To factory reset a Dahua NVR in 2026, access the device’s web interface or local menu, then navigate to System > Maintenance > Default Settings to restore all configurations to factory defaults. This process erases all custom settings, including user accounts and recording schedules, so always back up critical data beforehand. For locked-out users, a physical reset via the reset button (using a paperclip) offers a quick recovery option.

How to Factory Reset Dahua NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate reset button: Find the physical reset button on your Dahua NVR device.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button with a paperclip for 10 seconds.
• Wait for reboot: Allow the NVR to fully restart after resetting to complete the process.
• Backup data first: Save recordings and settings before resetting to avoid permanent loss.
• Default login: Use admin/123456 credentials to log in post-reset for initial setup.
• Check firmware: Update firmware immediately after reset to ensure optimal performance and security.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re setting up a new security system and realize your Dahua NVR (Network Video Recorder) is still running old configurations, forgotten passwords, or cluttered with past camera setups. Maybe you bought a secondhand unit or just want a clean slate. That’s when you need to know how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide—a simple but powerful fix that restores your device to its original state.

Over time, NVRs accumulate user settings, IP addresses, login attempts, and firmware quirks. A factory reset wipes all of it clean, letting you start fresh. Whether you’re troubleshooting, reselling, or upgrading your surveillance system, this process is essential. And the best part? It’s easier than you think—if you follow the right steps.

Unlike a soft reboot, a factory reset removes every custom setting: passwords, camera connections, recording schedules, network preferences, and even system time. This makes it a go-to solution for both beginners and pros. But don’t rush in—doing it wrong can lead to data loss or connectivity issues. That’s why this how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide walks you through every detail safely and clearly.

What You Need

Before diving in, gather these tools. Most are already at your fingertips, but skipping any can cause delays or mistakes.

• Dahua NVR unit (any model from 2020–2026, including XVR, DHI-NVR series, etc.)
• Computer or laptop (Windows, Mac, or Linux) connected to the same network as the NVR
• Ethernet cable (to directly connect NVR to your router or PC for stable access)
• Mouse and keyboard (if your NVR has a USB port—most do)
• Monitor with HDMI or VGA input (to view the NVR interface during reset)
• Original admin password (if you still have it—otherwise, we’ll cover password recovery)
• Dahua SmartPSS software (optional but helpful for remote management)
• Dahua ConfigTool (free software from Dahua’s website—useful for finding NVR IP and resetting via network)
• USB flash drive (8GB+) (only if using offline reset method)

Don’t worry if you don’t have all items. We’ll show multiple methods so you can pick what works for your setup. Whether you’re resetting via front panel, web browser, or USB, this guide covers it all—making how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide truly universal.

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

Step 1: Back Up Important Data (Do This First!)

Before you erase anything, back up your recordings and settings. A factory reset deletes all video footage stored on the internal hard drive—unless it’s already backed up externally.

Go to your NVR’s main menu: Playback > Backup. Select the time range and cameras you want to save. Choose an external USB drive or network location as the destination. This step takes minutes to hours depending on data size.

Pro Tip: If you’re reselling the NVR, skip backup. But if you’re troubleshooting, always save critical footage first. Once reset, there’s no going back.

Also export your configuration file (if available). On newer models, go to System > Maintenance > Export Config. Save this file to your computer—it contains camera names, IPs, and settings you might want to reuse later. This makes how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide even more efficient.

Step 2: Power Up and Connect Properly

Plug in your NVR, monitor, mouse, and keyboard. Use an HDMI or VGA cable to connect the NVR to your monitor. Make sure the NVR powers on and displays the login screen.

Connect the NVR to your router using an Ethernet cable. A direct connection ensures stable communication, especially when accessing the web interface. Avoid Wi-Fi—it’s unreliable for NVR operations.

Wait 2–3 minutes for the system to fully boot. You’ll see the home screen with camera feeds (if any are connected). If no cameras appear, that’s okay—we’re focusing on the reset.

Warning: Never unplug the NVR during a reset. Power loss can corrupt firmware and require professional repair.

Now you’re ready for the actual reset. The method depends on whether you have the admin password.

Step 3: Reset via Front Panel (If You Have the Admin Password)

This is the safest and most straightforward method. It uses the physical buttons or touchscreen on your Dahua NVR.

