Lorex Live View Not Working? Here's What To Do
One of the most critical features of your Lorex security system is the ability to check in with a live video feed at any time. So, when Lorex Live View is not working, it can be incredibly concerning. Whether you're seeing a black screen, a "camera not connected" error, or the app simply won't load the stream, this issue undermines your entire security setup.
Don't worry, this is a common problem that can usually be resolved with some basic troubleshooting. This guide will help you diagnose the root cause and get your live video feed back online.
Common Reasons Why Your Lorex Live View Fails
The problem can stem from the camera, the recorder (NVR/DVR), your network, or the app itself. Let's break down the most frequent culprits.
- Power Failure: The camera or the recorder is not receiving power.
- Connection Issues: The cable between the camera and the recorder is loose, damaged, or disconnected.
- Network Problems: The recorder is not connected to your router, or your internet service is down (this primarily affects remote viewing).
- App or Software Glitch: The Lorex app on your phone or computer has a temporary issue.
- Incorrect Substream Settings: The video stream used for remote viewing is set to a resolution that is too high for your internet connection to handle.
How to Fix Your Lorex Live View
Let's work through these solutions step-by-step, from the simplest fixes to the more complex.
1. Check All Physical Connections & Power
Start with the basics. Go to your NVR/DVR and the problematic camera.
- Check the Recorder: Is it powered on? You should see indicator lights on the front panel. If not, check the power adapter and the outlet it's plugged into.
- Check the Camera: Verify the camera's power source. For wired cameras, this often comes from the recorder via the Ethernet (PoE) or BNC cable. Ensure these are securely plugged in at both ends. For Wi-Fi cameras, check their separate power adapter.
- Inspect the Cables: Look for any visible damage to the video/power cable. A single loose connection is a very common reason for a camera to show a black screen.
2. Reboot Your Entire System
A system restart is a classic troubleshooting step that can resolve many temporary glitches.
- Power down your NVR/DVR using the correct shutdown procedure in the system menu.
- Unplug the recorder from the power outlet.
- Unplug your internet router from the power outlet.
- Wait for at least 60 seconds.
- Plug your router back in first and wait for it to fully restart (all lights stable).
- Plug your Lorex recorder back in and let it boot up completely.
- Once the system is back online, try accessing the live view again.
3. Verify Network Connectivity
This is crucial, especially for remote viewing on your phone.
- Check the NVR/DVR's Network Cable: Ensure the Ethernet cable running from your Lorex recorder to your router is securely plugged in. You should see link lights blinking on the recorder's network port.
- Confirm Internet Access: Use a computer or phone on the same Wi-Fi network to confirm that your internet service is working.
- Check the Device ID: In your Lorex app's device manager, ensure the Device ID matches the one printed on your recorder.
4. Adjust the Substream Settings
If your live view works locally (on a monitor connected to the NVR) but not remotely on your phone, the issue is likely your substream setting. The substream is a lower-quality video feed designed for streaming over the internet.
- Access your recorder's main menu.
- Navigate to Settings > Camera > Substream (or similar path).
- Select the camera that is not working.
- Try lowering the resolution, bitrate, and frame rate for the substream.
- Save the settings and try the live view on your app again. A lower bitrate requires less internet upload speed to work effectively.
By systematically checking the power, connections, and network settings, you can solve the vast majority of Lorex live view problems and regain visual access to your property.