Changing the IP address of your POE camera is quick and secure when done through the camera’s web interface or manufacturer software, ensuring seamless integration into your network. Always verify the new IP is outside the DHCP range to prevent conflicts and maintain uninterrupted surveillance. For maximum security, update login credentials and enable encryption after making changes.

How to Change IP Address of POE Camera Easily and Securely

Key Takeaways

• Access the camera’s settings: Log in via web interface or manufacturer’s app to begin IP changes.
• Use a static IP: Assign a fixed IP to avoid conflicts and ensure reliable camera access.
• Match subnet masks: Ensure IP and subnet align with your network for seamless connectivity.
• Update router settings: Reserve the new IP in DHCP to prevent future address changes.
• Test connectivity: Verify access post-change to confirm the camera is online and secure.
• Secure with strong passwords: Always protect admin access to prevent unauthorized IP modifications.
• Document changes: Keep a record of new IPs for easy troubleshooting and network management.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

You’ve got a POE (Power over Ethernet) camera set up for home security, office monitoring, or even a warehouse. But now, you’re facing a network conflict, can’t access the camera feed, or your router keeps assigning the same IP to multiple devices. Sound familiar?

This is where knowing how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely becomes essential. Without the right IP, your camera might be invisible to your network, or worse—vulnerable to unauthorized access.

Changing the IP address helps you avoid IP conflicts, improve network organization, and strengthen security—especially when using multiple cameras or integrating with NVRs (Network Video Recorders). Whether you’re troubleshooting or setting up a new system, mastering this process keeps your surveillance running smoothly.

And don’t worry—this isn’t just for IT pros. With the right tools and a clear guide, anyone can do it. Let’s dive into why this matters and how to do it right the first time.

Why it matters: An incorrect or duplicate IP can cause your camera to go offline, create network slowdowns, or expose your system to cyber threats. Learning how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely is a foundational skill for reliable surveillance.

What You Need

Before you start, gather these tools and materials. Having everything ready saves time and prevents frustration.

• A POE camera (e.g., Hikvision, Dahua, Reolink, or Amcrest)
• POE switch or injector (to power and connect the camera)
• Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6)
• A computer or laptop (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
• Camera configuration software (often free, like Hikvision’s SADP, Dahua’s ConfigTool, or Reolink Client)
• Access to your router’s admin panel (for checking IP ranges and DHCP settings)
• Notepad or digital note app (to record new IPs and login details)

Optional but helpful:

• Network scanner app (like Advanced IP Scanner or Angry IP Scanner)
• Static IP planning sheet (to avoid future conflicts)

Pro tip: Always label your cables and cameras. If you’re managing a 16-camera setup, knowing which cable goes where makes how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely a breeze.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Change IP Address of POE Camera Easily and Securely

Step 1: Power Up and Connect the Camera

First, plug your POE camera into a POE switch or injector using an Ethernet cable. Then connect the switch to your router or directly to your computer.

Wait 30–60 seconds for the camera to boot up. Most POE cameras have a status LED that blinks or turns solid when ready.

If your camera has a built-in web interface (many do), you can access it later via a browser. But for now, just make sure it’s powered and connected.

Warning: Don’t use a non-POE switch or injector. POE devices need both power and data over the same cable. Using a regular switch could damage the camera.

Step 2: Find the Camera’s Current IP Address

You can’t change what you can’t find. So, let’s locate your camera’s current IP.

There are three main ways:

1. Use the manufacturer’s discovery tool (e.g., Hikvision SADP, Dahua ConfigTool). These tools scan your network and list all connected cameras with their IPs, MAC addresses, and model numbers.
2. Use a third-party IP scanner like Advanced IP Scanner. Run it on your computer and look for devices with the camera’s brand name or MAC address prefix (e.g., “HIKVIS” or “DAHUA”).
3. Check your router’s DHCP client list. Log into your router (usually via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), go to “Attached Devices,” and look for your camera’s hostname.

Once you find it, write it down. Example: 192.168.1.105.

Example: Sarah found her Reolink camera at 192.168.1.67 using the Reolink Client app. She saved the IP and MAC address in a Google Sheet for future reference.

