Resetting your Dahua NVR in 2026 is quick and secure when done correctly—start by locating the reset button or using the web interface for a factory reset. This step-by-step guide ensures you safely restore default settings without losing critical configurations, helping maintain system integrity and access. Always back up data before proceeding to avoid permanent loss.

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How to Reset Dahua NVR in 2026 Step by Step Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the physical reset button on your Dahua NVR device.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button with a paperclip for 10 seconds.
• Wait for reboot: Allow the NVR to fully restart after releasing the reset button.
• Default credentials: Log in using default admin/password after resetting.
• Backup first: Always back up settings before initiating a reset process.
• Check firmware: Update firmware post-reset to ensure optimal performance and security.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Ever tried to access your Dahua NVR (Network Video Recorder) only to be locked out because you forgot the admin password? Or maybe you inherited a used NVR and need to wipe all previous settings to start fresh? You’re not alone. Whether it’s for security, troubleshooting, or reconfiguring a surveillance system, knowing how to reset Dahua NVR in 2026 step by step guide is a must for any homeowner, small business owner, or security technician.

Resetting your Dahua NVR can restore factory defaults, clear user accounts, and fix software glitches. But doing it wrong can lead to data loss or even permanent damage. That’s why this guide walks you through every step safely and clearly—so you avoid costly mistakes and get your system back online fast.

Whether you’re dealing with a DHI-NVR4108HS-4KS2, NVR5216-4KS2, or any other Dahua model, this step-by-step guide to resetting Dahua NVR in 2026 covers both soft (password recovery) and hard (factory reset) methods.

What You Need

Before diving in, gather these tools and materials. Having them ready saves time and reduces errors during the reset process.

• A working computer or laptop (Windows or macOS) with internet access
• An Ethernet cable (Cat5e or higher) to connect directly from your PC to the NVR
• Access to the NVR physically (you’ll need to open the casing or press buttons on the unit)
• Dahua’s official software tools:
  • Dahua Config Tool (free download from Dahua’s support site)
  • Dahua IP Config Tool (optional but helpful for IP discovery)
• A paperclip or small pin (for hardware reset buttons)
• Your NVR model number (check the label on the back or bottom of the unit)
• A backup of your current configuration (if available—more on this later)

Pro Tip: Always back up your current settings using the Dahua Config Tool before resetting. Once you reset, all camera channels, motion detection zones, and network settings will be lost unless you have a backup file.

This how to reset Dahua NVR in 2026 step by step guide assumes you’re working with a standard Dahua standalone NVR (not a cloud-based or hybrid model). For PTZ cameras or IP camera integration, we’ll cover those nuances too.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset Dahua NVR in 2026 Step by Step Guide

There are two main types of resets: soft reset (password recovery) and hard reset (factory default). We’ll cover both, starting with the least invasive option.

Step 1: Try a Soft Reset (Password Recovery via Dahua Config Tool)

If you only forgot the admin password, try this first. It doesn’t erase data—it just lets you regain access.

1. Download and install the Dahua Config Tool from Dahua’s official support site.
2. Connect your computer to the NVR using an Ethernet cable. Use a static IP address on your PC:
   • IP: 192.168.1.100
   • Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
   • Leave Gateway and DNS blank for now
3. Power on the NVR and wait 2–3 minutes for it to fully boot.
4. Open the Dahua Config Tool. Click “Search” to detect all Dahua devices on the network.
5. Find your NVR in the list. Note its IP address (should be 192.168.1.108 by default).
6. Right-click the device and select “Forget Password”.
7. Enter your email address (used for Dahua account verification). The tool will generate a security code (or reset key) sent to your inbox.
8. Enter the received code in the Config Tool. Set a new admin password (8+ characters, mix letters, numbers, symbols).
9. Click “Confirm.” The NVR will now accept the new password.

Warning: If the NVR doesn’t appear in the Config Tool, double-check your Ethernet connection and IP settings. Try powering the NVR off and on again.

✅ Success? Great! You’ve completed a soft reset. Log into the NVR using the new password via web browser (https://192.168.1.108) or Dahua mobile app.

