Reset your Hikvision DVR/NVR password in 2026 quickly and securely using the official Hik-Connect app or web interface—no factory reset needed. This guide walks you through step-by-step recovery via QR code, security questions, or admin email verification, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum data protection. Follow the updated 2026 protocol to regain access safely and avoid permanent device wipe.

How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Use the Hik-Connect app for quick password reset if linked to your account.
• Factory reset via menu when locked out—requires physical access to device.
• Retrieve via email if you enabled security questions during setup.
• Contact Hikvision support for official assistance with proof of ownership.
• Always back up settings before resetting to avoid configuration loss.
• Update firmware regularly to prevent security issues and enable recovery options.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine this: You walk into your office, ready to review yesterday’s security footage, only to find you’ve forgotten the login password for your Hikvision DVR or NVR. No panic — it happens more often than you think.

Whether it’s a forgotten admin password, a previous installer who didn’t share credentials, or a device that hasn’t been accessed in months, losing access to your Hikvision recorder can feel like locking yourself out of your own security system.

But don’t worry — resetting the password isn’t as scary as it sounds. With the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide, you’ll regain control quickly, safely, and without needing to call a technician every time.

This guide covers every method — from software tools to physical resets — so you can pick the one that fits your situation. Whether you’re a homeowner, small business owner, or IT support, this is your go-to resource for restoring access in 2026 and beyond.

What You Need

Before diving in, let’s gather what you’ll need. The tools vary slightly depending on the method, but here’s a quick checklist to get you started:

• A computer (Windows or Mac) — most password reset tools are Windows-based, but we’ll cover Mac workarounds.
• USB flash drive (8GB or larger) — for creating a reset tool or recovery file.
• Ethernet cable — to connect your DVR/NVR to your network or directly to your computer.
• Hikvision SADP Tool (Software) — free download from Hikvision’s official website; detects and manages Hikvision devices.
• Hik-Connect Account (optional) — if you’ve previously linked your device to the cloud.
• Access to the DVR/NVR physically — you’ll need to plug in cables and possibly restart the device.
• Hikvision Password Reset Tool (Hikvision Password Reset Tool or Hikvision Reset Tool) — a utility that generates a reset file using the device’s MAC address.
• Latest firmware version info (optional but helpful) — some older tools may not work with newer firmware.

Pro Tip: Always use a reliable USB drive (preferably formatted as FAT32) and download tools directly from Hikvision’s official site to avoid malware or corrupted files.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Check if You Can Use Hik-Connect (Cloud Method)

If you’ve previously registered your Hikvision DVR or NVR with the Hik-Connect cloud service, this is the easiest and safest way to reset the password — no physical tools needed.

Many users link their devices to Hik-Connect for remote access via the Hik-Connect mobile app or web portal. If you did this, you’re in luck.

• Open the Hik-Connect mobile app (iOS or Android) or go to https://www.hik-connect.com.
• Log in with your Hik-Connect account (email and password).
• Find your DVR/NVR in the device list.
• Tap on the device, then go to Settings > User Management.
• Locate the admin user and select “Reset Password”.
• Enter a new password (8–16 characters, mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).
• Save and confirm.

After resetting, try logging in locally on the DVR/NVR using the new password. This method works instantly and doesn’t require any downloads or USB drives.

Warning: This only works if you’ve previously enabled Hik-Connect and the device is currently connected to the internet. If it’s offline or never linked, skip to Step 2.

This method is part of the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide because it’s the most user-friendly and avoids risky hardware resets.

Step 2: Use the SADP Tool to Find Your Device

If you don’t have Hik-Connect access, the next step is to locate your DVR/NVR on the network using the SADP (Search Active Device Protocol) Tool.

SADP is a free utility from Hikvision that scans your local network and lists all Hikvision devices — including their IP address, MAC address, and model number.

• Download SADP Tool from Hikvision’s official site.
• Install and open the tool (works on Windows 10/11; Mac users can use a Windows VM or Boot Camp).
• Connect your DVR/NVR to the same network as your computer (via Ethernet).
• Power on the device if it’s off.
• Click “Refresh” in SADP — your device should appear in the list.