Step 3: Access the Camera’s Web Interface or App

Now that you have the IP, open a web browser on your computer and type the IP into the address bar (e.g., http://192.168.1.105).

You’ll likely see a login screen. Use the default credentials (check the camera manual or label on the device). Common defaults:

• Username: admin
• Password: admin, 123456, or blank

If you’ve changed the password before, use that. If not, consider changing it now for security.

Some cameras use a desktop app instead (e.g., Reolink Client, Amcrest Surveillance Pro). Open the app and add the camera using its IP or let it auto-discover.

Security tip: Always change the default password immediately. Default credentials are public knowledge and a major security risk. This is a critical step in learning how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely.

Step 4: Navigate to Network Settings

Once logged in, find the Network or Configuration tab. The exact location varies by brand:

• Hikvision: Configuration → Network → Basic Settings
• Dahua: Setup → Network → TCP/IP
• Reolink: Settings → Network → IP Address
• Amcrest: Settings → Network → IP Settings

Look for fields like:

• IP Address
• Subnet Mask (usually 255.255.255.0)
• Gateway (your router’s IP, e.g., 192.168.1.1)
• DNS Server (often same as gateway)

You’ll also see a toggle for DHCP (dynamic) vs. Static IP (manual).

Why static IPs are better: For surveillance systems, static IPs are preferred. They ensure the camera always has the same address, so your NVR or remote app can always find it. DHCP can reassign IPs, causing disconnects.

Step 5: Change from DHCP to Static IP (Recommended)

Turn off DHCP and switch to Manual (Static).

Now enter a new IP address. But don’t just pick any number. Here’s how to choose wisely:

• Stay in your network’s subnet. If your router is 192.168.1.1, use 192.168.1.x where x is 2–254.
• Avoid the DHCP range. Most routers assign IPs from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.199. So, pick something outside that—like 192.168.1.50 or 192.168.1.200.
• Use a consistent naming scheme. Example: 192.168.1.201 for front door, .202 for backyard, etc.

Enter your chosen IP, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS. Double-check for typos.

Example settings:

• IP: 192.168.1.50
• Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
• Gateway: 192.168.1.1
• DNS: 192.168.1.1 (or Google’s 8.8.8.8)

Common mistake: Setting a static IP inside the DHCP range can cause conflicts. If your router assigns 192.168.1.50 to a laptop, your camera will go offline.

Step 6: Save and Reboot the Camera

Click Save or Apply. The camera will restart—this takes 1–2 minutes.

During reboot, the camera disconnects briefly. Don’t panic. It’s normal.

After it powers back on, try accessing the new IP in your browser: http://192.168.1.50 (or whatever you set).

If the login screen appears, you’ve succeeded!

Pro tip: If you can’t connect, wait another minute. Some cameras take longer to reinitialize. If still no luck, go back to Step 2 and use the discovery tool to confirm the new IP.

Step 7: Update Your NVR or Remote App

If you’re using an NVR (Network Video Recorder), it may still be trying to connect to the old IP.

Open your NVR software or app and:

• Delete the camera entry.
• Add it again using the new IP address.
• Enter the username and password.

For remote viewing apps (e.g., Reolink, Hik-Connect, Amcrest View), update the camera’s IP in the app settings.

This ensures your live feed and motion alerts keep working.

Real-life fix: Mark updated his Dahua camera’s IP but forgot his NVR. His feed went dark. He fixed it by re-adding the camera with the new IP—took 3 minutes.

Step 8: Test Connectivity and Security

Now, test everything:

1. Open the camera in a browser using the new IP.
2. Check the live feed.
3. Try accessing it from a different device (e.g., phone on Wi-Fi).
4. Verify motion detection and recording work.

Also, check for open ports. If you’re exposing the camera to the internet (e.g., for remote access), ensure you’ve:

• Enabled HTTPS (not HTTP)
• Set up a strong password
• Used port forwarding carefully (or better, use P2P/Cloud)

For extra security, consider setting up a VLAN to isolate cameras from your main network.

Security warning: Never expose your camera directly to the internet without a firewall or strong authentication. This is how hackers access live feeds. Learning how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely includes protecting it from threats.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

You’ve done the steps—now let’s make it bulletproof.

