues

NVR Not Appearing in Discovery Tools

If TruVision Navigator can’t find your NVR, the issue is likely firewall-related.

• Check: Is the NVR on the same subnet as your PC? (e.g., 192.168.1.x)
• Fix: Temporarily disable Windows Firewall and run discovery. If it works, re-enable and check your rules.
• Use: ping 192.168.1.100 in Command Prompt to test connectivity.

Video Feeds Not Loading or Buffering

Even if the NVR is discovered, video may not stream due to blocked RTSP or TCP ports.

• Test: Use telnet to check port access: telnet 192.168.1.100 554
• Fix: If connection fails, revisit your Inbound Rules for UDP/TCP 554, 8000–8002.
• Tip: Enable QoS (Quality of Service) on your router to prioritize video traffic.

Remote Access Fails After Firewall Changes

After adding rules, remote apps may still fail.

• Verify: Your router’s port forwarding is active and points to the correct NVR IP.
• Check: Your public IP hasn’t changed (use whatismyipaddress.com).
• Test: Use a mobile device on cellular data to rule out local network issues.

Firewall Logs: Diagnosing Blocked Traffic

Windows Firewall logs blocked connections by default.

1. Open Event Viewer > Windows Logs > Security.
2. Look for Event ID 5152 (blocked connections).
3. Check the Source Address and Destination Port to identify the blocked device.

Example: If you see a block from 192.168.1.100 to port 8000, you need to allow that port in your inbound rules.

Best Practices and Maintenance for Long-Term Stability

Regular Firewall Rule Audits

As your network grows, review firewall rules quarterly. Remove outdated rules and ensure all NVR-related rules point to the correct IP and ports.

Firmware and Software Updates

Always keep your TruVision NVR 20 firmware and Windows 10 up to date. New updates may introduce new ports or services that require firewall adjustments.

Network Segmentation (For High-Security Environments)

For businesses, consider placing your NVR on a separate VLAN. This isolates surveillance traffic and reduces the attack surface. Use a firewall between VLANs to control access.

Backup Your Firewall Configuration

Export your firewall rules periodically:

1. In wf.msc, right-click Windows Firewall with Advanced Security.
2. Select Export Policy and save as TruVision_Firewall_Backup.wfw.

This allows quick restoration after system crashes or reinstallations.

Port Number	Protocol	Function	Firewall Rule Required?
80	TCP	Web Interface (HTTP)	Yes
443	TCP	Secure Web Interface (HTTPS)	Yes
554	TCP/UDP	RTSP Video Streaming	Yes
8000–8002	TCP/UDP	Video Transmission, PTZ, Management	Yes
8899	TCP	ONVIF Discovery	Yes
9000–9001	TCP/UDP	Mobile App Access	Yes

Conclusion

Adding the TruVision NVR 20 to the Windows 10 Firewall in 2026 is a critical step in ensuring reliable, secure access to your surveillance system. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from assigning a static IP and identifying key ports to creating precise inbound and outbound firewall rules—you can eliminate connection issues and enjoy uninterrupted video monitoring. The process may seem technical at first, but with careful attention to detail, even non-technical users can configure their systems effectively.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to unblock traffic, but to do so securely. Use IP-based restrictions, limit rules to private networks when possible, and regularly audit your firewall settings. Whether you’re a homeowner monitoring your property or an IT professional managing enterprise surveillance, a well-configured firewall enhances both performance and protection. As smart homes and IoT devices continue to grow in 2026, mastering firewall management for devices like the TruVision NVR 20 will become an essential skill. Stay proactive, stay secure, and keep your eyes on the feed—without the firewall getting in the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to add TruVision NVR 20 to the Windows 10 firewall?

Adding the TruVision NVR 20 to your Windows 10 firewall ensures seamless communication between your NVR and the monitoring software. Without this, the firewall may block critical data streams, causing connection issues.

How do I add TruVision NVR 20 to the Windows 10 firewall in 2026?

Open Windows Defender Firewall, click “Allow an app through firewall,” locate the TruVision NVR 20 software, and enable it for both private and public networks. Restart your system to apply changes.

What ports need to be open for TruVision NVR 20 to work properly?

Common ports include 80 (HTTP), 554 (RTSP), and 8000-8003 (custom NVR traffic). Check the manufacturer’s guide for exact port requirements and ensure they’re unblocked in your firewall settings.

Can I manually add a TruVision NVR 20 rule to the Windows 10 firewall?

Yes, navigate to “Advanced settings” in Windows Defender Firewall, create a new inbound/outbound rule, and specify the NVR’s executable file or required ports to allow traffic.

Why isn’t my TruVision NVR 20 connecting even after adding it to the firewall?

Verify that the NVR software is updated, the correct IP address is configured, and no third-party antivirus is conflicting. Temporarily disable other security software to troubleshoot.

Is it safe to allow TruVision NVR 20 through the Windows 10 firewall?

Yes, as long as the software is from a trusted source and your network is secure. Only enable the necessary ports or applications to minimize potential risks.