Once found, note down:

• IP Address (e.g., 192.168.1.64)
• MAC Address (e.g., 00:1C:10:22:33:44)
• Device Model (e.g., DS-7104HGHI-SH)

Pro Tip: If your device doesn’t show up, double-check the Ethernet connection and ensure both devices are on the same subnet. You may need to set a static IP on your computer (e.g., 192.168.1.100, subnet 255.255.255.0) to match the DVR’s default range.

This step is essential for the next method and is a key part of the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide for offline or forgotten-password scenarios.

Step 3: Generate a Password Reset File Using the Hikvision Reset Tool

Now that you have the MAC address, you can generate a password reset file — a special .xml or .dat file that, when loaded on a USB drive, will reset the admin password.

This is the most common and reliable method for devices without cloud access.

• Download the Hikvision Password Reset Tool (sometimes called “Hikvision Reset Tool” or “Hikvision Password Recovery Tool”) from Hikvision’s support site.
• Extract the ZIP file and run the tool (it’s usually a standalone .exe file).
• Enter the MAC address of your DVR/NVR (from Step 2).
• Enter the verification code shown on the DVR/NVR screen (see below for how to find it).
• Click “Generate” — the tool creates a file named “hikreset.dat” or similar.
• Copy this file to the root directory of a USB flash drive (formatted as FAT32).

How to Find the Verification Code: On the DVR/NVR screen, go to Main Menu > System > Reset. A 16-character code (like “AB12CD34EF56GH78”) will appear. This code changes every 30 seconds, so generate the reset file quickly.

Once the file is on the USB, insert it into the DVR/NVR’s USB port and restart the device. The system will detect the file and reset the password automatically.

After reboot, the default admin password will be 12345 — unless you’ve customized it in the reset tool (some versions allow setting a new password directly).

Warning: The reset file is only valid for 2 hours after generation. If it doesn’t work, repeat the process with a fresh code.

This method is a cornerstone of the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide and works for most models from 2018 onward.

Step 4: Perform the USB Reset on the DVR/NVR

Now it’s time to apply the reset file. This is the physical part — but it’s simple.

• Power off the DVR/NVR.
• Insert the USB drive with the hikreset.dat file into any USB port on the device.
• Power on the DVR/NVR.
• Wait 1–2 minutes — the device will read the file and reset the password automatically.
• When the login screen appears, enter:
  • Username: admin
  • Password: 12345

You should now be logged in. Immediately go to System > User Management and create a new strong password — don’t leave it as 12345!

Pro Tip: After logging in, go to System > Network and note the current IP address. This helps you access the device remotely later.

If the reset doesn’t happen, double-check:

• The USB is in the root folder (not in a subfolder).
• The file is named correctly (e.g., hikreset.dat).
• The verification code was entered correctly.
• The USB is formatted as FAT32 (not NTFS or exFAT).

Step 5: Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If the USB method fails — perhaps due to firmware restrictions, a corrupted system, or a very old model — a hardware factory reset is your last option.

Warning: This erases all settings, recordings, and configurations. Use only if nothing else works.

• Power off the DVR/NVR.
• Locate the reset button — it’s usually a tiny hole on the back or side of the device (marked “Reset” or “RST”).
• Use a paperclip or SIM ejector tool to press and hold the button.
• While holding, power on the device.
• Keep holding for 10–15 seconds until the device restarts and the LED lights flash.
• Release the button.

After reboot, the device will have:

• Default IP: 192.168.1.64
• Default username: admin
• Default password: 12345

You’ll need to reconfigure everything: camera connections, network settings, recording schedules, etc.

Important: After a factory reset, immediately change the default password. Leaving it as 12345 makes your system vulnerable to hacking.

This method is included in the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide as a fallback, not a first choice.

Step 6: Update Firmware (Recommended After Reset)

Once you’ve reset the password, it’s smart to update the firmware. Older firmware versions may have bugs or security flaws.

• Go to Main Menu > System > Maintenance > Upgrade.
• Download the latest firmware from Hikvision’s website (match your exact model).
• Extract the .bin file and copy it to a USB drive (FAT32).
• Insert the USB into the DVR/NVR.
• Select “Local Upgrade” and choose the file.
• Start the upgrade — this takes 5–10 minutes. Do not power off during this process.

After the update, the system may reboot automatically. Your settings and recordings should remain, but always back up critical footage first.

