How to Configure Dahua Dvr Online Mobile

How to Configure Dahua Dvr Online Mobile

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This guide walks you through configuring your Dahua DVR for online mobile access, enabling secure remote viewing from anywhere. You’ll learn setup steps, app installation, network configuration, and troubleshooting tips to ensure smooth performance.

Key Takeaways

  • Enable network settings on your Dahua DVR: Access the DVR’s web interface to configure IP, subnet, gateway, and DNS for internet connectivity.
  • Set up port forwarding on your router: Forward ports 37777 (main stream) and 37778 (sub-stream) to allow external access to your DVR.
  • Create a DDNS account (optional but recommended): Use Dahua’s free DDNS service or a third-party provider to access your DVR via a domain name instead of a changing IP address.
  • Install the Dahua mobile app (DMSS or PSS): Download the official app from Google Play or Apple App Store for iOS and Android devices.
  • Add your DVR to the mobile app: Use the device’s serial number, IP, or QR code to connect and start live viewing remotely.
  • Enable mobile streaming in DVR settings: Adjust resolution and bitrate to optimize performance over mobile networks.
  • Test and troubleshoot connection issues: Use built-in tools and common fixes like firewall checks and password resets if access fails.

How to Configure Dahua DVR Online Mobile

Are you tired of being tied to your monitor just to check your security cameras? With the right setup, you can view your Dahua DVR system from anywhere in the world using your smartphone. Whether you’re on vacation, at work, or just stepping out, remote access gives you peace of mind and full control over your surveillance system.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of configuring your Dahua DVR for online mobile access. You’ll learn how to connect your DVR to the internet, set up remote viewing, install the official mobile app, and troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll be able to watch live feeds, playback recordings, and receive alerts—all from your phone.

No technical degree required! We’ve broken everything down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Let’s get started.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

How to Configure Dahua Dvr Online Mobile

Visual guide about How to Configure Dahua Dvr Online Mobile

Image source: learncctv.com

Before diving into the configuration process, make sure you have the following:

  • A Dahua DVR (Digital Video Recorder) with network capability
  • A stable internet connection (wired Ethernet recommended)
  • A router with admin access
  • A smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android)
  • The DVR’s serial number (found on the device or in the menu)
  • Admin login credentials for the DVR (default is usually admin/admin or admin/123456)

Having these ready will save you time and frustration during setup.

Step 1: Connect Your Dahua DVR to the Internet

The first step to enabling mobile access is connecting your DVR to your home or office network.

Connect via Ethernet Cable

Use an Ethernet cable to connect your Dahua DVR to one of the LAN ports on your router. This wired connection is more reliable than Wi-Fi and ensures stable streaming.

Power On the DVR

Turn on your DVR and wait for it to boot up. You should see the main menu or live view on the connected monitor.

Access the DVR’s Network Settings

Now, you’ll need to configure the network settings so your DVR can communicate with the internet.

  1. Using a mouse or the DVR’s remote, go to Main Menu > Network > TCP/IP.
  2. Set the IP Address to a static IP within your local network range (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
  3. Set the Subnet Mask to 255.255.255.0 (common for home networks).
  4. Enter your router’s IP as the Default Gateway (usually 192.168.1.1).
  5. Set the DNS Server to your ISP’s DNS or use Google’s public DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
  6. Click Apply to save the settings.

Tip: Avoid using DHCP unless necessary. A static IP ensures your DVR always has the same address, which is crucial for remote access.

Step 2: Enable Remote Access on the DVR

Now that your DVR is on the network, you need to enable remote access features.

Enable HTTP and RTSP Services

These protocols allow your DVR to stream video over the internet.

  1. Go to Main Menu > Network > Connection.
  2. Ensure HTTP Port is set to 80 (or another port if 80 is in use).
  3. Set RTSP Port to 554 (standard for video streaming).
  4. Enable Mobile Access or Mobile Streaming if available.
  5. Click Apply.

Set Up User Accounts for Remote Access

For security, create a dedicated user account for mobile access.

