How to Change Ip Address of Hikvision Ip Camera

How to Change Ip Address of Hikvision Ip Camera

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Changing your Hikvision IP camera’s IP address is essential when setting up a new network or resolving connection issues. This guide walks you through the process using Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 software, web interface, or third-party tools like IP Config Tool. Whether you’re configuring for local monitoring or remote access, these steps ensure seamless integration with your network.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Should I use DHCP or static IP for my Hikvision camera?

For most users, a static IP is better because it prevents the camera from losing its address after reboots or router changes. Reserve the IP in your router’s DHCP settings for reliability.

Can I change the IP without physical access?

Only if you already know the current IP and can access the web interface remotely. Otherwise, you’ll need direct network access—either wired or via a mobile hotspot.

Will changing the IP affect my recordings?

No. Recordings stored locally (on microSD or NVR) remain intact. Cloud or FTP backups may stop working temporarily until paths are updated in settings.

Is it safe to assign the same IP to two cameras?

Absolutely not. This causes an IP conflict, leading to crashes, disconnections, or complete loss of signal. Each device must have a unique address.

Do I need special software to change the IP?

No. The built-in web interface is sufficient for most cases. Tools like iVMS-4200 or IP Config Tool just make discovery and bulk management easier.

How to Change IP Address of Hikvision IP Camera: A Complete Guide

Have you ever tried to access your Hikvision IP camera only to find it’s unreachable? Or maybe you’re setting up multiple cameras on the same network and need unique IP addresses to avoid conflicts? Knowing how to change the IP address of your Hikvision IP camera is a crucial skill for any home or business user managing video surveillance systems.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or even mobile devices—to reconfigure your camera’s network settings safely and effectively. You’ll learn why you might need to change the IP, what tools to use, and how to avoid common pitfalls. By the end, your camera will be online, responsive, and ready for high-quality monitoring.

Why Would You Need to Change Your Hikvision Camera’s IP Address?

There are several practical reasons why you might want to change your Hikvision IP camera’s IP address:

How to Change Ip Address of Hikvision Ip Camera

Visual guide about How to Change Ip Address of Hikvision Ip Camera

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  • Network Reconfiguration: When adding a new camera to an existing system, you often need a dedicated IP to avoid clashes with other devices.
  • DHCP Conflicts: If your camera keeps getting assigned different IPs by your router (via DHCP), it becomes difficult to locate consistently.
  • Security Updates: Changing the IP can help isolate a problematic device during troubleshooting or maintenance.
  • Remote Access Setup: For cloud or port forwarding access, a static IP simplifies routing rules and firewall configurations.
  • Firmware Updates: Some updates require direct LAN access, which only works if you know the current IP.

Regardless of your reason, changing the IP is usually straightforward—but doing it incorrectly can lock you out entirely. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need Before Starting

Before you begin, gather these items to ensure a smooth process:

  • A computer connected to the same local network as the camera (via Ethernet recommended)
  • The camera’s default or current IP address (found on the label or in previous logs)
  • A web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.)
  • Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 software (downloadable from their official site)
  • Optional but helpful: IP Config Tool (also available from Hikvision support)
  • Your router’s admin panel credentials (for setting up static leases or port forwarding later)

Note: Always work over a wired connection when possible. Wireless can drop packets during configuration and make recovery harder if something goes wrong.

Step 1: Find Your Camera’s Current IP Address

If you already know your camera’s IP (e.g., from the device label or earlier setup), skip this step. Otherwise, here’s how to discover it:

Using Hikvision’s IP Search Tool (Recommended)

Hikvision provides a free utility called IP Config Tool that scans your network and lists all connected cameras.

  1. Download and install IP Config Tool from Hikvision’s official website.
  2. Run the program as administrator (right-click > “Run as administrator”).
  3. Click “Search” – it will display all Hikvision devices on your subnet.
  4. Look for your camera in the list. Note its current IP, MAC address, and status.

Alternative: Using Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux)

If the tool doesn’t detect your camera, try a manual scan:

  1. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
  2. Type arp -a and press Enter. This shows all devices your PC has communicated with recently.
  3. Look for entries matching Hikvision brand names or model numbers.
  4. Alternatively, use nmap -sn 192.168.1.0/24 (replace with your subnet) to scan the entire range.

Once you have the IP, proceed to the next section.

Step 2: Access the Camera’s Web Interface

Most modern Hikvision cameras allow full control via a web browser. Here’s how to log in:

Connect to the Same Network

Plug your computer into the same switch or router as the camera using an Ethernet cable. Avoid Wi-Fi unless absolutely necessary.

Enter the Camera’s IP in Your Browser

Type the camera’s current IP address into the address bar of your browser (e.g., http://192.168.1.100). Press Enter.

Log In

You’ll see a login screen. Enter the username and password—usually “admin” for both fields unless changed previously. Click “Login.”

Pro Tip: If you’ve forgotten the password, reset the camera to factory defaults (press the reset button for 10 seconds), then use default credentials.

