HIKVISION DVR Password Reset

 

HIKVISION DVR Password Reset – The Complete Guide by Wisdom of Nikitis Tech Hub


If you've landed on this post, chances are your HIKVISION DVR is locked and you're staring at the login screen wondering, "What now?" Don’t worry — I’ve helped dozens of clients recover access to their DVRs, and in this guide, I’ll walk you through every working method to reset a HIKVISION DVR password, from official tools to model-specific techniques.

This post is based on real-life experience supporting CCTV users across Nigeria and beyond — written by me, Wisdom (Nikitis Tech Hub), not just copied off forums.

Why Password Resets on HIKVISION Can Be Tricky

Unlike some basic DVR brands, HIKVISION locks down its devices to prevent unauthorized access. This is great for security — but bad if you’ve genuinely forgotten your password. Resetting it depends on:

  • Your DVR model

  • The firmware version

  • Whether you’ve configured recovery options

Method 1: Reset Directly from the DVR Interface (No Tools Needed)

If your DVR runs firmware v4.x or newer (black-themed UI):

  1. Connect your monitor and mouse.

  2. At the login screen, click “Forget Password?” (bottom of the login box).

  3. You’ll see one of these options:

    • Reserved Email (if set)

    • Security Questions

    • Export Key File

 Here’s how they work:

  • Email Reset: An email is sent with a link to reset. Only works if you added an email during setup.

  • Security Questions: Answer all questions correctly — no internet needed.

  • Export Key File: Most common. Exports a reset file to USB, which you email to Hikvision or your installer.

Method 2: Use the SADP Tool (Ideal for Local Network Access)

When GUI reset isn’t available or doesn’t work, use SADP Tool — HIKVISION’s official Windows utility.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Download SADP: SADP Tool from Hikvision

  2. Install and launch it on a Windows PC connected to the same LAN as your DVR.

  3. It’ll auto-detect all HIKVISION devices on your network.

  4. Select your DVR → click “Forgot Password” at the right bottom.

  5. Export the XML file, save it.

  6. Email the file to:

    • 📧 support@hikvision.com

    • Or your local supplier/installer (Nikitis Tech Hub if I installed it 😉)

  7. You’ll receive a reset file or security code within 24–48 hours.

  8. Import the file/code using SADP and set your new password.

📝 Wisdom's Tip: Don't close SADP while waiting for the reset file — the device must stay online and unchanged.

Method 3: Physical Hard Reset (For Legacy DVRs Only)



Older HIKVISION DVRs (especially analog models from 2013–2016) may have a reset button on the board.

  To reset:

  1. Power off the DVR.

  2. Open the top casing.

  3. Look for a small tactile reset switch (near the battery or processor).

  4. Hold it down.

  5. Power on the device while holding the button.

  6. Wait 30–40 seconds and release.

The system will factory reset. You can now login using:

  • Username: admin

  • Password: 12345 or leave blank

⚠️ Warning: This resets all DVR settings, including IP and port.

 Wisdom's Pro Tips (From Field Work)

  • After a reset, always:

    • Set a strong password

    • Add a reserved email

    • Set up security questions

    • Export and save the Key Recovery File

  • Keep your SADP tool updated; older versions may not support new devices.

  • For installers: Register devices to your Hik-ProConnect account to manage password resets remotely in future.

 FAQs – Answered by Wisdom

Q1: Can I reset my password without internet access?
Yes — only if you have security questions set or a physical reset button. SADP requires a LAN connection, not full internet.

Q2: I got a reset file from Hikvision but it says “Mismatch”. What now?
Your DVR’s date/time might have changed. Restart the export/import process immediately with correct time settings.

Q3: How long does Hikvision take to reply to password reset requests?
Typically 1–2 working days. For faster service in Nigeria, contact Nikitis Tech Hub.

Need Help?

If all else fails, or if you're handling a client site and don't want downtime, reach out to me at Nikitis Tech Hub. I offer remote support and step-by-step video assistance for password resets, firmware upgrades, and full CCTV optimization.

Want to Watch Instead?

🎥 I’m working on a full YouTube video tutorial showing all methods discussed here — coming soon!
📢 Follow me on TikTok or Facebook at Nikitis Tech Hub for updates.

Final Thoughts

Resetting your HIKVISION DVR password doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tools and steps, you can regain access in minutes — or with a little patience if SADP is involved.

Let this guide save you time and help you look professional — whether you’re a CCTV technician or just managing your own system

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