Is Your Hikvision Camera Refusing to Reset?
Performing a factory reset is a critical troubleshooting step for resolving various issues with your Hikvision camera, from forgotten passwords to network connectivity problems. However, it can be incredibly frustrating when the camera doesn't respond to your reset attempts.
There are specific procedures that must be followed for a reset to be successful. This guide will walk you through the correct methods for both physical and software-based resets to get your camera back to its default state.
1. The Physical Reset Button Method
This is the most common way to reset a Hikvision camera. It involves pressing a physical button on the device itself.
Crucial Steps for a Successful Reset:
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Locate the Reset Button: The button's location is model-specific.
- Dome Cameras: You will likely need to remove the transparent dome cover. The button is usually a small, black or white button on the main board, often near the microSD card slot.
- Bullet Cameras: Look for a small cover or cap on the back or underside of the camera, often held in place by screws. The reset button will be underneath.
- Cube/Indoor Cameras: It's typically a recessed pinhole button on the back or side of the casing. You will need a paperclip or SIM-eject tool to press it.
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Power On the Camera: The camera must be connected to its power source and fully booted up before you begin the reset process.
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Press and Hold: With the camera powered on, press and hold the reset button firmly. Do not release it.
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Count for 15-20 Seconds: Continue to hold the button down for at least 15 to 20 seconds. Simply clicking the button will not work. You are waiting for the camera to initiate its reboot sequence.
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Release and Wait: After 20 seconds, release the button. The camera's infrared (IR) lights may flash, and the device will reboot. This process can take a minute or two.
After the reboot, the camera will have reverted to its factory default settings. Its IP address will likely change to a default like 192.168.1.64, and you will need to activate it again using the SADP tool.
2. What to Do if the Physical Button Fails
If you've followed the steps above precisely and the camera still hasn't reset, consider the following:
- Power Supply: Ensure you are using the correct power supply (e.g., 12V DC or PoE) and that it is functioning correctly. An unstable power source can prevent a successful reset.
- Did You Hold it Long Enough? Try the process again, but this time hold the button for a full 30 seconds to be absolutely sure.
3. Resetting via the Web Interface
If you can still access your camera's login page on a web browser (and you know the password), you can perform a reset through the software. This is useful if the physical button is damaged.
Steps for a software reset:
- Log in to your camera's web interface using its IP address.
- Navigate to Configuration -> System -> Maintenance.
- On the Maintenance page, you will see two options: Reboot and Restore.
- Click Restore. This will wipe all your custom settings and return the camera to its original factory state. Note that this will not downgrade the firmware version.
- The camera will ask for confirmation and then reboot.
4. Password Reset Using the SADP Tool
If the main reason for the reset is a forgotten password, and the physical button isn't working, you have another option. Hikvision provides a tool called SADP (Search Active Devices Protocol) that can help.
The modern password reset process involves using the SADP tool to generate a file or QR code, which you then send to Hikvision technical support or your distributor. They will provide you with a return file or code that allows you to reset the admin password and access your camera again. This method is secure and prevents unauthorised resets.