Reset your Dahua NVR to factory default without a password in 2026 using the physical reset button or Dahua’s offline recovery tool—no login required. This method ensures full system restoration, erasing all settings and user data for a clean slate. Follow precise timing and firmware steps to avoid bricking the device.

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How to Reset Dahua NVR to Factory Default Without Password in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Use the reset button: Locate and hold the reset button for 10+ seconds to trigger factory reset.
• Access via web interface: Log in locally or via IP to reset without a password if accessible.
• Default credentials work: Try admin/admin or admin/123456 if password was never changed.
• Firmware recovery tool: Use Dahua’s tool to restore defaults via USB or network connection.
• Contact support: Provide device details for a master password if all else fails.
• Backup first: Save configurations externally before resetting to avoid data loss.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re setting up your home security system, and suddenly you can’t access your Dahua NVR because you forgot the password. Maybe you inherited a used NVR, or the previous admin didn’t pass on login details. Whatever the reason, being locked out is frustrating—especially when you need to restore functionality fast.

This is where knowing how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026 becomes essential. A factory reset wipes all custom settings, including user accounts and passwords, giving you a fresh start. But unlike some devices, Dahua NVRs don’t have a simple “forgot password” button, and resetting without credentials requires specific steps.

Whether you’re a homeowner, security installer, or IT technician, this guide walks you through the process safely and efficiently. You’ll learn how to regain control of your NVR, avoid data loss, and get your surveillance system back online—without needing a password or calling support.

What You Need

Before diving in, gather these tools and materials. Having them ready ensures a smooth reset process and reduces the risk of mistakes.

• Dahua NVR unit (any model: XVR, DVR, or standalone NVR)
• Computer or laptop (Windows or Mac) with internet access
• Ethernet cable (to connect NVR to computer)
• Power adapter for the NVR (ensure it’s plugged in)
• Paperclip or small pin (for hardware reset, if needed)
• Dahua ConfigTool or DMSS app (free download from Dahua’s official site)
• Latest firmware version (optional, but recommended post-reset)

Most of these are things you likely already have. The key is the Ethernet cable and access to Dahua’s free software—both critical for resetting how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026 remotely.

Pro Tip: Label your NVR model (e.g., XVR5104HS-4KL-I3) before starting. Different models may have slight variations in reset procedures.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset Dahua NVR to Factory Default Without Password in 2026

There are two main methods: a software-based reset using Dahua tools and a hardware reset via the reset button. The software method is preferred because it’s safer and preserves firmware integrity. We’ll cover both, starting with the recommended approach.

Step 1: Connect Your NVR Directly to Your Computer

Start by isolating the NVR from your main network. Unplug it from the router and connect it directly to your computer using an Ethernet cable.

• Use a straight-through Ethernet cable (standard Cat5e/Cat6).
• Plug one end into the LAN port of the NVR, the other into your laptop/desktop.
• Power on the NVR and wait for it to boot fully (usually 1–2 minutes).

This direct connection ensures your computer can communicate with the NVR even if it has a static IP or no DHCP server. It’s a crucial first step when trying to reset how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026.

Warning: Avoid using Wi-Fi or a network switch. These can cause IP conflicts or connection drops during the reset.

Step 2: Download and Install Dahua ConfigTool

Go to Dahua’s official download center and search for “ConfigTool.” Download the latest version compatible with your OS (Windows or Mac).

• Install the software following the on-screen prompts.
• Launch ConfigTool after installation.
• Click “Search Device” or “Scan” to detect NVRs on the local network.

ConfigTool scans for all Dahua devices on your subnet. Since you’re connected directly, it should find your NVR within seconds. If it doesn’t appear, check cable connections and ensure both devices are on the same network segment.

Pro Tip: Temporarily disable your computer’s firewall or antivirus during setup. Security software can block ConfigTool’s discovery process.

Step 3: Locate Your NVR in ConfigTool

Once ConfigTool finishes scanning, you’ll see a list of detected devices. Look for your NVR by:

• Model number (e.g., XVR5208HS-4KL-I3)
• Serial number (found on the NVR’s label)
• IP address (usually starts with 192.168.x.x)

Click on the NVR entry to select it. If multiple devices show up, double-check the serial number to avoid resetting the wrong one.

