Configuring a static IP on your Hikvision DVR in 2026 ensures stable, uninterrupted surveillance connectivity by eliminating IP conflicts and simplifying remote access. Follow the step-by-step network settings in the DVR’s web interface or SADP tool to assign a permanent IP, gateway, and subnet mask tailored to your network environment.

How to Configure Hikvision DVR Static IP in 2026 A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Access the DVR menu: Navigate to Network Settings via the local interface.
• Disable DHCP: Turn off dynamic IP to enable static configuration.
• Assign IP address: Set a unique, valid IP within your network range.
• Enter subnet mask: Use 255.255.255.0 for standard home networks.
• Set gateway & DNS: Input router IP and preferred DNS server.
• Save and reboot: Apply changes and restart DVR for settings to take effect.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re trying to check your security cameras remotely, but the feed won’t load. You’ve got a Hikvision DVR, but every time you restart your router, the IP address changes—and suddenly, you’re locked out. This is exactly why learning how to configure Hikvision DVR static IP in 2026 a complete guide is essential.

Dynamic IP addresses (DHCP) are great for everyday devices like laptops and phones, but they’re a headache for security systems. When your DVR gets a new IP, remote access breaks, mobile apps lose connection, and your entire surveillance setup becomes unreliable. A static IP solves this by locking your DVR to a permanent address on your network.

Whether you’re a homeowner, small business owner, or IT technician, setting a static IP ensures your Hikvision DVR stays connected 24/7. This guide walks you through the process clearly, safely, and without technical jargon. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to configure Hikvision DVR static IP in 2026 a complete guide—and why it’s worth the effort.

Plus, with newer Hikvision firmware and updated network standards in 2026, the process is smoother than ever. No more guesswork. No more frustration. Just a reliable, always-on security system.

Pro Tip: A static IP isn’t just about remote access—it also improves stability for NVRs with multiple IP cameras, reduces network conflicts, and simplifies port forwarding for remote viewing.

What You Need

Before diving into the setup, gather these tools and information. Having everything ready saves time and avoids mid-process hiccups.

• Hikvision DVR or NVR (any model from DS-7100 to DS-9600 series, including AcuSense and ColorVu models)
• Ethernet cable (connected directly from DVR to router or switch)
• Monitor, keyboard, and mouse (to access the DVR interface)
• Router admin access (to check DHCP range and assign static IP)
• Computer or smartphone (to log into your router)
• Notebook or digital notes app (to record IP settings)

You’ll also need to know:

• Your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
• The DHCP range (e.g., 192.168.1.100–192.168.1.200)
• A free IP address outside the DHCP range (e.g., 192.168.1.50)
• Your subnet mask (usually 255.255.255.0)
• Your default gateway (same as router IP)
• Your DNS server (often 8.8.8.8 or your ISP’s DNS)

Warning: Never assign a static IP within your router’s DHCP range. If two devices share the same IP, you’ll get network conflicts and connection drops.

Now that you’re equipped, let’s get started on how to configure Hikvision DVR static IP in 2026 a complete guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Configure Hikvision DVR Static IP in 2026 A Complete Guide

Step 1: Connect Your DVR to the Network and Access the Interface

First, make sure your Hikvision DVR is powered on and connected to your router via an Ethernet cable. Avoid using Wi-Fi—wired connections are more stable for surveillance systems.

Connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the DVR. Power it on if it’s not already running. Wait for the system to boot completely—this usually takes 1–2 minutes.

Once the main screen appears, log in using your admin credentials. The default username is often admin and the password is either blank, 12345, or set during first-time setup. If you’ve changed it, use your custom login.

Now, navigate to the Configuration menu. On most 2026 Hikvision models, this is found in the bottom-left corner of the main interface or via the gear icon.

Tip: If you’re using a newer Hikvision AcuSense DVR, the menu may be labeled “System” instead of “Configuration.” Look for network settings under “Network” or “Basic Settings.”

Step 2: Check Current Network Settings (DHCP Mode)

Inside the Configuration menu, click on Network → General (or “TCP/IP” depending on firmware version).

You’ll see your current network configuration. Most DVRs ship with DHCP enabled, meaning they automatically grab an IP from your router. Note down the current IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS—this helps avoid errors later.

