How to Get the Recovery Code Using PC or Mac
Tags: password recovery, password reset, Swann recorder, admin password reset, recovery code, Swann Security software, PC, Mac, network connection, MAC address, Swann DVR, Swann NVR, password reset guide, Swann Security app, password reset instructions, Swann recorder troubleshooting, Swann support, Swann Security account, password reset process, Swann device management, Swann Security for PC, Swann Security for Mac
This guide is intended to get the Recovery Code which is needed to reset your recorder's password. Resetting the password can only be done on the unit's Menu or interface; therefore you need to prepare a couple of things first.
NOTE: If you still have access to your recorder via the Swann Security app, please click on this article instead: Recover your Recorder's "Admin" password using the Swann Security app
If you are trying to reset the password for your Swann Security account, please proceed to this article instead: Password Reset for Swann Security Account.
For other model numbers not listed above, visit: How to Reset the Password or Get the Recovery Code of Your Recorder
Things to Prepare
These items are needed to get the recovery code of your recorder.
- Computer (PC or Mac) with the installed Swann Security for PC or Mac
- Ethernet cable / LAN cable (for DVRs and NVRs)
- Router (internet connection not required, unless you don't have the Swann Security software installed yet)
These items are for applying the recovery code to the recorder.
- USB Mouse
- VGA or HDMI Monitor or TV
Establish Network Connection
Before you can get the reset code over the network, you need to make sure that the recorder is connected to a router or modem.
Excerpt from the Hardware Quick Set Up Guide
Then, connect your PC to the same router or modem using another Ethernet cable.
NOTE: Wireless recorders doesn't need to be hardwired to obtain the MAC Address
Download, Install, then Search
Download
Download the Swann Security for PC and Mac and install it.
Install
Once installed, open the Swann Security and follow the steps below:
-
Set a password - to protect you from anyone who wants to view your unit on your computer.
-
Set a security question - will be used when you forgot the password your set.
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Login - just type in the password you've set earlier. Username is admin.
Search
- Click the Home icon (top-left) then choose Device Management.
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- Click the Auto Search (top) to get the MAC address of your recorder.
Copy down any MAC address starting with the characters '00-23-63' or 'BC-51-FE' first, then any others. Replace the dashes (-) with colons (:).
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Entering the Recovery Code
You now use what you wrote down in the previous step to initiate a password reset on the recorder. On the Login interface, click Forgot Password.
On the recorder:
Enter the Recovery Code in the Recovery field.
Letters are in UPPERCASE with the colons (e.g BC:51:FE:11:22:33).
Click Unlock once done. A message will appear on-screen stating that your password has been reset. Click OK to continue.
Once this window appears, enter your preferred password (minimum of 6 characters).
You must enter an email address below so the next time you need to reset your password, the MAC address will be sent to your email; otherwise, you can write down your MAC address somewhere safe.
Click FINISH once done.
NOTE: You will need to re-enter a new password every time you reset the password. The reset code CANNOT be used to login to the recorder nor can it be used for remote access.
If this method didn't let you get your recorder's MAC address, consider trying this alternative method: