Accurately setting the date and time on your Hikvision DVR is crucial for reliable surveillance and evidence tracking in 2026. This guide walks you through the simple steps—via local interface or web browser—to manually adjust system time, sync with NTP servers, and ensure proper time zone configuration for uninterrupted, precise recording. Stay compliant and avoid playback errors with these expert tips.

How to Change Hikvision DVR Date and Time in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Access the DVR menu via the main interface or web login.
• Navigate to System Settings to locate date and time options.
• Enable NTP sync for automatic time updates and accuracy.
• Manually adjust settings if NTP is unavailable or unreliable.
• Verify time zone matches your location to avoid offsets.
• Save changes before exiting to apply new settings.
• Reboot if needed to ensure changes take full effect.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re reviewing security footage after a break-in, only to find the timestamps are off by a full year. That’s not just frustrating—it can ruin investigations, insurance claims, or even legal evidence. If you’re using a Hikvision DVR (Digital Video Recorder), keeping the date and time accurate is essential. And with 2026 approaching, many users are asking: How to Change Hikvision DVR Date and Time in 2026?

Hikvision DVRs are widely used in homes, small businesses, and large surveillance systems. They record video from IP and analog cameras, but if the internal clock is wrong, the metadata becomes unreliable. This affects searchability, playback, and compliance with data protection laws like GDPR or local privacy regulations.

Whether you’re setting up a new system or adjusting for daylight saving time, a leap year, or a firmware update, knowing how to change the Hikvision DVR date and time ensures your footage is trustworthy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—no tech degree required. We’ll cover both local (on-screen) and remote (web interface) methods, so you can pick what works best for your setup.

By the end, you’ll not only know how to change Hikvision DVR date and time in 2026, but also how to avoid common pitfalls and keep your system running smoothly all year long.

What You Need

Before diving into the steps, let’s gather what you’ll need. Don’t worry—most of this is already part of your Hikvision setup. Here’s the full list:

• A Hikvision DVR (any model from DS-72xx to DS-96xx series, including Turbo HD and IP variants)
• A monitor connected to the DVR (HDMI or VGA)
• A mouse (USB, wired or wireless) for navigation
• Your DVR login credentials (default is often admin/12345, but yours may vary)
• Internet connection (if using remote access via web or mobile app)
• Hik-Connect app or iVMS-4500 (optional, for mobile access)
• Latest firmware (check Hikvision’s official website for updates)

Pro Tip: Always use a strong password. Default credentials are a security risk. If you haven’t changed yours yet, do it now under System > User Management before adjusting the date and time.

You don’t need a computer or special software for the basic method. But if you want to sync with internet time or manage multiple DVRs remotely, having a PC with the Hikvision web interface or iVMS-4200 software helps.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Change Hikvision DVR Date and Time in 2026

Step 1: Power On and Log In to Your DVR

Start by turning on your DVR and connecting a monitor. Wait for the system to boot up—this usually takes 1–2 minutes. Once the live view screen appears, you’ll see camera feeds in a grid layout.

Click the menu button (usually a small icon in the corner, or right-click with your mouse). This opens the main menu. You’ll need to log in using your username and password.

If you’ve never logged in before, the default is typically admin with password 12345. However, many DVRs now require you to set a custom password during first setup. If you’ve forgotten your password, see the FAQ section below for recovery options.

Warning: Never leave your DVR on default credentials. It’s like leaving your front door unlocked. Change it immediately after logging in.

Step 2: Navigate to the System Settings Menu

After logging in, look for the “Menu” or “System” tab on the left side of the screen. Click it to expand the menu options.

You’ll see several submenus: General, Storage, Network, Event, etc. We’re interested in the General settings, which handle date, time, language, and system info.

Click General > System (or just General on older models). This opens the system configuration page where you can adjust the date and time.

On newer Hikvision DVRs (firmware 2023+), the layout is more intuitive. You might see a dashboard-style interface with quick access to time settings. Look for a clock icon or a label like “Time Settings.”

Step 3: Adjust the Date and Time Manually

Now you’re in the right place. You’ll see fields for Year, Month, Day, Hour, Minute, and Second. Use your mouse to click into each field and enter the correct values for 2026.