Example of what you might see:

• IP Address: 192.168.1.105
• Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
• Gateway: 192.168.1.1
• DNS: 8.8.8.8

This IP (192.168.1.105) is likely assigned by your router’s DHCP server. Our goal is to replace it with a static IP that stays the same forever.

Important: Write down these current settings. If something goes wrong, you can restore them to reconnect to the network.

Step 3: Log Into Your Router to Find the DHCP Range

Now, grab your computer or smartphone and connect to the same network as your DVR. Open a web browser and type in your router’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1). Log in with your router admin credentials.

Once inside, look for LAN Settings, DHCP Server, or Network Configuration. Find the section that shows the DHCP range (also called the “pool”).

Example: Your router might assign IPs from 192.168.1.100 to 192.168.1.200. This means any IP outside this range (like 192.168.1.50 or 192.168.1.250) is safe to use for static assignment.

Choose an IP that’s:

• Outside the DHCP range
• Not used by any other device (check connected devices list)
• Easy to remember (e.g., 192.168.1.10 or .20 for DVRs)

For this guide, we’ll use 192.168.1.20 as your static IP. But you can pick any free address below 100 or above 200.

Pro Tip: On modern routers (like TP-Link, ASUS, or Netgear 2026 models), you can reserve an IP for your DVR’s MAC address. This is called “DHCP Reservation” and acts like a semi-static IP without changing DVR settings. But for full control, we’ll set a true static IP on the DVR itself.

Step 4: Configure Static IP on Your Hikvision DVR

Back at the DVR, in the Network → General settings, look for the IP Address Assignment or IP Type option.

Change it from DHCP to Static or Manual. This unlocks the fields for IP, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS.

Now, enter the following (adjust based on your network):

• IP Address: 192.168.1.20 (your chosen static IP)
• Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0 (same as before)
• Gateway: 192.168.1.1 (your router’s IP)
• DNS: 8.8.8.8 (or your ISP’s DNS, or 1.1.1.1 for Cloudflare)

Double-check each field. A single typo (like 192.168.1.20 vs. 192.168.0.20) will break your connection.

Click Apply or Save. The DVR will process the changes. It may disconnect briefly—this is normal.

Warning: If the DVR doesn’t reconnect after 30 seconds, don’t panic. Wait up to 2 minutes. If still offline, reboot the DVR and re-enter the settings. Double-check the gateway and subnet mask.

Step 5: Verify the Static IP is Active

After saving, the DVR should show the new IP in the network settings. But let’s confirm it’s working properly.

Go to Network → Advanced (or “Network Status”). You should see the new static IP listed under “Current IP Address.”

Now, test connectivity:

• From your computer, open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux)
• Type: ping 192.168.1.20 (replace with your IP)
• If you see replies like “Reply from 192.168.1.20: bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=64,” the DVR is online

Also, try accessing the DVR’s web interface:

• Open a browser on your computer
• Type: http://192.168.1.20 (your static IP)
• Log in with your DVR username and password

If the login page loads, your static IP is working! This is a major milestone in how to configure Hikvision DVR static IP in 2026 a complete guide.

Tip: Bookmark this IP address in your browser for easy access later. You can also create a desktop shortcut.

Step 6: Set Up Remote Access (Optional but Recommended)

Now that your DVR has a stable IP, you can enable remote viewing via Hik-Connect, SADP tool, or web browser.

Go to Network → Advanced Settings → Hik-Connect (or “Platform Access”).

Enable Hik-Connect Service and note the Verification Code (you’ll need it in the app).

On your smartphone, download the Hik-Connect app (iOS or Android). Log in with your Hik-Connect account or create one.

Tap “+” to add a device. Choose “DVR/NVR” and enter:

• Device Type: DVR
• IP Address: 192.168.1.20
• Port: 8000 (default)
• Verification Code: [from DVR screen]

Tap “Add.” The device should appear in your app. Tap to view live feeds.

Even if you’re on mobile data or a different Wi-Fi, you can now access your cameras anytime. This is why a static IP is a game-changer.

Note: For remote access over the internet, you may need to set up port forwarding on your router (port 8000 by default). But with Hik-Connect, it’s often not needed due to cloud relay.

Step 7: Reserve the IP on Your Router (Extra Safety)

To prevent future conflicts, log back into your router and reserve the static IP for your DVR’s MAC address.

Find the DHCP Reservation or IP/MAC Binding section. Look for a list of connected devices.

