How to View Zosi Cameras on Internet Explorer

This guide walks you through how to view Zosi cameras on Internet Explorer, covering setup, browser configuration, and common issues. Whether you’re using a DVR or NVR system, you’ll gain remote access with ease.

Key Takeaways

• Ensure Compatibility: Zosi cameras work best with Internet Explorer 11 or earlier due to ActiveX support, which modern browsers no longer offer.
• Update Firmware and Software: Always use the latest firmware on your Zosi DVR/NVR and install the most recent version of the Zosi CMS (Client Management Software).
• Enable ActiveX and Security Settings: Internet Explorer requires specific security settings and ActiveX controls to display camera feeds properly.
• Use Correct IP Address and Port: Access your DVR/NVR via its local IP address and correct HTTP port (usually 80 or 8000) in the browser.
• Install Web Components: The Zosi Web Plugin must be installed on your computer to stream video in Internet Explorer.
• Troubleshoot Common Issues: Problems like blank screens or login errors can often be fixed by clearing cache, disabling pop-up blockers, or checking firewall settings.
• Consider Modern Alternatives: For long-term use, consider upgrading to a newer browser with Zosi’s mobile app or updated CMS software.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Tip/Question?

What if Internet Explorer doesn’t show the login page?

Make sure you’re entering the correct IP address and port. Also, check that your computer and DVR are on the same network. Try pinging the DVR’s IP to test connectivity.

Tip/Question?

Can I view Zosi cameras on Chrome or Firefox?

Not directly in the browser due to lack of ActiveX support. Use the Zosi CMS software or mobile app instead for cross-browser compatibility.

Tip/Question?

How do I find my DVR’s IP address?

Go to the DVR’s menu > Network > TCP/IP. Or use the Zosi CMS software to scan your network and locate the device.

Tip/Question?

Why is the video quality poor in Internet Explorer?

Lower the stream resolution in the DVR settings or ensure your network has sufficient bandwidth. Wired connections work best.

Tip/Question?

Is it safe to use port forwarding?

It can be risky if not secured. Use a non-standard port, enable a firewall, and change default passwords to reduce vulnerability.

How to View Zosi Cameras on Internet Explorer: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re using Zosi security cameras and want to view them remotely through your computer, Internet Explorer (IE) has traditionally been the go-to browser—especially for older DVR and NVR systems. While newer browsers like Chrome and Firefox have dropped support for essential technologies like ActiveX, Internet Explorer still allows you to access your Zoi camera feeds directly through the browser. This guide will walk you through how to view Zosi cameras on Internet Explorer with clear, easy-to-follow steps, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to ensure a smooth experience.

Whether you’re checking in on your home, monitoring a small business, or managing a multi-camera setup, this guide is designed for users of all technical levels. We’ll cover everything from initial setup and browser configuration to solving common problems that may arise. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently access your Zosi camera system from any Windows computer using Internet Explorer.

Why Use Internet Explorer for Zosi Cameras?

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why Internet Explorer is still relevant for Zosi systems. Zosi DVRs and NVRs often rely on ActiveX controls—a Microsoft technology that allows web pages to run interactive content like video streams. Unfortunately, modern browsers have phased out ActiveX due to security concerns, leaving Internet Explorer as one of the few browsers that still supports it.

While Microsoft has officially retired Internet Explorer in favor of Edge, many Zosi users still rely on IE for compatibility. If you’re using an older Zosi system (especially models from 2015–2020), Internet Explorer may be your best—or only—option for browser-based viewing.

That said, this method works best on Windows 7, 8, or 10 systems where Internet Explorer 11 is still available. Windows 11 users may need to enable IE mode in Microsoft Edge, which we’ll cover later.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before Starting

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

• A Zosi DVR or NVR system connected to your network.
• Internet Explorer 11 installed on a Windows PC (Windows 7, 8, or 10 recommended).
• Admin access to your DVR/NVR (username and password).
• Local IP address of your DVR/NVR (e.g., 192.168.1.108).
• Network connectivity between your computer and the DVR/NVR.
• Zosi Web Plugin (also called WebComponents or WebPlayer) installed on your computer.