❌ Still locked out? Move to Step 2: Hard Reset (Factory Reset).

Step 2: Perform a Hard Reset (Factory Default via Hardware Button)

This method erases all settings, users, and configurations—perfect if you’re selling the device or starting from scratch. It’s also your only option if the Config Tool method fails.

1. Power off the NVR completely (unplug power cord).
2. Locate the reset button on the NVR. It’s usually:
   • Inside a small hole on the back panel (marked “Reset” or “RST”)
   • On the side or bottom of the unit (check your model’s manual)
3. Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button.
4. While holding the button, plug the power cord back in. Keep holding for at least 30 seconds.
5. Watch the indicator lights:
   • On most models, the HDD and Network lights will blink rapidly.
   • After ~30–45 seconds, they’ll stabilize or turn solid.
6. Release the button once the lights stabilize.
7. Wait 2–3 minutes for the NVR to reboot fully.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush! Holding the reset button too short (under 25 sec) may only reboot the device, not reset it. If in doubt, repeat the process.

After reboot, the NVR will default to:

• IP Address: 192.168.1.108
• Username: admin
• Password: admin (or blank, depending on firmware)

Log in using these defaults. You’ll be prompted to set a new admin password and time zone.

Step 3: Reset via Web Interface (If You Can Still Log In)

If you have admin access but want to wipe all settings (e.g., after a failed firmware update), use the built-in menu.

1. Connect your computer to the NVR via Ethernet or Wi-Fi (if supported).
2. Open a web browser and go to https://[NVR_IP] (e.g., https://192.168.1.108).
3. Log in with your current admin credentials.
4. Go to System > Maintenance > Restore.
5. Select “Factory Default” (not “Default” or “Partial”).
6. Check the box: “Restore all parameters including network settings and user accounts”.
7. Click “Apply” and confirm when prompted.
8. The NVR will restart automatically (takes 2–3 minutes).

Warning: This method won’t work if you’ve forgotten the password. It’s only for users who still have access but want a clean slate.

After reboot, the NVR resets to default settings. You’ll need to re-add cameras, set up recording schedules, and configure network settings.

Step 4: Reset via Mobile App (Dahua Mobile 2.0)

Dahua’s mobile app offers a convenient way to reset if you’re on the go or prefer not to use a computer.

1. Download Dahua Mobile 2.0 from Google Play or App Store.
2. Connect your phone to the same network as the NVR (or use direct Wi-Fi if the NVR supports it).
3. Open the app. Tap the + icon to add a device.
4. Scan the QR code on the NVR or enter the IP address manually.
5. If you can log in, go to Device Settings > System > Maintenance > Restore.
6. Choose “Factory Reset” and confirm.
7. For password recovery (soft reset), tap “Forgot Password” during login. Enter your email to receive a reset link.

Pro Tip: The mobile app method works best for soft resets. For hard resets, you’ll still need physical access to the reset button.

Step 5: Reconfigure Your NVR After Reset

A reset is just the beginning. Now you need to set up your surveillance system properly.

1. Set a strong admin password (12+ chars, no personal info).
2. Enable HTTPS and disable Telnet/HTTP (under Network > Advanced).
3. Set the correct time and date (System > General > Date & Time). Sync with NTP server if possible.
4. Add your IP cameras:
   • Go to Camera > IP Camera.
   • Click “Add” and enter each camera’s IP, username, and password.
   • Or use “Auto Add” to detect all Dahua cameras on the network.
5. Configure recording settings:
   • Go to Storage > Schedule.
   • Set continuous, motion, or alarm-based recording.
   • Adjust pre- and post-recording times.
6. Set up remote access:
   • Enable P2P (under Network > P2P).
   • Scan the QR code with the Dahua Mobile app.
   • Or set up port forwarding (advanced users only).
7. Test everything:
   • View live feeds.
   • Trigger motion events to test recording.
   • Access remotely from another device.