For example:

• Year: 2026
• Month: January (or current month)
• Day: 15
• Hour: 14 (2:00 PM in 24-hour format)
• Minute: 30
• Second: 00

Double-check your entries. A typo here—like entering 2025 instead of 2026—can cause issues down the line. Make sure the time format matches your region (12-hour or 24-hour). Most security pros prefer 24-hour format for clarity.

There’s also a dropdown for Time Zone. Select your correct time zone (e.g., “(GMT-05:00) Eastern Time”). This ensures your DVR adjusts automatically for daylight saving time (if applicable in your area).

Pro Tip: If you’re in a region that observes DST, enable “Auto DST” to let the DVR handle spring forward and fall back automatically. This prevents future headaches.

Step 4: Choose Between Manual and Network Time Sync (NTP)

Here’s a critical choice: Manual vs. Automatic time setting.

Option A: Manual (You set it)
If you’re in a location without internet, or your DVR is offline, stick with manual. Just enter the time as shown in Step 3. But remember—you’ll need to update it again if the clock drifts (most DVRs drift by 1–5 seconds per month).

Option B: Network Time Protocol (NTP) – Recommended
For the most accurate time, use NTP. This syncs your DVR with internet time servers like time.nist.gov or Hikvision’s own NTP server.

To enable NTP:

• Check the box for “Enable NTP”
• Enter an NTP server address (e.g., pool.ntp.org or time.nist.gov)
• Set the update interval (every 24 hours is standard)
• Click Test to verify the connection works

NTP is ideal for systems with internet access. It ensures your DVR stays accurate without manual checks. This is especially important for how to change Hikvision DVR date and time in 2026 long-term.

Warning: Avoid using public NTP servers without testing. Some may be slow or blocked by firewalls. Use time.windows.com or pool.ntp.org for reliability.

Step 5: Save and Apply Changes

Once you’ve entered the correct date, time, and time zone (and enabled NTP if desired), click “Apply” at the bottom of the screen. Then click “OK” to confirm.

The DVR will process the changes. You might see a brief message: “Applying settings…” or “Rebooting.” This is normal. The system may restart the GUI or briefly disconnect from the network.

After a few seconds, go back to the live view. Look at the timestamp in the corner of one of the camera feeds. It should now reflect the correct 2026 date and time.

If you enabled NTP, wait a few minutes and check again. The time might not update instantly—NTP syncs periodically based on your interval setting.

Step 6: Verify Time Accuracy Across All Cameras

Here’s a step many skip: check every camera feed.

Some Hikvision DVRs support multiple time zones or have cameras with independent clocks (especially IP cameras). Even if the DVR time is correct, a camera might show a different time.

To fix this:

• Go to Camera > Video settings
• Select each camera individually
• Look for “Time Display” or “OSD” (On-Screen Display)
• Ensure the “Time” option is enabled and set to use “DVR Time” (not camera time)

This ensures all footage uses the same timestamp—critical for investigations. If one camera shows 2025 while others show 2026, it creates confusion.

Step 7: Remote Adjustment (Optional – Using Web Interface or App)

Can you change the date and time without being in front of the DVR? Yes—if your DVR is connected to the internet.

Method A: Web Browser (PC/Mac)

• On your computer, open a browser
• Type your DVR’s IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.100)
• Log in with your credentials
• Navigate to Configuration > System > General
• Adjust date/time/NTP just like on the DVR screen
• Click Save

Method B: Hik-Connect Mobile App

• Open the Hik-Connect app
• Select your DVR from the device list
• Tap the gear icon for settings
• Go to System > Time Settings
• Edit date, time, time zone, or enable NTP
• Save changes

The mobile app is perfect for quick fixes when you’re away from the office or home. Just make sure your DVR is registered with Hik-Connect and has a stable internet connection.

Pro Tip: Use the web interface for advanced settings. The mobile app has limited options but is great for on-the-go adjustments.

Step 8: Test and Confirm with a Sample Recording

Don’t just assume it worked. Test it.

Record a short 30-second clip (manually or by motion detection). Then go to Playback > Time Search and look for your test recording.

Check the timestamp. Does it match the time you set? Is the date showing 2026? If yes—great! If not, revisit the steps above, especially camera OSD settings.