Use a Static IP Plan

Create a simple spreadsheet to track:

• Camera name (e.g., “Front Door”)
• MAC address
• IP address
• Username/password
• Location

This prevents future conflicts and makes troubleshooting faster.

Label Your Devices

Stick a label on each camera with its IP and purpose. Saves time when you’re managing 10+ units.

Keep Firmware Updated

Outdated firmware can cause IP assignment bugs. Check the manufacturer’s website every 6 months for updates.

Common Mistakes

• Using DHCP for cameras: Causes disconnects when IPs change.
• Typos in IP addresses: A single digit error means no connection.
• Forgetting the subnet mask: Must match your network (usually 255.255.255.0).
• Not rebooting after changes: Some settings only apply after restart.
• Ignoring DNS: If remote access fails, incorrect DNS is often the culprit.

Pro tip: Before making changes, write down the current settings. If something goes wrong, you can restore them quickly. This is part of how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely—preparation prevents panic.

When to Use DHCP (Yes, Sometimes It’s Okay)

DHCP is fine for:

• Testing a new camera before assigning a permanent IP.
• Cameras on a guest network (with limited access).

But for production systems, static IPs win every time.

FAQs About How to Change IP Address of POE Camera Easily and Securely

1. Can I change the IP address remotely?

Yes, but only if you already have remote access (e.g., via a cloud service or port forwarding). If the camera is offline or you’re on a different network, you’ll need physical access to the camera or local network to use discovery tools.

For true remote management, consider cameras with cloud-based configuration (e.g., Reolink Cloud, Hik-Connect).

2. What if I can’t find the camera’s current IP?

Try these:

• Use the manufacturer’s discovery tool (SADP, ConfigTool, etc.).
• Check your router’s DHCP client list.
• Scan the network with Advanced IP Scanner.
• Connect the camera directly to your computer (bypass the router) and set a static IP on your PC in the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.10). Then scan 192.168.1.1–254.

This method forces the camera to appear.

3. Can two cameras have the same IP?

No. IP conflicts cause both cameras to go offline or behave erratically. Always ensure each camera has a unique IP on the same subnet.

If you accidentally assign the same IP, reboot both cameras—the network will detect the conflict and one will disconnect.

4. Do I need to change the IP if I’m using an NVR?

Yes, but the NVR can often auto-discover cameras. However, for reliability and organization, assign static IPs manually. This ensures the NVR always connects to the right camera, even after reboots.

5. What’s the difference between static and dynamic IP for cameras?

Dynamic (DHCP): The router assigns an IP. It can change, causing the camera to disappear from your NVR or app.

Static (Manual): You assign a fixed IP. It never changes, making your system more reliable and easier to manage.

For surveillance, static is best.

6. Can I change the IP without accessing the camera?

Some tools (like Hikvision SADP) let you modify IP settings remotely without logging into the web interface. You can change the IP, subnet, and gateway directly from the tool.

But you still need to be on the same network. This is a huge time-saver for large installations.

7. What if my camera doesn’t have a web interface?

Many POE cameras rely on a desktop or mobile app. In that case:

• Open the app.
• Find the camera in the device list.
• Go to settings → network → IP settings.
• Change to static and enter the new IP.

Examples: Reolink, Amcrest, and Lorex cameras often use this model.

Final Thoughts

Changing the IP address of your POE camera doesn’t have to be scary. With the right tools and a clear plan, it’s a straightforward process that pays off in better performance, fewer outages, and stronger security.

Remember: static IPs are your friend, discovery tools are your lifeline, and good documentation keeps everything running smoothly.

Whether you’re securing a home, office, or industrial site, knowing how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely gives you control and peace of mind.

So, grab your laptop, fire up that discovery tool, and take charge of your network. And don’t forget to update your NVR and remote apps—consistency is key.

Now go ahead: make the change, test the feed, and enjoy a smarter, safer surveillance system.

Actionable advice: After changing the IP, spend 5 minutes updating your camera log. Include the date, new IP, and any changes. Future you will thank you. That’s how to truly master how to change IP address of POE camera easily and securely.