If you don’t know your DVR’s IP address, you can find it by:

• Logging into the DVR’s menu using a monitor and mouse.
• Going to Network > TCP/IP and noting the IP address.
• Alternatively, use the Zosi CMS software to scan your network and locate the device.

Step 1: Install the Zosi Web Plugin

The Zosi Web Plugin is essential for viewing camera feeds in Internet Explorer. Without it, you’ll see a blank screen or an error message.

Download the Plugin

1. Visit the official Zosi support website: https://www.zositech.com.
2. Navigate to Support > Downloads.
3. Look for WebComponents or WebPlayer under the software section.
4. Download the latest version compatible with your DVR model.

Install the Plugin

1. Run the downloaded installer file (usually a .exe).
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Restart your computer if prompted.

Tip: If you can’t find the plugin on the Zosi website, check the CD that came with your DVR or contact Zosi customer support.

Step 2: Configure Internet Explorer Security Settings

Internet Explorer blocks ActiveX controls by default for security reasons. You’ll need to adjust the security settings to allow the Zosi plugin to run.

Add Your DVR to Trusted Sites

1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Click the gear icon (Tools) in the top-right corner and select Internet Options.
3. Go to the Security tab.
4. Select Trusted sites and click the Sites button.
5. In the box, type the IP address of your DVR (e.g., http://192.168.1.108).
6. Uncheck Require server verification (https:) for all sites in this zone if using HTTP.
7. Click Add, then Close.

Enable ActiveX Controls

1. Still in Internet Options > Security, select Trusted sites again.
2. Click Custom level.
3. Scroll down to the ActiveX controls and plug-ins section.
4. Set the following options to Enable or Prompt:
   • Download signed ActiveX controls
   • Run ActiveX controls and plug-ins
   • Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting
5. Click OK to save changes.

Disable Pop-up Blocker

1. In Internet Explorer, go to Tools > Pop-up Blocker.
2. Select Turn off Pop-up Blocker.

Disable Enhanced Protected Mode (Optional but Recommended)

1. In Internet Options, go to the Advanced tab.
2. Scroll down to the Security section.
3. Uncheck Enable Enhanced Protected Mode.
4. Click OK and restart Internet Explorer.

Step 3: Access Your Zosi DVR/NVR via Internet Explorer

Now that your browser is configured, it’s time to view your cameras.

Enter the DVR’s IP Address

1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. In the address bar, type the IP address of your DVR followed by the port number (if not 80). For example:
   • http://192.168.1.108 (default port 80)
   • http://192.168.1.108:8000 (if using port 8000)
3. Press Enter.

Log In to the DVR

1. A login window should appear.
2. Enter your admin username and password (default is often admin and admin or 123456).
3. Click Login.

Note: If you’ve changed the default password, use your custom credentials. If you’ve forgotten it, you may need to reset the DVR.

Install ActiveX When Prompted

1. The first time you access the DVR, Internet Explorer may prompt you to install an ActiveX control.
2. Click Install or Allow when the yellow bar appears at the top.
3. If no prompt appears, check the browser’s notification bar and click to allow the download.

View Your Camera Feeds

1. Once logged in, the live view should appear.
2. You’ll see a grid of camera feeds (e.g., 4, 8, or 16 channels depending on your system).
3. Click on any camera to view it in full screen.
4. Use the playback or record buttons to review footage.

Tip: If the video appears choppy, try lowering the stream quality in the DVR settings or ensure your network has sufficient bandwidth.

Step 4: Enable Remote Access (Optional)

To view your Zosi cameras from outside your home or office network, you’ll need to set up remote access. This involves port forwarding and possibly using a DDNS service.

