Reset your Dahua IP bullet camera in 2026 quickly and securely using the built-in reset button or the Dahua Config Tool—no advanced skills required. Locate the reset hole, press and hold for 10–15 seconds, or use the software for a remote factory reset to restore default settings and regain access. This simple process ensures optimal performance and resolves most connectivity or login issues.

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How to Reset Dahua IP Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole on the camera for the reset.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button with a paperclip for 10 seconds.
• Wait for reboot: Allow the camera to fully restart after releasing the button.
• Default credentials: Log in using admin and 123456 after reset.
• Reconfigure settings: Restore network and camera settings via the web interface.
• Firmware update: Check for updates to ensure optimal performance post-reset.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re checking your security feed and suddenly realize you’ve lost access to your Dahua IP bullet camera. Maybe you forgot the password, the camera froze, or it was hacked. Whatever the reason, it’s frustrating—and potentially dangerous if your property isn’t being monitored.

That’s where knowing how to reset Dahua IP bullet camera in 2026 easy guide comes in. A factory reset restores your camera to its original settings, wiping all custom configurations, passwords, and network data. This is often the fastest way to regain control and get your surveillance system back online.

Whether you’re a homeowner, small business owner, or a DIY security enthusiast, understanding the reset process helps you avoid costly technician visits and downtime. Plus, with Dahua updating firmware and security protocols in 2026, it’s more important than ever to know the current and correct reset method—especially since older guides may not work anymore.

From password recovery to troubleshooting network issues, a reset is often the first step in solving many camera problems. But don’t worry: this guide will walk you through every step safely, so you won’t damage your device or lose critical data unnecessarily.

What You Need

Before starting, gather these tools and materials. Having everything ready saves time and prevents mistakes during the reset process.

• Dahua IP bullet camera (model doesn’t matter—most use the same reset method)
• Computer or smartphone connected to the same network as the camera
• Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6) for wired connection (recommended)
• Small paperclip or SIM ejector tool (for physical reset button)
• Dahua ConfigTool or SADP software (free download from Dahua’s official website)
• Access to router or network switch (if connecting via LAN)
• Optional: USB-to-TTL serial adapter (for advanced users, if software reset fails)

Pro Tip: Always back up your camera’s configuration (if accessible) before resetting. Some Dahua models allow you to export settings via the web interface. This way, you can restore them later and avoid reconfiguring motion zones, recording schedules, etc.

Using the right tools ensures a smooth reset. For example, the SADP (Search Active Device Protocol) tool is essential for locating and resetting Dahua cameras on your network. It works even if you don’t know the IP address—perfect for when things go wrong.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset Dahua IP Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

There are two main ways to reset your Dahua IP bullet camera: via software (SADP/ConfigTool) or physically using the reset button. We’ll cover both, starting with the easiest and safest method.

Step 1: Connect the Camera to Your Network

First, power on your Dahua IP bullet camera. Use the included power adapter or PoE (Power over Ethernet) if your switch supports it.

Connect the camera to your router or switch using an Ethernet cable. This ensures a stable connection—Wi-Fi can drop during the reset, causing failures.

Wait 1–2 minutes for the camera to fully boot up. You’ll hear a beep or see the LED blink, indicating it’s online. Now, it’s ready for discovery.

Warning: Never reset a camera that’s actively recording and storing footage to an NVR without checking with your security team. A reset may disrupt recordings or erase metadata.

Step 2: Download and Install SADP Tool

Go to the official Dahua website and search for “SADP Tool.” Download the latest version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

Install the software. It’s lightweight and doesn’t require admin rights on most systems. Launch it after installation.

The SADP tool automatically scans your local network for all Dahua devices, including IP cameras, NVRs, and DVRs. This is crucial if you don’t know the camera’s IP address—which is common after a failed login.

In 2026, Dahua has improved SADP with better security checks, so ensure you’re using the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.

Step 3: Locate Your Camera in SADP

Open the SADP tool. Wait 10–30 seconds for the scan to complete.

You’ll see a list of all Dahua devices. Look for your IP bullet camera by:

• IP address (if you remember it)
• MAC address (found on the camera label)
• Device name (e.g., “Dahua-Bullet-01”)

Click on your camera in the list. You’ll see details like model number, firmware version, and current IP.

If the camera shows as “Locked” or “Password Protected,” don’t worry—SADP can still reset it. This is exactly why the how to reset Dahua IP bullet camera in 2026 easy guide includes this tool.

Step 4: Reset Password (Optional but Recommended)

Before a full factory reset, try resetting just the password if you’re locked out.

In SADP, click on your camera, then click the Reset Password button.

You’ll need to enter a security code. This is usually sent to your registered email or phone if you enabled two-factor authentication. If not, you may need to contact Dahua support with your device’s serial number.

Once verified, set a new admin password. Use a strong one: at least 8 characters, with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.

After resetting the password, try logging in via the camera’s web interface or mobile app. If it works, you may not need a full reset—just reconfigure settings.

Step 5: Perform Factory Reset via SADP (Software Method)

If the password reset fails or you want to wipe everything, proceed with a factory reset.

In SADP, select your camera and click the Reset button (usually a red or orange icon).

A confirmation window appears. Check the box for “Reset to factory default settings.” This erases all data: passwords, IP settings, recording schedules, and motion detection zones.

Click OK. The reset process takes 30–90 seconds. The camera will reboot automatically.

Once done, the camera’s IP address will revert to the default (usually 192.168.1.108), and the admin password will be admin (unless changed by your region’s firmware).

Pro Tip: After reset, change the default IP address to avoid conflicts with other devices on your network. Assign a static IP outside your router’s DHCP range.

Step 6: Physical Reset (When Software Fails)

If SADP can’t detect the camera or the software reset fails, use the physical reset button.

