Discover the fastest way to locate your POE camera’s IP address using the manufacturer’s IP discovery tool or your router’s connected devices list. Simply connect the camera to your network, power it on, and scan for its unique IP—no technical expertise needed. This essential step ensures smooth setup, remote access, and full integration into your security system.

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How to Find IP Address of POE Camera Quick Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use manufacturer software: Most brands offer free tools to auto-detect cameras on your network.
• Check router DHCP list: View connected devices to identify your POE camera’s IP address.
• Scan with IP tools: Use apps like Angry IP Scanner to locate all active IPs quickly.
• Inspect camera label: Some models display IP details on a physical sticker or quick guide.
• Reset to defaults: Press reset button to restore factory IP if address is unknown.
• Access via ONVIF: Use ONVIF Device Manager for standardized discovery across brands.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Setting up a POE (Power over Ethernet) security camera system can be a game-changer for home or business surveillance. But here’s the catch: to access your camera’s live feed, adjust settings, or integrate it with your NVR or smartphone app, you need its IP address. Without it, your camera is just a silent box on the network.

Many people get stuck at this step—especially when the camera doesn’t show up in their router’s device list or the default IP isn’t working. Whether you’re troubleshooting a new install or replacing a faulty unit, knowing how to find IP address of POE camera quick guide saves time, frustration, and costly service calls.

This guide walks you through every method—from plug-and-play tools to advanced network tricks—so you can get your camera online and secure in minutes. No IT degree needed.

What You Need

Before diving in, gather these tools and resources. Most are free or already on your device.

• Laptop or desktop computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6 recommended)
• POE switch or injector (if not using a built-in POE NVR)
• Router with active internet connection
• Camera manufacturer’s app or software (e.g., Hik-Connect, Dahua ConfigTool, or Reolink Client)
• IP scanner tool (e.g., Advanced IP Scanner, Angry IP Scanner, or manufacturer-specific tool)
• Access to your router’s admin panel (usually via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
• Smartphone (optional, for app-based setup)

Pro Tip: If your camera came with a quick start guide, check it first. Many brands list default IP addresses (e.g., 192.168.1.108) and login credentials. This can shortcut your search.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Find IP Address of POE Camera Quick Guide

Step 1: Connect the POE Camera to Your Network

Before you can find the IP, the camera must be powered and connected to your network. Since it’s POE, you only need one cable.

• Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your POE switch, injector, or NVR.
• Connect the other end to the camera’s Ethernet port.
• Ensure the POE source is powered on. The camera should boot up within 1–2 minutes.

Watch for status lights. Most cameras have a solid green or blinking red/blue LED when powered and connecting.

Warning: Never plug a non-POE device into a POE port unless you’re using a POE splitter. It can damage your equipment.

Step 2: Check Your Router’s Device List (Easiest Method)

Your router keeps a list of all connected devices. This is the fastest way to find your camera’s IP—if it shows up.

• Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1) into the address bar.
• Log in with your admin credentials (check the router label or manual if unsure).
• Navigate to Connected Devices, DHCP Clients, or Attached Devices.
• Look for a device named after your camera brand (e.g., “Hikvision,” “Dahua,” “Reolink”) or a generic label like “IP Camera.”

Once found, note the IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.108) and MAC address (for verification).

Why it might not work: Some routers group all cameras under one “POE switch” entry. If that happens, try the next method.

Step 3: Use a Free IP Scanner Tool (Most Reliable)

If the router doesn’t show the camera, an IP scanner is your best bet. These tools ping every IP in your network range to detect active devices.

We recommend Advanced IP Scanner (Windows) or Angry IP Scanner (cross-platform). Both are free, lightweight, and safe.

• Download and install the tool from the official website.
• Open it and click Scan (it usually auto-detects your network range, like 192.168.1.1–254).
• Wait for the scan to finish (usually 30–60 seconds).
• Look for a device with:
  • A name matching your camera brand
  • Port 80 or 8080 open (common for web interfaces)
  • A MAC address starting with known OUI codes (e.g., “00:1E:23” for Dahua)

Right-click the device and select Open URL to launch the camera’s web interface.

Pro Tip: Filter results by “Open ports.” Cameras often use port 80 (HTTP) or 8080. You can also scan just the POE switch’s IP range if it has a dedicated subnet.

Step 4: Use Manufacturer’s Discovery Tool (Best for Brand-Specific Setup)

Many POE camera brands offer free tools to detect and configure their devices. These are optimized for their hardware and often find cameras that generic scanners miss.

Here are the top tools:

• Hikvision: iVMS-4200 or Hik-Connect Desktop
• Dahua: ConfigTool or SmartPSS
• Reolink: Reolink Client
• Axis: AXIS IP Utility
• Amcrest: Amcrest Surveillance Pro

How to use:

• Download and install the tool from the official website.
• Launch it and click Search or Discover.
• The tool will list all compatible devices on your network.
• Double-click the camera to open its web interface or change its IP.

This method is part of the how to find IP address of POE camera quick guide because it’s tailored to your gear—no guesswork.

Warning: Only download tools from official sites. Third-party versions may contain malware.

Step 5: Assign a Static IP (Optional but Recommended)

Cameras usually get IPs via DHCP (dynamic). But if your router restarts or leases expire, the IP can change—breaking your remote access or NVR sync.

