Changing the IP address on a Hikvision camera is essential when you need to reconfigure your network or resolve connection issues. This guide walks you through the process using Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 software, the web browser method, or DHCP reservation for static assignments. Whether you’re setting up a new camera or troubleshooting, these clear steps ensure your system stays online and secure.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Can I change my Hikvision camera’s IP wirelessly?
Yes, but only if the camera supports Wi-Fi configuration. Most wired models require an Ethernet connection during setup. For wireless models, use the Hikvision mobile app or web interface to adjust network settings remotely.
What happens if I pick an IP already in use?
Your camera will likely fail to connect, or both devices will experience network errors. Always check your router’s connected devices list before assigning a new IP to avoid conflicts.
Is it better to use DHCP or static IP for security cameras?
For reliability, use static IPs or DHCP reservations. This ensures your camera always appears at the same address, making it easier to monitor and maintain your system.
Do I need special software to change the IP?
No. The simplest method is using your web browser to access the camera’s built-in interface. iVMS-4200 is optional but helpful for managing multiple cameras.
Will changing the IP affect video recordings?
No. Changing the IP only affects network connectivity. Recordings stored locally (on SD cards or NVRs) remain untouched. However, remote viewing may be temporarily interrupted until the new IP is confirmed.
Introduction: Why Change Your Hikvision Camera’s IP Address?
Have you ever tried to view your Hikvision security camera from your phone, computer, or NVR, only to get a “connection failed” error? Or maybe you just moved your camera to a different location and now it’s unreachable? These issues often happen because of an incorrect IP address—especially if you’re using multiple cameras on the same network.
The good news? Changing the IP address on your Hikvision camera is simple once you know the steps. Whether you’re setting up a new camera, fixing a lost connection, or optimizing your home or business network, this guide will walk you through everything you need to do—using free tools, clear instructions, and practical examples.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to:
– Connect to your Hikvision camera using its current IP.
– Access the camera’s built-in web interface or use Hikvision’s software.
– Change the IP address from dynamic (DHCP) to static—or vice versa.
– Troubleshoot common problems like lost connections.
– Set up your camera so it never loses its place on the network again.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Visual guide about How to Change Ip Address on Hikvision Camera
Image source: pic3.zhimg.com
Before diving into the steps, make sure you have the following ready:
– A computer or smartphone connected to the same local network as your Hikvision camera. This can be via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
– The current IP address of your camera. The default is usually 192.168.1.108, but it might have changed.
– Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 software (optional but helpful). Download it from the official Hikvision website if you don’t already have it.
– Access to your router’s admin panel. You’ll need this if you want to set up a DHCP reservation later.
– A direct Ethernet cable (recommended for initial setup). Using a wired connection prevents disconnections during configuration.
Now that you’re prepared, let’s begin with the easiest way to find your camera’s current IP.
Step 1: Find Your Camera’s Current IP Address
You can’t change what you don’t know. So first, locate your camera’s current IP address.
Option A: Use the Default IP (If You Haven’t Changed It)
Most Hikvision cameras come with a default IP of 192.168.1.108. Try opening a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) and typing http://192.168.1.108 into the address bar. Press Enter.
If the login page loads, your camera is still using the default IP.
Option B: Use Hikvision Search Tool
If you’ve forgotten the IP or suspect it’s changed, download and install the Hikvision Search Tool (also called “Hikvision Device Management Software”). It’s free and works on Windows.
After installing:
1. Launch the program.
2. Click “Search” at the top.
3. Wait for it to scan your network.
4. Look under the “Device List” for your camera (usually listed by model number or serial).
5. Note the IP address shown next to it.
This tool is especially useful when you have multiple cameras or are unsure which one is which.
Option C: Check Your Router’s Connected Devices
Log in to your router’s admin page (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in a browser). Look for a section like “Connected Devices,” “DHCP Clients,” or “Device List.” Scroll through the list—your Hikvision camera should appear with its IP, MAC address, and possibly the device name.
Tip: Hikvision devices often show up as “HIKVISION” or have recognizable MAC addresses starting with 00:0D:6F or C8:3F:6E.
Once you’ve found the IP, move on to accessing the camera’s settings.
Step 2: Access the Camera’s Web Interface
The most reliable way to change the IP is through the camera’s built-in web interface. Here’s how:
1. Open a web browser (Chrome recommended).
2. Type the camera’s current IP address into the address bar (e.g., http://192.168.1.108).
3. Press Enter.
4. You’ll see a login screen asking for a username and password.
Default credentials are usually:
– Username: admin
– Password: admin (or blank if not set)
⚠️ Important: If you’ve already changed the password, use that instead. If you’ve forgotten it, you may need to reset the camera.
After logging in, you’ll enter the camera’s main dashboard—look for a menu option labeled Network or Setup > Network.
Step 3: Change the IP Address Settings
Now that you’re inside the camera’s settings, it’s time to update the IP address.
