How to View Your DVR/NVR Footage on Your PC

 

 How to View Your DVR/NVR Footage on Your PC – A Step-by-Step Guide from Nikitis Tech Hub



One of the most common questions I get as a CCTV expert is:

“How can I watch my DVR or NVR camera footage on my laptop or desktop PC?”

Whether you’re using HIKVISION, Dahua, UNV, or even a generic DVR/NVR brand, the steps are quite similar.

In this Nikitis Tech Hub post, I’ll show you how to connect and view your CCTV recordings on a computer — locally or remotely.

What You Need Before You Start

Make sure you have:

  • ✅ A working DVR/NVR system connected to cameras

  • ✅ A network cable (LAN) to connect the DVR/NVR to your router

  • ✅ A PC or laptop connected to the same network (or internet)

  • ✅ The CMS or VMS software (provided by the brand)

  • ✅ The DVR/NVR's IP address, username, and password

 Step 1: Connect DVR/NVR to Your Router



  1. Plug one end of the LAN cable into the DVR/NVR.

  2. Plug the other end into your Wi-Fi router or switch.

  3. Ensure the DVR/NVR shows a network icon or IP address in the settings.

🖥️ Step 2: Install the Monitoring Software on Your PC



Here’s a quick guide based on brand:

BrandSoftware to Install
HIKVISIONiVMS-4200 or SADP Tool
DahuaSmartPSS
UNVEZStation
Generic DVRsCMS Client (often on CD or vendor’s site)

💡 Wisdom's Tip: Always download software from the official website to avoid malware.

🌐 Step 3: Add Your DVR/NVR to the Software

If You’re on the Same Network (Local Viewing):

  1. Open the software.

  2. Click Device Management or Add Device.

  3. Choose IP/Domain mode.

  4. Enter:

    • IP address of DVR/NVR (e.g., 192.168.0.120)

    • Port number (usually 8000 or 37777)

    • Username & Password

  5. Save and test connection.

If You’re Away (Remote Viewing):

  1. Use the Cloud ID / P2P ID (found in the DVR settings).

  2. In the software, go to:

    • Add Device > P2P/Serial Number

  3. Input:

    • Cloud ID

    • Username & Password

  4. You may need to enable P2P or DDNS from the DVR’s network settings first.

Step 4: View Live Footage or Playback



Once connected, you can:

  • ✅ Watch live camera feeds

  • ✅ Access recordings (playback) from any date/time

  • ✅ Take snapshots or video clips

  • ✅ Adjust resolution or stream quality

📌 Some apps allow exporting footage directly to your PC for evidence or backup.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • ❌ Can't detect IP address?

    • Use SADP Tool (HIK) or ConfigTool (Dahua) to find it.

  • ❌ Login failed?

    • Reset the password physically or via security questions.

  • ❌ No image showing?

    • Check port numbers or firewall settings.

  • ❌ Remote view not working?

    • Make sure internet is active and P2P is enabled in DVR.

Wisdom's Final Words


Accessing your CCTV from a PC gives you more control and is ideal for:

  • Office security rooms

  • Viewing multiple sites on one screen

  • Backing up footage for police reports

At Nikitis Tech Hub, I help clients set this up both remotely and on-site. If you need:

  • 📲 One-on-one setup help

  • 🔧 Password recovery

  • 📡 Network-based remote view configuration

👉 Reach out on Telegram: @NikitisTechHub
🎥 Follow us on YouTube & Facebook for video tutorials

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