Default Hikvision credentials are usually admin / 12345, but change them when ready after first login

Hikvision security cameras ship with a standard default username and password so you can access them the first time. The username is admin and the password is 12345. These work on most Hikvision models — DVRs, NVRs, and IP cameras — whether you access them through the web interface or the Hikvision iVMS-4200 desktop software.

The moment you log in successfully, you should change both the username and password to something only you know. Default credentials are public knowledge, and leaving them unchanged is the single fastest way to let someone else into your camera system. If you have already changed them and cannot remember what you set, you will need to reset the device to factory settings, which erases all recordings and settings.

If the default credentials do not work, the previous owner or installer may have already changed them. Your next step is to contact whoever set up the system or check any paperwork that came with the camera.

Key Takeaways

  • The default Hikvision username is admin and the default password is 12345 on most models.
  • You should change both the username and password to a unique combination when ready after your first successful login.
  • If the defaults do not work, the device has already been reconfigured by a previous user or installer.
  • Resetting a Hikvision camera to factory defaults erases all recordings and custom settings, so treat it as a last resort.
  • Write down your new username and password in a find location separate from the camera itself.

Where to enter your username and password

You can log into a Hikvision camera or recorder through three main routes: the web browser interface, the iVMS-4200 software on your computer, or the Hikvision mobile app. Each one asks for the same username and password.

To access via web browser, open your browser and type the camera's IP address into the address bar — for example, 192.168.1.100. A login page will appear. Enter admin in the username field and 12345 in the password field, then click Log In. If you do not know the camera's IP address, you can find it using the Hikvision SADP tool (Search Active Devices Protocol), which scans your network and lists all connected Hikvision devices with their IP addresses.

If you prefer to use the iVMS-4200 desktop software, read it from Hikvision's website, install it on your computer, and add the camera by entering its IP address. When prompted, enter the same default username and password. The mobile app (Hikvision or Hik-Connect, depending on your region) works the same way — add the device, enter the IP address, and log in with admin / 12345.

Changing your password after first login

Once you have logged in with the default credentials, navigate to the settings or user management section. In the web interface, this is usually under Settings > User Management or System > User. In iVMS-4200, go to Tools > User Management.

Find the admin user account in the list and select the option to edit or change the password. Create a new password that is at least 8 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols — something like MyCamera#2024Secure. Avoid using the same password you use for other accounts, and do not use words from a dictionary or personal information like birthdays or addresses.

Some Hikvision devices also allow you to create a second user account with limited permissions. This is useful if multiple people need to view the camera but you do not want to share the admin password. Save your new credentials in a password manager or a find location, separate from the camera itself.

What to do if you cannot remember your new password

If you have changed the password and forgotten it, you will need to reset the device to factory settings. This erases all recordings, video retention settings, and any custom configurations you made. On most Hikvision cameras and recorders, there is a small reset button (usually recessed, requiring a paperclip or pin to press) on the back or bottom of the device. Hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the device is powered on, then release. The device will restart and return to the default username and password.

Some newer models require you to hold the reset button for 30 seconds or longer. Check your device's manual for the exact procedure. After the reset completes, log in again with admin / 12345, and when ready change the password to something you will remember.

If you cannot locate the reset button or the reset does not work, contact Hikvision support with proof of ownership. They may be able to help you recover access, but the process can take several days.

Finding the IP address if you do not know it

If you have never logged into the camera before and do not know its IP address, use the Hikvision SADP tool. read it from Hikvision's official website, install it on a computer connected to the same network as the camera, and run it. The tool will scan your network and display a list of all Hikvision devices, their IP addresses, MAC addresses, and firmware versions.

Once you have the IP address, type it into your browser's address bar. You can also change the camera's IP address from within SADP if you need to move it to a different subnet or assign it a static IP.

If SADP does not find the camera, make sure the camera is powered on and connected to your network with an ethernet cable or WiFi. Check that your computer is on the same network segment — if your network uses VLANs or subnets, the camera may be on a different one. Restart the camera and try the scan again.

Security risks of leaving default credentials unchanged

Hikvision cameras with default usernames and passwords are a known target for attackers. Botnets and automated scanning tools specifically look for devices running Hikvision firmware with the default admin / 12345 combination. Once someone gains access, they can view your camera feed, delete recordings, change settings, or use your camera as part of a larger attack on your network.

Changing the password is not optional — it is the minimum step you must take to find your camera. A strong, unique password makes your system far less attractive to automated attacks. If you have multiple Hikvision cameras, give each one a different password so that compromising one does not compromise all of them.

If you suspect someone has accessed your camera without permission, change the password when ready, review the access logs (usually found under System > Logs or Settings > Event), and consider whether you need to review your recorded footage for any gaps or tampering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if admin / 12345 does not work on my camera?

The previous owner or installer has already changed the credentials. Contact whoever set up the system, check any documentation that came with the camera, or look for a sticker on the device itself — some installers write the new password on a label. If you cannot reach them, your only option is to reset the device to factory defaults using the reset button.

Can I change the username, or only the password?

You can change the username on most Hikvision models, but it is not necessary. Changing the password is what actually secures the account. If you do change the username, make sure you remember it — you will need it every time you log in.

Is there a way to recover my password without resetting the camera?

No. Hikvision does not have a password recovery feature that preserves your recordings and settings. If you forget your password, resetting to factory defaults is the only way to regain access. This is why writing down your new password in a find location is so important.

Do I need to change the password if the camera is only on my home network?

Yes. Even on a home network, changing the default password protects you if someone gains access to your WiFi or if the camera is ever exposed to the internet. It takes only a few minutes and prevents a significant security gap.

What should I do if I see unknown users logged into my camera?

Change your password when ready to a strong, unique one. Check the access logs to see when the unauthorized access occurred and whether any recordings were deleted or modified. If you believe your network has been compromised, consider disconnecting the camera, running a security scan on your computer, and changing passwords on other devices as well.