Locate the reset hole on the camera. It’s usually on the back or side, near the Ethernet port. Use a flashlight if needed.

Insert a paperclip or SIM ejector tool into the hole and press gently. You’ll feel a small button inside.

Hold the button for 10–15 seconds while the camera is powered on. Don’t release too early—this is critical.

The camera will beep or flash its LED rapidly, indicating a reset in progress. After 1–2 minutes, it will reboot.

Once restarted, the camera will be in factory default mode. Use SADP again to find it and set a new password.

Warning: Physical resets work only if the camera has a reset button. Some newer Dahua models (especially 2025–2026) may require a combination of button presses or use software-only resets for security reasons. Check your model’s manual first.

Step 7: Reconfigure Your Camera

After reset, your camera is back to square one. Now it’s time to set it up again.

Use SADP to find the camera’s new IP address. Open a web browser and type the IP (e.g., 192.168.1.108) into the address bar.

Log in with username admin and password admin. You’ll be prompted to change the password immediately—do this!

Go through the setup wizard to:

• Set a static IP address
• Enable HTTPS for secure browsing
• Update firmware (critical for 2026 security patches)
• Reconfigure motion detection, recording, and alerts

Connect the camera to your NVR or cloud service if applicable. Test the live feed and recording functionality.

Congratulations—you’ve successfully completed the how to reset Dahua IP bullet camera in 2026 easy guide!

Step 8: Troubleshoot Common Post-Reset Issues

Sometimes, even after a reset, things don’t work perfectly. Here are fixes for common problems:

• Camera not found in SADP? Check network connection. Try connecting directly to your PC via Ethernet and set your PC’s IP to 192.168.1.x.
• Web interface won’t load? Clear browser cache or try a different browser (Chrome or Firefox recommended).
• Firmware update fails? Download the firmware manually from Dahua’s site and update via USB.
• Password reset not working? Contact Dahua support with your serial number. They can generate a reset code.

These steps ensure your reset is effective and your camera is fully functional.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Resetting a Dahua camera seems simple, but small mistakes can lead to big headaches. Here’s how to stay ahead.

Pro Tip #1: Always label your cameras. Use sticky notes or asset tags with the MAC address and location. This makes it easier to identify them in SADP, especially in multi-camera setups.

Pro Tip #2: Use a PoE switch or injector. It powers the camera and sends data over one cable—fewer points of failure. Plus, PoE ensures stable voltage during reset.

Pro Tip #3: Enable “Auto Recovery” in Dahua’s web interface (if available). If the camera loses power during reset, it will automatically reboot and retry—reducing the need for manual intervention.

Common Mistake #1: Holding the reset button too long (over 20 seconds). This can trigger a “deep reset” that erases firmware. Stick to 10–15 seconds.

Common Mistake #2: Skipping firmware updates after reset. Older firmware may have bugs or security holes. Dahua releases critical updates monthly in 2026—don’t fall behind.

Common Mistake #3: Using public Wi-Fi or an unstable network for reset. Always use a wired LAN connection. Wi-Fi drops can corrupt the reset process.

Common Mistake #4: Forgetting to disable “IP Conflict Protection” on your router. If two devices have the same IP, the camera may not respond. Assign a static IP or use DHCP reservation.

Common Mistake #5: Not testing the camera after reset. Always verify live feed, motion detection, and recording before assuming it’s working.

By avoiding these pitfalls, your reset will be fast, safe, and effective—exactly what the how to reset Dahua IP bullet camera in 2026 easy guide aims for.

FAQs About How to Reset Dahua IP Bullet Camera in 2026 Easy Guide

Got questions? Here are answers to the most common concerns.

Q1: Can I reset a Dahua camera without the reset button?

Yes. Use the SADP tool or Dahua ConfigTool. These software tools can reset the camera remotely, even if you can’t access the physical button. This is especially useful for cameras mounted high or in hard-to-reach places.

Q2: Will a reset delete my recordings?

It depends. If your camera stores footage on an SD card, the reset will erase all recordings. If it records to an NVR, the NVR keeps the data. Always back up SD card footage before resetting.

Q3: What if SADP doesn’t detect my camera?

Try these steps:

• Ensure both your PC and camera are on the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.x)
• Disable firewall or antivirus temporarily
• Connect the camera directly to your PC with a cable
• Set your PC’s IP to 192.168.1.100 and subnet mask to 255.255.255.0

If still not found, the camera may have a hardware issue.

Q4: How often should I reset my Dahua camera?

Only when necessary—like forgotten passwords, network issues, or firmware corruption. Regular resets can wear out the internal memory and reduce lifespan.

Q5: Is there a risk of bricking the camera?

Low risk if you follow the steps. Avoid interrupting the reset process (e.g., unplugging power). Never use third-party reset tools—they can corrupt firmware.

Q6: Can I reset a Dahua camera from my phone?

Yes, but only via the SADP mobile app (available on Android and iOS). It works the same as the desktop version. Just ensure your phone and camera are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Q7: What’s the default login after reset?

Username: admin
Password: admin
Change this immediately for security. Some regions may have different defaults—check Dahua’s regional documentation.

Final Thoughts

Resetting your Dahua IP bullet camera doesn’t have to be scary. With the right tools and steps, it’s a quick fix for many common problems. Whether you’re dealing with a forgotten password, network glitch, or firmware issue, this how to reset Dahua IP bullet camera in 2026 easy guide gives you everything you need.

Remember: always back up data, use a wired connection, and update firmware after reset. These small steps protect your investment and keep your security system running smoothly.

Don’t wait until a crisis hits. Bookmark this guide, download SADP, and label your cameras today. That way, when (not if) a problem arises, you’ll be ready.

Your safety is worth the effort. Now go reset that camera and get back to peace of mind.

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