How to Reset Amcrest POE Outdoor Camera in Minutes

Reset your Amcrest POE outdoor camera in minutes by holding the reset button for 10–15 seconds until the LED flashes red, restoring factory settings instantly. This quick fix resolves connectivity issues, forgotten passwords, or misconfigurations—no technical expertise needed. Ensure the camera is powered during the reset for a seamless process.

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole on the camera’s base or side.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds.
• Wait for reboot: Release after the camera restarts and LED flashes.
• Reconnect to network: Reconfigure Wi-Fi or POE settings post-reset.
• Check firmware: Update to the latest version for optimal performance.
• Secure credentials: Change default login details immediately after reset.

Why You Might Need to Reset Your Amcrest POE Outdoor Camera

Amcrest POE (Power over Ethernet) outdoor cameras are a popular choice for home and business security due to their reliability, high-definition video quality, and weather-resistant design. Whether you’re using the Amcrest IP4M-1041, IP5M-B1186EW, or another model in the POE lineup, these cameras offer seamless integration with Amcrest’s NVR systems and mobile apps. However, even the most robust security systems can encounter issues. From connectivity problems and firmware glitches to forgotten login credentials or incorrect network configurations, there are several scenarios where a reset becomes necessary. Resetting your Amcrest POE outdoor camera isn’t just a troubleshooting step—it’s often the quickest path to restoring full functionality.

Understanding how to reset your camera properly is essential for both novice users and seasoned tech enthusiasts. Unlike plug-and-play devices, POE cameras rely on a stable network connection, proper IP addressing, and synchronized credentials. A misstep during troubleshooting can lead to extended downtime or even permanent configuration loss. The good news? Resetting your Amcrest POE outdoor camera doesn’t require a technical degree. With the right tools and a clear, step-by-step approach, you can complete the process in just minutes. This guide walks you through every method—from soft resets to full factory restores—ensuring you can confidently resolve common issues without calling in a professional. Whether you’re reconfiguring after a network change or preparing a used camera for resale, this comprehensive walkthrough has you covered.

Understanding Amcrest POE Camera Reset Types

Before diving into the reset process, it’s crucial to understand that Amcrest POE outdoor cameras offer two primary types of resets: the soft reset (reboot) and the factory reset. Each serves a distinct purpose and affects your camera’s configuration differently. Choosing the wrong method can lead to unnecessary data loss or incomplete troubleshooting. Below, we break down both options, their use cases, and what you can expect after each type of reset.

Soft Reset (Reboot): Quick Fixes for Temporary Glitches

A soft reset, often called a reboot, is the simplest way to resolve minor issues like frozen video streams, unresponsive web interfaces, or temporary network hiccups. This method restarts the camera’s operating system without erasing any stored settings. It’s ideal when:

• The camera is online but unresponsive in the Amcrest View app or web portal.
• Video playback is choppy or lagging despite a stable network.
• You’ve just updated the firmware and the camera isn’t recognizing the changes.

How to perform a soft reset:
1. Log into the camera via the web interface (e.g., http://192.168.1.108) or the Amcrest Surveillance Pro app.
2. Navigate to Settings > System > Reboot.
3. Confirm the action. The camera will restart in 1–2 minutes.
Tip: Always wait at least 2 minutes after a reboot before attempting to reconnect. This ensures the camera fully initializes its network stack.

Factory Reset: Wiping All Settings for a Fresh Start

A factory reset erases all custom configurations, including Wi-Fi settings (if applicable), user accounts, motion detection zones, and network IP addresses. It returns the camera to its original out-of-box state. Use this method when:

• You’ve forgotten the admin password and can’t log in.
• The camera is stuck in a configuration loop (e.g., constantly rebooting).
• You’re transferring ownership or repurposing the camera for a new network.
• Persistent firmware bugs aren’t resolved by a soft reset.

Important: A factory reset is irreversible. Always back up critical settings (e.g., motion alerts, scheduled recordings) before proceeding. If your camera is connected to an NVR, note that the NVR will lose its link to the camera and must be re-added post-reset.

When to Choose Each Reset Type: A Practical Example

Imagine your Amcrest POE camera suddenly stops streaming video to your phone, but the NVR still records. A soft reset is likely sufficient—this is often a software glitch in the app’s connection. However, if the camera won’t connect to the NVR at all, shows a “No Signal” error, or you’ve tried multiple IP addresses with no success, a factory reset is necessary to clear corrupted network settings. For instance, a user in a recent Amcrest support forum resolved a “Camera Offline” issue after a power outage by performing a factory reset, which cleared a conflicting static IP configuration that had been applied during a previous network upgrade.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform a Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset on your Amcrest POE outdoor camera is a straightforward process, but precision matters. Below is a detailed, foolproof method using the physical reset button—the most reliable approach for outdoor models, which often lack easy web interface access once misconfigured.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather these essentials:

• A small paperclip, SIM ejector tool, or straightened wire (to press the reset button).
• Access to the camera’s physical location (e.g., ladder if mounted outdoors).
• A stable POE power source (via NVR, POE switch, or injector).
• A device (laptop/phone) on the same network for reconfiguration.

