Troubleshooting a Failed Verkada Camera Setup
Setting up a Verkada camera is typically a straightforward, plug-and-play process. However, a "Setup Failed" error can be a frustrating roadblock. This message, often accompanied by a solid amber status light on the camera, almost always points to a problem with the camera's ability to connect to the network and reach the Verkada Command servers.
This guide will walk you through the most common causes of setup failure and provide a clear, step-by-step process to get your camera online and operational.
Understanding the Verkada Connection Process
When you plug in a Verkada camera, it goes through a specific sequence:
- Power Up: It receives power via Power over Ethernet (PoE).
- Get an IP Address: It requests an IP address from your network's DHCP server.
- Contact Verkada: It uses DNS to find and then connect to Verkada's cloud servers over port 443.
- Register and Update: It registers itself and downloads any necessary firmware updates.
A failure at any of these steps will result in a failed setup.
How to Fix Setup and Connectivity Issues
Let's start with the basics and work our way up to more complex network configurations.
1. Check Power and Physical Connections
First, rule out the simplest hardware issues.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): Verkada cameras require PoE (802.3af or 802.3at). Confirm that the network switch port you are using provides PoE. Look for an indicator light on the switch port. If you're using a PoE injector, ensure it's working correctly.
- Test the Cable: A faulty network cable is a common culprit. Try a different, known-good Ethernet cable.
- Test the Port: Plug another device, like a laptop, into the same network port to confirm it's active and provides a network connection.
2. Verify Network Firewall Settings
This is the most common cause of setup failures. Verkada cameras need to "call home" to the cloud. If your firewall blocks this communication, the setup will fail.
- Required Outbound Rules: Your firewall must allow the camera to make outbound connections.
- TCP Port 443 (HTTPS): This is essential for the camera to communicate with Verkada Command.
- UDP Port 123 (NTP): This is required for the camera to synchronise its time, which is critical for video timestamping.
- Check for Content Filtering: Some advanced firewalls or web filters might block the connection even if the port is open. You may need to whitelist Verkada's server addresses. Consult Verkada's official documentation for the current list of required hostnames.
- DNS Resolution: The camera must be able to resolve public DNS queries (e.g.,
*.verkada.com). Ensure your network's DNS server is functioning correctly.
3. Confirm Camera "Claiming" in Command
The camera must be associated with your account before it can connect.
- Serial Number: Log in to your Verkada Command dashboard. Go to the "Add Devices" section.
- Enter Correctly: Carefully enter the serial number found on the camera or its packaging. A single typo will prevent the camera from being recognised. The format is typically XXXX-XXXX-XXXX.
4. Understand the Status Light
The LED light on the camera provides vital clues.
- Solid Amber/Orange: The camera has power but cannot reach the Verkada servers. This points directly to a network or firewall issue.
- Flashing Blue: The camera is connected and is currently updating its firmware. Do not unplug it during this process. This can take several minutes.
- Solid Blue: The camera is connected, up to date, and recording. This is the desired state.
If you've worked through these steps and the camera's light remains amber, the next step is to engage with your network administrator to perform a more detailed analysis of the firewall logs to see exactly where the camera's connection attempt is being blocked.