Unlike in 2015, it’s now very rare to encounter error codes on Dahua security cameras. The errors I frequently encounter are common issues such as the camera not connecting to the NVR, the NVR and DVR showing an “offline” status, and Dahua NVRs and DVRs getting stuck on the logo screen. If the error isn’t too serious, users can fix it themselves in just a few minutes. However, if you’re still using older models, error codes may appear on the screen.
In this article, I will explain the error codes that have appeared on Dahua NVR, DVR, and IP camera, along with how to fix them.
An Error Code Doesn’t Necessarily Mean the Device Is Broken
The appearance of an error code does not necessarily mean the device is broken.
In my experience as a security camera technician, error codes simply inform users of configuration errors. For example, if a camera connected to an NVR hasn’t been activated, an error code such as conf.LoginErrorNo -18 will appear on the screen. Or, if the hard drive isn’t recording, error code 0x06a will appear.
As long as the Dahua device is still on and an error message appears, it’s a sign that the device is still in good working order.
The List of Dahua NVR, DVR, and IP Camera Error Codes and How to Fix Them
There are two formats for error codes on Dahua cameras. I discovered some of the codes myself based on my experience, and I sourced the others from various sources, such as the official Dahua manual.
Error Code conf.LoginErrorNo -“XX”
| Error Code | Error Message | Possible Cause | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| -1 | The device does not support high-security login | The IPC does not support the recorder’s high-security authentication mode. | Change the authentication mode to Compatible Mode, then try adding the IPC again. |
| -2 | Username does not exist | The IPC username is incorrect or does not exist. | Enter the correct IPC username and password when adding the device. |
| -3 | Login timeout | The recorder cannot complete the connection to the IPC within the required time. | Check the network connection, IP address, cable, and network settings first. |
| -4 | Duplicate login | The same IPC user may already be logged in or connected from another device. | Restart the corresponding IPC user/device, then try connecting again. |
| -5 | Account locked | The IPC account has been temporarily locked, usually after repeated failed login attempts. | Power off and restart the IPC. After restarting, use the correct username and password. |
| -6 | Account added to blacklist | The IPC’s IP access-control settings are blocking the recorder. | Disable the IPC’s IP access restrictions or add the recorder’s IP address to the whitelist. |
| -7 | System busy, insufficient resources | The IPC or recorder may have insufficient resources, or the device may have been added to multiple systems. | Check whether the IPC has been added to multiple devices and troubleshoot the network connection. |
| -8 | Sub-connection failed | The IPC may have reached its maximum number of simultaneous connections. | Check the IPC’s maximum connection limit and whether it is already connected to multiple devices. |
| -9 | Main connection failed | The main connection to the IPC could not be established, possibly because the IPC has reached its connection limit. | Check the IPC’s maximum number of connections and remove unnecessary connections if required. |
| -10 | Exceeded maximum number of connections | The IPC has reached its maximum number of simultaneous connections. | Check the IPC’s connection limit and disconnect unused clients or recorders. |
| -11 | Only supports third-generation protocol | The IPC supports only a specific/older protocol that is incompatible with the current connection method. | Try adding the IPC using a different supported protocol. If necessary, check whether a firmware upgrade is available for the older device. |
| -13 | Client IP address does not have login permission | The IPC’s IP access-control settings are preventing the recorder from logging in. | Disable the IPC’s IP permission restrictions or add the recorder’s IP address to the whitelist. |
| -15 | The device only supports high-security login | The IPC requires high-security authentication that is not supported by the current connection method. | Try a different authentication/protocol mode. If the device is running old firmware, check whether a firmware upgrade is available. |
| -18 | Device account is not initialized, unable to log in | The IPC has not completed its initial account/security setup. | Initialize the camera first, then add it manually using the configured username and password. |
| -19 | Login restricted | Login access may be restricted because of connection/resource limitations or network problems. | Check whether the IPC has been added to multiple devices and troubleshoot the network connection. |
| -20 | The device only supports high-security login | The IPC requires high-security authentication that is incompatible with the current connection method. | Try adding the IPC using a different authentication/protocol mode. If supported, check for a firmware upgrade for the older device. |
Error Code 0x0X
| Dahua Error Code | Error | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0x00 | Normal Reboot | Scheduled maintenance or user reboot | Check Auto Maintain settings |
| 0x01 | Abnormal Reboot | Power loss or system crash | Check power supply and adapter |
| 0x02 | Log Stuck | System log problem | Clear the system log |
| 0x03 | HDD Read/Write Slow | HDD degradation or failure | Check HDD status and replace if necessary |
| 0x04 | Abnormal Recording | Video loss/no stream | Check camera connection and power |
| 0x05 | Bad Track | HDD bad sector/track | Check HDD and replace if necessary |
| 0x06 | Video Decoding Abnormal | Excessive decoding/output load | Check decoding capability and firmware |
| 0x06a | Video Storage Abnormal | HDD/storage problem | Run HDD Detect |
| 0x06F | Illegal Memory Access | Failed/unauthorized backend access | Check login devices and access information |
| 0x011 | HDD Hot-Swap/Disk Problem | HDD connection or disk failure | Power off, reconnect, or replace HDD |
Final Thoughts
Use the Dahua error code list below to identify possible causes and start troubleshooting your DVR, XVR, or NVR.
Based on my experience troubleshooting CCTV systems, these error codes are useful as a starting point, but the actual cause can vary depending on the device model, firmware, hardware, and network configuration. I recommend verifying the problem before replacing any parts and avoiding temporary or low-quality repairs that may cause further issues. Use compatible replacement parts and proper service procedures.
If you have experienced a similar Dahua error, share your model and solution in the comments. Your experience may help other CCTV technicians and users.
