Reset your Hikvision NVR manually in 2026 by holding the reset button for 10+ seconds until the device restarts—this restores factory settings without a password. Always back up configurations first, as this erases all custom settings, users, and network preferences to ensure a smooth recovery process.

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How to Reset Hikvision NVR Manually in 2026: A Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• Locate the reset button: Find the physical reset hole on your Hikvision NVR model.
• Use a paperclip: Press and hold the reset button for 10–15 seconds.
• Wait for reboot: Allow the NVR to restart fully after resetting.
• Reconfigure settings: Reset erases all custom network and camera settings.
• Keep login details: Note default credentials post-reset to regain access.
• Backup first: Always export configurations before resetting to avoid data loss.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Imagine you’re managing a small business with a Hikvision NVR (Network Video Recorder) for security cameras. One day, you realize you’ve forgotten the admin password, or the system is glitching after a firmware update. You need to get back in—fast. That’s where knowing how to reset Hikvision NVR manually in 2026 becomes critical.

Whether you’re a homeowner, IT technician, or security integrator, a manual reset can restore access, fix configuration errors, or prepare the device for resale. But unlike consumer gadgets, NVRs are sensitive. A wrong move can erase all your footage or disable camera feeds. That’s why this guide walks you through the safest, most effective method to reset your Hikvision NVR—manually and correctly.

With cyber threats rising and remote access more common, a secure reset process isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. This guide covers everything from physical resets to post-reset best practices, ensuring your system stays functional and secure. We’ll focus on the most reliable manual reset methods for 2026 models, including DS-7600, DS-9600, and newer XVR series.

What You Need

Before you begin, gather these tools and information. A successful manual NVR reset depends on preparation.

• Physical access to the NVR – You must be near the device. Remote resets are risky and often incomplete.
• A small paperclip or pin – For pressing the reset button (usually recessed).
• Ethernet cable and computer – To reconnect and reconfigure the NVR after reset.
• Hikvision iVMS-4200 or SADP Tool – Free software from Hikvision to discover and manage the device post-reset.
• Original camera IP addresses (optional) – If you want to reconnect cameras quickly. Otherwise, you’ll need to re-add them.
• USB flash drive (optional) – For backing up settings if your model supports it (e.g., DS-9600 series).
• Power source and monitor – A VGA/HDMI monitor and power cable to verify the reset.

Pro Tip: Always back up your NVR configuration if possible before resetting. Some models (like DS-9600) let you export settings via the web interface or USB. If you skip this, you’ll have to re-add cameras, set recording schedules, and reconfigure users from scratch.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Reset Hikvision NVR Manually in 2026 A Complete Guide

Step 1: Power Down the NVR Safely

Never reset a running NVR without a proper shutdown. Abrupt power loss can corrupt the system or damage storage drives.

• Go to the NVR’s main menu (via monitor or web interface).
• Navigate to System > Shutdown.
• Select “Power Off” and wait until the power LED turns off or the screen goes black.

This step ensures the hard drive stops spinning and all processes halt cleanly. It’s especially important if you’re using RAID configurations or multiple HDDs. Skipping this risks data loss and system instability.

Warning: If you can’t access the menu (e.g., forgot password), you can still proceed—but use a surge protector and avoid frequent hard resets. They wear down internal components over time.

Step 2: Locate the Reset Button (Physical or Hidden)

Hikvision NVRs don’t have a visible “reset” button on the front. Instead, they use a small, recessed button—usually on the side, back, or inside the chassis.

• Check the back panel near the power input or USB ports.
• On some models (e.g., DS-7600), the reset button is under a rubber plug.
• For rack-mounted units (DS-9600 series), open the side panel—look near the motherboard.

Use a flashlight if needed. The button is typically labeled “RST” or has a small icon of a circle with a line through it. If you can’t find it, refer to your model’s user manual (search “[Your Model] reset button location” on Google).

This is a key step in how to reset Hikvision NVR manually in 2026—no software tricks can replace physical access here.

Step 3: Press and Hold the Reset Button

Now comes the actual reset. But timing matters. Pressing too short or too long can cause issues.

• Insert a paperclip or pin into the reset hole.
• Press and hold for 10–15 seconds while the NVR is still powered off.
• Then, power on the NVR while continuing to hold the button.
• Keep holding for another 15–20 seconds after the power LED lights up.
• Release when you hear a beep or see the system logo appear.

On newer models (2024–2026), the reset process may take 30–60 seconds. You’ll know it’s working when the NVR boots into “Setup Wizard” mode or displays a default IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.64).

Pro Tip: Don’t rush. If the NVR restarts normally (shows your old login screen), the reset failed. Try again with a longer hold (up to 25 seconds total). Some units require precise timing.

Step 4: Confirm the Reset via Monitor or Network

After releasing the button, the NVR should boot into a fresh state. Here’s how to confirm:

• With a monitor: You’ll see the Hikvision logo and a setup wizard. The default admin password is usually blank or “admin.”
• Without a monitor: Connect your computer to the same network. Use the Hikvision SADP Tool (download from Hikvision’s website) to scan for the NVR.

Open SADP, click “Refresh.” You should see your NVR with IP address 192.168.1.64 and status “Not Activated.” This confirms the reset worked.

If the NVR still shows your old IP or password, the reset didn’t take. Repeat Step 3 with more pressure or longer hold time.

Step 5: Reactivate and Reconfigure the NVR

Now that the NVR is reset, you need to set it up again. This is where many users make mistakes—skipping security or misconfiguring cameras.