Assigning a static IP locks it in place. Here’s how:

• Open the camera’s web interface using the IP you found.
• Log in with the default username and password (often admin/123456 or admin/admin).
• Go to Network Settings or IP Configuration.
• Change from DHCP to Static.
• Enter:
  • IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.108)
  • Subnet mask (usually 255.255.255.0)
  • Gateway (your router’s IP, e.g., 192.168.1.1)
  • DNS (use 8.8.8.8 or your router’s IP)
• Save and reboot the camera.

Now the camera will always use that IP, making it easier to manage long-term.

Pro Tip: Use an IP outside your router’s DHCP range (e.g., if DHCP is 192.168.1.100–200, use 192.168.1.50–99 for static devices). This prevents conflicts.

Step 6: Use a Direct Connection (For Troubleshooting)

If the camera isn’t showing up on the network, connect it directly to your computer. This bypasses the router and forces a local IP assignment.

• Connect the camera to your laptop using an Ethernet cable.
• Ensure your laptop is set to DHCP (automatic IP).
• Wait 1–2 minutes for the camera to assign an IP.
• Use an IP scanner to scan the local subnet (usually 169.254.x.x or 192.168.1.x).
• Open the camera’s web interface using the found IP.

This method is especially useful if:

• The camera’s IP is in a different subnet
• Your router blocks certain devices
• You’re setting up a new camera with no network history

Note: Some laptops require a cross-over Ethernet cable for direct connections, but most modern devices auto-detect and adjust.

Step 7: Reset the Camera (Last Resort)

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t find the IP, the camera may have a configuration issue. A factory reset restores it to default settings—including the default IP.

• Locate the reset button (usually a small hole on the back or side).
• Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold it for 10–30 seconds.
• Wait for the camera to reboot (LEDs will flash).
• After reboot, it should use the default IP (check the manual).
• Now use the IP scanner or router list to find it.

After resetting, you’ll need to reconfigure all settings (time, password, etc.).

Warning: Resetting erases all custom settings. Only do this if you’re okay with starting over.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right tools, things can go wrong. Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Label your cables. With multiple cameras, it’s easy to mix up which is which. Use color-coded tags or write on masking tape.
• Update firmware first. An outdated camera may have IP assignment bugs. Check the manufacturer’s site for updates.
• Use a network diagram. Sketch out your IP plan (e.g., 192.168.1.100–150 for cameras). This prevents overlap and simplifies troubleshooting.
• Don’t skip the firewall. If you can’t access the camera’s web interface, temporarily disable your computer’s firewall to rule out blocking.
• Check VLAN settings. If you’re using a managed switch with VLANs, ensure the camera’s port is in the correct VLAN.

Common Mistake #1: Assuming all cameras use the same default IP. They don’t. Hikvision might use 192.168.1.64, while Dahua uses 192.168.1.108. Always verify.

Common Mistake #2: Forgetting to change the default password. This is a major security risk. Change it immediately after setup.

Pro Tip: Bookmark the camera’s IP in your browser. Add it to your phone’s home screen for quick access. This is a key part of the how to find IP address of POE camera quick guide—making access easy, not just finding it once.

FAQs About How to Find IP Address of POE Camera Quick Guide

Got questions? We’ve got answers—straight from real-world troubleshooting.

Q1: Why can’t I find my POE camera on the network?

Several reasons: it might not be powered, the IP is outside your scan range, or it’s using a different subnet. Try a direct connection or use the manufacturer’s discovery tool. These tools are part of a reliable how to find IP address of POE camera quick guide.

Q2: What if the camera has no label or manual?

Use the MAC address. The first 6 digits (OUI) identify the manufacturer. Google “[OUI] camera default IP” (e.g., “00:1E:23 default IP”). Most brands have this info online.

Q3: Can I find the IP without a computer?

Yes, with the manufacturer’s smartphone app. Many apps (like Hik-Connect or Reolink) can scan the network and detect cameras. Just ensure your phone is on the same Wi-Fi as your router.

Q4: My camera shows a 169.254.x.x IP. What does that mean?

This is an APIPA (Automatic Private IP Addressing) address. It means the camera couldn’t reach the DHCP server (usually your router). Check:

• POE power
• Ethernet connection
• Router DHCP settings

Reboot the camera and router. If it persists, assign a static IP.

Q5: Can two cameras have the same IP?

No. IP conflicts cause both cameras to lose connection. Always assign unique static IPs or ensure your router’s DHCP pool is large enough.

Q6: How often should I check camera IPs?

Only if you suspect a problem. With static IPs, it’s a one-time setup. But if you’re using DHCP, check after router reboots or power outages.

Q7: What if I’m using a POE NVR?

Most NVRs have a built-in camera discovery tool. Connect the camera to the NVR’s POE port, then use the NVR’s interface to find and add it. The NVR often assigns the IP automatically.

Final Thoughts

Finding the IP address of a POE camera doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right tools and a clear plan, you can get it done in under 10 minutes. Whether you use your router’s device list, a free IP scanner, or the manufacturer’s app, the key is to start simple and escalate only if needed.

Remember: the how to find IP address of POE camera quick guide isn’t just about locating the number—it’s about setting up a secure, reliable system. Assign static IPs, change default passwords, and keep firmware updated. These small steps prevent big problems down the road.

Now that you’ve found the IP, take the next step: log in, customize your settings, and set up remote access. Your camera is ready to keep watch. Stay safe!

Next Action: Bookmark this guide and save the IP addresses of all your cameras in a secure note (like a password manager). You’ll thank yourself later.

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