How to Reset Reolink Poe Camera in Simple Steps

Step 2: Power On the Camera

Ensure the camera is connected to your network via an Ethernet cable and is receiving power. PoE switches, injectors, or NVRs can all power the camera. The status LED should be lit (usually green or blue).

• Note: The reset must be performed while the camera is powered on. If the LED is off, check your PoE source.
• Pro tip: Use a PoE tester to verify voltage if the camera isn’t powering up.

Step 3: Press and Hold the Reset Button

Insert your tool into the reset hole and press the button firmly. Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds. During this time, the LED will flash rapidly (often red or amber), indicating the reset process is active.

• Important: Do not release the button early. Holding it for less than 10 seconds may only trigger a soft reset.
• Visual cue: On the RLC-810A, the LED turns solid red for 5 seconds, then blinks rapidly for another 10 seconds—total hold time: 15 seconds.

Step 4: Wait for the Camera to Reboot

After releasing the button, the camera will automatically restart. This can take 1–3 minutes. The LED will cycle through different colors (e.g., red → green → blue) as the system reboots and initializes.

• Patience is key: Do not disconnect the power during this phase.
• Expected behavior: The camera will broadcast a default SSID (e.g., “Reolink-XXXX”) for Wi-Fi models, but PoE units will simply reappear on the network with the default IP.

Step 5: Confirm the Reset Was Successful

Once rebooted, the camera should be accessible via:

• Reolink Client (Windows/Mac): Open the software and click “Add Device.” The camera should appear with the default name and IP.
• Web browser: Enter http://192.168.0.100 in your browser (if your network uses the 192.168.0.x range).
• Mobile app: Launch the Reolink app, tap “+” to add a device, and select “PoE Camera.” It should be discoverable.

Tip: If the camera doesn’t appear, try pinging 192.168.0.100 from your computer’s command prompt or terminal.

Alternative Methods to Reset a Reolink PoE Camera

While the physical reset button is the most reliable method, Reolink also offers software-based reset options—especially useful if the camera is mounted in a hard-to-reach location or the reset button is damaged.

Method 1: Reset via Reolink Client (Windows/Mac)

If you can still access the camera’s interface, you can perform a factory reset through the Reolink Client software.

1. Launch Reolink Client and log in to your camera.
2. Go to Device Settings → System → Maintenance.
3. Click Factory Reset.
4. Confirm the action when prompted. The camera will reboot automatically.

Requirements: You must know the current admin password. This method won’t work if you’ve forgotten it.

Example: A user with an RLC-511W (Wi-Fi + PoE model) successfully reset their camera via Reolink Client after experiencing a firmware update failure, without needing to climb a ladder to access the physical button.

Method 2: Reset via Web Interface

You can also reset the camera using its web interface, accessible through a browser.

1. Open a browser and enter the camera’s IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.100).
2. Log in with your admin credentials.
3. Navigate to System → Maintenance → Factory Reset.
4. Click “Reset” and confirm.

Note: Ensure your computer is on the same subnet as the camera. If the camera has a static IP outside your router’s DHCP range, adjust your PC’s IP temporarily.

Method 3: Using the Reolink Mobile App

The Reolink app (iOS/Android) also supports factory resets—ideal for users managing multiple cameras remotely.

1. Open the Reolink app and tap the camera’s thumbnail.
2. Tap the gear icon (⚙️) to open settings.
3. Go to System → Maintenance → Factory Reset.
4. Enter your password and confirm.

Limitation: This requires the camera to be online and accessible via the app. If the camera is offline or the password is unknown, use the physical reset button.

When Physical and Software Methods Fail

In rare cases, the reset button may be unresponsive due to hardware failure or firmware corruption. Here’s what to do:

• Check PoE power: Use a PoE tester or injector to ensure the camera is receiving 48V DC.
• Try a different cable/port: Faulty Ethernet cables or switch ports can prevent proper communication.
• Contact Reolink Support: Provide the camera’s model number, serial number, and a description of the issue. They may offer a firmware recovery tool or RMA process.

Post-Reset Configuration: Setting Up Your Camera Again

After a successful reset, your Reolink PoE camera is essentially a new device. Now comes the reconfiguration phase—critical to restoring full functionality and security.

Step 1: Reconnect to Your Network

The camera will default to DHCP (dynamic IP). To avoid future conflicts, assign a static IP address within your router’s range.

1. Log in via Reolink Client or web interface.
2. Go to Network → TCP/IP Settings.
3. Switch from “DHCP” to “Static IP.”
4. Enter an IP (e.g., 192.168.1.101), subnet mask, gateway, and DNS (usually your router’s IP).
5. Save and reboot.