Navigate to Network Configuration
Click on Network in the left-hand menu. Then select either:
– TCP/IP (for basic IP settings), or
– Advanced TCP/IP (for more detailed options).
Most users will only need the basic settings.
Select IP Assignment Method
Under the TCP/IP tab, you’ll see three options:
1. Obtain an IP automatically (DHCP)
2. Manual (Static IP)
3. PPPoE, DNS, etc. (not needed for most setups)
Choose based on your goal:
– If you want the camera to keep getting a random IP each time it boots, leave it on DHCP.
– If you want a fixed, predictable IP (recommended for security systems), switch to Manual (Static IP).
Enter New Static IP Details
If you chose Manual, fill in the fields:
– IP Address: Enter your desired new IP (e.g., 192.168.1.200)
– Subnet Mask: Usually 255.255.255.0
– Default Gateway: Your router’s IP (e.g., 192.168.1.1)
– Preferred DNS Server: Often the same as the gateway, or 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)
– Alternate DNS Server: Optional, but 8.8.4.4 works well
⚠️ Warning: Make sure your new IP doesn’t conflict with another device on the network. Check your router’s connected devices list before choosing.
Example:
Suppose your router is at 192.168.1.1, and no other device uses 192.168.1.200. That’s a safe choice.
Save and Apply Changes
After filling in the details, scroll down and click Apply or Save. The camera will briefly disconnect from the network as it applies the new settings.
Wait about 10–15 seconds, then try accessing the camera using its new IP address in your browser.
For example: http://192.168.1.200
If the login screen appears, you’ve successfully changed the IP!
Alternative Method: Use iVMS-4200 Software
If you prefer a graphical interface over the web browser, Hikvision’s iVMS-4200 software makes this even easier—especially if you manage multiple cameras.
Install and Launch iVMS-4200
Download iVMS-4200 from the official Hikvision website (it’s free for personal use). Install it on your Windows PC.
Launch the program and log in with the camera’s current credentials (default: admin/admin).
Add the Camera to the Software
Click Add Device (+ icon) and enter:
– Device address: Current IP (e.g., 192.168.1.108)
– Port: 8000 (default)
– Username: admin
– Password: admin
Click Connect. Once it shows “Online,” right-click the device and select Device Config.
Modify Network Settings
In the configuration window, go to Network > Basic Parameters > TCP/IP.
Change the IP assignment from DHCP to Manual, enter your new IP, subnet mask, and gateway.
Click OK or Apply. The camera will restart with the new IP.
Return to iVMS-4200 and try connecting using the new IP. It should appear automatically if the software detects it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even experienced users run into hiccups. Here’s how to solve the most common problems.
Problem 1: Can’t Access the Camera After Changing the IP
This usually means one of two things:
– You entered the wrong new IP.
– Another device is using that IP.
Solution:
1. Double-check the new IP you entered.
2. Log into your router and verify the IP isn’t in use.
3. Temporarily connect your PC directly to the camera via Ethernet (bypassing Wi-Fi).
4. Power cycle the camera (unplug for 10 seconds, then plug back in).
5. If all else fails, perform a factory reset (see below).
Problem 2: Forgot the Login Password
The camera won’t accept your old credentials.
Solution:
Reset the camera to factory defaults. On most models, press and hold the reset button (usually tiny and on the side/back) for 10–15 seconds until the status light blinks. Then reconfigure everything from scratch.
Note: This erases all settings—so only do it if necessary.
Problem 3: Camera Not Appearing in iVMS-4200 After IP Change
Sometimes the software caches old IPs.
Solution:
1. Remove the camera from iVMS-4200.
2. Re-add it using the new IP.
3. Or restart iVMS-4200 completely.
Pro Tips for Long-Term Stability
Once your camera is working, keep it running smoothly with these best practices:
– Use DHCP Reservations: Instead of setting a static IP on the camera, assign a reserved IP in your router. This ensures the camera always gets the same address without manual tweaks.
– Update Firmware Regularly: New firmware fixes bugs and improves network handling. Check Hikvision’s support site monthly.
– Label Your Cameras: Write the location and IP on a sticker near each camera. Saves time during maintenance.
– Document Your Setup: Keep a spreadsheet with IPs, passwords, and locations—especially for large installations.
Conclusion: You’re All Set!
Changing the IP address on your Hikvision camera doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can take full control of your surveillance system—whether you’re troubleshooting, expanding your setup, or just organizing your network better.
Remember:
– Always note the current IP first.
– Use the web interface or iVMS-4200 to make changes.
– Choose between DHCP and static IP wisely.
– Test connectivity immediately after saving.
– Reserve IPs in your router for peace of mind.
Now go ahead—access that camera, adjust its settings, and enjoy uninterrupted monitoring. And if this guide helped you out, share it with someone who’s struggling with the same issue!