To factory reset a Dahua NVR in 2026, access the device’s web interface or local menu, then navigate to System > Maintenance > Factory Reset to restore default settings instantly. This process erases all configurations, including user accounts and camera links, so back up critical data first. Ensure the NVR is powered and connected during the reset to avoid system corruption.

“`html

How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole on the back or side of the NVR.
• Press and hold: Use a paperclip to press the button for 10+ seconds.
• Wait for reboot: The NVR will restart and restore default settings automatically.
• Reconfigure settings: Reset erases all custom configurations; plan to re-setup afterward.
• Backup first: Always export important footage and settings before resetting.
• No power interruption: Keep the NVR plugged in during the reset process.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Ever tried accessing your Dahua NVR only to find you’ve forgotten the password? Or maybe the system is acting slow, frozen, or just not connecting to your cameras properly. These are common issues that can often be fixed with a simple factory reset.

Whether you’re a homeowner managing a DIY security setup or a technician troubleshooting a client’s system, knowing how to factory reset a Dahua NVR is a must-have skill. A reset clears all user settings, passwords, and configurations, restoring the device to its original state—just like when it was first unboxed.

This How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide will walk you through every step, safely and clearly. We’ll cover why resets are needed, what tools you need, and how to do it without losing your footage (or your mind). Whether you’re using a DHI-NVR4108HS-4KS2, NVR4216-16P-4KS2, or any other Dahua model, this method works across most modern units.

By the end, you’ll be able to confidently reset your NVR, troubleshoot common errors, and avoid the most common pitfalls. Let’s get started!

What You Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather everything you’ll need. The How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide requires only a few basic tools and a little patience.

• Dahua NVR (any model from 2020–2026)
• Monitor and HDMI/VGA cable (to see the interface)
• USB mouse (most Dahua NVRs don’t support keyboard-only navigation)
• Power source (NVR must be plugged in)
• Optional: USB flash drive (if backing up settings)
• Optional: Laptop or smartphone (for accessing web interface)
• Notebook and pen (to jot down new login details)

Pro tip: If your NVR has been running for months, consider backing up important settings before resetting. Once reset, all custom configurations—like motion detection zones, user accounts, and network settings—will be wiped.

Warning: A factory reset will erase all user data, including passwords, camera names, and network configurations. It will not delete recorded video stored on the hard drive—unless you choose to format the disk during reset. Be careful!

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Now that you’re ready, let’s go through the process step by step. This method uses the NVR’s built-in menu, which is the safest and most reliable way. We’ll also cover the physical reset button method for emergencies.

Step 1: Access the Dahua NVR Interface

First, make sure your NVR is powered on and connected to a monitor via HDMI or VGA. You should see the Dahua login screen or live camera feed.

Plug in your USB mouse. Dahua NVRs use a point-and-click interface, and a mouse is essential for navigation. If you’re using the web interface (via a browser), go to the NVR’s IP address (usually found on the label or via your router’s connected devices list).

Once logged in (if you know the password), go to the main menu. If you’ve forgotten the password, don’t worry—we’ll cover the reset method that bypasses login later in this How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide.

Step 2: Navigate to the System Maintenance Menu

On the live view screen, right-click with your mouse to open the quick menu. Select “Main Menu” (or “System” depending on your model).

Go to “System” > “System Maintenance”. This section contains tools for updating, backing up, and—yes—resetting your NVR.

You may be asked to enter your password here. If you don’t remember it, skip to Step 5 (Physical Reset Button Method) below.

Pro Tip: If you’re using the web interface, log in via a browser, then go to System > Configuration > System > Maintenance. The layout is similar.

Step 3: Locate the “Restore” or “Factory Reset” Option

Inside the System Maintenance menu, look for “Restore”, “Restore to Default”, or “Factory Reset”. The exact wording varies by firmware version, but it’s usually near the bottom.

Click on it. You’ll see a pop-up with several options:

• Restore to Default Settings (keeps video, erases configs)
• Restore to Default Settings and Format HDD (erases everything, including recordings)
• Restore to Default Settings and Delete All Users (keeps video, removes accounts)

Choose the first option: “Restore to Default Settings”—this keeps your recorded footage safe.

Warning: Avoid selecting “Format HDD” unless you’re selling the NVR or starting completely fresh. Formatting will delete all video data and cannot be undone.

Step 4: Confirm and Execute the Reset

After selecting your reset option, a confirmation dialog will appear. It might say: “This will restore all settings to default. Continue?”

Click “OK” or “Yes”. The NVR will begin the reset process. This usually takes 1–3 minutes. The screen may go black or show a progress bar.

Once complete, the NVR will automatically reboot. You’ll see the Dahua splash screen, followed by the initial setup wizard—just like the first time you powered it on.

Congratulations! You’ve just completed the How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide using the software method.

Step 5: Physical Reset Button Method (For Forgotten Passwords)

Can’t log in? No problem. Most Dahua NVRs (especially models from 2020–2026) have a tiny reset button on the back or side panel.

Here’s how to use it:

• Power on the NVR.
• Locate the reset hole (often labeled “RST” or “Reset”).
• Use a paperclip, SIM ejector tool, or needle to press and hold the button.
• Hold for 15–20 seconds while the NVR is running.
• Release when the system reboots (you’ll see the Dahua logo).

This method performs a soft factory reset: it restores default settings and removes the password, but does not erase video unless the HDD was already full or corrupted.

Note: Some newer models (e.g., NVR6000 series) may require a 30-second hold. If it doesn’t work the first time, try holding for 30 seconds. Also, ensure the NVR is powered—don’t do this while unplugged.

