Be wary of online "password generators" or "brute force tools." Most are scams or contain malware. Stick to Hikvision’s official tools (SADP) or hardware methods.

Insert the USB flash drive containing your saved configuration.bak or GUID file into the DVR's USB port. Step 2: Trigger the Reset Go to the DVR login page and click . Choose Verify by GUID from the options. Step 3: Apply the File

This is the for most users. You’ll need a Windows PC on the same network as the DVR.

Keep your DVR powered on and connected to the network during this entire process. If you reboot the DVR, the exported file becomes invalid. Step 4: Import the Unlock File

If you didn't set up a reserved email, you must use the Hikvision SADP Tool on a computer connected to the same network .

The Search Active Devices Protocol (SADP) is official Hikvision desktop software. It detects Hikvision devices on your local network and exports a file needed for a password reset. Step 1: Download and Connect Download the from the official Hikvision website. Install the software on a Windows or Mac computer.

Open SADP again, select your DVR, and click .

Look for a tiny push-button labeled "Reset" on the motherboard.