Step 3: Navigate to Network Settings

After logging in, follow these steps to reach the IP configuration page:

  1. Go to the Configuration tab (top menu).
  2. Select Network > Basic Parameters.
  3. Choose the TCP/IP sub-tab.

Here you’ll see fields for:
– IPv4 Address
– Subnet Mask
– Default Gateway
– Preferred DNS Server
– Alternate DNS Server

These define how your camera communicates on the network.

Step 4: Change the IP Address

Now comes the main task—changing the IP. Follow these guidelines carefully:

Choose a New IP Within Your Local Range

Common private IP ranges include:
– 192.168.1.x
– 192.168.0.x
– 10.0.0.x

Pick one not used by other devices. For example, if your router is 192.168.1.1 and another camera is 192.168.1.105, choose 192.168.1.106.

Set Static IP (Recommended)

Uncheck “Obtain IP automatically (DHCP)” if checked. Then manually enter:
– IPv4 Address: e.g., 192.168.1.106
– Subnet Mask: Usually 255.255.255.0
– Default Gateway: Your router’s IP (e.g., 192.168.1.1)
– DNS: Can leave blank or use 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)

Save Changes

Scroll down and click Apply or Save. The camera may reboot briefly—this is normal.

Step 5: Test Connectivity to the New IP

After saving, immediately test whether you can still access the camera:

  1. Close the current browser session.
  2. Reopen your browser and go to http://[new-IP], e.g., http://192.168.1.106.
  3. If the login page loads, success! Log in again to confirm everything works.

Warning: If the page times out or gives a “Connection refused” error, the camera likely failed to apply settings. See the troubleshooting section below.

Alternative Method: Using iVMS-4200 Software

If you prefer a GUI-based approach, Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 offers integrated network management:

Install and Launch iVMS-4200

  1. Download and install the latest version from Hikvision’s support portal.
  2. Launch the application.

Add Your Camera

  1. Click Add Device (+ icon).
  2. Fill in the current IP, port (default: 8000), username, and password.
  3. Check Enable ONVIF if available.
  4. Click OK.

Modify IP Settings Through the App

  1. Right-click your camera in the device list and select Device Manager.
  2. Go to System > Basic Parameters > Network.
  3. Edit the TCP/IP settings as described earlier.
  4. Click Apply.

This method is especially useful if you manage multiple cameras—you can batch-edit IPs or monitor status centrally.

Advanced: Configure Static Lease on Your Router

To prevent future IP changes, reserve the new IP for your camera in your router:

Access Router Admin Panel

  1. Open a browser and go to your router’s IP (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  2. Log in with admin credentials.

Find DHCP Reservation or Static Lease

  1. Navigate to LAN Setup > DHCP Server.
  2. Locate your camera by its MAC address (from IP Config Tool or camera label).
  3. Assign it the new static IP you just configured.
  4. Save and restart the router if prompted.

This ensures your camera always gets the same IP—even after power cycles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced users run into hiccups. Here’s how to recover:

I Can’t Access the Camera After Changing the IP

Cause: Typo in IP, wrong subnet, or failed save operation.
Fix:
– Double-check the new IP and try pinging it: ping 192.168.1.106.
– Verify subnet mask matches your network.
– Reset the camera to factory defaults if needed (hold reset button for 10+ seconds).

Camera Disconnects Frequently

Cause: IP conflict with another device.
Fix: Use ARP scanning or check your router’s connected devices list. Assign a less common IP (e.g., .200 instead of .101).

iVMS-4200 Doesn’t Detect the Camera

Cause: Firewall blocking port 8000 or incorrect protocol.
Fix:
– Temporarily disable antivirus/firewall.
– Ensure ONVIF is enabled in camera settings.
– Manually add the camera using its old or new IP.

Web Interface Shows Blank or Broken Layout

Cause: Outdated browser or incompatible Java/Flash settings.
Fix: Try Chrome or Edge in incognito mode. Update your camera firmware via the web interface under Maintenance > Upgrade Firmware.

Best Practices for Managing Hikvision Camera IPs

Make future setups smoother with these habits:

  • Label Each Camera: Write its model, location, and IP on a sticker or note.
  • Keep a Spreadsheet: Track all devices, IPs, passwords, and firmware versions.
  • Update Firmware Regularly: Security patches often fix connectivity bugs.
  • Use VLANs for Large Systems: Isolate cameras from regular traffic for performance and security.
  • Backup Configurations: Export XML files from the camera’s Configuration menu before making changes.

Conclusion

Changing the IP address of your Hikvision IP camera doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools and clear steps, you can reconfigure your device quickly and confidently. Whether you’re troubleshooting, expanding your surveillance network, or preparing for remote access, understanding this process puts you in full control.

Remember: always test connectivity after changes, document your settings, and keep firmware updated. And don’t hesitate to reach out to Hikvision support if you encounter persistent issues—they offer excellent technical assistance.

Now go forth and manage your cameras like a pro!