Tip: Use a consistent naming convention (e.g., “Backyard_Cam_01”) for easier management in multi-camera setups.

Step 2: Set a Strong Admin Password

Immediately change the default password to prevent unauthorized access.

• Go to System → User Management → Admin.
• Enter the old password (blank or “admin”) and set a new one.
• Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols (e.g., “R30l!nk#2024”).

Warning: Never use default or easily guessable passwords in a production environment.

Step 3: Re-enable Motion Detection and Alerts

Recreate your motion detection zones, sensitivity, and notification settings.

• Navigate to Events → Motion Detection.
• Draw zones on the video feed to exclude irrelevant areas (e.g., trees, roads).
• Set sensitivity (50–70% is usually optimal).
• Enable push notifications and email alerts.

Example: A warehouse manager reconfigured their RLC-810A to only alert for motion near loading docks, reducing false alarms by 80%.

Step 4: Restore Recording Settings

Reconnect to your NVR, SD card, or cloud storage.

• NVR: Add the camera back to the NVR via IP address.
• SD Card: Format the card in the camera (Settings → Storage → Format).
• Cloud: Re-subscribe and link the camera to your Reolink Cloud account.

Common Issues After Resetting and How to Fix Them

Even after a successful reset, users may encounter post-reset issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot the most common problems.

Issue 1: Camera Not Appearing on the Network

• Cause: IP address conflict or incorrect subnet.
• Fix: Use a network scanner (e.g., Angry IP Scanner) to detect the camera. If it shows up with a 169.254.x.x address, it failed to get an IP—check your router’s DHCP range.

Issue 2: Unable to Log In After Reset

• Cause: Default password not applied (rare), or browser cache issue.
• Fix: Try logging in with username “admin” and no password. Clear browser cache or try a different browser/device.

Issue 3: Video Feed Freezes or Lags

• Cause: Network bandwidth issues or outdated firmware.
• Fix: Reduce video resolution or frame rate in settings. Update firmware via Reolink Client.

Issue 4: Motion Detection Not Working

• Cause: Zones not properly set or sensitivity too low.
• Fix: Recalibrate motion zones and increase sensitivity. Test with a moving object.

Issue 5: Camera Overheating After Reset

• Cause: Continuous high-resolution streaming or poor ventilation.
• Fix: Enable “Smart Recording” to reduce continuous recording. Ensure the camera has airflow.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Reolink PoE Camera Reset

Resetting your Reolink PoE camera is not just a troubleshooting step—it’s a powerful tool for maintaining system integrity, enhancing security, and ensuring long-term reliability. Whether you’re recovering from a forgotten password, resolving a network conflict, or preparing to repurpose your device, knowing how to reset Reolink PoE camera empowers you to take control of your surveillance setup. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from identifying the right type of reset to reconfiguring your camera with best practices—you can minimize downtime and maximize performance.

Remember, prevention is just as important as the fix. Regularly update your camera’s firmware, document your IP addresses and passwords, and back up configurations using Reolink Client’s export feature. These habits reduce the need for resets and keep your system running smoothly. And if you ever find yourself in a bind, don’t hesitate to use the physical reset button—it’s designed for exactly these moments. With the right knowledge and tools, your Reolink PoE camera will continue to deliver peace of mind for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my Reolink PoE camera to factory settings?

To reset your Reolink PoE camera, locate the reset button (usually a small hole) on the device. Press and hold it for 10-15 seconds using a paperclip until the LED flashes, then release. The camera will reboot to factory settings.

Where is the reset button on a Reolink PoE camera?

The reset button is typically found on the back or bottom of Reolink PoE cameras, marked by a small recessed hole. You’ll need a paperclip or similar tool to press it. Refer to your model’s manual for exact placement.

Can I reset my Reolink PoE camera remotely?

Yes, you can reset your Reolink PoE camera remotely via the Reolink app or web interface. Go to Device Settings > System > Maintenance and select “Restore to Factory Settings.” Ensure the camera is connected to the network.

How long does a Reolink PoE camera reset take?

A full reset usually takes 1-2 minutes. After holding the reset button, the camera will reboot and restore default settings. Wait for the LED to stabilize before reconfiguring.

What happens after I reset my Reolink PoE camera?

After a reset, all custom settings (Wi-Fi, passwords, motion zones) are erased, and the camera reverts to factory defaults. You’ll need to reconfigure it using the Reolink app or client.

Why won’t my Reolink PoE camera reset properly?

If the reset fails, ensure you’re holding the button long enough (10+ seconds) and the camera is powered. For persistent issues, check for firmware updates or contact Reolink support for troubleshooting.