Set Up Port Forwarding

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
2. Go to Port Forwarding or Virtual Server.
3. Add a new rule:
   • Service Name: Zosi DVR
   • External Port: 8000 (or your chosen port)
   • Internal IP: Your DVR’s IP (e.g., 192.168.1.108)
   • Internal Port: 8000
   • Protocol: TCP
4. Save the settings.

Find Your Public IP Address

1. Visit a site like whatismyip.com.
2. Note your public IP address (e.g., 203.0.113.45).

Access Remotely via Internet Explorer

1. On a remote computer, open Internet Explorer.
2. Enter your public IP and port: http://203.0.113.45:8000.
3. Log in with your DVR credentials.

Warning: Using port 80 or 8000 can be a security risk. Consider changing to a non-standard port and using a firewall.

Use DDNS for Easier Access (Recommended)

1. Set up a DDNS account (e.g., No-IP, DynDNS).
2. Configure DDNS in your DVR’s network settings.
3. Use the DDNS hostname instead of the IP (e.g., http://myzosi.ddns.net:8000).

Step 5: Using Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge (Windows 11)

If you’re on Windows 11, Internet Explorer is no longer available. However, Microsoft Edge includes an IE mode that allows legacy sites to run.

Enable IE Mode in Edge

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Go to Settings > Default browser.
3. Turn on Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode.
4. Restart Edge.

Add Your DVR to IE Mode

1. In Edge, go to Settings > Default browser.
2. Under Internet Explorer compatibility, click Add.
3. Enter your DVR’s URL (e.g., http://192.168.1.108).
4. Save and restart Edge.

Access Your DVR

1. Open Edge and navigate to your DVR’s IP address.
2. Edge will automatically load the page in IE mode.
3. Follow the same login and plugin installation steps as before.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper setup, you may encounter problems. Here are solutions to the most common issues.

Blank Screen or “No Signal”

• Cause: Plugin not installed or blocked.
• Solution: Reinstall the Zosi Web Plugin and ensure ActiveX is enabled.

“ActiveX Control Not Installed” Error

• Cause: Security settings too strict or plugin missing.
• Solution: Add DVR to trusted sites, enable ActiveX, and reinstall the plugin.

Login Failed or Incorrect Password

• Cause: Wrong credentials or account lockout.
• Solution: Use the correct admin password. Reset the DVR if necessary.

Video Freezes or Buffers

• Cause: Network congestion or high stream quality.
• Solution: Lower the video resolution in DVR settings or use a wired connection.

Pop-up Blocker Prevents Login

• Cause: Browser blocks the login window.
• Solution: Disable pop-up blocker or allow pop-ups for the DVR’s IP.

“Page Cannot Be Displayed” Error

• Cause: Incorrect IP, port, or network issue.
• Solution: Verify the DVR’s IP and port. Ping the DVR from your computer to test connectivity.

Best Practices for Secure and Reliable Viewing

To ensure a smooth and secure experience, follow these tips:

• Change Default Passwords: Always update the default admin password to prevent unauthorized access.
• Keep Firmware Updated: Check Zosi’s website regularly for firmware updates to fix bugs and improve security.
• Use a Strong Network: Connect your DVR via Ethernet for stable performance.
• Limit Remote Access: Only enable port forwarding when needed, and use a firewall.
• Monitor Bandwidth: Multiple users streaming video can slow down your network.

Conclusion

Viewing your Zosi cameras on Internet Explorer is still possible—and practical—for many users, especially those with older systems. By installing the Zosi Web Plugin, configuring Internet Explorer’s security settings, and ensuring proper network setup, you can access live and recorded footage from anywhere.

While modern browsers offer better security and performance, Internet Explorer remains a reliable option for Zosi DVR and NVR systems that depend on ActiveX. For Windows 11 users, IE mode in Microsoft Edge provides a seamless workaround.

Remember to keep your system updated, use strong passwords, and follow best practices for network security. With this guide, you’re now equipped to confidently monitor your Zosi cameras using Internet Explorer.

If you ever run into issues, refer back to the troubleshooting section or contact Zosi support for assistance. Happy monitoring!