Pro Tip: If the camera is hard to reach, perform the reset during daylight hours to avoid safety risks. Wear gloves and use a flashlight if needed.

Step 1: Power On the Camera

Ensure the camera is powered via POE. The status LED (usually near the lens or base) should glow solid or blink. If the LED is off, check the POE connection at the NVR, switch, or injector. A camera without power can’t be reset.

Step 2: Locate the Reset Button

Most Amcrest POE outdoor cameras (e.g., IP4M-1041, IP5M-B1186EW) have a reset button hidden under a rubber flap on the back or side. For example:

• IP4M-1041: Flap near the Ethernet port (labeled “RST”).
• IP5M-B1186EW: Flap on the bottom panel.

Use your tool to gently pry open the flap. Avoid damaging the seal, as it protects against moisture.

Step 3: Execute the Reset

With the camera powered and the reset button exposed:

1. Press and hold the reset button for 10–15 seconds.
2. Observe the status LED: It will typically blink rapidly (e.g., amber or blue) during the reset.
3. Release the button after 15 seconds. The camera will reboot automatically (1–2 minutes).

Critical: Do not release the button early. A 10-second hold is the standard for most models. Releasing too soon may only trigger a soft reboot.

Step 4: Confirm the Reset

After the camera reboots:

• The LED should return to a solid or slow-blinking pattern (indicating “ready” mode).
• The camera will revert to its default IP (e.g., 192.168.1.108 for many models).
• All user accounts, motion zones, and network settings are erased.

Troubleshooting: If the LED remains off or blinks erratically, the reset failed. Recheck power, hold the button longer (up to 20 seconds), or try the web interface method (see below).

Alternative: Web Interface Factory Reset (If Accessible)

If you can still log into the camera’s web interface:

1. Navigate to Settings > System > Initialize.
2. Select Restore to Factory Defaults.
3. Enter your admin password and confirm.

Note: This method is unavailable if you’ve forgotten the password or the camera is in an error state.

Reconfiguring Your Camera Post-Reset

A factory reset wipes all settings, so your camera is now a blank slate. Reconfiguration is essential to restore security, motion detection, and network integration. Follow these steps to get your Amcrest POE outdoor camera back online efficiently.

Step 1: Reconnect to the Network

After the reset, the camera defaults to a static IP (e.g., 192.168.1.108). To reconfigure:

1. Ensure your computer/phone is on the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.x).
2. Open a web browser and enter the default IP. The login page should appear.
3. Use the default credentials:
   • Username: admin
   • Password: admin (or the last 6 characters of the camera’s serial number for newer models).

Tip: If the web interface doesn’t load, use Amcrest’s IP Config Tool (downloadable from their support site) to discover the camera’s current IP. This is especially useful if your router uses a different subnet (e.g., 192.168.0.x).

Step 2: Update Firmware (Critical!)

Outdated firmware can cause instability. Always update immediately after a reset:

1. Navigate to Settings > System > Maintenance > Firmware Update.
2. Download the latest firmware for your model from Amcrest Support.
3. Upload the .bin file and confirm the update. The camera will reboot (5–10 minutes).

Warning: Do not power off the camera during the update. A failed update can brick the device.

Step 3: Reconfigure Network Settings

Choose between DHCP (automatic IP) or static IP based on your network:

• DHCP: Ideal for home networks. Go to Settings > Network > TCP/IP, enable DHCP, and save. The camera will get an IP from your router.
• Static IP: Use for business networks or NVRs. Assign an unused IP (e.g., 192.168.1.109) to avoid conflicts.

Pro Tip: For NVR integration, ensure the camera and NVR are on the same subnet. A mismatched subnet is a common post-reset issue.

Step 4: Restore Security and Motion Settings

Reapply your custom configurations:

• User Accounts: Create new admin and guest users (avoid using “admin” as a username for security).
• Motion Detection: Set detection zones, sensitivity, and alert schedules under Settings > Event > Motion Detection.
• Storage: Link to an NVR or SD card (if supported). For NVRs, re-add the camera via the NVR’s “Add Device” menu.

Step 5: Test Connectivity and Alerts

Verify everything works:

• Check live video in the Amcrest View app and web interface.
• Trigger motion detection (e.g., walk in front of the camera) to test alerts.
• Ensure recordings are saved to the NVR/SD card.

Common Reset Issues and Troubleshooting

Even with careful execution, reset-related problems can occur. Below are frequent issues and their solutions, based on real-world user reports and Amcrest support data.

Camera Won’t Power On After Reset

Cause: Faulty POE connection, damaged cable, or power supply failure.
Solutions:

• Test the POE source with another camera or device.
• Replace the Ethernet cable (use Cat6 or higher for outdoor runs).
• Try a different POE injector or switch port.