• Set a strong admin password: Use a mix of uppercase, numbers, and symbols. Never use “admin” or “123456.”
• Assign a static IP: Go to System > Network > TCP/IP. Set a fixed IP (e.g., 192.168.1.100) to avoid future connectivity issues.
• Re-add cameras: Go to Camera > Camera Management. Click “Add” and enter each camera’s IP and credentials. Or use “Auto Add” if cameras are on the same network.
• Configure recording: Set schedules, motion detection, and storage settings under Storage > Schedule.

This step is crucial for long-term reliability. A reset isn’t complete until you’ve secured the device and restored functionality.

Step 6: Test the System and Backup Settings

Before walking away, verify everything works.

• Check all camera feeds on the monitor or via the web interface.
• Trigger motion detection to test recording.
• Verify remote access (if enabled) via Hik-Connect or iVMS-4200.

Once confirmed, backup your configuration:

• Go to System > Maintenance > Backup.
• Save the file to a USB drive or network location.

This backup is your safety net for future issues. Store it securely—losing it means repeating the entire setup.

Step 7: Secure Remote Access (Optional but Recommended)

If you use the NVR remotely (e.g., from your phone or office), re-enable Hik-Connect or port forwarding—but do it safely.

• Go to System > Network > Platform Access.
• Enable Hik-Connect and note the device serial number.
• On your phone, install the Hik-Connect app and add the NVR using the serial number.

Never open port 80 or 8000 to the public internet. Use Hik-Connect’s P2P service instead—it’s encrypted and doesn’t require port forwarding.

Warning: Opening ports exposes your NVR to hackers. In 2025, over 60% of compromised NVRs were due to exposed ports. Use Hik-Connect or a VPN for remote access.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a perfect reset, small errors can cause big problems. Here’s what to watch for:

Pro Tip 1: Label your cameras before resetting. After the reset, re-adding cameras can be confusing. A simple sticky note with “Front Door – 192.168.1.20” saves time.

Pro Tip 2: Use the same IP range as your router. If your router is 192.168.0.x, set the NVR to 192.168.0.100. Avoid 192.168.1.x unless your network uses that subnet.

Pro Tip 3: Update firmware after reset. Go to System > Maintenance > Upgrade. Hikvision releases patches for bugs and security flaws monthly. A 2026 NVR should run the latest firmware.

Common Mistake 1: Not backing up before resetting. If your NVR supports it, always export settings. Some models (DS-7600) allow backup via web interface. Others need a USB drive. Check your manual.

Common Mistake 2: Holding the reset button too short. Less than 10 seconds won’t trigger a full reset. You’ll just reboot the device. Use a timer or count to 20.

Common Mistake 3: Skipping password setup. A reset leaves the admin account vulnerable. Set a strong password immediately. Enable “Strong Password” in System > User to enforce complexity.

Common Mistake 4: Reusing old camera passwords. If a camera was compromised, reset it too. Use the camera’s reset button or web interface to change its password before re-adding.

Common Mistake 5: Ignoring storage health. After reset, check HDD status in Storage > Disk Manager. If a drive shows “Abnormal,” replace it before recording resumes.

FAQs About How to Reset Hikvision NVR Manually in 2026 A Complete Guide

Q1: Can I reset the NVR remotely?
No. A true factory reset requires physical access to the reset button. Remote tools like iVMS-4200 can only reset passwords (if you know the admin account), not perform a full factory reset. For security, Hikvision designed it this way.

Q2: What happens to my recorded footage during a reset?
All footage is stored on the hard drive. The reset only clears system settings (passwords, IP, camera links). Your videos remain—unless you manually format the drive afterward. But if the NVR fails to boot, data recovery may require professional help.

Q3: The reset button doesn’t work. What now?
Try these fixes:
– Hold the button for 25 seconds (some models need longer).
– Ensure the NVR is powered off before starting.
– Check for firmware issues—update via USB if possible.
– If still unresponsive, contact Hikvision support. The button may be faulty.

Q4: Can I reset a Hikvision NVR without a monitor?
Yes. Use the SADP Tool to discover the NVR on your network. After reset, it will show as “Not Activated.” You can then configure it via web browser (enter the NVR’s IP in Chrome/Firefox).

Q5: Will a reset delete my cameras?
No. The cameras are separate devices. The reset only clears the NVR’s memory. But you’ll need to re-add the cameras to the NVR after the reset. Their settings (motion zones, passwords) remain on the camera itself.

Q6: How often should I reset my NVR?
Only when necessary—like forgotten passwords, system crashes, or preparing for resale. Frequent resets wear out the hardware and risk data loss. Instead, maintain the system: update firmware, clean dust, and monitor storage health.

Q7: What if the NVR won’t boot after reset?
Try a hardware reset:
1. Power off, unplug, and wait 2 minutes.
2. Hold the reset button while powering on.
3. If still stuck, the firmware may be corrupted. Use Hikvision’s “Emergency Upgrade” tool (via USB) to restore the OS.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to reset Hikvision NVR manually in 2026 is a must-have skill for anyone managing a surveillance system. It’s not just about fixing problems—it’s about maintaining control, security, and peace of mind.

Remember: always power down first, hold the reset button long enough, and reconfigure securely. Don’t skip the backup. And never expose your NVR to the open internet.

The next time you face a locked or glitchy NVR, don’t panic. Follow this guide step by step. In under an hour, you’ll have a clean, functional system—ready for years of reliable use.

Take action today: Bookmark this page, download the SADP Tool, and check your NVR’s firmware version. A little preparation now saves hours of frustration later.

For more tips on Hikvision setup, camera integration, and cybersecurity, explore our Hikvision Security Hub. Stay safe, stay smart.

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