This guide walks you through how to delete video from Dahua DVR using the local interface, web browser, or mobile app. You’ll also learn best practices to avoid accidental data loss and maintain system performance.
Key Takeaways
- Step-by-step: Easy to follow instructions
How to Delete Video from Dahua DVR: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re managing a Dahua DVR system, you’ve probably recorded hours—maybe even days—of surveillance footage. Over time, your hard drive fills up, and you need to free up space. That’s when knowing how to delete video from Dahua DVR becomes essential.
Whether you’re cleaning up old recordings, making room for new ones, or removing sensitive footage, this guide will walk you through every method available. We’ll cover local deletion using the DVR interface, remote access via web browser, and even mobile app options. You’ll also learn smart tips to avoid accidental deletions and keep your system running smoothly.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be confident in managing your Dahua DVR’s storage like a pro. Let’s get started.
Understanding Your Dahua DVR System
Visual guide about How to Delete Video from Dahua Dvr
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Before diving into deletion, it’s helpful to understand how Dahua DVRs store and manage video.
Dahua DVRs (Digital Video Recorders) are designed to record video from connected security cameras onto an internal hard drive. These recordings are stored in segments—usually by time, camera channel, and event type (like motion detection). The system can be set to overwrite old footage automatically when the drive is full, but sometimes you’ll want to manually delete specific videos.
Knowing your DVR model (such as Dahua XVR5104HS, DHI-XVR5208AN, or similar) helps, but most Dahua systems follow a similar interface layout. Whether you’re using an older analog DVR or a newer hybrid model, the steps below will apply with minor variations.
Method 1: Deleting Video Directly on the DVR (Local Interface)
The most straightforward way to delete video is using the DVR’s built-in interface. This method requires physical access to the DVR or a monitor connected to it.
Step 1: Access the Main Menu
Turn on your DVR and connect it to a monitor using an HDMI or VGA cable. Use the included mouse or remote control to navigate.
Click the Menu button (usually represented by three horizontal lines or a gear icon) in the bottom-right corner of the screen. This opens the main menu.
Step 2: Navigate to Playback or Storage
In the menu, look for an option labeled Playback, Record Playback, or Storage. Click on it.
Some models may have a Search tab instead. This is where you can browse recorded footage by date, time, and camera.
Step 3: Select the Video to Delete
Once in the playback section, you’ll see a calendar or timeline view. Use the calendar to pick the date of the recording you want to delete.
Next, select the camera channel (e.g., Camera 1, Camera 2) and the time range. You can usually drag to select a block of time or click on individual clips.
Look for a Delete or Erase button—often shown as a trash can icon. Click it.
Step 4: Confirm Deletion
A confirmation dialog will appear asking if you’re sure you want to delete the selected video. Click Yes or OK to proceed.
⚠️ Important: Once deleted, the video cannot be recovered unless you have a backup. Double-check your selection before confirming.
Step 5: Verify the Deletion
Return to the playback screen and check the same time slot. The video should no longer appear in the timeline.
If it’s still there, try refreshing the view or rebooting the DVR. Sometimes the system needs a moment to update the storage index.
Method 2: Deleting Video via Web Browser (Remote Access)
If you can’t access the DVR physically, you can manage recordings remotely using a web browser. This is ideal for offices, homes, or multi-site setups.
Step 1: Find the DVR’s IP Address
You’ll need the DVR’s local IP address to connect. Here’s how to find it:
– On the DVR interface, go to Menu > Network > TCP/IP.
– Note the IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.108).
– Make sure your computer is on the same network.
Alternatively, use the Dahua ConfigTool software to scan your network and locate the DVR.
Step 2: Log in to the Web Interface
Open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge) and type the DVR’s IP address into the address bar. Press Enter.
You’ll see a login page. Enter your DVR’s username and password. The default is often:
– Username: admin
– Password: admin or 123456
⚠️ Security Tip: Change the default password after first login to prevent unauthorized access.
Step 3: Navigate to Playback
Once logged in, look for a tab or menu labeled Playback or Search. Click on it.
You’ll see a similar interface to the local DVR menu, with a calendar and camera list.
Step 4: Select and Delete the Video
Choose the date, camera, and time range of the recording you want to delete.
Click the Search button to load the clips. Then, select the video(s) you want to remove.
Look for a Delete or Erase option—usually in a toolbar at the top or bottom of the screen.
Confirm the deletion when prompted.
Step 5: Refresh and Verify
After deletion, refresh the page or re-search the time slot to confirm the video is gone.
Some browsers may require you to clear cache or use incognito mode if the old video still appears.
Method 3: Using the Dahua Mobile App (DMSS or Smart PSS)
For on-the-go management, Dahua offers mobile apps like DMSS (Dahua Mobile Surveillance System) or Smart PSS (for desktop). These allow you to view and delete recordings from your smartphone or tablet.
Step 1: Install and Set Up the App
Download DMSS from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Open the app and add your DVR:
– Tap the “+” icon.