Log in using your admin credentials. If you’re already logged in, great. If not, enter the username (usually admin) and your password.

Once inside, follow these steps:

• Click Menu (or press the Menu button on the front panel)
• Go to System > Maintenance > Restore
• Select Factory Reset or Restore to Factory Default
• Confirm by clicking OK or Apply

The NVR will restart automatically. This process takes 3–5 minutes. During this time, the screen may go blank or show a progress bar. Do not touch anything.

After reboot, you’ll see the initial setup wizard—just like when the NVR was first installed. This confirms the reset worked. You’ve now completed the how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide via front panel.

Pro Tip: After reset, set a strong admin password immediately. Default passwords like “admin123” are vulnerable to hacking.

Step 4: Reset via Web Browser (Remote Access Method)

Don’t have physical access? No problem. Use the web interface from any computer on the same network.

First, find your NVR’s IP address. You can do this by:

• Checking the NVR’s network settings on-screen (System > Network > TCP/IP)
• Using Dahua ConfigTool (download from dahuatech.com) to scan your network
• Logging into your router and looking at connected devices

Open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) and type the NVR’s IP address into the address bar. Example: http://192.168.1.108. Press Enter.

Log in using your admin username and password. If you’re using a modern browser, it may warn about security certificates—click “Proceed anyway” or “Advanced > Accept Risk.”

Navigate to:

• Configuration > System > Maintenance > Restore
• Choose Factory Reset
• Click Apply or Save

The NVR will restart. Wait 5–10 minutes before trying to log back in. The web interface will return to the default login page.

Warning: If your NVR uses HTTPS, make sure your browser supports it. Some older Dahua models default to HTTP, which is less secure but easier to access.

This method is ideal for remote offices, warehouses, or multi-site systems. It proves that how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide works even without being next to the device.

Step 5: Reset Without Password (Using USB or ConfigTool)

Forgot your admin password? Don’t panic. Dahua provides two ways to reset it without losing data—or force a full reset if needed.

Method A: Use Dahua ConfigTool (Recommended)

Download and install Dahua ConfigTool from the official website. Open the software and click Device Search. It will list all Dahua devices on your network.

Find your NVR in the list. Right-click and select Reset Password. Enter a new admin password. The tool will send the reset command over the network.

Now log into the web interface or front panel with the new password and proceed with the factory reset as in Step 3 or 4.

Method B: USB Reset (Offline Method)

Create a special file to trigger a forced reset:

• Insert a USB flash drive into your computer
• Create a new text file named reset.txt
• Inside the file, write: reset=1 (no quotes)
• Save and eject the USB
• Plug the USB into the NVR’s USB port
• Power on the NVR while holding the Shift button (on some models) or simply power on

The NVR will detect the file and perform a factory reset automatically. The screen may flash or show a reset message. Wait until it reboots completely.

Warning: The USB method erases everything—including recordings. Only use it if you’ve already backed up or don’t need the data.

After the reset, remove the USB and delete the reset.txt file. This prevents accidental resets in the future. This method is a lifesaver for forgotten passwords and is a key part of the how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide for locked units.

Step 6: Reset via SmartPSS (For Advanced Users)

If you use Dahua’s desktop software, SmartPSS, you can manage and reset multiple NVRs remotely.

Open SmartPSS and log in to your account. Click Device Management > Device List. Find your NVR and select it.

Right-click and choose Remote Configuration. Log in with admin credentials (or use the password reset feature if needed).

Go to System > Maintenance > Restore. Select Factory Reset and confirm.

The NVR will restart. SmartPSS will temporarily lose connection, then reconnect after the reboot. You can now reconfigure cameras and settings from the software.

This method is perfect for large installations with 10+ cameras or multiple NVRs. It streamlines the process and reduces downtime.

Pro Tip: SmartPSS also lets you schedule firmware updates, manage users, and view live feeds—all from one dashboard. Great for security managers.

Step 7: Reconfigure Your NVR After Reset

After the reset, your NVR is like a new device. It needs setup before it can record again.

Follow the on-screen wizard:

• Set date, time, and time zone
• Create a strong admin password (8+ characters, mix letters, numbers, symbols)
• Configure network settings (static IP recommended for reliability)
• Enable HTTPS and update firmware if prompted

Now add your cameras. You can do this manually by entering IP addresses or using Auto Search to detect cameras on the network.

