Reset your Hikvision IP camera bullet in 2026 quickly and securely using the physical reset button or web interface—no advanced tools required. This easy guide walks you through both methods, ensuring factory settings are restored safely while preserving network integrity. Always verify firmware compatibility post-reset to avoid configuration issues.

How to Reset Hikvision IP Camera Bullet in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the small hole on the camera for the reset tool.
• Use a paperclip or tool: Insert and hold the reset button for 10+ seconds.
• Wait for reboot: Allow the camera to fully restart after releasing the button.
• Default credentials work: Log in with admin/12345 after reset for setup.
• Reconfigure network settings: Update IP and passwords to secure the device.
• Check firmware: Update to the latest version for optimal performance.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re trying to access your Hikvision IP camera bullet after a power outage, but you can’t log in. Maybe you forgot the password, or the camera isn’t responding. You’re not alone—this is one of the most common issues security system owners face.

Whether you’re setting up a new camera or recovering access to an old one, knowing how to reset Hikvision IP camera bullet in 2026 easy guide is a must. A factory reset clears all custom settings and restores the camera to its default state, letting you start fresh.

This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about security. A misconfigured or inaccessible camera leaves your property vulnerable. And with cyber threats on the rise, resetting your camera properly ensures you’re not leaving backdoors open.

By following the How to Reset Hikvision IP Camera Bullet in 2026 Easy Guide, you’ll avoid costly technician visits and get your system back online in minutes. No tech degree required.

What You Need

Before you begin, gather these tools and materials. Having everything ready saves time and prevents frustration mid-process.

• Hikvision IP bullet camera (any model: DS-2CD20xx, DS-2CE16C0T-IR, etc.)
• Power source (PoE switch, injector, or AC adapter)
• Ethernet cable (Cat5e or higher recommended)
• Computer or laptop (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
• Network connection (same subnet as the camera)
• Paperclip or small pin (for physical reset button)
• Hikvision SADP Tool (free download from Hikvision’s website)
• Hik-Connect or iVMS-4200 software (optional, for advanced management)

Don’t worry if you don’t have the original packaging or manual—this guide works for all Hikvision bullet cameras released through 2026.

Pro tip: If your camera is mounted outdoors, consider doing this during daylight or with a portable light. You don’t want to fumble with a tiny reset button in the dark.

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

Let’s walk through the process. We’ll cover both software-based and hardware-based reset methods. Choose the one that fits your situation.

Step 1: Identify Your Camera Model and Current IP

Every Hikvision camera has a label on the back or bottom with the model number and default IP address (usually 192.168.1.64). Take a photo or note it down.

If you can’t access the label (e.g., mounted high up), use the SADP Tool to scan your network. Open SADP, and it’ll list all Hikvision devices, including their current IP, MAC address, and status.

This step is crucial—without the correct IP, you can’t reach the camera’s web interface or reset it remotely.

Tip: If SADP doesn’t detect the camera, ensure your computer is on the same network segment (e.g., 192.168.1.x). Use a direct Ethernet connection if Wi-Fi isn’t stable.

Step 2: Connect the Camera to Your Network

Plug the camera into a PoE switch or use a PoE injector. If your camera uses an AC adapter, power it on normally.

Connect your computer to the same network. Use an Ethernet cable for the most reliable connection. Avoid Wi-Fi if possible—network drops can interrupt the reset process.

Wait 1–2 minutes for the camera to boot up. You’ll usually hear a soft click or see the IR LEDs turn on.

Now, open SADP Tool again. The camera should appear with a green status icon. If it shows “Inactive,” it might need activation (we’ll cover that later).

Remember: A stable network connection is key when following the How to Reset Hikvision IP Camera Bullet in 2026 Easy Guide.

Step 3: Reset via SADP Tool (Software Reset)

This is the easiest and safest method—if your camera is online and discoverable.

1. In SADP, right-click on your camera.
2. Select “Reset Device” from the menu.
3. Confirm the reset when prompted.

The tool will send a reset command. The camera will restart (LEDs may flash). This takes 1–3 minutes.

After reset, the camera will:

• Revert to factory default IP (usually 192.168.1.64)
• Disable all custom settings (motion detection, FTP, etc.)
• Set username to admin and password to blank

You’ll see a confirmation in SADP. Now, you can access the camera via web browser at http://192.168.1.64.

Warning: If SADP says “Reset failed,” the camera may be locked. Try the hardware reset (Step 4) or check if the camera is in “Locked” state (see FAQs).

Step 4: Perform a Hardware Reset (Physical Button)

If SADP can’t reach the camera, use the physical reset button. This works even if the camera is offline or password-locked.

1. Power off the camera completely.
2. Locate the reset hole—usually on the back or side, marked “RESET” or “RST.”
3. Insert a paperclip or pin and press the button firmly.
4. While holding the button, power on the camera.
5. Keep holding for 15–20 seconds (some models need 30 seconds).
6. Release the button after the camera’s LED flashes rapidly (usually red or blue).

The camera will reboot. Wait until the LED turns steady green or the IR lights activate.

This method forces a full factory reset, including network settings. It’s the go-to solution when software tools fail.

Note: Some newer Hikvision models (2024–2026) have a “secure reset” feature. You’ll need to enter a code from the SADP tool after the hardware reset. We’ll explain this in the pro tips.

Step 5: Reconnect and Reconfigure

After the reset, your camera will be in “default” mode. Here’s how to set it up safely:

1. Use SADP to find the camera’s new IP (should be 192.168.1.64).
2. Open a web browser and go to http://192.168.1.64.
3. Log in with username admin and leave the password blank.
4. When prompted, set a strong password (minimum 8 characters, mix letters, numbers, symbols).
5. Change the IP address to avoid conflicts (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
6. Update firmware if available (Settings > System > Maintenance > Upgrade).