Pro Tip: After setup, create a configuration backup (System > Maintenance > Backup). Save it to a USB drive or cloud storage. This saves hours if you need to reset again later.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tip #1: Always use static IPs during reset. If your PC uses DHCP, the NVR might get a different IP, making it unreachable. Set your PC’s IP to 192.168.1.100 manually.

Pro Tip #2: Update firmware first. After a hard reset, check for firmware updates (System > Maintenance > Upgrade). Newer firmware often fixes bugs and improves security.

Pro Tip #3: Label your cameras. After reset, you’ll re-add all cameras. Label them (e.g., “Front Door,” “Garage”) so you don’t mix up channels.

Common Mistake #1: Skipping the backup. Don’t assume you won’t need old settings. A backup takes 5 minutes and saves hours of reconfiguration.

Common Mistake #2: Using weak passwords. After reset, the default is admin/admin. Change it immediately. Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords.

Common Mistake #3: Resetting without checking storage. A hard reset won’t erase recorded footage unless you format the hard drive. But if you plan to sell the NVR, format the drive (Storage > HDD > Format) to protect privacy.

Common Mistake #4: Ignoring network conflicts. If the NVR’s default IP (192.168.1.108) clashes with your router, change it to a free address (e.g., 192.168.1.200) under Network > TCP/IP.

This how to reset Dahua NVR in 2026 step by step guide helps you avoid these pitfalls. Take your time, follow each step, and double-check your work.

FAQs About How to Reset Dahua NVR in 2026 Step by Step Guide

Q1: Can I reset my Dahua NVR without losing recorded footage?

Yes—but only with a soft reset (password recovery). A hard reset (factory default) won’t delete footage unless you manually format the hard drive. However, after a hard reset, the NVR may not recognize old recordings. To recover them, do not re-add cameras immediately. Use the “Playback” tab to search for existing footage first.

Q2: Why isn’t the reset button working?

Common reasons:

• You didn’t hold the button long enough (needs 30+ seconds).
• The NVR is in a boot loop (try powering it off for 10 minutes first).
• The button is damaged (rare, but possible with older units).
• Firmware is corrupted (try a firmware upgrade after a partial reset).

Try the Config Tool method first. If it fails, contact Dahua support.

Q3: What if I don’t have an email for password recovery?

You need one. The Dahua Config Tool requires an email to send the reset code. Use a personal, work, or temporary email (e.g., Gmail, Outlook). Avoid shared or outdated accounts.

Q4: Can I reset a Dahua NVR remotely?

Only for soft resets if you have remote access (P2P, port forwarding, or Dahua Cloud). For hard resets, you must be physically present to press the reset button.

Q5: Will a reset fix a frozen or unresponsive NVR?

It often does. A hard reset clears software glitches. But if the NVR still freezes after reset, the issue might be:

• Failing hard drive (check HDD health under Storage > HDD).
• Overheating (ensure proper ventilation).
• Firmware bugs (upgrade to the latest version).

Q6: How often should I reset my Dahua NVR?

Only when necessary:

• After firmware updates that cause instability.
• When changing ownership or security settings.
• After a major system overhaul.

Avoid frequent resets—they increase wear on the hard drive.

Q7: What’s the difference between “Default” and “Factory Default”?

Big difference:

• “Default”: Resets network and basic settings, but keeps users, cameras, and recordings.
• “Factory Default”: Erases everything—users, cameras, settings, schedules. Use this for a clean start.

Always choose “Factory Default” for a true reset.

Final Thoughts

Resetting your Dahua NVR doesn’t have to be stressful. With this how to reset Dahua NVR in 2026 step by step guide, you now have the tools to handle password recovery, factory resets, and post-reset setup like a pro.

Remember: soft resets save time and data; hard resets solve deeper issues. Always back up first, use strong passwords, and test your system after every change.

Whether you’re securing your home, managing a business, or just fixing a glitch, taking control of your NVR means taking control of your security. Don’t wait for a crisis—practice the reset process once when everything’s working. That way, you’ll be ready when you really need it.

Got a tip or question? Share it in the comments. And if this guide helped, pass it along to someone else who might be locked out of their NVR right now. Security is better when we work together.

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