Connecting two Hikvision NVRs in 2026 is seamless using the Hik-Connect platform or direct network linking via ONVIF or RTSP protocols. Ensure both NVRs are on the same network, then add one as a remote device in the other’s interface—this enables unified multi-site surveillance with centralized control. For optimal performance, use the latest firmware and verify IP/DNS settings to avoid conflicts.

How to Connect Two Hikvision NVR Together in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Use Hik-Connect: Enable Hik-Connect on both NVRs for seamless cloud-based linking.
• Same Network: Ensure both NVRs are on the same LAN for local integration.
• Add via UID: Use the primary NVR to add the secondary via its unique UID.
• Firmware Update: Keep both NVRs updated to avoid compatibility issues in 2026.
• Configure Streams: Set sub-streams for efficient bandwidth usage across devices.
• Test Connection: Verify live view and playback after setup to confirm success.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Running a large property, warehouse, or multi-building campus? You probably have more cameras than a single Hikvision NVR can handle. Maybe you’ve already hit the 32-channel limit, or you want to keep indoor and outdoor cameras separate for better management. That’s where how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026 becomes essential.

Connecting two NVRs isn’t just about expanding storage—it’s about creating a unified, scalable surveillance system. Whether you’re a security manager, IT admin, or a tech-savvy homeowner, linking NVRs lets you monitor all cameras from one dashboard, share footage across systems, and avoid blind spots.

But here’s the catch: it’s not as simple as plugging in an extra cable. You need the right network setup, compatible firmware, and a clear plan. Done wrong, you’ll face lag, failed connections, or even data loss. This guide walks you through a proven, step-by-step process to get your NVRs working together smoothly—without guesswork.

By the end, you’ll not only know how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026, but also how to do it reliably and efficiently, using tools you likely already have.

What You Need

Before you start, gather everything. Skipping a tool or misconfiguring a setting can waste hours. Here’s your checklist:

• Two Hikvision NVRs (DS-7600, DS-9600, or newer 2024–2026 models)
• Network switch (Gigabit preferred, at least 100 Mbps)
• Cat 6 Ethernet cables (one per NVR + one for router)
• Router with DHCP server (your home or office internet router)
• Computer or laptop (Windows or Mac, with web browser)
• Hik-Connect app or iVMS-4200 software (download from Hikvision’s official site)
• Access to both NVRs’ web interfaces (via browser using NVR’s IP address)
• Static IP addresses (optional but recommended for stability)

Bonus: A notepad to jot down IP addresses, usernames, and passwords. You’ll need them later.

Note: Both NVRs should be on the same firmware version. Check this early—mismatched firmware causes connection issues. Update via the NVR’s web interface under System > Maintenance > Upgrade.

This setup works for both wired and hybrid systems. If your cameras are PoE, make sure the NVRs are connected to the same network switch. The key to how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026 is network consistency.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Connect Two Hikvision NVR Together in 2026

Step 1: Power On and Connect Both NVRs to the Network

Start by placing both NVRs in a central, accessible location. Plug them into power and connect each to your network switch using Cat 6 cables. Connect the switch to your router—this ensures all devices are on the same local network.

Power on both NVRs. Wait 2–3 minutes for them to boot up and assign IP addresses via DHCP (if your router supports it).

Now, check each NVR’s screen. You should see a live view of connected cameras and the NVR’s IP address in the corner. If not, go to Main Menu > System > Network > TCP/IP and note the IP.

Pro Tip: Use a label maker to tag each NVR with its IP and name (e.g., “NVR-Front” or “NVR-Back”). This avoids confusion later.

This step ensures both NVRs are on the same subnet—critical for how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026. If one is on 192.168.1.x and the other on 192.168.2.x, they won’t communicate.

Step 2: Assign Static IPs (Recommended for Stability)

Dynamic IPs (from DHCP) can change, breaking your connection. To avoid this, assign static IPs.

Log into the first NVR via your computer’s browser. Enter its IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.100). Use the default credentials (admin/12345) or your custom login.

Go to System > Network > TCP/IP. Change IP Assignment from DHCP to Static. Enter:

• IP Address: 192.168.1.100 (example)
• Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
• Gateway: 192.168.1.1 (your router’s IP)
• DNS: 192.168.1.1 or your ISP’s DNS

Click Save. Repeat for the second NVR, but use a different IP—e.g., 192.168.1.101. Never use the same IP twice.

