How to set up the Dahua DMSS app for remote viewing
Home › Dahua Help › How to set up the Dahua DMSS app for remote viewing
Applies to: Dahua NVRs, XVRs, IP cameras and intercoms viewed with the DMSS app on Android or iOS. App screens and menu names change between app versions and device firmware, so treat the paths below as a guide.
Quick answer: Install DMSS from Google Play or the App Store. Make sure P2P is switched on in the recorder's network settings and that it shows Online. In DMSS, tap the + icon, scan the QR code on the recorder's P2P screen or label, enter the device username and password, and save. Live view should open within a few seconds.
DMSS is Dahua's free mobile app for live view, playback, alarm notifications and intercom calls.
Most people connect using P2P, which links the app to your recorder through Dahua's cloud service using the device serial number. P2P means you do not need to open ports on your router. This guide covers P2P setup first, then the IP or domain method for sites that use port forwarding.
Before you start
You will need:
The recorder or camera connected to your router with a network cable and working internet access
The device admin username and password
A phone on Android or iOS with the DMSS app installed from the official store
Access to a monitor connected to the recorder, or the label on the device showing its QR code and serial number
Step 1: Check P2P on the recorder
On the recorder's local menu, open the network settings and find P2P (on some firmware it is under Network, on others under Main Menu > Network > P2P).
Tick Enable if it is not already on, then apply.
Wait a minute and check the status. It should read Online.
If it stays offline, see our guide to fixing a DMSS or P2P offline device before carrying on.
Step 2: Add the device in DMSS
Open DMSS. The app may ask you to choose your country or region and accept its privacy terms; choose United Kingdom.
You may be asked to sign in to or create a Dahua account. Some versions let you skip this for basic live view, while cloud features such as online upgrades need an account.
Tap the + icon, usually at the top right of the home screen.
Choose Scan QR code and point the camera at the QR code on the recorder's P2P screen or the device label. You can also type the serial number by hand.
Select the device type if the app asks (for example NVR, XVR or camera).
Give the device a name you will recognise, such as "Shop NVR".
Enter the device username (normally admin) and its password, then save.
The app opens the channel list. Tap a camera to start live view.
Method 2: Add by IP address or domain
If your installer has set up port forwarding or DDNS, you can add the device directly instead of using P2P.
Tap + and choose the manual or IP/domain option.
Enter the public IP address or DDNS name.
Enter the TCP port. Dahua devices commonly use 37777 unless it has been changed.
Enter the username and password, then save.
Port forwarding exposes the recorder to the internet, so keep firmware up to date and use a strong password if you go this way.
Step 3: Set up notifications
On the recorder, confirm motion or smart detection is switched on for the cameras you want alerts from.
In DMSS, open the device settings and find the push notification or alarm subscription option.
Choose which channels and event types you want to be told about.
Allow notifications for DMSS in your phone's own settings, including on the lock screen if you want them there.
If alerts arrive late or not at all, check battery saving options on Android and Focus modes on iPhone, which can hold notifications back.
Troubleshooting
Problem
Likely cause
What to try
QR code will not scan
Glare, small code or low screen resolution
Move closer, dim the lights, or type the serial number manually
"Device offline" after adding
P2P disabled, or recorder has no internet
Check P2P status reads Online on the recorder
"Wrong password" or locked
Password mistyped, or account locked after attempts
Wait for the lock period, then re-enter the password carefully
Live view loads slowly
Low upload speed at the site
Switch the app to the sub stream (SD) for live view
No push notifications
Detection off, or phone blocking alerts
Check detection on the recorder and app permissions on the phone
Frequently asked questions
Is the DMSS app free?
Yes. DMSS is free to download from Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Do I need a Dahua account to use DMSS?
Not always. Some app versions allow local use without an account, but cloud features such as online upgrades and some P2P services need you to sign in.
Can I add more than one recorder to DMSS?
Yes. Repeat the add device steps for each recorder or camera. They appear as separate devices in the app.
Does DMSS work on mobile data?
Yes, as long as the recorder is online. Viewing over mobile data uses your data allowance, so the sub stream is a sensible default.
Is gDMSS the same as DMSS?
gDMSS and iDMSS were older Dahua apps. DMSS replaced them, and new devices are set up in DMSS.
Can Zenith Security Co. set up DMSS for me?
We are a supplier, not an installer, but we offer technical support by phone and bookable remote setup sessions.
Need a hand connecting the app? 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.
