Applies to: Dahua network video recorders (NVRs) and most Dahua XVR recorders on recent firmware. Menu names vary slightly between firmware versions.
Quick answer: On the recorder's login screen, select Forgot password. The NVR shows a QR code. Scan it with the Dahua DMSS app and a security code is sent to the reserved email address set up on the recorder. Enter that code on the NVR, then choose a new admin password. Your recordings are not affected.
Forgetting the admin password on a Dahua recorder is common, and it rarely means wiping the unit or losing footage. Dahua builds a reset process into the recorder, and in most cases you can complete it yourself in around ten minutes. This guide covers each method and what to do if none of them work.
Before you start
You will need:
A monitor and mouse connected directly to the NVR (on most models the reset is started from the local screen, not a web browser)
A smartphone with the DMSS app installed
Access to the email address entered as the reserved email when the recorder was first set up
The recorder connected to the internet if you plan to use the app method
Resetting the password does not delete recordings or camera settings. Only the account password changes.
Method 1: QR code and DMSS app
This is the method most people use.
On the NVR login screen, click Forgot password (on some firmware it is a small link under the password field).
If prompted, confirm the reserved email address shown. A QR code appears on screen.
Open DMSS on your phone and find the device password reset option (usually under Me or Tools).
Scan the QR code on the monitor.
Follow the prompts in the app. A security code is sent to the reserved email address.
Type the security code into the box on the NVR screen. Codes expire after a short time, so enter it straight away.
Create a new admin password with at least eight characters, mixing letters, numbers and symbols.
Log in with the new password and check every camera is showing live.
Method 2: Security questions
Some recorders let you set security questions during first-time setup. If yours has them:
Click Forgot password on the login screen.
Change the reset type from QR code to Security questions.
Answer each question exactly as you originally entered it.
Set and confirm a new password.
Method 3: Recorder offline or reserved email unavailable
If the recorder has no internet connection, or you no longer have access to the reserved email:
Note the recorder's serial number (on the label underneath, or shown on the reset screen).
Take a clear photo of the QR code on the reset screen.
Contact your supplier or Dahua support with the photo, serial number and proof of purchase. Once ownership is confirmed, they can provide a reset code or file.
If you bought your recorder from us, our technical line can help with this step.
Troubleshooting
Problem
Likely cause
What to try
No "Forgot password" option
Password reset was switched off at setup, or older firmware
Use Method 3; update firmware once you are back in
Security code never arrives
Old or mistyped reserved email; spam filter
Check your junk folder; confirm the address shown on screen
Code rejected
Code expired, or the QR code has refreshed
Return to the QR screen, scan again and use the newest code
DMSS will not scan the code
Glare or low monitor resolution
Dim the lights, move closer, or photograph the screen
Locked out after several attempts
Login lock-out protection
Wait for the lock period shown on screen, then try again
Cameras offline after the reset
Cameras were added using the old password
Re-enter the new password for each camera in the camera registration menu
After the reset
Open the account settings and check password reset is switched on and the reserved email is current.
Add security questions if your firmware offers them.
Update the saved password in DMSS and SmartPSS Lite on every phone and computer that views the system.
Store the new password in a password manager.
Frequently asked questions
Will resetting the password delete my recordings?
No. The reset changes the account password only. Recordings, camera channels and recording schedules stay as they were.
Can I reset a Dahua NVR password from a web browser?
Some newer models offer a reset link on the web login page, but most recorders need the reset started from a monitor connected directly to the NVR.
What is the reserved email on a Dahua NVR?
It is the address entered during first-time setup. The security code is sent there, so keep it up to date in the account settings.
Is there a reset button on a Dahua NVR?
Most Dahua NVRs have no external button for resetting the password. Where an internal reset exists it may restore factory settings, so try the QR code method or ask for support first.
My recorder was set up by an installer. What should I do?
Ask the installer first, as they may hold the password or the reserved email. If they cannot help, use Method 3 with your proof of purchase.
Can Zenith Security Co. reset my NVR for me?
We are a supplier, not an installer, but we offer technical support by phone and bookable remote setup sessions.
Still locked out? Call our technical line or book a remote setup session. Since 2012 we have supplied CCTV equipment from Wolverhampton to homeowners, businesses and installers, with delivery across England, Scotland and Wales. Installers can apply for a trade account for trade pricing.
