How to Get Your Swann Security Recorder's MAC Address from Your Router
If you need to reset your Swann recorder's password, most recorders need its MAC address. If you cannot access the recorder or use the Swann Security app, you can usually find the recorder's MAC address by logging in to your router and viewing the list of connected devices.
This guide provides general steps that work with most home routers and explains where to find brand-specific instructions.
NOTE: This guide focuses on Swann recorders that are compatible with the Swann Security app. If you have an older recorder that is not supported by the app, you can still follow this guide. Simply disregard any references to the Swann Security app, as the steps for finding the recorder's MAC address through your router are generally the same.
Things to Know Before You Start
Before you begin, make sure:
- Your Swann recorder is connected to your router using an Ethernet cable.
- The recorder is powered on.
- Your computer, phone, or tablet is connected to the same router as the recorder.
- You know your router's administrator username and password.
See also: Connect Your Swann Recorder to a Router Using an Ethernet Cable
Step-by-Step Guide
Open your router's settings
Open a web browser on a device connected to your home network.
Most routers can be accessed by entering one of these addresses into the address bar:
192.168.0.1192.168.1.1192.168.100.1
If none of these work, check the label on your router or refer to its user guide. Router manufacturers commonly provide web interfaces or mobile apps for managing connected devices.
Sign in to your router
Enter your router's administrator username and password.
If you have never changed them, the login information may be printed on the router's label or included in the manufacturer's documentation.
Open the list of connected devices
Look for a menu with a name similar to:
- Connected Devices
- Attached Devices
- Device List
- Network Map
- LAN Clients
- DHCP Clients
The exact name depends on your router manufacturer, but most routers display every device currently connected to your network together with its MAC address.
Locate your Swann recorder
Find the recorder in the list.
Depending on your router, it may appear as:
- Swann
- DVR
- NVR
- Recorder
- Unknown device
- A model number
- A generic wired device
If you're unsure which device is your recorder, disconnect its Ethernet cable, refresh the device list, then reconnect it. The device that disappears and reappears is usually your recorder.
Copy the MAC address
Once you've found the recorder, copy the MAC address.
It is typically displayed as 12 hexadecimal characters, for example:
BC:51:FE:12:34:56
Provide this MAC address to Swann Technical Support when requesting a recorder password reset.
DID YOU KNOW? The most commonly used MAC address on recorder's starts with
BC:51:FEwhile new models are using a different set of MAC address.
Router Brand Help
Router menus vary by manufacturer. If you need model-specific instructions, visit your router manufacturer's support website:
Why This Matters
The MAC address uniquely identifies your recorder on your home network. When you cannot access the recorder directly or pair it with the Swann Security app, obtaining the MAC address from your router allows Technical Support to verify your device and assist with password reset requests. Routers automatically record the MAC addresses of connected devices, making this a useful alternative method.
Related Scenarios
-
I can't find my recorder in the router.
Make sure it is powered on and connected to the router with a working Ethernet cable. -
I don't know my router's login details.
Check the router label or contact your internet service provider or router manufacturer. -
I don't know my router's IP address.
Refer to your router's documentation or manufacturer's support site. -
I already have access to the recorder or Swann Security app.
Use the easier method described in Where to Find the MAC Address and Firmware Version of Your Swann Security Device
Summary & Next Steps
If your recorder is connected to your home network, your router can usually display its MAC address even when you cannot access the recorder itself. This is one of the quickest ways to obtain the information needed for a recorder password reset.
For additional help, see: