How to reset Hikvision Network Server

Resetting a Hikvision network device—whether it's a Network Video Recorder (NVR), a storage server, or an IP camera—usually comes down to two scenarios: you either want a full factory data reset, or you are locked out and need a password reset.

Scenario 1: Full Factory Reset (Wipe All Settings)

If you can still log into the device, using the web browser interface is the cleanest way to restore factory defaults.  

Method A: Via the Web Interface

1. Open a web browser and type your device's current IP address into the URL bar.  

2. Log in with your administrator credentials.

3. Navigate to Configuration → System → Maintenance (or Upgrade & Maintenance depending on your firmware version).  

4. Look for the Default section. You will typically see two options:

   • Restore: Resets all parameters to factory defaults except your basic network configuration (IP address, gateway, etc.). Use this if you don't want to get disconnected from the network.

   • Default (Factory Reset): Completely wipes the entire device back to its unactivated, out-of-the-box state.  

5. Confirm your choice and wait for the device to reboot.

Method B: The Physical Hardware Button

If the server or camera is completely unresponsive or you can't access the UI, look for a physical, recessed Reset button on the body or motherboard of the unit.  

1. Turn off the power to the device (unplug the power supply or PoE cable).  

2. Use a paperclip or a pin to press and hold down the Reset button.

3. While continuing to hold the button, plug the power back in.  

4. Keep holding the button down for 15 to 30 seconds (on some IP cameras, up to 90 seconds).  

5. Release the button. The device will reboot into a factory default, unactivated state.  

Scenario 2: You're Locked Out (Password Reset)

If you just need to get back into the system because the password is lost, Hikvision devices do not have a universal default password. You must use the official SADP Tool (Search Active Devices Protocol) on a computer connected to the same local network.  

1.Download and run SADP:Requires local network PC.

Download the official Hikvision SADP Tool on a computer connected to the exact same switch or network as your server. Launch it, and it will automatically scan and display your Hikvision devices.

2.Export the XML Request file:Do not reboot the device after this step.

Select your locked device from the list, click Forgot Password in the bottom right corner, and choose Export. Save the generated .xml file to your desktop. Crucial: Leave the server powered on; if it reboots, this file becomes invalid.

3.Send the file to Hikvision Support:Response times vary.

Upload or email this XML file along with a photo of the physical serial number label on the device to your local Hikvision Technical Support team or authorized distributor.

4.Import the Response file:Valid for up to 4-5 days.

Once support emails you back an Encrypt XML file or a Security Code, open SADP again. Click Forgot Password, select Import File (or enter the code), type a brand new admin password, and click Confirm.

⚠️ Important Reminder: Performing a full factory reset will completely wipe your user accounts, custom recording schedules, and custom network subnets. If you are resetting an NVR or storage server, it will generally not delete the video footage already recorded on the hard drives, but it will disconnect the linked IP cameras until you re-add them