Warning: After saving, the NVR may reboot. Wait until it’s back online before proceeding.

Static IPs are a must for reliable how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026, especially in 24/7 surveillance systems.

Step 3: Enable Hik-Connect and Register Both NVRs

Hik-Connect is Hikvision’s cloud-based remote access platform. It’s essential for linking NVRs across locations or accessing them from your phone.

On each NVR, go to Main Menu > Network > Platform Access. Enable Hik-Connect. Click Register to get a 6-digit verification code.

Open the Hik-Connect app on your phone or the iVMS-4200 software on your computer. Sign in with your Hik-Connect account (create one if needed).

Tap Add Device, then scan the QR code on the NVR’s screen or enter the verification code manually. Name each NVR clearly (e.g., “Main Building NVR”).

Repeat for the second NVR. Now both are visible in your Hik-Connect app.

Pro Tip: Use the same Hik-Connect account for both. This creates a unified device list—perfect for monitoring multiple NVRs at once.

This step is crucial for remote access and cross-NVR monitoring, a core part of how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026.

Step 4: Set Up NVR-to-NVR Streaming (Remote Camera Access)

Now you’ll let one NVR access cameras connected to the other. This is called “remote camera streaming” or “NVR cascading.”

Log into the first NVR (e.g., 192.168.1.100). Go to Camera > Remote. Click Add.

Choose IP/Domain as the device type. Enter:

• Address: 192.168.1.101 (second NVR’s IP)
• Port: 8000 (default for Hikvision)
• Username: admin (or your custom user)
• Password: [your password]

Click Test. If it says “Success,” click OK and Save.

Now, go to Live View. You should see a new group called “Remote” or “IP Camera.” Click it to view cameras from the second NVR.

Repeat the process in reverse: log into the second NVR and add the first NVR as a remote device.

Warning: If the test fails, check firewall settings, port forwarding (if remote), or username/password. Ensure both NVRs allow remote access under Network > Advanced > Remote Access.

This is the heart of how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026—enabling seamless camera sharing across systems.

Step 5: Configure Event Linking and Alerts

Want motion on one NVR to trigger recording or alerts on the other? Set up event linking.

On the first NVR, go to Event > Video Detection. Select a camera. Under Linkage Method, check Trigger Alarm Output and set it to Output Port 1.

Now, go to Event > Alarm Input. Add a new alarm input. Set Alarm Type to NO (normally open) and Linkage Method to Notify Surveillance Center.

On the second NVR, connect a physical wire from Output 1 (first NVR) to Input 1 (second NVR). Use a 2-wire cable (like alarm wire).

When motion occurs on the first NVR, it triggers Output 1, which activates Input 1 on the second NVR. This can start recording, send an email, or trigger a siren.

For software-only linking (no wires), use iVMS-4200 to create a “Cross-System Event Rule.” In the software, go to Event > Rule, select “Remote NVR Event,” and define actions (e.g., “If NVR1 detects motion, start recording on NVR2”).

This advanced setup is ideal for large facilities where one event (like a door breach) requires a coordinated response.

Pro Tip: Test the link by manually triggering motion on the first NVR and checking if the second NVR responds. Adjust sensitivity if needed.

Step 6: Set Up Shared Storage (Optional)

Need to back up footage from one NVR to the other? Use shared storage.

On the first NVR, go to Storage > HDD > Shared Folder. Create a new shared folder (e.g., “Backup_NVR2”). Set permissions to Read/Write.

On the second NVR, go to Storage > HDD > Network Disk. Click Add. Enter:

• Server IP: 192.168.1.100
• Path: \\192.168.1.100\Backup_NVR2
• Username/password: admin/[password]

Click Test. If successful, click Save.

Now, go to Storage > Schedule. Set a backup schedule—e.g., “Every Friday at 2 AM, backup last 7 days of footage to Network Disk.”

This is useful for offsite backups or compliance (e.g., storing footage for 90 days across two locations).

Warning: Shared storage uses network bandwidth. Avoid setting it during peak hours. Use a dedicated VLAN if possible.

Step 7: Test and Optimize the System

Don’t skip testing! A connected system is only good if it works reliably.

