How to Fix the "In Blacklist" Error in Swann Security VMX When Adding a Recorder – Swann

Applies to the listed products

DVR4-4680XN, DVR4-4680XU, DVR4-4685XU, DVR4-5680XN, DVR8-4680X, DVR8-4680XN, DVR8-4680XU, DVR8-4685XU, DVR8-5680X, DVR8-5680XU, DVR16-4586XU, NVR8-ADVANX, NVR16-ADVANX

If you see an "In Blacklist" error when adding a recorder to Swann Security VMX, the recorder may not be able to register correctly with the software. This issue has been observed on supported Swann DVR and NVR models and can often be resolved by resetting the recorder's Network settings to factory defaults.

Things to Prepare

Your recorder is powered on.
A monitor and mouse are connected to the recorder.
You have administrator access to the recorder.
The recorder is connected to your network.

Common Causes

The "In Blacklist" error may be caused by:

Corrupted or incorrect network settings
Network configuration conflicts
A recorder that cannot properly register with Swann Security VMX
Unknown software or configuration issues affecting device registration

Factory Reset to Fix

The most effective solution is to perform a Network factory reset on the recorder.

Resetting the network configuration removes potentially corrupted settings that may be preventing the recorder from being added successfully.

Steps

Connect a monitor and mouse to the recorder.
Log in using an administrator account.
Open the Main Menu then go to Advanced > Maintain
Click Load Default
When a prompt appear, only select Network
Click Save
Re-pair the recorder

Detailed steps to factory reset can be found here

Expected result:
The recorder should be added successfully without displaying the "In Blacklist" error.

If the Issue Still Happens

If the error continues after resetting the network settings:

Restart both the recorder and the computer running Swann Security VMX.
Verify the recorder is connected to the same network.
Confirm the recorder can be reached over the network.
Remove any previously saved instance of the recorder from VMX before adding it again.
Contact Swann Support if the issue persists.

Why This Happens

Although the exact cause of the "In Blacklist" error is currently unknown, it is often related to the recorder's network configuration. Resetting the network settings clears configuration issues that may prevent Swann Security VMX from recognizing or registering the recorder correctly. Keeping network settings properly configured can help prevent similar issues in the future.

Why can't I add my recorder to Swann Security VMX?

Incorrect or corrupted network settings may prevent the recorder from being added. Resetting the recorder's Network settings often resolves the problem.

Will a Network factory reset erase my recordings?

No. A Network factory reset only restores network-related settings. It does not delete recorded video.

Where can I find instructions to factory reset my recorder?

See the guide: How to Factory Reset Your Swann Security Recorder

Summary

If Swann Security VMX displays an "In Blacklist" error while adding a recorder, the quickest and most effective solution is to perform a Network factory reset on the recorder and then add it again. If the problem continues, restart the devices, verify the network connection, and consult the How to Factory Reset Your Swann Security Recorder guide.