To hard reset a bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026, locate the reset button on the underside and hold it for 10–15 seconds using a paperclip until the device reboots. This restores factory settings, erasing all configurations—ideal for troubleshooting or pre-resale cleanup. Always back up critical data first, as this process cannot be undone.

How to Hard Reset Bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole at the bottom of the NVR.
• Use a paperclip: Insert it firmly to press the reset button inside.
• Hold for 10 seconds: Keep pressed until the system reboots completely.
• Wait for LED changes: Watch for blinking lights indicating reset progress.
• Reconfigure settings: Reset erases all data—set up NVR again post-reset.
• Backup first: Always save configurations before initiating a hard reset.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

If you’ve ever lost access to your Hikvision NVR (Network Video Recorder), you know how frustrating it can be. Maybe you forgot the admin password, or the system froze after a firmware update. Whatever the case, a hard reset is often the only way to regain control.

Unlike a simple reboot, a hard reset restores your Hikvision NVR to factory settings. This means all custom configurations—like camera names, motion detection rules, and network settings—will be erased. But it also clears out software glitches, login locks, and corrupted settings that block access.

For security professionals, homeowners, and small business owners, knowing how to hard reset bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 easy guide is essential. It’s not just about fixing problems—it’s about minimizing downtime and avoiding costly tech support visits.

Many users panic when they can’t log in. But with the right steps, a hard reset is safe, reliable, and often the fastest fix. This guide walks you through the entire process—especially for models with the reset button on the bottom of the unit, like the DS-7600/7700/8600 series and newer 2026 variants.

We’ll cover tools, safety, step-by-step instructions, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a DIYer or a security tech, this is your go-to resource for restoring your NVR without breaking a sweat.

Note: A hard reset erases all data. Make sure you’ve backed up any critical footage or configurations before proceeding. This guide focuses on physical reset methods—not software-based resets or password recovery tools.

What You Need

Before you begin, gather these tools and materials. Having everything ready prevents delays and keeps the process smooth.

• Small Phillips-head screwdriver – To remove the bottom panel if needed (some models have a sealed reset hole).
• Paperclip or SIM ejector tool – For pressing the hidden reset button inside the small hole.
• Ethernet cable – To reconnect the NVR to your router or PC for reconfiguration.
• Computer or smartphone – To access the NVR’s web interface or iVMS-4200 software post-reset.
• Power source – Ensure the NVR is plugged into a stable outlet (don’t reset on battery backup during a blackout).
• Backup of camera IP addresses and passwords – After reset, you’ll need to re-add cameras, so keep this info handy.
• Optional: HDMI monitor – Useful if you prefer local access instead of remote login.

Most modern Hikvision NVRs (2024–2026 models) have a recessed reset button on the bottom. It’s often covered by a small rubber plug or metal plate to prevent accidental resets. This is why the screwdriver may be necessary.

Don’t worry if your model looks different—Hikvision has standardized the reset location. The how to hard reset bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 easy guide applies to DS-7604NI-K1/4P, DS-7716NI-K4, DS-8632NI-I8, and similar bottom-reset models.

Pro Tip: Label your cameras and cables before disconnecting anything. After the reset, you’ll want to reconnect them in the same order to avoid confusion.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Hard Reset Bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Power Off the NVR Safely

Never perform a hard reset while the NVR is actively recording or processing. This can damage the hard drive or corrupt system files.

1. Log in to the NVR (if possible) and go to Menu > Shutdown.
2. Select Power Off and wait for the unit to shut down completely.
3. If you can’t log in, press and hold the front power button for 10 seconds until the lights go out.

Wait at least 30 seconds after shutdown. This ensures capacitors discharge and the system fully resets its memory.

Why wait? Some NVRs store temporary data in volatile memory. A short delay prevents incomplete resets or “ghost” login attempts.

Warning: Don’t unplug the power during shutdown. This can cause hard drive corruption, especially if the NVR was saving footage.

Step 2: Locate the Reset Button on the Bottom

Flip the NVR upside down. Look for a small, round hole near the power port or fan vent. This is the hard reset button.

• On older models (pre-2024), it may be covered by a rubber plug.
• On 2024–2026 models, it’s often behind a small metal plate secured with a single screw.

Use your Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw and lift the plate. You’ll see a tiny red or black button inside the hole.

Example: The DS-7608NI-K2/8P has the reset hole under a 3mm metal cover. Once removed, the button is clearly visible and easy to press.