Now, reconfigure your settings: motion detection, recording schedule, email alerts, etc.

Pro tip: Save your configuration as a backup (Settings > System > Backup & Restore). If something goes wrong later, you can restore it in seconds.

Step 6: Test and Verify

Don’t assume it’s working—test it!

• Check the live feed in the web interface or via Hik-Connect app.
• Verify motion detection by walking in front of the camera.
• Test remote access (if you use cloud services).
• Confirm storage is recording (check SD card or NVR).

If anything’s off, go back to the settings. A reset clears everything—so you’ll need to set up from scratch.

This step ensures the How to Reset Hikvision IP Camera Bullet in 2026 Easy Guide worked completely.

Step 7: Secure Your Network (Optional but Critical)

After reset, your camera is vulnerable. Hackers often target default IPs and blank passwords.

• Change the default IP to a non-sequential address (e.g., 192.168.1.150).
• Enable HTTPS and disable HTTP.
• Set up two-factor authentication (if supported).
• Use a firewall to restrict access to the camera’s port (default: 80, 443, 554).
• Regularly update firmware.

These steps protect your privacy and prevent unauthorized access.

Warning: Never expose your camera’s port to the public internet without a firewall. It’s like leaving your front door unlocked.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple tasks like resetting a camera can go sideways. Here’s how to stay ahead.

Use the Right Reset Method

Not all resets are equal:

• SADP reset: Best for online cameras. Fast and clean.
• Hardware reset: For offline or locked devices. More reliable but requires physical access.
• Web interface reset: Only works if you know the password and can log in.

Choose based on your situation. If SADP fails, go straight to hardware.

Watch for the “Locked” State

Some Hikvision cameras lock after multiple failed login attempts (usually 5). If SADP shows “Locked,” you can’t reset via software.

Solution: Wait 30 minutes for auto-unlock, or use the hardware reset. The lock clears after a full reboot.

Secure Reset Code (2024–2026 Models)

Newer Hikvision cameras (e.g., AcuSense series) use a “secure reset.” After a hardware reset, the camera generates a 6-digit code.

You must enter this code in SADP to complete the reset. It’s a security feature to prevent unauthorized resets.

How to do it:

1. After hardware reset, note the code displayed on the camera’s screen (if it has one) or check SADP.
2. In SADP, right-click the camera > “Activate” > enter the code.
3. Set a new password.

Without this code, the camera remains in “activation required” mode.

Common Mistakes

• Holding the reset button too short: 15 seconds minimum. 30 seconds for older models.
• Using Wi-Fi for reset: Unstable connections cause timeouts. Use Ethernet.
• Skipping firmware updates: Older firmware may have bugs or security holes.
• Not changing the default IP: Leads to network conflicts, especially with multiple cameras.
• Ignoring backup: Always save your config after setup.

Pro tip: Label your cameras with their new IP and password (store offline). Saves time during future troubleshooting.

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

Q1: Can I reset the camera remotely?

Only if it’s online and you have access to SADP or the web interface. If the camera is offline or password-locked, you must use the physical reset button.

For remote sites, consider using a smart PDU (power distribution unit) to reboot the camera remotely, then use SADP.

Q2: Will resetting delete my recordings?

Yes—if recordings are stored on the camera’s SD card. A factory reset erases all local data.

If your camera saves to an NVR or cloud, recordings are safe. But check your NVR settings—resetting the camera may disconnect it from the recorder.

Q3: What if the reset button doesn’t work?

First, ensure you’re pressing it correctly (15–30 seconds while powering on). If it still fails:

• Try a different power source (bad power can prevent boot).
• Check for physical damage (corrosion, bent pins).
• Contact Hikvision support—some models have firmware bugs.

As a last resort, use a network-based reset tool like Hikvision Device Search Tool.

Q4: How often should I reset my camera?

Only when necessary: password loss, configuration errors, or after a firmware upgrade gone wrong. Don’t reset regularly—it erases your settings and recordings.

For maintenance, just update firmware and clean the lens.

Q5: Can I reset multiple cameras at once?

Not via hardware—you need to reset each camera individually. But with SADP, you can:

• Select multiple cameras > right-click > “Reset”.
• Use batch activation to set passwords and IPs.

Ideal for large installations (e.g., retail stores, warehouses).

Q6: What if I don’t have the SADP Tool?

Download it free from Hikvision’s official website. It’s compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Never use third-party tools—they may contain malware or fail to work with newer models.

Q7: My camera resets but won’t connect to Wi-Fi. What now?

Hikvision bullet cameras are typically wired (PoE). If yours has Wi-Fi:

• Reset clears Wi-Fi settings. Re-enter your network name and password in the web interface.
• Ensure the camera supports your router’s frequency (2.4 GHz only).
• Move the camera closer to the router during setup.

For best performance, use Ethernet or PoE—Wi-Fi is less reliable for security cameras.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to reset Hikvision IP camera bullet in 2026 easy guide is a superpower for any homeowner, business, or IT pro. It solves login issues, fixes misconfigurations, and restores security in minutes.

Remember: Always use the hardware reset as a fallback, keep your firmware updated, and secure your network after resetting. These simple habits prevent 90% of future problems.

Now that you’ve reset your camera, take 10 minutes to:

• Set a strong password.
• Back up your configuration.
• Test remote access.

Your security system is only as strong as its weakest link—don’t let a forgotten password be yours.

Got questions? Leave a comment or check Hikvision’s support portal. And if this guide helped, share it with a friend. The more people who know how to reset their cameras safely, the safer we all are.

Stay secure, stay informed, and keep your cameras running smoothly—2026 and beyond.