Pro Tip: Check the firmware release notes — some updates fix password reset bugs or improve security.

Keeping your system updated is a key part of the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide for long-term reliability.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right tools, things can go wrong. Here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:

• Always back up your configuration — before any reset, go to System > Import/Export and save your settings to a USB. This lets you restore camera names, motion zones, and schedules after a reset.
• Use the correct reset tool version — Hikvision releases different tools for different firmware families. Using the wrong one can fail or brick the device. Match the tool to your device’s firmware version (found in SADP or System Info).
• Don’t skip the verification code — entering the wrong code is the #1 reason the USB reset fails. Double-check the 16-character string on the screen.
• Avoid third-party tools — many websites offer “free” reset tools, but they’re often infected with malware or don’t work. Stick to Hikvision’s official downloads.
• Label your devices — write the model number and MAC address on a sticker on the back. This saves time during resets.
• Test remote access early — after resetting, use the Hik-Connect app to ensure you can view cameras remotely. This confirms network and port forwarding are set up.
• Don’t ignore security — after resetting, enable IP Filter (in System > Security) to block unauthorized access. Also, disable Telnet and HTTP if you don’t need them.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to format the USB as FAT32. NTFS or exFAT drives won’t work — the DVR/NVR can’t read them. Use Windows File Explorer to right-click the USB, select “Format,” and choose FAT32.

These tips are essential for mastering the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide without headaches.

FAQs About How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide

Q1: Can I reset the password remotely without physical access?

If you have Hik-Connect set up and the device is online, yes — use the mobile app or web portal to reset the password. If not, you must have physical access to insert the USB or press the reset button.

Remote USB reset isn’t possible — the device needs to read the file directly from the USB port.

Q2: What if the verification code doesn’t appear on the screen?

This usually means the device is in “No Display” mode — the HDMI/BNC output is off or the monitor is disconnected. Try:

• Connecting a monitor via HDMI or VGA.
• Pressing the “Menu” or “Enter” button on the DVR remote/front panel.
• Restarting the device.

If still no display, the device may have a hardware issue — contact Hikvision support.

Q3: Will resetting the password delete my recordings?

No — the USB password reset (Steps 3–4) only changes the login credentials. Your video files stay safe.

However, a factory reset (Step 5) will erase recordings, settings, and user accounts. Always back up footage first.

Q4: My DVR is very old (pre-2018). Will this guide still work?

Older models (like DS-7104HWI-SH) may not support the USB reset method. In that case:

• Use the factory reset button (Step 5).
• Or, contact Hikvision support — they may provide a custom reset file for legacy devices.

Check the model number and firmware version before assuming compatibility.

Q5: Can I use this method for Hikvision IP cameras?

Yes — the same steps apply to Hikvision IP cameras that use a web interface or Hik-Connect. Just ensure the camera is powered and connected to the network.

For standalone IP cameras, you can also reset via the web interface (Settings > System > Restore) if you have access.

Q6: What if the reset tool says “Invalid MAC”?

Double-check:

• The MAC address is entered correctly (no spaces, no typos).
• It’s the full 12-character MAC (e.g., 00:1C:10:22:33:44, not shortened).
• You’re using the latest version of the reset tool — Hikvision updates it regularly.

If the issue persists, try the tool on a different computer.

Q7: Is it safe to leave the default password (12345) after a reset?

No — never. Default passwords are public knowledge and make your system an easy target for hackers. Always create a strong, unique password (e.g., “Cam3r@2026!”).

Also, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if your model supports it (available in newer firmware).

Final Thoughts

Forgetting your Hikvision DVR or NVR password doesn’t have to mean calling a technician or losing access to your security system. With the How to Reset Hikvision DVR NVR Password in 2026 Easy Guide, you now have a clear, step-by-step plan to get back in — whether through the cloud, a USB reset, or a factory restore.

Start with the Hik-Connect method if available — it’s the fastest and safest. If not, use the SADP Tool + USB reset combo. Save the factory reset for emergencies.

Remember: Security doesn’t end at the reset. Update your firmware, set a strong password, and back up your settings. A well-maintained system is less likely to lock you out in the future.

Bookmark this guide, keep your tools ready, and never let a forgotten password stop you from keeping your property safe. You’ve got this!

Now go reset that password — and take back control of your security system today.