By the SightShield team · · 3 min read
Do not panic — and do not keep guessing
Forgetting the admin password of an NVR is common, especially when the installer set it years ago or a staff member who knew it has left. Recording usually continues normally, so there is no immediate loss. But repeated wrong guesses can lock the account for a period, and some download sites offering “master password” tools are scams or malware. Use the official recovery routes.
First, check who might know
- The installer may have recorded the credentials in the handover document.
- Another user may still be logged in on a phone app, which can sometimes be used to reset the password.
- Check old emails or notes for the handover sheet.
- If you have an AMC, the service provider may hold the details.
Official reset methods
The exact options depend on brand and firmware. Hikvision, CP Plus, PRAMA and Honeywell each document their own methods.
| Method | How it works | Needs |
|---|---|---|
| App or cloud account | The brand’s app sends a reset code to the device linked to your account | The NVR added to your account earlier |
| Reserved email | A QR code on the NVR screen is scanned and a code sent to the reserved email | Email set during setup |
| Security questions | Answer questions set during setup | Answers you remember |
| Exported key or GUID file | A file exported earlier to a USB drive resets the password | The file saved during setup |
| Brand or distributor support | Support provides a reset code after verifying ownership | Serial number, invoice, sometimes photos |
Proof of ownership
Brands ask for proof of ownership before helping, because a reset would also help a thief or a former employee. Keep the GST invoice with serial numbers, and be ready to show the device label and the on-screen information. This is a security feature, not red tape.
What about factory reset?
- Some NVRs have a reset button or procedure that restores factory defaults.
- This usually erases settings: camera list, recording schedules, users and network settings.
- Recorded footage on disks is often preserved but should not be assumed; export important clips first if you can.
- After reset, every camera may need re-adding and passwords re-setting.
- Let a technician do it if you are unsure.
Camera passwords too
IP cameras have their own passwords, often set to match the NVR. If you reset the NVR password, the cameras may still use the old one, and the NVR will show them as offline until they are updated. A technician can reset cameras individually using the brand’s tools.
Avoid it happening again
- Store the admin password in a password manager or sealed envelope in a safe.
- Set a reserved email and security questions at installation.
- Create separate user accounts for staff instead of sharing the admin login.
- Remove users when they leave.
- Keep the handover document with the invoice.
Example: a shop owner locked out
A shop owner in Rajajinagar could not log in to the NVR after the previous manager left. The phone app still showed live video but could not reach settings. Using the brand app’s reset option linked to the owner’s account, a reset code was sent within minutes; the technician then updated the four camera passwords and created a separate staff login with playback only. Total time: under an hour.
We can help
We help recover access to NVRs and IP cameras of the brands we work with, after verifying ownership, and can secure the system properly afterwards.
CCTV AMC and support →Quick answers
How do I reset my NVR password?+
Use the brand’s official methods: app reset, reserved email QR code, security questions, an exported key file, or brand support with proof of ownership.
Will resetting the password delete recordings?+
A password reset usually does not. A full factory reset can erase settings; recordings are often kept but export critical clips first.
Are master password tools safe?+
No. Many are scams or malware. Use official recovery methods.
Why are my cameras offline after a password reset?+
The cameras may still use the old password; update them in the NVR.
What do I need for brand support?+
Usually the serial number, invoice and sometimes photos of the device.