  1. Go to Main Menu > Users.
  2. Click Add User.
  3. Enter a username (e.g., “mobile_user”) and a strong password.
  4. Assign permissions: Enable Live View, Playback, and Remote Configuration as needed.
  5. Save the user.

Important: Never use the default admin password for remote access. Always change it to something secure.

Step 3: Configure Port Forwarding on Your Router

Port forwarding tells your router to send incoming internet traffic to your DVR. This is essential for remote access.

Find Your DVR’s Local IP Address

If you didn’t note it earlier, go back to Network > TCP/IP on the DVR to confirm the IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.100).

Log Into Your Router

Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). Log in with your admin credentials.

Set Up Port Forwarding Rules

Look for a section called Port Forwarding, Virtual Server, or NAT. Add the following rules:

  • Service Name: Dahua_Main
  • External Port: 37777
  • Internal Port: 37777
  • Internal IP: 192.168.1.100 (your DVR’s IP)
  • Protocol: TCP

Add a second rule for the sub-stream:

  • Service Name: Dahua_Sub
  • External Port: 37778
  • Internal Port: 37778
  • Internal IP: 192.168.1.100
  • Protocol: TCP

Save the settings and reboot your router if required.

Note: Some routers allow you to forward a range (37777–37778). Check your router’s manual if you’re unsure.

Step 4: Set Up DDNS (Dynamic DNS)

Most home internet connections have a dynamic public IP address that changes periodically. DDNS solves this by linking a domain name to your changing IP.

Use Dahua’s Free DDNS Service

Dahua offers a free DDNS service called “Dahua DDNS” or “DMSS DDNS.”

  1. Go to Main Menu > Network > DDNS.
  2. Enable DDNS.
  3. Select Dahua DDNS as the provider.
  4. Enter a unique domain name (e.g., myhomecam.dahuaddns.com).
  5. Use your DVR’s serial number as the username.
  6. Set a password and confirm.
  7. Click Apply.

Your DVR will now register with Dahua’s DDNS server and update its IP automatically.

Alternative: Use a Third-Party DDNS (e.g., No-IP, DynDNS)

If you prefer another service:

  1. Sign up at a DDNS provider (e.g., noip.com).
  2. Create a hostname (e.g., mysecuritycam.ddns.net).
  3. On the DVR, go to Network > DDNS.
  4. Select the provider (e.g., No-IP).
  5. Enter your DDNS username, password, and hostname.
  6. Save and test the connection.

Tip: Test your DDNS by opening a browser and entering your domain name. It should resolve to your public IP.

Step 5: Install the Dahua Mobile App

Now it’s time to install the app on your smartphone.

Download the Official App

There are two main apps:

  • DMSS (Dahua Mobile Surveillance System): The newer, recommended app for most users.
  • PSS (Professional Surveillance System): Older app, still used but less updated.

Download DMSS from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).

Create a DMSS Account (Optional but Recommended)

While you can add devices without an account, creating one allows cloud features and easier management.

  1. Open the app and tap Register.
  2. Enter your email, create a password, and verify your email.
  3. Log in with your new account.

Step 6: Add Your DVR to the Mobile App

Now connect your DVR to the app for remote viewing.

Method 1: Add via QR Code (Easiest)

  1. On the DVR, go to Main Menu > Network > QR Code.
  2. Generate a QR code for mobile access.
  3. Open DMSS on your phone.
  4. Tap the + icon and select Scan QR Code.
  5. Point your camera at the DVR screen.
  6. The device will be added automatically.

Method 2: Manual Setup

If no QR code is available:

  1. Open DMSS and tap +.
  2. Select Add Device Manually.
  3. Choose DVR/NVR.
  4. Enter a name (e.g., “Home DVR”).
  5. Enter the IP Address or DDNS Domain (e.g., myhomecam.dahuaddns.com).
  6. Set the Port to 37777.
  7. Enter the username and password you created earlier.
  8. Tap Save.

