How to Reset Dahua Dvr Admin Password

Locked out of your Dahua DVR? This guide walks you through multiple proven methods to reset your Dahua DVR admin password—including soft resets, USB recovery, and contacting support—so you can regain access without losing your recordings or settings.

Key Takeaways

• Always try the default credentials first: Many users forget they never changed the default admin login (usually admin/123456 or admin/[blank]).
• Use the Dahua Smart PSS software for remote reset: If you have network access, this tool can help recover or reset your password without physical intervention.
• USB password reset is effective for local units: Create a properly formatted USB drive with the correct file structure to trigger an automatic password reset on boot.
• Hard factory reset erases all data: Only use this as a last resort—it wipes recordings, settings, and user accounts.
• Contact Dahua support with your DVR’s serial number: They can generate a time-limited unlock code if other methods fail.
• Prevent future lockouts with password management: Store credentials securely and enable password hint features when available.
• Firmware updates may include security improvements: Keep your DVR updated to avoid known vulnerabilities and access issues.

Introduction: Why You Might Need to Reset Your Dahua DVR Admin Password

Forgetting your Dahua DVR admin password is more common than you think—especially if you haven’t logged in for months or inherited a system from a previous owner. Whether you’re a homeowner managing a security setup or an IT professional maintaining a commercial surveillance network, losing access to your DVR can feel like a major setback. The good news? There are several reliable ways to reset your Dahua DVR admin password without calling a technician or replacing hardware.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every proven method—from simple defaults to advanced recovery techniques—so you can regain control of your system quickly and safely. You’ll learn how to use built-in tools, leverage official software, and even perform a factory reset if necessary. We’ll also cover essential troubleshooting tips and best practices to avoid future lockouts. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and know-how to handle any Dahua DVR password issue like a pro.

Method 1: Try Default Credentials First

Before diving into complex solutions, always check if your DVR is still using its default login. Many users—especially in small businesses or DIY home setups—never change the factory settings. Dahua devices typically ship with one of these common default combinations:

• Username: admin | Password: (leave blank)
• Username: admin | Password: 123456
• Username: admin | Password: admin

How to Test Default Logins

1. Open your web browser and enter the DVR’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.108). You can find this in your router’s connected devices list or via Dahua’s ConfigTool software.

2. On the login screen, try each combination above.

3. If successful, immediately change the password under System > User Management and write it down securely.

Pro Tip: Some newer Dahua models require setting a custom password during initial setup. If you bought the device new and completed setup, defaults won’t work—move to the next method.

Method 2: Use Dahua Smart PSS for Remote Password Recovery

If your DVR is connected to the network and you have another computer on the same LAN, Dahua’s Smart PSS (Professional Surveillance System) software offers a built-in password recovery feature. This is often the fastest solution for networked systems.

Step-by-Step: Reset Password via Smart PSS

1. Download and install Smart PSS from the official Dahua website (dahuasecurity.com). Choose the version compatible with your OS (Windows only).

2. Launch Smart PSS and click Device Manager in the left panel.

3. Click Add, then enter your DVR’s IP address, port (usually 37777), and leave username/password fields blank for now.

4. Right-click the added device and select Forget Password.

5. Smart PSS will attempt to connect and prompt you to set a new admin password. Enter a strong, memorable password twice.

6. Click OK. The DVR will reboot automatically, and your new password will be active.

Note: This method only works if the DVR’s “Allow Password Recovery” option is enabled (it’s on by default). If disabled, proceed to Method 3.

Method 3: USB Password Reset (Local DVR Access Required)

For DVRs without network access or when Smart PSS fails, a USB reset is your best bet. Dahua systems can detect a specially prepared USB drive on startup and automatically reset the admin password to blank. This method preserves your recordings and settings—unlike a full factory reset.

Preparing the USB Drive

1. Use a USB flash drive (FAT32 formatted, 1GB–32GB recommended).

2. On a Windows PC, open Notepad and create a file named digicap.dav with no content (empty file).

3. Save the file directly to the root of the USB drive (not in any folder).

4. Safely eject the USB.

Performing the Reset

1. Power off your Dahua DVR completely.

2. Insert the prepared USB drive into any USB port on the DVR.

3. Power on the DVR. Watch the boot screen—you should see a message like “USB device detected” or “Password reset in progress.”