– Choose “Add Device.”
– Enter the DVR’s IP address, port (usually 37777), username, and password.
– Save the device.
Step 2: Access Playback
Once connected, tap on the DVR name to open the live view.
Look for a Playback or History icon (often a clock or calendar symbol).
Step 3: Select and Delete Recordings
Choose the date and camera channel. The app will load available recordings.
Tap and hold on a video clip to select it. Then, tap the Delete or Trash icon.
Confirm the action when prompted.
⚠️ Note: Not all Dahua models support remote deletion via mobile app. Check your DVR’s firmware version and app compatibility.
Best Practices for Deleting Video from Dahua DVR
Deleting video isn’t just about freeing space—it’s about managing your system responsibly. Follow these best practices to avoid mistakes and maintain security.
1. Always Back Up Important Footage
Before deleting anything, ask: Is this video important? If it’s evidence, a security incident, or a memorable event, back it up first.
You can:
– Export videos to a USB drive via the DVR’s USB port.
– Save clips to your computer using the web interface.
– Use Dahua’s Smart PSS software to download recordings.
Store backups in a secure location—like an external hard drive or cloud storage.
2. Use Scheduled Overwrite Instead of Manual Deletion
Instead of manually deleting videos, set your DVR to auto-overwrite old recordings.
Go to Menu > Storage > HDD Management and enable Overwrite or Circular Recording.
This ensures the DVR automatically deletes the oldest footage when the drive is full, preventing storage errors.
3. Delete by Camera or Time Range
Avoid deleting entire days unless necessary. Instead, select specific time ranges or camera channels.
For example:
– Delete footage from Camera 3 between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM on June 10.
– Remove motion-triggered clips from a low-priority area.
This keeps important recordings intact.
4. Keep Firmware Updated
Outdated firmware can cause glitches during deletion or playback.
Check for updates:
– Go to Menu > Maintenance > Upgrade.
– Download the latest firmware from Dahua’s official website.
– Install it carefully—never interrupt the process.
5. Monitor Hard Drive Health
A failing hard drive can cause deletion errors or data corruption.
Use the DVR’s HDD Info or Health Status tool to check drive condition.
Replace the drive if you see warnings like “Bad Sectors” or “Low Health.”
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful steps, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues when deleting video from Dahua DVR.
Problem: “Delete” Button Is Grayed Out or Missing
This usually means you don’t have the right permissions.
Solution:
– Log in as the admin user.
– Go to Menu > User Management and ensure your account has “Playback” and “Delete” privileges.
– If using a guest account, switch to admin.
Problem: Video Won’t Delete After Confirmation
Sometimes the system says it deleted the video, but it’s still there.
Solution:
– Reboot the DVR. Power it off for 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
– Check if the hard drive is full or corrupted.
– Try deleting via the web interface instead of the local menu.
Problem: Can’t Access Web Interface
If the browser won’t load the DVR login page:
Solution:
– Verify the IP address is correct.
– Ensure your computer and DVR are on the same network.
– Disable firewall or antivirus temporarily.
– Try a different browser or clear cache.
Problem: Mobile App Won’t Delete Videos
Some older DVR models don’t support remote deletion via app.
Solution:
– Use the web interface instead.
– Update the DVR firmware.
– Use Smart PSS on a computer for more control.
Problem: Accidental Deletion
If you deleted the wrong video:
Solution:
– Check if you have a backup on USB or computer.
– If not, data recovery is nearly impossible—DVRs don’t have a “Recycle Bin.”
– In the future, always double-check before deleting.
Advanced Tips for Power Users
If you manage multiple DVRs or need more control, try these advanced techniques.
Use Smart PSS for Bulk Management
Dahua’s Smart PSS software (available for Windows) lets you manage multiple DVRs from one screen.
You can:
– Search and delete videos across several devices.
– Export recordings in bulk.
– Set up automated backup schedules.
Download it from Dahua’s support site and install it on a central computer.
Set Up Motion-Based Recording
Instead of recording 24/7, configure your DVR to record only when motion is detected.
Go to Menu > Record > Record Schedule and select MotionUse FTP or Cloud Backup
For critical footage, set up automatic backups to an FTP server or cloud storage. Go to Menu > Storage > FTP and enter your server details. The DVR will upload recordings in real time, so you can safely delete local copies. Knowing how to delete video from Dahua DVR is a vital skill for anyone managing a surveillance system. Whether you’re clearing space, removing sensitive content, or maintaining system performance, the process is straightforward when you follow the right steps. You now have three reliable methods: using the local interface, accessing the web browser, or managing via mobile app. You also know how to back up footage, avoid common mistakes, and troubleshoot issues. Remember: always double-check before deleting, keep your system updated, and use auto-overwrite to prevent storage problems. With these practices, your Dahua DVR will run smoothly for years to come. Take control of your recordings today—your security system will thank you.Conclusion