Applies to: SmartPSS Lite on Windows PCs and supported Macs, connecting to Dahua NVRs, XVRs and IP cameras. Screens differ between software versions.
Quick answer: Download SmartPSS Lite from Dahua's official website and install it. On first launch, create a local login password. Open Devices, click Add, choose IP/domain or SN (P2P), enter the device details and password, then open Live View and drag the device onto the screen.
SmartPSS Lite is Dahua's free desktop software for watching and managing CCTV on a computer. It handles live view, playback, video export and event alerts, and it also has access control and attendance tools.
Dahua has replaced the older SmartPSS with SmartPSS Lite for Windows and newer Macs. If you are still running the old version, it is worth moving across.
Before you start
A Windows PC or a supported Mac with administrator rights to install software
The recorder's IP address (if on the same network) or its serial number (for P2P)
The device admin username and password
Enough free disk space if you plan to export footage
Step 1: Download and install
Download SmartPSS Lite from Dahua's official website. Avoid third-party download sites.
Run the installer and follow the prompts. Windows may ask for permission to make changes.
Allow the software through the Windows firewall if asked, on private networks at least.
Launch SmartPSS Lite and set a password for the software itself. This is separate from your recorder password.
Some versions ask for security questions or an email address for password recovery. Fill these in and keep a note.
Step 2: Add a device on the same network
Open Devices (sometimes shown as Device Manager).
Click Auto Search to find Dahua devices on your network, tick your recorder and add it. Or click Add to enter details by hand.
For a manual add, choose IP/Domain, enter a device name, the IP address and the port (commonly 37777).
Enter the username and password and click Add.
Check the status column shows the device as online.
Step 3: Add a remote device with P2P
Click Add and change the method to SN or P2P.
Enter the serial number from the recorder's label or P2P screen.
Enter the username and password and save.
Wait a few moments for the connection. P2P is usually slower to open than a local connection.
Step 4: Live view and playback
Open Live View. Drag the device from the list onto the screen to open all channels, or drag single cameras into tiles.
Use the layout buttons to change the grid.
Open Playback, choose cameras and a date, then search to see the timeline.
To export, select a time range and use the download or export option. Choose a format such as DAV or MP4 where offered.
Users and good habits
Create a separate, limited user on the recorder for each person who views on a PC, rather than sharing the admin login.
Lock the PC or use a separate Windows account if others use the computer, as SmartPSS Lite can remember logins.
Update SmartPSS Lite when Dahua releases a new version, and keep recorder firmware current.
Troubleshooting
Problem
Likely cause
What to try
Auto Search finds nothing
PC and recorder on different networks, or firewall blocking
Check both are on the same router and allow SmartPSS Lite in the firewall
Device shows offline
Wrong IP, port or password
Check the IP on the recorder and re-enter details
P2P add fails
Recorder's P2P status offline
Fix P2P on the recorder first
Exported file will not play
DAV format needs Dahua's player
Export as MP4 if available, or use Dahua's Smart Player
Live view stutters
Low bandwidth or PC load
Switch tiles to the sub stream
Frequently asked questions
Is SmartPSS Lite free?
Yes. SmartPSS Lite is free to download from Dahua's website.
Does SmartPSS Lite work on a Mac?
Dahua offers a macOS version for supported Macs. Check the download page for the current list.
What is the difference between SmartPSS and SmartPSS Lite?
SmartPSS Lite is the newer desktop client. Dahua has discontinued SmartPSS for Windows and newer Macs, and points users to SmartPSS Lite.
What port does SmartPSS Lite use?
Dahua devices commonly use TCP port 37777 for client connections, unless it has been changed on the device.
Can I use DMSS on a PC instead?
DMSS is built for phones and tablets. On a computer, SmartPSS Lite is Dahua's intended client.
Can Zenith Security Co. set up SmartPSS Lite for me?
We are a supplier, not an installer, but we offer technical support by phone and bookable remote setup sessions.
Stuck adding your recorder? 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.
