To reset a Dahua password using a serial number (S/N), you typically need to Dahua Technical Support
or an authorized dealer to receive a temporary security code
. This method is often used for older models or as a backup when newer methods like QR code scanning are not configured. Method 1: Emailing Dahua Support (Serial Number Method)
This is the standard procedure for obtaining a manual reset code based on your device's unique S/N. Locate the Serial Number (S/N)
Find it on the physical sticker on the bottom or back of the recorder. Alternatively, go to the login screen and click "Forgot Password" ; the S/N may be displayed there along with a QR code. Contact Support Email your full serial number model number current date/time
shown on the device's On-Screen Display (OSD) to the appropriate regional support email (e.g., Support.USA@Dahuatech.com for North America or support@dahuasecurity.com for global support). Apply the Security Code
Once you receive the temporary code from support, right-click the monitor screen and select Enter the received code into the password field. System > Account and modify the admin password immediately. Recovery Squad Alternative Modern Reset Methods
If your device is newer (roughly 2019 onwards), you can often perform a reset yourself without waiting for an email from support. How To Reset Dahua DVR/NVR Password - Recovery Squad
To reset a Dahua password using a serial number (S/N), you generally need to obtain a temporary security code from Dahua support or use an authorized password generator. Method 1: Dahua Support (Official)
This is the standard procedure for recorders (DVR/NVR) and cameras:
Locate the Serial Number: Find the S/N on the physical sticker at the back/bottom of your device or by clicking the "Forgot Password" link on the login screen.
Note the Date: Take note of the current date and time displayed on the device's screen (OSD), as the security code is date-dependent.
Contact Support: Email the full serial number and the current OSD date to Support.USA@Dahuatech.com or your local regional support.
Enter Temporary Code: Once received, enter the code into the Admin Account field on the device.
Modify Password: Go to Main Menu > System > Account > Modify to set a new permanent password immediately. Method 2: Super Password Generator (Third-Party)
Some users use external tools to generate "Daily Passwords" based on the serial number:
Download Tool: Tools like the CCTV Super Password app (available for Windows/Android) can generate candidate codes.
Generate Code: Enter your serial number exactly as it appears (it is case-sensitive) into the tool. dahua password reset by serial number
Test Codes: Try the generated codes (sometimes there are up to five) with the username admin. Method 3: QR Code & DMSS App (Alternative to S/N Only)
If your device shows a QR code on the "Forgot Password" screen, this is often faster than a manual serial number request: Open the DMSS App on your phone. Navigate to Me > Tool Manager > Password Resetting. Scan the QR code on your DVR/NVR monitor.
A security code will be sent to the recovery email address associated with the account. Enter that code on your device to reset the password. Important Tips: FAQ/Password Reset Instructions - DahuaWiki
Stuck Outside? How to Reset Your Dahua Password Using Your Serial Number
Forgetting the password to your security system is a classic "head-palm" moment. If you’re staring at a locked Dahua DVR or NVR, don’t panic—you probably have everything you need to get back in right on the back of the device.
The Serial Number (S/N) is a powerful tool for recovery, especially for older firmware or when you haven't set up security questions. Here is a helpful guide on how to use it to regain access. 1. Locate Your Serial Number
Before you can reset anything, you need the unique "fingerprint" of your device. You can find the Serial Number in a few places:
The Sticker: Check the bottom or back of your DVR/NVR for a silver or white label. Look for "S/N" followed by a string of letters and numbers.
The Login Screen: On newer systems, clicking "Forgot Password" will often display the S/N directly on the screen, often next to a QR code.
ConfigTool: If your device is on the network, the Dahua ConfigTool can scan and list the S/Ns of all connected devices. 2. Method A: Contacting Support (Official Path)
The most secure way to reset is to request a temporary code directly from Dahua or your local distributor.
Note the Date: Look at the current date and time displayed on your DVR’s monitor. It must be the date currently set on the device, even if it’s wrong.
Email Support: Send your full Serial Number and the device date to your regional support team (e.g., Support.USA@Dahuatech.com or support@dahuasecurity.com).
Enter the Code: Once you receive the temporary code (usually within 24–48 hours), enter it into the password field on your device to unlock it and set a new password. 3. Method B: Using the "Super Password" Generator
For older firmware (pre-2017 or specific versions), there are third-party tools that can generate a "Super Password" based on your S/N.
How it works: These tools use an algorithm to create a one-time master password based on your S/N and the device's current date.