Find your DVR (it should be named “Hikvision” or show its MAC address). Click “Add” or “Reserve” and assign the IP (192.168.1.20).

This way, even if someone resets the DVR to DHCP later, your router will always give it the same IP. It’s a double-layer of protection.

Why This Matters: If a technician resets your DVR and it gets a new IP, your remote access breaks. Reservation ensures it always gets the correct IP.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Setting a static IP isn’t hard, but small errors can cause big headaches. Here’s how to do it right the first time.

1. Use a Unique IP
Never reuse an IP. Even if it looks free, it might be assigned to a printer, smart plug, or IoT device. Check your router’s “Connected Devices” list first.

2. Match Subnet and Gateway
Your subnet mask and gateway must match your router’s settings. Using 192.168.0.1 as gateway on a 192.168.1.x network? That breaks everything.

3. Don’t Skip the Ping Test
After changing the IP, always ping the DVR. If it fails, you’ve got a typo. Fix it before moving on.

4. Avoid IPs Ending in .0 or .255
These are reserved. Use .1–.254, but skip .0 and .255.

5. Document Your Settings
Write down your static IP, gateway, and DNS. Save it in a text file or sticky note. If you forget, you’ll need to reset the DVR to factory settings.

6. Update Firmware First
Older Hikvision firmware had bugs with static IPs. In 2026, most models have stable updates. Before configuring, go to System → Maintenance → Upgrade and install the latest firmware.

7. Use a Label
Stick a small label on the DVR with the static IP. It helps during troubleshooting or if a technician needs access.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to change the DNS. If your DVR can’t reach the internet (e.g., for email alerts or Hik-Connect), it’s often because the DNS is wrong. Use 8.8.8.8 (Google) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) for reliability.

FAQs About How to Configure Hikvision DVR Static IP in 2026 A Complete Guide

Q1: Can I set a static IP on a Wi-Fi-connected Hikvision DVR?
No. Wi-Fi is not recommended for DVRs due to instability. Hikvision DVRs typically don’t support Wi-Fi natively. Use Ethernet for reliable static IP setup. If your DVR has a Wi-Fi adapter (rare), it’s still better to use wired.

Q2: What if my DVR loses connection after setting a static IP?
First, check for typos in the IP, gateway, or subnet. Then, reboot the DVR. If it still fails, temporarily switch back to DHCP, reconnect, and re-enter the static settings carefully. Use the ping test to confirm.

Q3: Can I use the same static IP for multiple DVRs?
No. Each device needs a unique IP. Assign different static IPs (e.g., 192.168.1.20 for DVR1, 192.168.1.21 for DVR2) to avoid conflicts.

Q4: Do I need to restart my router after setting a static IP?
No. The DVR handles the change. However, if you also set a DHCP reservation, restart the router to apply it fully.

Q5: How do I find my Hikvision DVR’s MAC address?
Go to System → Information on the DVR. The MAC address is listed under “Network Interface.” Or, check your router’s connected devices list—it’s usually labeled “Hikvision” or “DS-XXXX.”

Q6: Is a static IP necessary for local viewing?
Not strictly, but it’s helpful. If you only view via HDMI monitor, DHCP works. But for remote access, mobile apps, or integration with smart home systems, a static IP is essential. This is a core part of how to configure Hikvision DVR static IP in 2026 a complete guide.

Q7: What if my internet provider changes my public IP?
That’s okay. Your static IP is on your local network. The public IP (what Hik-Connect uses) is managed by your router’s NAT. As long as your local static IP is correct, remote access works even if your public IP changes.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to configure Hikvision DVR static IP in 2026 a complete guide isn’t just about tech know-how—it’s about peace of mind. With a static IP, your security system stays online, your cameras stay accessible, and you avoid the frustration of broken remote access.

You’ve now set up a stable, reliable network for your Hikvision DVR. Whether you’re checking in from work, vacation, or just another room, your cameras will be there when you need them.

Remember the key steps: choose an IP outside the DHCP range, enter settings correctly, test with ping, and reserve the IP on your router. These small actions prevent big problems down the road.

And if you ever run into issues, don’t hesitate to revisit this guide. Bookmark it. Share it with your installer. Keep your notes handy.

Your next step? Set up remote alerts, enable motion detection, or integrate with a smart home hub. With a solid static IP foundation, the sky’s the limit.

Stay secure, stay connected, and never worry about a lost connection again.