Perform these checks:

• Live View Test: View remote cameras from both NVRs. Check for lag or dropped frames.
• Recording Test: Trigger motion and verify both NVRs record (if linked).
• Remote Access: Use Hik-Connect app to view both NVRs from outside the network.
• Event Test: If using alarm linking, trigger an event and confirm response.

Optimize performance:

• Reduce remote camera resolution to 720p if bandwidth is low.
• Enable Sub-stream for remote viewing (uses less data).
• Update firmware on both NVRs quarterly.

This final step ensures your how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026 setup is rock-solid.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with perfect steps, small mistakes can ruin your setup. Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Use the same subnet: Never connect NVRs to different VLANs or routers without proper routing. They must be on the same network.
• Don’t overload the switch: If you have 16+ cameras, use a managed switch with QoS to prioritize video traffic.
• Avoid default passwords: Change admin passwords on both NVRs. Use strong, unique passwords (e.g., Hik2026!Secure).
• Check firmware compatibility: Older NVRs may not support newer Hik-Connect features. Update both to the latest 2026 firmware.
• Label everything: Use cable tags, NVR labels, and IP logs. You’ll thank yourself when troubleshooting.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to enable Remote Access on both NVRs. Without it, remote streaming fails—even if IPs are correct.

Pro Tip: Use iVMS-4200 as your central hub. It lets you manage both NVRs, view combined live feeds, and export footage from one interface.

For large deployments, consider using Hikvision’s HikCentral software (paid). It supports unlimited NVRs, advanced analytics, and multi-site monitoring—perfect for enterprise use.

Remember: the goal of how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026 isn’t just technical—it’s about creating a smarter, safer environment.

FAQs About How to Connect Two Hikvision NVR Together in 2026

Q1: Can I connect NVRs from different Hikvision series (e.g., DS-7600 and DS-9600)?

Yes, as long as both are on the same firmware version and support Hik-Connect. Older models (pre-2020) may lack cloud features. Check the Platform Access menu to confirm.

Q2: Do I need port forwarding for local NVR connections?

No. Port forwarding is only needed if you want to access NVRs from outside your network (e.g., from your phone on mobile data). For local connections (same building), use local IPs and Hik-Connect’s local mode.

Q3: Why can’t I see remote cameras after adding the NVR?

Check these: (1) Firewall blocking port 8000, (2) Incorrect username/password, (3) NVR not allowing remote access, (4) IP address typo. Test with ping command in Command Prompt: ping 192.168.1.101.

Q4: Can I record footage from one NVR to the other’s hard drive?

Yes, via Network Disk (Step 6). But performance depends on network speed. For 4K cameras, use a Gigabit network and schedule backups during off-hours.

Q5: Is there a limit to how many NVRs I can connect?

Hik-Connect supports up to 64 devices per account. For more, use iVMS-4200 (up to 100) or HikCentral (unlimited). Each NVR can add up to 32 remote NVRs for streaming.

Q6: What if one NVR is at a different location (e.g., remote office)?

Use a site-to-site VPN or Hik-Connect’s cloud relay. Both NVRs must have internet. Set up port forwarding (ports 8000, 554, 80) and static IPs for reliability.

Q7: How do I troubleshoot lag or dropped frames?

Reduce remote camera resolution, enable sub-stream, or use a dedicated network switch. Check bandwidth: 1080p cameras need ~4 Mbps each. Use Network > Traffic on the NVR to monitor usage.

Final Thoughts

Connecting two Hikvision NVRs isn’t just a tech task—it’s a smart upgrade for any surveillance system. Whether you’re securing a warehouse, a retail chain, or a large estate, knowing how to connect two Hikvision NVR together in 2026 gives you flexibility, redundancy, and peace of mind.

You’ve learned how to link NVRs for remote viewing, shared storage, and coordinated alerts. You’ve avoided common pitfalls and optimized performance. Now, take action:

• Start with a small test (e.g., connect two NVRs with 2–4 cameras each).
• Document every IP, password, and setting.
• Test thoroughly before expanding to more cameras or locations.

And remember: technology changes fast. Keep your NVRs updated, review security settings monthly, and consider future upgrades (like AI cameras or cloud backups).

With this guide, you’re not just connecting NVRs—you’re building a smarter, more resilient security system. So grab your cables, fire up your browser, and get started today. Your cameras—and your safety—will thank you.