This step confirms you’re targeting the correct device—essential when performing a factory reset without a password.

Step 4: Reset to Factory Default via ConfigTool

With the NVR selected, click the “Reset to Factory Default” button (usually under the “Operation” or “Tool” menu).

• Confirm the action when prompted. There’s no “undo” option!
• Wait 3–5 minutes while the NVR reboots and clears all settings.
• The NVR will automatically restart and assign itself a default IP (often 192.168.1.108).

This is the core of how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026. The process erases all users, passwords, recordings, and custom configurations. After completion, the NVR behaves like it did out of the box.

Important: Do not power off the NVR during reset. Interruption can corrupt the firmware and require advanced recovery.

Step 5: Reconnect and Set Up the NVR

After the reset, reconnect the NVR to your network (or keep it direct if preferred). Use ConfigTool again to locate it with its new default IP.

• Open a web browser and go to http://192.168.1.108 (or the IP shown in ConfigTool).
• You’ll be prompted to create a new admin password.
• Follow the setup wizard to configure date/time, network settings, and camera connections.

Now you’re back in control! This is the perfect time to update the firmware (see Step 6) and set strong security practices.

Step 6: Update Firmware (Highly Recommended)

Even after a factory reset, your NVR may be running outdated firmware with known bugs or security flaws. Updating ensures optimal performance and protection.

• In ConfigTool, select your NVR and click “Upgrade”.
• Download the latest firmware for your model from Dahua’s site.
• Upload the .bin file and wait for the upgrade to complete.

Firmware updates can take 10–15 minutes. The NVR will reboot automatically. This step is critical for long-term reliability and security, especially in 2026 when cyber threats are more sophisticated.

Step 7: Hardware Reset (Alternative Method)

If ConfigTool fails (e.g., NVR is unresponsive or not detected), use the hardware reset button. This method is a last resort but effective when software tools don’t work.

• Power off the NVR completely.
• Locate the reset hole (usually on the back or bottom panel).
• Insert a paperclip and press the internal button.
• While holding the button, power on the NVR.
• Continue holding for 15–30 seconds until the status LED flashes rapidly.
• Release and wait for the NVR to reboot.

The hardware reset performs the same function as the software method but bypasses the need for network access. It’s ideal for how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026 when the device is offline or unresponsive.

Caution: Hardware resets can sometimes leave residual settings. Always follow up with a ConfigTool reset if possible.

Step 8: Verify the Reset and Reconfigure

After either method, verify the reset worked:

• Log in with the new admin password.
• Check that no previous users, cameras, or schedules exist.
• Ensure recordings are deleted (if privacy is a concern).

Now reconfigure your system:

• Add IP cameras and test live feeds.
• Set motion detection and recording schedules.
• Enable remote access (via DMSS app or web portal).

This step ensures your NVR is fully functional and tailored to your needs—exactly what you wanted when you started the reset process.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with clear instructions, small mistakes can derail the reset. Here are expert insights from security technicians and Dahua users.

✅ Use a Static IP for Your Computer (Recommended)

Before connecting, set your computer’s Ethernet adapter to a static IP (e.g., 192.168.1.100) with subnet mask 255.255.255.0. This avoids IP conflicts and ensures stable communication with the NVR.

• Windows: Network & Internet > Change adapter options > Ethernet > Properties > IPv4
• Mac: System Settings > Network > Ethernet > Configure IPv4

Without a static IP, your computer might get a different address each time, breaking the connection.

✅ Always Backup Before Resetting (If Possible)

If you can access the NVR—even briefly—export your configuration:

• Go to Maintenance > Backup & Restore.
• Save the config file to a USB drive.
• After reset, restore it (optional) to retain camera settings.

Note: This won’t help if you’re locked out, but it’s good practice for future resets.

❌ Don’t Skip the Firmware Update

Many users reset and assume the NVR is “fixed.” But outdated firmware can cause crashes, poor camera performance, or security holes. In 2026, firmware updates often include critical patches for ransomware and remote exploits.