Don’t force anything. If the plate won’t budge, double-check for hidden screws. Some units have a second screw under a warranty sticker.

Pro Tip: Take a photo of the reset location with your phone. It’ll help you remember where it is for future resets.

Step 3: Press and Hold the Reset Button

Now it’s time to activate the hard reset. This step requires precision and timing.

1. Straighten a paperclip or use a SIM ejector tool.
2. Insert it into the reset hole and gently press the internal button.
3. Hold the button down for 15 seconds.
4. While holding, plug the power cord back in.
5. Continue holding for another 10 seconds after the power LED lights up.

Total hold time: 25 seconds (15 before power, 10 after).

Why this sequence? The NVR needs to detect the reset signal before it boots. Holding during startup tells the firmware to trigger the factory reset routine.

You’ll know it worked if the status LED blinks rapidly (usually red or yellow) for 2–3 minutes. The NVR will restart automatically.

Warning: Don’t release the button too early. If the LED doesn’t blink, repeat the process. A partial reset can leave the NVR in a “zombie” state.

Step 4: Wait for the Reset to Complete

The NVR will now erase all configurations and reinstall default settings. This takes 3–5 minutes.

• The front panel LEDs will flash in a sequence (often red → yellow → green).
• You may hear the hard drive spin up and down.
• The NVR will reboot once or twice.

Do not interrupt the process. Unplugging now can brick the device.

Once done, the NVR will boot to a fresh state. The default login is:

• Username: admin
• Password: (blank) or 12345 (check your model’s manual)

Some 2026 models now require you to create a new password on first boot—a security upgrade from older versions.

Pro Tip: Use a HDMI monitor to confirm the reset. You should see the Hikvision logo and a “Welcome” setup wizard.

Step 5: Reconnect to Your Network

After the reset, the NVR will default to DHCP (automatic IP). But you’ll need to reconfigure it for your network.

1. Connect the NVR to your router using an Ethernet cable.
2. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to get an IP address.
3. Use one of these methods to find its IP:
   • Log in to your router’s admin page and check “Connected Devices.”
   • Use Hikvision’s SADP Tool (free download) to scan for devices.
   • Try accessing http://192.168.1.64—a common default IP.
4. Open a web browser and enter the NVR’s IP address.

Log in with the default credentials. You’ll be prompted to change the password immediately—do it now for security.

If the IP doesn’t respond, try power-cycling the NVR again. Sometimes the network stack needs a second boot.

Warning: Never leave the default password in place. Hackers scan for NVRs with “admin/12345”—change it within 5 minutes of reset.

Step 6: Re-Add Your Cameras

The hard reset erased all camera connections. You’ll need to re-add them one by one.

1. Go to Camera > Camera in the NVR’s web interface.
2. Click Search to find cameras on your network.
3. Select each camera and click Add.
4. Enter the camera’s password (if set).
5. Assign a name and channel number.

If cameras don’t appear, check these:

• Are cameras powered on?
• Are they on the same subnet as the NVR?
• Try connecting a camera directly to the NVR’s PoE port (if available).

For IP cameras, you may need to reset them too—use the same paperclip method if they’re Hikvision models.

Pro Tip: Use the iVMS-4200 software to batch-add cameras. It’s faster than the web interface for large systems.

Step 7: Restore Settings and Schedule Backups

Now that cameras are online, reconfigure your system. This is where your backup notes come in handy.

• Set motion detection zones for each camera.
• Adjust recording schedules (e.g., continuous vs. event-based).
• Enable email alerts for motion or system errors.
• Update firmware to the latest version (Menu > System > Maintenance).

Crucially, set up automatic backups:

1. Go to Storage > Schedule Backup.
2. Choose a network drive (NAS) or USB drive.
3. Schedule daily or weekly backups.

This prevents data loss if the hard drive fails or you need to reset again.

Warning: Don’t skip firmware updates. Older firmware may have security holes. But always backup before updating—just in case.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced users make errors when resetting NVRs. Here’s how to stay ahead of the curve.

Use the Right Hold Time

Some guides say “hold for 5 seconds.” That’s for soft resets. For a hard reset, you need 25 seconds total (15 pre-power, 10 post-power). Less time = incomplete reset.

Pro Tip: Use a stopwatch or phone timer. Counting in your head leads to early release.