4. Wait 1–2 minutes for the process to complete. The DVR may reboot automatically.

5. Remove the USB drive once the system is fully booted.

6. Log in using username: admin and leave the password field blank.

Troubleshooting Tip: If the reset doesn’t work, double-check the filename (digicap.dav, not digicap.dav.txt). Disable “Hide extensions for known file types” in Windows Folder Options to ensure accuracy.

Method 4: Factory Reset via Hardware Button or Menu

If all else fails, a factory reset will restore your DVR to its original state—including the default password. Warning: This erases all recordings, user accounts, network settings, and custom configurations. Only use this as a last resort.

Option A: Reset via Physical Button (Most Models)

1. Locate the reset button on your DVR. It’s usually a small hole on the back or side panel labeled “RESET” or “RST.”

2. Power on the DVR.

3. Use a paperclip or SIM ejector tool to press and hold the reset button for 15–20 seconds.

4. Release when the DVR beeps or the LED lights flash rapidly.

5. Wait for the system to reboot (5–10 minutes). All settings will be restored to factory defaults.

Option B: Reset via Web Interface (If Partial Access Exists)

If you can log in with a non-admin account or remember part of the password:

1. Log in to the DVR’s web interface.

2. Navigate to System > Maintenance > Factory Default.

3. Check the box for “Restore all settings” (this includes passwords).

4. Click Apply and confirm. The DVR will restart automatically.

Important: After a factory reset, reconfigure your cameras, network settings, and recording schedules from scratch.

Method 5: Contact Dahua Support for Unlock Code

Dahua provides official password recovery support for registered users. If you have the DVR’s serial number and proof of ownership, their technical team can generate a time-limited unlock code.

How to Request an Unlock Code

1. Find your DVR’s serial number. It’s printed on a label on the device (look for “S/N” or “Serial No.”).

2. Visit Dahua’s global support portal: dahuasecurity.com/support.

3. Submit a ticket under “Password Recovery” with:

• Device model and serial number
• Proof of purchase (invoice or receipt)
• Your contact information

4. Dahua will email you a unique unlock code valid for 24–48 hours.

5. Enter this code when prompted on the DVR login screen to set a new password.

Note: Response times vary by region (typically 1–3 business days). This method is ideal for enterprise users or high-security installations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the right steps, you might encounter hiccups. Here’s how to solve the most frequent problems:

USB Reset Not Working

• Cause: Incorrect file name or format.
• Fix: Ensure the file is named exactly digicap.dav (case-sensitive on some models) and saved in FAT32 format. Reformat the USB if needed.

Smart PSS Can’t Detect DVR

• Cause: Network firewall or incorrect IP.
• Fix: Temporarily disable Windows Firewall. Verify the DVR’s IP using Dahua’s ConfigTool or your router’s admin page.

Factory Reset Doesn’t Restore Defaults

• Cause: Firmware corruption or hardware issue.
• Fix: Reflash the firmware using Dahua’s Firmware Upgrade Tool (download from support site). If problems persist, contact support—the unit may need repair.

Login Still Fails After Reset

• Cause: Multiple user accounts or cached credentials.
• Fix: Clear your browser cache or try a different browser. Ensure no other admin accounts exist under User Management.

Best Practices to Avoid Future Lockouts

Prevention is always better than cure. Follow these tips to keep your Dahua DVR accessible:

• Use a password manager: Store credentials in a secure tool like Bitwarden or KeePass—not in a sticky note!
• Enable password hints: During setup, add a hint that only you understand (e.g., “My dog’s birthday month”).
• Document changes: Keep a log of password updates with dates and reasons.
• Limit admin accounts: Create standard user accounts for daily use; reserve admin for configuration.
• Update firmware regularly: New versions often include security patches and usability improvements.
• Test access periodically: Log in every few months to ensure credentials still work.

Conclusion: Regain Control with Confidence

Resetting your Dahua DVR admin password doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re using default logins, Smart PSS, a USB drive, or official support, there’s a solution tailored to your situation. Remember: always start with the least invasive method (defaults) and escalate only when necessary. And once you’re back in, take a few minutes to secure your system properly—your future self will thank you.

With this guide, you’re equipped to handle any Dahua DVR password challenge. Stay safe, stay secure, and never let a forgotten password keep you from protecting what matters most.