Method 3: Add via Serial Number (Cloud Mode)

If your DVR supports cloud connectivity:

  1. In DMSS, tap + and select Add by SN.
  2. Enter your DVR’s serial number (found on the device or in the menu).
  3. Enter the verification code (usually the last 6 digits of the SN).
  4. Log in with your DMSS account.
  5. The device will appear in your list.

Step 7: Optimize Mobile Streaming Settings

To ensure smooth video on mobile networks, adjust streaming settings.

Enable Sub-Stream for Mobile Viewing

The sub-stream is a lower-resolution version of the video, ideal for mobile use.

  1. On the DVR, go to Main Menu > Record > Encode.
  2. Select a camera channel.
  3. Under Sub-Stream, enable it.
  4. Set resolution to 640×480 or 352×288.
  5. Set bitrate to 512–1024 Kbps.
  6. Click Apply.

Adjust Mobile Access Settings

  1. Go to Main Menu > Network > Mobile.
  2. Enable Mobile Access.
  3. Set Mobile Stream to Sub-Stream.
  4. Limit bandwidth if needed (e.g., 1 Mbps).
  5. Save changes.

This reduces data usage and prevents buffering on 3G/4G networks.

Step 8: Test Remote Access

Now it’s time to test everything.

From Outside Your Network

Disconnect your phone from Wi-Fi and use mobile data. Open DMSS and tap your DVR. You should see live video within 10–30 seconds.

Check Playback and Alerts

Try accessing recorded footage and enabling motion alerts to ensure full functionality.

Monitor Performance

If video is laggy, reduce sub-stream resolution or check your internet upload speed (aim for at least 2 Mbps upload).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful setup, problems can occur. Here’s how to fix the most common ones.

“Device Offline” in the App

  • Check if the DVR is powered on and connected to the network.
  • Verify the IP address hasn’t changed (use static IP).
  • Ensure port forwarding is correctly set on the router.
  • Test the DDNS domain in a browser—does it resolve to your public IP?
  • Restart the DVR and router.

“Connection Failed” or “Timeout”

  • Confirm the correct port (37777) is forwarded.
  • Check firewall settings on the router—allow traffic on ports 37777 and 37778.
  • Disable any antivirus or security software temporarily.
  • Try accessing via IP instead of DDNS to isolate the issue.

“Invalid Username or Password”

  • Double-check the username and password in the app.
  • Ensure you’re using the remote user account, not the local one.
  • Reset the DVR password if needed via the web interface.

Video is Choppy or Freezes

  • Lower the sub-stream resolution and bitrate.
  • Ensure your internet upload speed is sufficient.
  • Use a wired connection for the DVR instead of Wi-Fi.
  • Close other apps using bandwidth on your phone.

DDNS Not Updating

  • Check if the DVR has internet access (ping a website from the DVR’s network tools).
  • Verify the DDNS credentials are correct.
  • Manually trigger an update in the DDNS settings.
  • Consider using a third-party DDNS client on a PC if the DVR fails to update.

Security Best Practices

Remote access is convenient but increases security risks. Follow these tips to protect your system.

  • Change default passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for the DVR and mobile app.
  • Enable HTTPS: If supported, use HTTPS instead of HTTP for encrypted communication.
  • Disable UPnP: Universal Plug and Play can open ports automatically—turn it off to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Update firmware: Regularly check for and install DVR firmware updates from Dahua’s website.
  • Use a VPN (advanced): For maximum security, set up a VPN to access your home network remotely instead of port forwarding.

Conclusion

Configuring your Dahua DVR for online mobile access might seem complex at first, but by following these steps, you’ve unlocked powerful remote surveillance capabilities. From network setup and port forwarding to DDNS and mobile app configuration, you now have the tools to monitor your property from anywhere in the world.

Remember, the key to success is patience and attention to detail. Double-check IP addresses, ports, and passwords. Test each step before moving on. And don’t forget to prioritize security—your cameras are only as safe as your weakest link.

With your Dahua DVR now accessible on your smartphone, you can enjoy peace of mind, respond to alerts instantly, and keep an eye on what matters most—no matter where life takes you.

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