D Link Camera Won't Reset: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Properly Reset a D-Link Camera That Won't Reset

A factory reset is an essential troubleshooting step, used when you've forgotten a password, are having persistent connectivity issues, or want to reconfigure a camera from scratch. If you're pressing the reset button on your D-Link camera and nothing seems to be happening, this guide will walk you through the correct procedure and common pitfalls.

## Understanding the Reset Process

A factory reset is designed to wipe all your personalised settings and return the camera to its out-of-the-box state. This includes:

• Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password
• The custom device password you set
• Motion detection settings and schedules
• Any other custom configurations

It's a last resort, but a very effective one for solving many stubborn problems.

## The Correct Factory Reset Procedure

Timing and technique are crucial for a successful reset.

1. Power On the Camera: The camera must be plugged in and powered on.
2. Wait for it to Boot: This is a commonly missed step. After plugging the camera in, wait at least 60 seconds. You need to give the camera's internal software enough time to fully load. The power LED should be solid (not blinking) before you proceed.
3. Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is typically a small, recessed hole. You will not be able to press it with your finger.
4. Use the Right Tool: Find a paperclip, a SIM ejector tool, or a similar thin, firm object.
5. Press and HOLD: Insert the paperclip into the reset hole and press down firmly until you feel a 'click'. Continue to hold the button down.
6. Watch the LED: Keep holding the button for at least 10 to 15 seconds. The most reliable indicator of a successful reset is the power LED. It will typically flash or change colour (e.g., from green to red) to acknowledge the reset is starting.
7. Release and Wait: Once you see the LED status change, you can release the button. The camera will then reboot itself, which can take a minute or two. When it has finished, it will be in its factory default state, ready for setup.

## What If It Still Won't Reset?

If you have followed the standard procedure carefully and the camera's LED never changes status, here are a few things to try.

• Check Your Tool: Is your paperclip actually pressing the button? Sometimes, you might need to push it in further than you think. Try a different object to be sure you are making proper contact.
• Power Cycle First: Unplug the camera from power. Wait for a full minute. Plug it back in, wait for it to boot up completely (another minute), and then attempt the reset procedure again.
• The 'Power-On Reset' Method: This is a more forceful method that can sometimes work when the standard one fails.
  1. Unplug the camera.
  2. Press and hold the reset button with your paperclip.
  3. While still holding the button, plug the power cable back into the camera.
  4. Continue to hold the reset button for another 15 seconds.
  5. Release the button and allow the camera to boot.

If none of these methods work, it may indicate a more serious firmware corruption or a hardware fault with the camera.