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How do I reset a camera's network settings to default?

  • Writer: Administrator A
    Administrator A
  • Jan 19
  • 3 min read

How to Reset a Camera's Network Settings to Default

If you’ve recently changed your router, switched ISPs, or accidentally assigned an incorrect IP address that has locked you out of your system, a network reset is the fastest way to start fresh.

Resetting the network settings will wipe the Wi-Fi credentials and IP configuration, returning the camera to its "out-of-the-box" state (usually DHCP mode or a default static IP). Here is how to do it for different types of cameras.

1. The Physical Reset Button (Most Common)

Most IP and Wi-Fi cameras have a physical reset button.1 Depending on the model, it may be a visible button or a tiny pinhole.2

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  • Locate the Button: Check the back of the camera, under a waterproof flap near the SD card slot, or on the tail of the "pigtail" cable.

  • The "10-Second Rule": With the camera powered on, press and hold the button for 10–15 seconds.

  • The Indicator: Most cameras will provide a cue that the reset worked. You might hear a "click," see the status light flash red, or hear a voice prompt saying, "Reset successful."

  • Wait for Reboot: Give the camera 2 full minutes to reboot and broadcast its default signal before trying to find it with your app.

2. Resetting via the Web Interface (If you have access)

If you can still log into the camera via a web browser but just want to clear the network config:

  1. Enter the camera’s IP address into your browser.

  2. Go to Configuration > System > Maintenance.

  3. Look for "Default" or "Restore." * Partial Restore: Resets everything except the IP address and user account.

    • Full Default: Wipes everything, including network settings and passwords.

3. Resetting via the Manufacturer's Tool

If you can't find a button and can't log in, use the manufacturer’s discovery tool on a PC connected to the same switch.

  • SADP (Hikvision) or ConfigTool (Dahua): Select the camera from the list and look for the "Reset Password" or "Initialize" option.

  • Note: For some professional brands, resetting network settings via software requires you to export an XML file and send it to the manufacturer for a security key.

What Happens After the Reset?

Once the reset is complete, the camera will revert to its factory default state:

Feature

Default After Reset

IP Address

DHCP (Automatic) or a brand default (e.g., 192.168.1.64)

Wi-Fi SSID

None (You must re-pair it with your router)

Password

Factory default (e.g., admin or 12345)

Port Settings

Reverts to Port 80 / 8000 / 554

4. Resetting a "Bricked" Camera (Hard Reset)

If the camera is unresponsive, try a 30-30-30 reset:

  1. Hold the reset button for 30 seconds while powered ON.

  2. Unplug the power while still holding the button for another 30 seconds.

  3. Plug the power back in while still holding the button for a final 30 seconds.

Need Professional Help Reconfiguring Your System?

Resetting a camera is the easy part—getting it back onto a secure, stable network without causing an IP Conflict can be the challenge. If you are struggling to find your camera after a reset or need help securing your network, Cleveland Security Cameras is here to assist.

We help Cleveland homeowners and businesses optimize their surveillance networks, ensuring every camera is correctly addressed and accessible from your mobile devices.

Reach Out to Us

 
 
 

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