Go to Camera > Camera List > Add. Select the cameras and click Add. Wait a few seconds for connection.

Set recording schedules, motion detection, and storage settings. Test playback to ensure everything works.

You’ve now completed the full cycle: from reset to reconfiguration. This final step ensures your NVR runs smoothly and securely—making the how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide truly complete.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a clear guide, small errors can cause big headaches. Here’s what to watch for.

• Always back up first. A reset deletes recordings. If you need footage later, you won’t get it back.
• Use a wired connection. Wi-Fi drops can interrupt the reset process. Use Ethernet for reliability.
• Update firmware after reset. Older versions may have bugs. Go to System > Maintenance > Upgrade to get the latest version.
• Don’t skip the password reset step. If you can’t log in, use ConfigTool or USB method first.
• Label your NVR. After reset, write the new IP and password on a label. Prevents confusion later.
• Test camera feeds immediately. After re-adding cameras, check live view and recording. Fix issues early.
• Avoid factory reset during recording. If the NVR is actively recording, wait until a quiet time. Interrupting writes can corrupt files.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to re-enable remote access after reset. Go to Network > Port and ensure ports 80 (HTTP), 443 (HTTPS), and 37777 (data) are open. Otherwise, you won’t be able to access the NVR from outside your network.

Another pitfall? Using a low-quality USB drive for the offline reset. Cheap drives may not be recognized. Use a branded, 8GB+ drive formatted as FAT32.

And remember: a factory reset doesn’t fix hardware problems. If your NVR won’t boot, makes noise, or overheats, the issue may be a failed hard drive or power supply. In that case, contact Dahua support.

These tips make the how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide not just easy—but error-free.

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

Q1: Will a factory reset delete my hard drive data?
Yes. A factory reset erases all recordings, settings, and configurations on the internal hard drive. Always back up important footage before resetting. If your hard drive is failing, consider replacing it first.

Q2: Can I reset my Dahua NVR without a monitor?
Yes, but it’s harder. Use Dahua ConfigTool or SmartPSS over the network. If you can access the web interface, you can reset remotely. But you won’t see progress—wait 5–10 minutes before reconnecting.

Q3: What if the reset button doesn’t work?
Try the USB method (Step 5). If that fails, check if the firmware is corrupted. Download the latest firmware from Dahua’s website and update via USB. If the NVR still won’t respond, contact Dahua technical support.

Q4: How long does a factory reset take?
About 3–5 minutes for the reset itself, plus 2–3 minutes for reboot. Total downtime: 5–8 minutes. If it takes longer, don’t panic—just wait. If it exceeds 15 minutes, power cycle and try again.

Q5: Can I reset a Dahua NVR from my phone?
Not directly. But you can use the Dahua Mobile App (iDMSS Lite or gDMSS Plus) to access the web interface remotely. Log in, navigate to settings, and trigger the reset—just like on a computer. Works on iOS and Android.

Q6: What’s the difference between “Restore” and “Factory Reset”?
“Restore” may only reset settings. “Factory Reset” wipes everything—settings, users, recordings, and network config. Always choose Factory Reset for a clean start.

Q7: Will resetting affect my cameras?
No. Cameras are separate devices. They’ll keep recording (if powered) but lose connection to the NVR. After reset, re-add them using their IP addresses. No need to reset the cameras themselves.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to factory reset Dahua NVR in 2026 easy guide is a must-have skill for anyone managing a security system. Whether you’re fixing a glitch, selling your unit, or starting fresh, a reset gives you control and peace of mind.

We’ve covered every method: front panel, web browser, USB, ConfigTool, and SmartPSS. Pick the one that fits your situation. Remember to back up, use a wired connection, and reconfigure carefully.

And don’t forget: after the reset, update your firmware, set a strong password, and test your cameras. A few extra minutes now prevent hours of troubleshooting later.

Now that you’ve mastered this process, share it with your team or installer. A clean, well-maintained NVR means reliable surveillance—24/7. Bookmark this guide for future use. Your security system will thank you.

Ready to reset? Grab your mouse, open the menu, and take back control. Your Dahua NVR is about to get a fresh start.