CCTV Super Password App: Some users use mobile apps like the CCTV Super Password App to generate these codes instantly. To reset a Dahua password using a serial
Caution: This method is less reliable on modern, high-security firmware where Dahua has patched universal "master codes." 4. Modern Alternative: The QR Code Method
If you have a newer system, you might not even need to type in your S/N. Click "Forgot Password" on the login screen. Select QR Code as the reset mode.
Open the DMSS mobile app and go to Me > Tool Manager > Device Password Management.
Scan the code on your monitor. A security code will be sent to your pre-registered email address almost instantly. Pro-Tip: Future-Proof Your Access Once you’re back in, don't let this happen again!
Set Security Questions: Go to Main Menu > Account > User and set three questions you'll never forget.
Bind an Email: Linking a recovery email allows for instant resets via the DMSS app.
Record the S/N: Take a photo of the serial number sticker and keep it in a safe place or a password manager.
Need help finding a local service center? I can help you find a Dahua-certified technician in your area. FAQ/Password Reset Instructions - DahuaWiki
How to Perform a Dahua Password Reset by Serial Number Forgetting the password to your Dahua DVR, NVR, or IP camera can be a major headache, especially when you need to access critical footage. Fortunately, one of the most reliable ways to regain access is by using the device's serial number.
This guide covers the step-by-step process of resetting your Dahua password using the serial number method, along with alternative solutions if you get stuck. What You’ll Need Before You Start To use the serial number method, you must have: Physical access to the recorder or camera.
The Serial Number (S/N): Found on the sticker on the bottom/side of the device or via the ConfigTool software.
The Current Date: The date shown on the monitor connected to your Dahua device (this is crucial as the reset code is often date-dependent). Method 1: Using the DMSS Mobile App (Easiest)
Dahua has integrated a "Forgot Password" feature into their mobile app, DMSS (available on iOS and Android).
Open the Login Screen: On your DVR/NVR monitor, click the "Forgot Password" icon next to the login field.
Select Reset Mode: Choose "SN" or "QR Code" reset. A QR code will appear on the screen. Scan with DMSS: Open the DMSS app on your phone. Go to Home > Me > Toolbox > Device Password Reset. Scan the QR code on your monitor.
Receive Security Code: After scanning, a security code will be sent to the email address linked during the initial setup.
Enter Code: Type the code into the "Security Code" box on your DVR/NVR and create a new password. Method 2: Generating a Master Password via Serial Number Common Error Codes During Serial Number Reset When
If your device is older and doesn't support QR codes, you may need a "Master Password" generated from the Serial Number and the device's system date. 1. Locate your Serial Number
If the sticker is missing, download the Dahua ConfigTool on your PC. As long as your computer is on the same network as the camera/DVR, the tool will display the Serial Number. 2. Contact Technical Support or Use a Reset Tool
Dahua does not publicize their master-key algorithm for security reasons. To get the reset code:
Contact your Vendor: Send your S/N and the current date (as displayed on the DVR) to the person or company who sold you the equipment.
Dahua Support: Reach out to official Dahua regional support.
CCTV Calculators: Some third-party websites offer "Dahua Password Generators." Use these with caution, as they only work for older firmware versions. Method 3: The Hard Reset (Physical Button)
If you cannot find the serial number or the email reset fails, many Dahua IP cameras and some newer NVRs have a physical reset button.
Locate the Button: On IP cameras, it’s often near the SD card slot. On NVR motherboards, it is a small button labeled "Reset." The Process: Disconnect power. Hold the reset button.
Reconnect power while continuing to hold the button for 20–30 seconds.
The device will revert to factory settings (default username/password is usually admin/admin or will prompt for a new one). Important Tips for the Future
Link an Email: Always link a recovery email during the initial setup to make the DMSS reset process instantaneous.
Export Config Files: Use the ConfigTool to export your system configuration. If you ever reset, you can import your settings back quickly.
Keep Firmware Updated: Newer firmware versions offer better security and more user-friendly recovery options.
Note: If your device was provided by a specific service provider (like a security firm), their custom firmware might disable these reset methods. In that case, you must contact them directly for an unlock code.
When trying the Dahua password reset by serial number, you may encounter these errors:
| Error Code | Meaning | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 0x01 | Invalid Serial Number | You typed the SN wrong. Copy/paste directly. | | 0x05 | Timeout | The reset code expired. Codes last roughly 10 minutes. Generate a new file and get a new code. | | 0x08 | Firmware Mismatch | Your firmware is too old for the new algorithm. Try downgrading ConfigTool or updating the device firmware via TFTP (advanced). | | 0x12 | Security Lock | You attempted wrong passwords 10+ times. Reboot the device and wait 30 minutes before trying the SN reset again. |
SN: or Serial No. (usually 10–20 alphanumeric characters).To perform a reset by serial number, you typically need: