Can't Get Your Reolink Camera to Sync? A Troubleshooting Guide
Whether you're setting up a new Reolink camera or an existing one has suddenly dropped offline, a failure to sync is a frustrating problem. The "Connection Failed" message in the Reolink app or the inability of your NVR to find the camera prevents you from viewing your live feed and recordings.
This guide will cover the most common reasons why your Reolink camera won't sync and provide a clear, step-by-step process to get it back online.
## Step 1: Verify Power and Physical Connections
Before diving into software and settings, let's ensure the camera has power and is physically connected correctly.
- For PoE (Power over Ethernet) Cameras:
- Check that the Ethernet cable is securely clicked into place in both the camera's port and the port on your Reolink NVR or PoE switch.
- Try a different Ethernet cable that you know is working.
- Try a different port on your NVR or switch. A faulty port could be the issue.
- For Wi-Fi Cameras:
- Ensure the power adapter is plugged in correctly and the outlet is switched on.
- Look for a status LED on the camera. Most Reolink cameras have an indicator light to show they are receiving power.
- For Battery-Powered Cameras:
- Make sure the battery is charged. Remove the battery and then reinsert it to ensure a solid connection.
## Step 2: Check Your Network Connection
A stable network is essential for the camera to communicate. The problem often lies with the network itself.
- Same Network Rule: The device you are using to set up the camera (your smartphone or computer) must be on the same local network as the camera.
- Correct Wi-Fi Credentials: For Wi-Fi cameras, the most common setup failure is a mistyped Wi-Fi password. Passwords are case-sensitive. Double-check you are selecting your primary 2.4 GHz network (as some older cameras don't support 5 GHz) and entering the password correctly.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your internet router from the power, wait 60 seconds, and plug it back in. Wait for it to fully restart, then try the sync process again. This simple step resolves a surprising number of network-related glitches.
## Step 3: Use the Correct UID or IP Address
When adding a camera to the Reolink app or NVR, you need to identify it correctly.
- Scanning the UID: The most reliable method is to scan the QR code on the camera itself. This unique ID (UID) allows the app to find the camera easily.
- Manual Entry: If you type the UID manually, check it for typos.
- IP Address: If your NVR and cameras are on the same network, the NVR should automatically detect them. If not, you may need to log into your router's admin panel to find the IP address that has been assigned to the camera to add it manually.
## Step 4: Temporarily Disable Firewalls
In some cases, a firewall on your router or computer can block the communication required for the camera to sync.
- Router Firewall: Log into your router's administration page and temporarily disable its firewall. Try to sync the camera. If it works, you know the firewall is the cause, and you may need to add a specific exception (port forwarding) for the camera.
- Computer Firewall: If you are using the Reolink desktop client, your Windows or macOS firewall might be blocking the connection. Temporarily disable it to test.
Remember to re-enable your firewalls after troubleshooting.
## Step 5: Factory Reset the Camera
If all else fails, a factory reset is your last resort. This will wipe all settings from the camera and return it to its out-of-the-box state.
- Locate the small, recessed reset button on the camera (you may need to remove a cover).
- With the camera powered on, use a paperclip or the provided reset pin to press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds.
- You should hear a voice prompt or see the status lights flash, indicating the reset is complete.
- The camera will reboot. You will now need to go through the entire initial setup and sync process from the beginning.