How to Reset an Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

How to Reset an Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

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Resetting your Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 is quick and simple—just locate the reset button, press and hold it for 10 seconds until the LED flashes, and wait for the device to reboot. This restores factory settings, clears network configurations, and resolves most performance issues. Always ensure the camera is powered during the reset for a successful process.

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How to Reset an Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

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: Camera restarts and resets to factory settings automatically.
  • Reconfigure settings: Reconnect via Amcrest app and set up preferences again.
  • Keep firmware updated: Check for updates post-reset to ensure optimal performance.
  • Backup configurations: Save settings beforehand if avoiding full reset is possible.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Ever tried accessing your Amcrest bullet camera and been locked out because you forgot the password? Or maybe your camera froze, won’t connect to Wi-Fi, or keeps dropping from the NVR? These are common issues—and often, the fastest fix is a reset.

Whether you’re setting up a new camera, troubleshooting connection problems, or handing the system over to a new user, knowing how to reset an Amcrest bullet camera in 2026 easy guide is essential. A reset clears old settings, restores default login credentials, and gives you a clean slate.

Unlike software glitches that need firmware updates, a reset solves hardware-level issues caused by misconfigurations, network conflicts, or forgotten admin details. It’s like hitting the “refresh” button for your security system.

In 2026, Amcrest has refined its reset process to be faster and more reliable, but only if you know the right steps. Skipping a step or using the wrong tool can delay setup or even damage the camera. This guide walks you through every detail—safely and efficiently.

Real-life scenario: Sarah, a small business owner, couldn’t access her Amcrest camera after a power outage. The app showed “offline,” and the password she wrote down was wrong. A simple reset fixed it in 5 minutes—no tech support needed.

What You Need

Before you begin, gather these tools. Having everything ready saves time and avoids mid-process interruptions.

How to Reset an Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Visual guide about how to reset an amcrest bullet camera

Image source: support.amcrest.com

  • Amcrest bullet camera (models: IP2M-841B, IP4M-1041B, IP4M-1051B, etc.)
  • Small paperclip or SIM ejector tool (for the reset button)
  • Ethernet cable (recommended for wired models)
  • Power adapter (if not using PoE)
  • Computer or smartphone (to access the camera’s web interface)
  • Amcrest View app (downloaded from Google Play or App Store)
  • Stable Wi-Fi or network connection (for reconfiguration)

Optional but helpful:

  • PoE injector or switch (for PoE cameras)
  • Network cable tester (to verify connectivity)

Note: Most Amcrest bullet cameras have a physical reset button on the housing. It’s tiny and recessed, so a paperclip is ideal. If your model uses a software-based reset (rare in 2026), we’ll cover that too.

Pro tip: Label your camera with the model number before starting. Some reset behaviors differ slightly between models.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset an Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Power Off the Camera Safely

Never reset a camera while it’s actively recording or streaming. Start by disconnecting power.

  • Unplug the power adapter from the wall or PoE switch.
  • Wait 10–15 seconds. This ensures the camera fully powers down.
  • If connected via Ethernet, leave the cable in place—it helps with reconfiguration later.

Why this matters: Power cycling clears temporary memory and prepares the camera for a clean reset. Skipping this can lead to incomplete resets or firmware errors.

For PoE setups: Turn off the PoE switch or unplug the injector. The camera won’t power on until you reconnect.

Step 2: Locate and Press the Reset Button

Find the small, circular reset button—usually on the back or side of the camera housing, near the Ethernet port.

  • Straighten a paperclip or use a SIM ejector tool.
  • Insert it into the hole and press gently. You’ll feel slight resistance.
  • Hold the button down for 10–15 seconds while reconnecting power.

Timing is critical. Hold too short (under 8 seconds), and it may only reboot. Hold too long (over 20 seconds), and you might trigger a factory reset + firmware rollback (rare but possible on older firmware).

As you press, plug the power back in. The camera’s LED will blink rapidly—this confirms the reset is active.

Warning: Don’t use a metal object with sharp edges. It can damage the internal switch or housing.

Step 3: Wait for the Reset Process to Complete

After holding the reset button for 10–15 seconds, release it. The camera will now:

  • Power on fully (LED turns solid green or blue).
  • Initialize hardware (you may hear a faint click).
  • Load default firmware and settings.

This takes 1–2 minutes. The LED pattern varies by model:

  • Solid green: Ready for setup
  • Blinking blue: In reset mode
  • Red flash: Error (rare, usually due to power issue)

If the LED stays off or red, check power connections and try again. A full reset requires stable voltage.

During this time, the camera broadcasts a temporary Wi-Fi network (for wireless models) or waits for a wired connection.

Step 4: Reconnect to Your Network (Wired or Wireless)

Now that the camera is reset, it’s time to reconnect it to your network. Choose the method based on your setup.

For Wired (Ethernet) Cameras:

  • Connect the Ethernet cable to your router or PoE switch.
  • Wait 30–60 seconds for the camera to acquire an IP address.
  • Use a network scanner (like Fing or Angry IP) to find the camera’s IP.

For Wireless (Wi-Fi) Cameras:

  • Open your phone’s Wi-Fi settings.
  • Look for a network named Amcrest-XXXX (XXXX = last 4 digits of MAC).
  • Connect to it (no password).
  • Open the Amcrest View app and tap “Add Camera.”

The app will detect the camera and prompt you to set up Wi-Fi. Enter your home network name and password.

