Can Hikvision DVRs and NVRs connect directly to Wi-Fi and go online right away? Yes, of course they can—using the Wi-Fi feature. Some Hikvision NVR and DVR models have a built-in Wi-Fi module. This feature allows users to connect their NVRs and DVRs directly to a Wi-Fi network without using an Ethernet cable. Once connected to the Wi-Fi network, users can view live camera feeds from the Hik-Connect app.
A while back, I tried using this Wi-Fi feature on a Hikvision DVR. As a result, the DVR was able to connect to the internet and could be accessed remotely.
What Is the Wi-Fi Feature on Hikvision NVRs and DVRs?
This is a feature that can be used to connect an NVR to a Wi-Fi network.
I usually use this feature when the installation location does not allow the NVR and DVR to be connected directly to the router via an Ethernet cable due to the long distance. This feature also serves as a solution if the LAN ports on your NVR and DVR are damaged. To connect the NVR and DVR to the Wi-Fi network, you’ll need another device: a wireless USB adapter.
Can a USB to Ethernet adapter be used as a replacement for a damaged LAN port on an NVR or DVR?
No, you can’t. NVRs and DVRs generally do not support USB to Ethernet adapters in their firmware. Therefore, USB to Ethernet adapters cannot be used with NVRs and DVRs. I’ve personally tried using a USB to Ethernet adapter with an NVR and a DVR, and it didn’t work.
How I Configure the Wi-Fi Features on Hikvision NVRs and DVRs?
In this experiment, I used a Hikvision DVR running HVR 4.0.
Most Hikvision NVRs and DVRs currently do not offer Wi-Fi functionality. Therefore, before making a purchase, be sure to ask the seller whether the NVR or DVR you plan to buy has Wi-Fi functionality. This feature is built-in; users cannot enable it manually, even by updating the firmware.
Before you begin, make sure you have a wireless USB adapter.
Below are the steps I followed when I connected the Hikvision DVR directly to the Wi-Fi network.
Connect the USB wireless adapter to the DVR’s USB port.
Next, open your DVR settings and select Network settings. Select the TCP/IP menu. In the TCP/IP menu, select the Wi-Fi tab.
If the Wireless USB Adapter is working properly, a list of nearby Wi-Fi networks will appear in the Wi-Fi settings tab. Double-click one of the Wi-Fi networks listed. Then enter the Wi-Fi password. Click the OK button.
Once connected, the Connection Status will change from “Disconnected” to “Connected.”
Once the Wi-Fi network is connected to the DVR, you can check the status on the Aaccess Platform. The status should show as “Online.”
List of Hikvision DVR Products with Features That Allow Direct Connection to Wi-Fi
Not all Hikvision DVR products support direct Wi-Fi connectivity. Based on my research, here is a list of DVR products that can be connected directly to a Wi-Fi network. Some models may no longer be available on the market.
Hikvision DVR with Wi-Fi
- iDS-7104HQHI-M1/S
- iDS-7104HQHI-M1/T
- iDS-7108HQHI-M1/S
- iDS-7108HQHI-M1/T
- iDS-7204HQHI-M1/E
- iDS-7204HQHI-M1/T
- iDS-7208HQHI-M1/E
- iDS-7208HQHI-M1/T
- iDS-7204HUHI-M1/T
- iDS-7208HUHI-M1/T
- iDS-7216HUHI-M1/T
From my search, I only found the DVR models listed above that support Wi-Fi connectivity. As for NVR products, I couldn’t find any. It’s possible that Hikvision has removed the product listings from its website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can DVRs and NVRs Be Connected Directly to Wi-Fi?
Yes, but not all DVR and NVR models have this feature.
What Are the Benefits of Connecting Hikvision DVRs and NVRs Directly to Wi-Fi?
You don’t need a cable to connect the DVR and NVR to the internet.
What Do You Need to Connect Hikvision DVRs and NVRs to Wi-Fi?
All you need to prepare is a USB wireless adapter.
Is the Wi-Fi Feature Available on All Hikvision NVRs and DVRs?
No.
Final Thoughts
Hikvision DVRs can connect directly to a Wi-Fi network without the need for cables. This feature is only available on certain DVR models. I’ve checked the latest DVR models, such as the Hikvision PowerX, but I didn’t find any DVRs on the list of the latest models that support direct Wi-Fi connectivity. It seems that Hikvision DVRs with this feature are only available on older models. If you have a DVR or NVR from another brand that supports Wi-Fi, you can use a USB wireless adapter to connect directly to the Wi-Fi network without a cable.
I hope the information I’ve shared here is helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below.