Example: A user resolved this by switching from a 100ft cable to a shorter, higher-gauge Cat6 cable, which reduced voltage drop.

Reset Button Not Working

Cause: Debris in the button housing, water damage, or hardware failure.
Solutions:

• Clean the reset button area with compressed air.
• Press the button firmly but gently—some models require more pressure.
• If the camera is under warranty, contact Amcrest for repair.

Tip: For IP67-rated cameras, ensure the rubber flap is fully closed after resetting to maintain waterproofing.

Web Interface Unreachable Post-Reset

Cause: IP address conflict, incorrect subnet, or firewall blocking.
Solutions:

• Use the IP Config Tool to find the camera’s current IP.
• Temporarily disable your computer’s firewall.
• Connect the camera directly to your computer via Ethernet (set your PC’s IP to 192.168.1.x).

Firmware Update Fails

Cause: Corrupted firmware file, unstable power, or incompatible version.
Solutions:

• Download the firmware again (check file hash on Amcrest’s site).
• Use a UPS or stable power source during updates.
• Contact Amcrest support for a recovery firmware file.

Data Table: Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Issue	Likely Cause	Immediate Fix
Camera unresponsive	Power or network issue	Check POE connection, reboot router
Reset button unresponsive	Debris/hardware fault	Clean button area, contact support
Web interface offline	IP conflict/firewall	Use IP Config Tool, disable firewall
Firmware update fails	Corrupted file/power loss	Re-download firmware, use UPS

Best Practices for Preventing Future Reset Needs

While resets are sometimes unavoidable, proactive maintenance can drastically reduce their frequency. By following these best practices, you’ll keep your Amcrest POE outdoor camera running smoothly for years.

Schedule Regular Firmware Updates

Amcrest releases firmware updates quarterly to fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and improve performance. Enable automatic notifications or check manually every 3–6 months. For example, the IP5M-B1186EW’s 2023 update resolved a memory leak that caused random reboots—a problem that previously required frequent factory resets.

Use Stable POE Infrastructure

POE instability is a leading cause of camera failures. Invest in:

• High-quality Cat6/Cat6a cables (avoid cheap CCA cables).
• Managed POE switches with surge protection.
• POE injectors rated for outdoor use (e.g., 48V, 30W).

Pro Tip: Measure voltage at the camera end of the cable. Voltage below 44V can cause intermittent power issues.

Backup Configurations

Before making major changes (e.g., network upgrades), export your camera’s settings:

1. Go to Settings > System > Import/Export.
2. Save the configuration file (.cfg) to a secure location.
3. After a reset, import the file to restore all settings (except passwords).

Monitor Network Health

Use tools like Amcrest Cloud or PingPlotter to track:

• Packet loss (aim for <0.1%).
• Latency spikes (should be <50ms).
• Bandwidth usage (POE cameras typically use 5–10 Mbps).

High latency or packet loss often indicates network issues that can trigger camera errors.

Secure Physical Access

Prevent unauthorized resets by:

• Mounting cameras out of reach (minimum 10 ft height).
• Using tamper-proof screws or enclosures.
• Enabling password protection on the web interface.

Document Your Setup

Create a simple log with:

• Camera model, serial number, and IP address.
• POE source (NVR/switch/injector).
• Firmware version and last update date.

This speeds up troubleshooting during future resets.

Resetting your Amcrest POE outdoor camera doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the reset types, following the step-by-step process, and implementing preventive measures, you can resolve issues in minutes—not hours. Whether you’re a homeowner securing your property or an IT professional managing a business network, this guide equips you with the knowledge to maintain a reliable, high-performance security system. Remember: a well-maintained camera rarely needs a reset. But when it does, you now know exactly what to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my Amcrest POE outdoor camera to factory settings?

To reset your Amcrest POE outdoor camera, locate the reset button (usually on the back or side) and hold it for 10–15 seconds using a paperclip. The camera will reboot, restoring factory settings and erasing all custom configurations.

Where is the reset button on my Amcrest POE outdoor camera?

The reset button is typically found on the camera’s housing, often near the Ethernet port or under a rubber flap. Refer to your model’s manual for the exact location before attempting to reset your Amcrest POE outdoor camera.

Can I reset my Amcrest camera remotely via the app?

No, a physical reset using the hardware button is required for Amcrest POE cameras. Remote resets are only possible for Wi-Fi models via the Amcrest View Pro app under device settings.

How long does it take to reset an Amcrest POE outdoor camera?

The entire process takes under 2 minutes: hold the reset button for 15 seconds, wait for the camera to power cycle (1–2 minutes), and it will automatically revert to factory defaults.

Will resetting my Amcrest camera delete recordings?

Yes, a factory reset erases all settings, passwords, and stored footage on the camera’s internal SD card. Back up recordings beforehand if needed, as they cannot be recovered post-reset.

What should I do after resetting my Amcrest POE outdoor camera?

After resetting, reconfigure the camera via the Amcrest app or web interface. Update firmware, set a new password, and adjust motion detection or night vision settings to restore functionality.