Example: A 2024 Dahua vulnerability allowed hackers to take over NVRs via default credentials. Updating prevents such risks.

❌ Avoid Using Third-Party Reset Tools

Online forums suggest “free NVR password crackers” or “reset generators.” These are scams or malware. Dahua’s official tools (ConfigTool, DMSS) are the only safe options.

Using unofficial software can brick your NVR or expose it to cyberattacks.

✅ Label and Document Your Setup

After resetting, create a simple log:

• Admin username and password (store securely)
• IP address and port numbers
• Camera locations and schedules

This prevents future lockouts and makes troubleshooting easier. It’s a small habit that saves hours later.

❌ Don’t Ignore Physical Security

A factory reset doesn’t make your system secure. Always:

• Use a strong, unique password (12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols)
• Enable HTTPS and disable UPnP
• Regularly check for firmware updates

Resetting is just the first step—security is ongoing.

FAQs About How to Reset Dahua NVR to Factory Default Without Password in 2026

Q1: Can I reset a Dahua NVR without the admin password?

Yes! You don’t need the admin password to perform a factory reset. Using Dahua ConfigTool or the hardware reset button allows you to wipe all settings and start fresh. This is the foundation of how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026.

Q2: Will a factory reset delete my recorded footage?

Absolutely. A factory reset erases all data: recordings, user accounts, network settings, and camera configurations. If you need to preserve videos, back them up to a USB drive or external hard drive before resetting.

Note: Some NVRs have a “Format HDD” option separate from factory reset. Use this only if you want to keep settings but clear recordings.

Q3: What if ConfigTool doesn’t detect my NVR?

Try these fixes:

• Ensure both devices are on the same subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.x)
• Use a direct Ethernet connection (no router/switch)
• Restart ConfigTool and rescan
• Try a different Ethernet cable or port
• As a last resort, use the hardware reset button

Network issues are the most common cause of detection problems.

Q4: How long does the reset take?

The software reset (via ConfigTool) takes 3–5 minutes for the process, plus 1–2 minutes for the NVR to reboot. The hardware reset is faster (under 2 minutes), but requires manual button pressing.

Plan for 10–15 minutes total, including setup and verification.

Q5: Can I reset a Dahua NVR remotely?

Not reliably. Remote reset requires:

• Access to the NVR’s web interface (which you don’t have without a password)
• Port forwarding and dynamic DNS (complex and risky)

For security and simplicity, always reset locally using a direct connection. This ensures you’re in control throughout the process.

Q6: Does the reset affect connected cameras?

Yes, but only in terms of configuration. The reset:

• Removes camera IP addresses and login details from the NVR
• Does NOT reset the cameras themselves
• Will require re-adding and reconfiguring cameras after reset

Your IP cameras will continue to function independently, but they’ll lose their connection to the NVR until you set them up again.

Q7: Is there a way to recover a forgotten password without resetting?

Dahua doesn’t offer a built-in password recovery feature. However, you can try:

• Using a default password (rare in newer models)
• Contacting Dahua support with proof of ownership (e.g., serial number, invoice)
• Using a backup config file (if you exported one earlier)

In most cases, a factory reset is the fastest and most reliable solution—especially when you need to get back online quickly.

Final Thoughts

Getting locked out of your Dahua NVR doesn’t mean the end of your security system. With the right tools and steps, you can regain full control in under 20 minutes. Whether you use Dahua ConfigTool for a clean software reset or the hardware button for emergencies, the process is straightforward once you know the tricks.

Remember: how to reset Dahua NVR to factory default without password in 2026 isn’t just about wiping settings—it’s about starting fresh with better security, updated firmware, and peace of mind. Take the time to set strong passwords, enable encryption, and keep your system up to date.

Now that you’ve reset your NVR, don’t stop there. Explore advanced features like AI detection, cloud backup, and mobile alerts to get the most from your system. And if you ever face this issue again, you’ll know exactly what to do—no panic, no delays, just a quick reset and back to business.

Your security system is only as strong as your ability to manage it. Stay proactive, stay informed, and keep your NVR running smoothly all year.

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