Step 6: Set Up the NVR Again (Post-Reset)

After the reset, the NVR will guide you through a setup wizard. You’ll need to:

• Set a new admin password (strongly recommended: use letters, numbers, and symbols).
• Set the time zone and system time (critical for accurate video timestamps).
• Re-add your IP cameras (the NVR will auto-detect most, but you may need to re-enter passwords).
• Configure network settings (static IP, port forwarding, etc.).

Take your time here. A misconfigured network setting can prevent remote access or cause camera dropouts.

Tip: Write down your new admin password and store it in a secure place (like a password manager). You don’t want to go through this reset process again!

Step 7: Verify Camera Connections and Recordings

Once setup is complete, go to the live view screen. Make sure all your cameras are online. If one is missing, right-click and select “Reconnect” or go to Camera > Camera Management to re-add it.

Check the recording status: each camera should show a red dot (recording) or green (motion detected). Go to Storage > Schedule to confirm your recording schedule is active.

Test playback: pick a camera and try playing back a few seconds of footage. If it works, your reset was successful!

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a clear How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide, things can go sideways. Here are the top tips and pitfalls to avoid.

1. Always Back Up Settings First

Before resetting, go to System > Configuration > Backup and save your settings to a USB drive. This includes camera names, motion zones, and network info. After reset, you can restore these in seconds.

Why it matters: Re-adding 16 cameras manually takes forever. A backup saves you hours.

2. Don’t Format the HDD Unless Necessary

Many users panic and format the hard drive during reset—only to realize later they lost months of footage. Unless the drive is failing or you’re selling the NVR, never format the HDD.

Check HDD health first: go to Storage > HDD Management and look for “Normal” status. If it says “Error” or “Not Formatted,” then consider formatting.

3. Use the Correct Reset Method for Your Situation

• Forgot password? → Use the physical reset button.
• System is slow or glitchy? → Use software reset (keep video).
• Selling or donating? → Use software reset + format HDD.

Using the wrong method can cost you data or time.

4. Update Firmware After Reset

Dahua regularly releases firmware updates to fix bugs and improve security. After reset, go to System > Maintenance > Upgrade and check for updates.

Download the latest firmware from Dahua’s official website and upload it via USB or network.

5. Avoid Power Interruptions During Reset

Never unplug the NVR while it’s resetting. Power loss can corrupt the system or hard drive, leading to a bricked device.

Real-life example: A user once reset their NVR during a storm. A power surge hit mid-reset. The NVR wouldn’t boot afterward and needed professional repair. Always use a UPS or surge protector!

6. Reconfigure Remote Access (If Needed)

After reset, your P2P (Dahua Cloud), port forwarding, and DDNS settings will be gone. Re-enable them if you want to view cameras from your phone or laptop.

For mobile access: install the DMSS app (formerly iDMSS), scan the NVR’s QR code, and log in.

FAQs About How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Let’s answer the most common questions people have when resetting their Dahua NVR.

1. Will a factory reset delete my recorded videos?

No, not unless you explicitly choose to format the hard drive. The standard factory reset only erases settings, passwords, and user accounts. Your video recordings remain safe on the HDD.

However, if the HDD was nearly full or had errors, the reset might trigger automatic cleanup. That’s why we recommend checking HDD health first.

2. How long does the reset process take?

Typically, 2 to 5 minutes from confirmation to reboot. The actual reset is fast, but the system may take extra time to rebuild the configuration database.

Physical button reset is faster—usually under 2 minutes.

3. What if the reset button doesn’t work?

If holding the reset button does nothing:

• Ensure the NVR is powered on.
• Try holding for 30 seconds instead of 15.
• Some models require the button to be pressed during boot—try holding it while powering on.
• If still no luck, use the software method (if you can log in) or contact Dahua support.

4. Can I reset the NVR remotely?

Yes, but only if you can log in via the web interface or DMSS app. Go to System > Maintenance > Restore in the web menu.

However, if you’ve forgotten the password, remote reset won’t work. You’ll need physical access for the button method.

5. Why does my NVR show “No Permission” after reset?

This usually means you’re using an old user account that was deleted. After reset, only the default admin account exists.

Solution: Log in as admin with the password you just set. All other accounts (like “user1” or “viewer”) must be recreated manually.

6. My cameras aren’t connecting after reset. What now?

First, check the network: are the NVR and cameras on the same subnet? Try pinging the cameras from the NVR.

Next, go to Camera > Camera Management and click “Search” to auto-detect IP cameras. Re-add any missing ones.

If a camera still won’t connect, check its IP address and subnet mask. It might be set to a different network.

7. Is there a way to reset only the password, not all settings?

Unfortunately, Dahua does not offer a password-only reset. The only way to bypass a forgotten password is the physical reset button, which resets all settings.

That’s why we recommend writing down your password or using a password manager!

Final Thoughts

Resetting your Dahua NVR doesn’t have to be scary. With this How to Factory Reset a Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide, you now have the tools, steps, and confidence to do it right—whether you’re fixing a frozen system, recovering from a forgotten password, or preparing the device for resale.

Remember: always back up your settings, avoid formatting the HDD unless necessary, and use the physical reset button as a last resort. Take your time during the post-reset setup—it’s worth the effort to get everything working smoothly.

After the reset, spend 10 minutes checking camera feeds, recording schedules, and remote access. A quick test now can save you from headaches later.

And if you run into issues? Don’t panic. Most problems (like cameras not connecting or playback errors) are easy to fix with a little troubleshooting.

Now go reset that NVR with confidence! Your security system will be back to peak performance in no time. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend or colleague—they might just need it next.

Stay safe, stay secure, and keep your cameras rolling.

“`