You can also check the System Log under Maintenance > Log. Look for entries like “Time updated” or “NTP sync successful.” This confirms the change was applied correctly.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced users make mistakes when setting up time on Hikvision DVRs. Here are the top tips and pitfalls to avoid:

Tip #1: Use UTC for Multi-Location Systems
If your business has multiple DVRs in different time zones, set them all to UTC (Coordinated Universal Time). Then use camera-specific offsets. This keeps timestamps consistent across locations.

Tip #2: Disable “Camera Time” for IP Cameras
IP cameras sometimes sync with their own time source. This causes conflicts. Always set them to use DVR time in the camera settings.

Tip #3: Update Firmware Regularly
Older firmware may have bugs in time syncing. Visit Hikvision’s official site and download the latest firmware for your DVR model. This improves NTP reliability and security.

Common Mistake #1: Forgetting Time Zone
Setting the correct date and time but ignoring the time zone? Big mistake. Your DVR might show the right clock, but it could be 5 hours off for recordings. Always set the time zone first.

Common Mistake #2: Using Weak NTP Servers
Some users enter random server names like “time.google.com” (which isn’t a valid NTP server). Stick to trusted sources: pool.ntp.org, time.nist.gov, or your ISP’s server.

Common Mistake #3: Not Testing After Changes
You changed the time—but did you verify it? Always check a recording and the system log. A quick test prevents big problems later.

Pro Tip: Schedule Annual Time Checks
Even with NTP, clocks can drift. Mark your calendar every January to verify your DVR’s time accuracy. This is especially important for how to change Hikvision DVR date and time in 2026 and beyond.

FAQs About How to Change Hikvision DVR Date and Time in 2026

Q1: Why is my Hikvision DVR time wrong after a power outage?
A: Most DVRs have a small internal battery (like a CMOS battery) that keeps the clock running. If it’s dead or weak, the time resets to default (often 2000 or 2010). Replace the battery (CR2032) or use NTP to auto-correct after power loss.

Q2: Can I change the time without a monitor?
A: Yes, if your DVR is on the network. Use the web interface or Hik-Connect app to adjust time remotely. Just ensure the DVR is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Q3: My NTP isn’t working. What should I do?
A: First, check your internet connection. Then verify the NTP server address. Try pool.ntp.org. If still no luck, check your router’s firewall—some block NTP traffic (port 123). Also, ensure the DVR’s network settings (DNS, gateway) are correct.

Q4: What if I forgot my DVR password?
A: Use the Hik-Connect app to reset it remotely (if you’ve linked the device). Or, perform a factory reset (press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds). Warning: This erases all settings and recordings. For non-destructive recovery, contact Hikvision support with your device’s serial number.

Q5: Does daylight saving time affect my DVR?
A: Only if you’re in a region that observes DST and have Auto DST enabled. The DVR will adjust automatically. If disabled, you’ll need to manually update the time twice a year. We recommend enabling it.

Q6: Can I set different time zones for different cameras?
A: Yes, but not directly in the DVR. You’d need to use iVMS-4200 software on a PC, which allows per-camera time zone offsets. Useful for multi-national setups.

Q7: Is there a way to sync time with my phone’s clock?
A: Not directly. But if your phone and DVR are on the same network, they’ll both sync to the same internet time source. So indirectly, yes—use NTP, and both will stay accurate.

Final Thoughts

Changing the date and time on your Hikvision DVR isn’t just a one-time task—it’s a vital part of maintaining a reliable security system. Whether you’re preparing for 2026 or fixing a time drift, the steps we’ve covered make it simple and stress-free.

Remember: accuracy matters. A few seconds off might not seem like much, but in an investigation, it can mean the difference between catching a suspect and losing evidence.

Use NTP whenever possible. It’s the best way to ensure your DVR stays on time without constant manual checks. And don’t forget to verify the change with a test recording—it takes 2 minutes and saves hours of frustration later.

Now that you know how to change Hikvision DVR date and time in 2026, take action today. Log in, check your current settings, and make sure everything is set for the new year. Bookmark this guide for future reference, and share it with other security system users who might need help.

Your cameras are watching 24/7. Make sure they’re telling the right time.