Don’t Assume the Reset Worked

If the NVR boots normally but still asks for your old password, the reset failed. Repeat the process. Common causes:

• Button not fully pressed (use a stiff tool).
• Power plugged in too early or too late.
• Faulty reset button (rare, but happens).

Label Everything First

After a reset, you’ll reconnect cameras. Without labels, you might plug Camera 3 into Channel 1, causing confusion. Use masking tape or cable tags.

Check for Physical Damage

Inspect the reset hole. If the internal button is loose or the metal plate is bent, the reset may not register. Contact Hikvision support if hardware is damaged.

Use a Dedicated Power Circuit

Voltage spikes during reset can cause issues. Plug the NVR into a surge protector or UPS. Avoid power strips with “energy-saving” modes—they can cut power unexpectedly.

Test Before You Leave

After re-adding cameras, verify:

• All streams are clear (no black screens).
• Motion detection works.
• Remote access (via Hik-Connect app) is functional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the 30-second wait – Leads to incomplete resets.
• Using a weak tool – A floppy paperclip won’t press the button firmly.
• Forgetting camera passwords – Always write them down.
• Not backing up after reset – You’ll regret it if the drive fails.
• Ignoring firmware – Security updates are critical.

Following this how to hard reset bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 easy guide carefully avoids 99% of problems. But if you’re stuck, don’t guess—check the FAQs below.

FAQs About How to Hard Reset Bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 Easy Guide

Q: Will a hard reset delete my video recordings?

Yes. A factory reset erases all data on the NVR’s hard drive, including recordings, logs, and settings. Always back up important footage before resetting.

Use a USB drive or network backup. After reset, you can re-import footage if needed.

Q: What if the reset button doesn’t work?

Try these steps:

1. Ensure you’re holding the button for 25 seconds.
2. Use a stiffer tool (like a needle or metal probe).
3. Power-cycle the NVR and try again.
4. If still no luck, contact Hikvision support. The reset circuit may be faulty.

As a last resort, some advanced users use Hikvision’s SADP Tool + TFTP recovery, but this requires technical skills.

Q: Can I reset the NVR without losing my cameras?

No. The hard reset removes all camera configurations. You’ll need to re-add them.

But you can save time by:

• Writing down camera IPs and passwords beforehand.
• Using the SADP Tool to scan and add them in bulk.

Q: Why is the reset button on the bottom?

Hikvision moved it to prevent accidental resets. Bottom placement makes it harder to press by mistake. It also keeps the front panel clean for status LEDs and ports.

Newer 2025–2026 models use this design to meet security standards—tamper resistance is key.

Q: What’s the difference between a hard reset and a soft reset?

A soft reset (power cycle) just restarts the NVR. It doesn’t erase data.

A hard reset restores factory settings. It’s like giving your NVR a fresh start.

Use soft resets for minor glitches. Use hard resets for login locks, frozen systems, or major errors.

Q: Can I reset a Hikvision NVR remotely?

Not via a true hard reset. Remote tools like Hik-Connect or iVMS-4200 can restart the NVR, but they can’t trigger the physical reset button.

However, if you have physical access to the network, you can:

• Use an IP-controlled power strip to cut/reconnect power.
• Ask someone on-site to press the button.

For true remote hard resets, consider smart PDUs with remote outlet control.

Q: Is there a way to recover my old password?

Hikvision doesn’t offer password recovery. Once you reset, the old password is gone.

But if you have access to the NVR’s web interface (even with a user account), you can:

• Go to System > User and reset the admin password.
• Use the Hikvision Password Reset Tool (for select models).

Without access? A hard reset is your only option.

Final Thoughts

Resetting your Hikvision NVR doesn’t have to be scary. With the right tools and steps, it’s a straightforward fix for login issues, freezes, and configuration errors.

This how to hard reset bottom Hikvision NVR in 2026 easy guide gives you everything you need: from locating the hidden reset button to re-adding cameras and securing your system post-reset.

Remember: Always back up first. Label your gear. Use a timer. And never rush the 25-second hold.

After the reset, take 10 minutes to:

• Set a strong admin password.
• Update firmware.
• Schedule backups.

These steps prevent future problems and keep your surveillance system running smoothly.

Whether you’re a homeowner, security pro, or IT manager, knowing how to reset your NVR saves time, money, and stress. Bookmark this guide—you never know when you’ll need it.

Now go reset with confidence. Your NVR will be back up and running in no time.