Is Your Reolink Camera Showing an 'Unauthorized Access' Error?
Seeing a message like "Unauthorized Access" or "Login Failed" when you're trying to view your Reolink camera can be alarming. It's a security measure designed to protect your privacy, but when it happens unexpectedly, it can be frustrating. This guide will walk you through the common causes of this error and provide a clear, step-by-step process to get you back to monitoring your property.
This error essentially means that the credentials (username and password) you are using to access the camera are not being accepted. The good news is that this is usually easy to fix.
Common Causes for Unauthorized Access
Understanding why the error occurs is the first step to fixing it. Here are the most frequent culprits:
- Incorrect Password: This is the most common reason. It could be a simple typo, or you might be mixing up passwords if you have multiple cameras.
- Network Issues: Sometimes, your phone or computer can't establish a stable connection to the camera, leading to a login failure.
- Outdated Firmware or Software: Bugs in older versions of the camera's firmware or the Reolink app/client can cause authentication problems.
- Recent Password Change: If you recently changed your Reolink account password but haven't updated it on all your devices, you'll be locked out.
- Camera Glitches: Like any electronic device, the camera might just need a simple reboot to clear a temporary glitch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the Error
Follow these steps in order. Most users find their issue is resolved in the first few steps.
1. Double-Check Your Password
Before anything else, carefully re-enter your password. Pay close attention to case sensitivity (uppercase and lowercase letters) and any special characters. If you're using a password manager, try typing it manually to rule out any copy-paste errors.
2. Reboot Your Camera and Router
A simple power cycle can work wonders. This refreshes the connection and clears any temporary software bugs.
- Unplug your Reolink camera from its power source.
- Unplug your internet router as well.
- Wait for about 60 seconds.
- Plug the router back in first and wait for it to fully restart (all the lights should be stable).
- Plug your camera back in and give it a few minutes to boot up and reconnect.
- Try logging in again.
3. Update the Reolink App and Camera Firmware
Using outdated software can lead to compatibility and security issues.
- Update the App: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and check for any updates to the Reolink app.
- Update Firmware: Open your Reolink app, go to Device Settings > Device Info > Upgrade, and check for the latest firmware. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
4. Reset the Camera Password
If you've forgotten your password, you'll need to reset it. For security, Reolink requires you to press the physical reset button on the camera.
- Locate the reset button on your camera (you may need a pin or paperclip).
- Press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds until you hear a confirmation sound or see the status LED change.
- This will revert the camera to its factory default settings, including the password.
- You will need to set up the camera again in the app as if it were new.
Advanced Security: Securing Your Reolink Camera
Once you've regained access, it's a great time to enhance your camera's security to prevent future issues.
- Use a Strong Password: Create a unique password that is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Change the Default Username: If your camera allows, change the default username from "admin" to something unique.
- Regularly Check for Updates: Make it a habit to check for firmware updates every few months to ensure you have the latest security patches.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the "unauthorized access" error and ensure your Reolink camera remains both accessible to you and secure from others.