Reolink Camera Not Working? A Complete Troubleshooting Guide
It can be incredibly frustrating when your Reolink security camera, a device meant to provide peace of mind, suddenly stops working. Whether it's failing to power on, refusing to connect to the network, or not showing an image, the problem can often be solved with a few logical troubleshooting steps.
This guide is designed to help you diagnose and resolve the most common issues that cause a Reolink camera to stop working. We'll walk you through the process from basic checks to more advanced solutions, helping you get your camera back online and protecting your property.
Step 1: Diagnose the Symptom
The first step is to identify the exact problem you are experiencing. The solution for a camera that won't power on is very different from one that has simply lost its Wi-Fi connection.
- No Power: The camera shows no signs of life. No status lights, no sounds, and it's not detected by the app.
- Connection Failed: The camera has power, but you cannot connect to it via the Reolink app or software. It may show as 'Offline'.
- No Image/Black Screen: You can connect to the camera, but the video feed is black or completely blank.
- Poor Video Quality: The video is pixelated, stuttering, or constantly freezing.
- Night Vision Not Working: The image is clear during the day but is completely black at night.
Step 2: Basic Troubleshooting Checks
Let's start with the most common and easiest-to-fix issues.
If There Is No Power
- Check the Power Source: This is the most common culprit. Ensure the power adapter is plugged into a known-working wall socket. Test the socket with another device (like a lamp) to be sure.
- Check the Cable Connections: Make sure the power cable is securely connected to the camera's power input and to the power adapter.
- For PoE Cameras: If you have a Power over Ethernet (PoE) model, check that the Ethernet cable is plugged into a PoE-enabled port on your NVR, PoE switch, or a functioning PoE injector. Try a different port and a different Ethernet cable if possible.
If the Connection Has Failed
- Reboot Everything: The golden rule of IT support often works. Unplug your camera and your internet router from power. Wait 60 seconds, then plug the router back in. Wait for it to fully restart, and only then plug your camera back in.
- Check Your Wi-Fi: For wireless cameras, have you recently changed your Wi-Fi password or router? If so, you will need to reset your camera and set it up again with the new Wi-Fi credentials. Ensure the camera is within a reasonable range of your router.
- Check the Ethernet Cable: For wired cameras, a faulty Ethernet cable is a common point of failure. Inspect the cable for damage and ensure it's securely clicked into place at both the camera and router/NVR end.
Step 3: Advanced Solutions
If the basics haven't worked, it's time to investigate further.
For No Image or Black Screen Issues
- Check the Lens: It may sound simple, but make sure the protective film or lens cap has been removed. Clean the lens gently with a microfibre cloth.
- Test in Different Lighting: If the screen is black, take the camera into a well-lit room and see if an image appears. If it does, the problem may be related to the camera's night vision.
- Check Night Vision: At night, look closely at the front of the camera. You should see a faint red glow from the infrared (IR) LEDs. If you don't see this glow, the IR cut filter might be stuck or the LEDs may have failed, which would require contacting Reolink support.
Resetting Your Camera
If all else fails, a factory reset is the final troubleshooting step. This will erase all your settings and return the camera to its out-of-the-box state.
- Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is usually a small, recessed button near the power or SD card slot.
- Perform the Reset: With the camera powered on, press and hold the reset button with a paperclip for about 10-15 seconds until you hear a voice prompt confirming the reset.
- Set Up Again: You will now need to go through the initial setup process in the Reolink app again, as if it were a new camera.
By following these steps methodically, you can solve the vast majority of issues that cause a Reolink camera to stop working.