Initialize an NVR from a Computer

This guide explains how to initialize an NVR from a computer using either ConfigTool or a web browser. Initialization creates the admin password and applies the required first-time setup before the recorder can be used.

Use the ConfigTool software, linked below, if you need to locate the recorder on the network or if you are not sure of its IP address. The web interface is another option if you already know the recorder’s IP address or prefer not to use ConfigTool. Both methods accomplish the same result, and you can choose whichever is more convenient.

You only need to complete one initialization method. If the recorder has already been initialized through ConfigTool, you do not need to initialize it again through the web interface.

Table of Contents

1. Before you begin
2. Option 1: Initialize the NVR with the ConfigTool
3. Option 2: Initialize the NVR through the Web Interface
4. Notes

Before you begin

You will need:

• A computer connected to the same local network as the NVR
• The NVR powered on and connected to the network
• The recorder’s IP address, or ConfigTool if you need to locate it

ConfigTool downloads:

Windows | Mac

Option 1: Initialize the NVR with ConfigTool

Use this method if the recorder has not been initialized and you want to activate it from the ConfigTool device list.

1. Open ConfigTool and allow it to scan for devices.
   1. Note: Device discovery may not work across segmented networks, e.g. VLANs, when using WiFi. A wired connection is recommended to avoid detection issues.
2. Locate the uninitialized recorder in the device list.
3. Select the checkbox next to the recorder.
4. Click Initialize.
   
   
    
5. Enter a new password and confirm it.
   1. The password must meet at least a medium strength requirement as indicated on screen.
6. Click Next to apply the password.
   
   

A confirmation message will appear when initialization is complete.

The NVR is now initialized. You can open the recorder’s web interface by clicking Web in ConfigTool or by entering the recorder’s IP address into a web browser.

Option 2: Initialize the NVR through the Web Interface

Use this method if you already know the recorder’s IP address and want to complete first-time setup from a web browser.

1. Open a web browser.
2. Enter the recorder’s IP address in the address bar, e.g. http://192.168.0.31
3. Press Enter.

If the recorder has not been initialized, the Device Initialization wizard will open.

Configure the device initialization settings

On the Device Initialization screen:

1. Select the correct Region.
2. Select the correct Time Zone.
3. Confirm the System Time is correct.
4. Enable or disable DST as needed.
5. Leave Online Update enabled (recommended).
6. Click Next.
   
   

The system defaults are typically correct, but the region, time zone, and system time should be reviewed before continuing.

Create the admin password

On the Password Setting screen:

1. Enter a new password in Password.
2. Re-enter the same password in Confirm Password.
3. Click Next.
   
   

The password must meet the requirements shown on the screen. Store this password in a secure location. If the admin password is lost, password recovery may be required.

Set password protection

On the Password Protection screen:

1. (Optional) Enable Security Question for local password recovery.
2. Select three security questions and enter an answer for each question.
3. Click OK.
   
   

Security questions are optional but recommended in case the password is lost.

Finish setup

After initialization is complete, the recorder will continue to the login screen or main web interface. Log in with the admin username and the password created during initialization.

The NVR is now initialized and ready for additional configuration.

Notes

• User interface layouts may vary depending on firmware version or model. Some menus, labels, or button locations may appear different, especially on legacy systems, but the overall process and behavior remain the same.
• You only need to complete one initialization method.
• ConfigTool can only initialize devices detected on the same local network.
  • If the recorder does not appear in ConfigTool, confirm the computer and recorder are connected to the same local network.
• The local HDMI interface uses a similar startup wizard, but it may include additional screens such as P2P, schedule, network, and display configuration.