Example: Jake reset his outdoor camera, then used the Amcrest View app to reconnect it to his home Wi-Fi in under 2 minutes.

Step 5: Access the Camera’s Web Interface or App

Once connected, access the camera’s settings to finalize setup.

Via Web Browser (Recommended for Advanced Settings):

  • Open Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
  • Type the camera’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.100) into the address bar.
  • Log in with default credentials:
    • Username: admin
    • Password: admin (or blank, depending on model)

Via Amcrest View App (Easiest for Beginners):

  • Open the app.
  • Tap “Add Camera” → “Scan QR Code” (use the sticker on the camera).
  • Follow prompts to set a new password and name.

After login, the system will ask you to change the default password. Do this immediately—default credentials are a security risk.

The web interface gives you full control: motion zones, video quality, FTP upload, and more. The app is simpler but perfect for daily monitoring.

Step 6: Configure New Settings and Test

Now, set up your camera the way you like it. Here’s what to adjust:

  • Name the camera (e.g., “Front Door” or “Backyard”).
  • Set video quality: Choose 1080p, 4K, or adaptive streaming.
  • Enable motion detection: Adjust sensitivity and zones.
  • Schedule recordings: Continuous, motion-based, or time-lapse.
  • Set up notifications: Push alerts, email, or cloud storage.

Test the camera:

  • Move in front of the lens. Check if motion alerts appear.
  • View the live feed on your phone and computer.
  • Check night vision (if applicable).

If everything works, your how to reset an Amcrest bullet camera in 2026 easy guide process is complete!

Pro tip: Take a screenshot of your final settings and save it. If you ever need to reset again, you’ll have a reference.

Step 7: Optional – Update Firmware

After resetting, check for firmware updates. Amcrest releases updates to fix bugs, improve security, and add features.

  • In the web interface, go to System → Maintenance → Firmware Update.
  • Click “Check Online” to see if an update is available.
  • Download and install. The camera will restart.

Why update? A 2025 update fixed a critical security flaw in older firmware. Always stay current.

Tip: Enable “Auto-Check for Updates” in settings to avoid missing patches.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple resets can go wrong. Here’s how to stay ahead of issues.

Pro Tip 1: Use a PoE Tester
If your camera won’t power on after reset, test the PoE cable. A faulty cable is a common culprit.

Pro Tip 2: Reset One Camera at a Time
If you have multiple cameras, reset them separately. Simultaneous resets can overload your router.

Pro Tip 3: Label Your Cables
Use colored tape or labels to identify each camera’s Ethernet cable. Saves time during troubleshooting.

Common Mistakes:

  • Holding the reset button too long: Can trigger a deep reset that erases firmware. Stick to 10–15 seconds.
  • Skipping the power cycle: Always power off before resetting. It prevents electrical surges.
  • Using the wrong login: After reset, the default password is admin/admin or blank. Don’t try your old password.
  • Ignoring IP conflicts: If two cameras have the same IP, the network will glitch. Use the app’s IP scanner to fix duplicates.
  • Not setting a new password: Default credentials are public. Change it within 24 hours to prevent hacking.

Warning: Never reset a camera mounted high without a ladder. It’s unsafe to reach while holding a paperclip.

What if the reset doesn’t work?

  • Try a power cycle: Unplug for 1 minute, then retry the reset.
  • Check the camera’s firmware version. Some 2024 models need a firmware patch before resetting.
  • Contact Amcrest support with your model number and error code.

FAQs About How to Reset an Amcrest Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Q1: How long does the reset process take?
A: The physical reset takes 2–3 minutes. Full setup (reconnecting, configuring, testing) takes 5–10 minutes. Total time: under 15 minutes.

Q2: Will I lose my recorded footage?
A: Yes—but only if you have a microSD card or NVR. The reset does not delete footage stored on external devices. However, cloud recordings are safe if you’ve already uploaded them.

Q3: Can I reset the camera remotely?
A: No. The physical reset button requires direct access. For remote issues, use the Amcrest app to reboot the camera (not a full reset).

Q4: What if I can’t find the reset button?
A: Check your model’s manual. On some 2026 models (e.g., IP4M-1051B), the button is under a rubber cover. Gently peel it back.

Q5: Do I need to reset after every power outage?
A: No. Modern Amcrest cameras handle outages well. Only reset if the camera freezes, won’t connect, or you’ve forgotten the password.

Q6: Is there a software-only reset option?
A: Yes—but it’s not a full reset. In the web interface, go to System → Maintenance → Restore. Choose “Restore Default Settings” (not “Restore Factory Defaults”). This resets network and login but keeps firmware.

Q7: My camera keeps resetting on its own. What’s wrong?
A: This is a hardware issue. Possible causes: faulty power supply, overheating, or damaged circuit board. Contact Amcrest support for a replacement.

Final Thoughts

Resetting an Amcrest bullet camera isn’t rocket science—but it does require precision. By following this how to reset an Amcrest bullet camera in 2026 easy guide, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and get your security system back online fast.

Remember: Always power off first, hold the reset button for 10–15 seconds, and reconnect to your network. Then, take 5 minutes to update the password and firmware. It’s a small effort for big peace of mind.

Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or DIY installer, knowing how to reset your camera means you’re never stuck. Bookmark this guide, share it with your team, and keep your Amcrest system running smoothly in 2026 and beyond.

Actionable tip: Set a calendar reminder every 6 months to check your camera’s firmware and test the reset process. Prevention beats panic.

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