How to Reset Zosi Security Camera

If your Zosi security camera won’t connect to Wi-Fi, you’ve forgotten the admin password, or the system keeps freezing, a factory reset is often the fastest way to restore full functionality. Whether you’re dealing with a Zosi DVR, NVR, PoE camera, or standalone 1080p camera box, this guide walks you through every proven method to reset your device—using the system menu, physical reset button, or Zosi’s official Search Tool V2. You’ll also learn how to troubleshoot common reset issues, regain access after a reset, and secure your system to prevent future lockouts.

Reset Zosi DVR via System Menu When You Can Log In

If you still have access to your Zosi DVR interface, use this method to reset settings without needing external tools.

Access Reset in Advanced Settings

From the DVR’s live view screen, click Main Menu.
Select Setup (you may need to enter your current password).
Navigate to Advanced Settings.
Open the Reset tab and choose Factory Reset.

⚠️ Warning: This erases all configurations—network settings, user accounts, camera pairings, motion alerts, and recording schedules. Proceed only if necessary.

After confirming:
– The system reboots automatically.
– Wait 1–2 minutes—do not power off during this time.
– Once restarted, log in using default credentials:
– Username: admin
– Password: admin or 123456

🔍 Tip: Not sure which password your model uses? Check the label on the device or consult the user manual—some newer units require 123456.

After login:
– Reconnect all cameras.
– Reconfigure network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
– Set up motion detection, recording mode (continuous or scheduled), and remote access.
– Check for firmware updates under Maintenance or System Info.

Reset Zosi IP Camera Using Search Tool V2 (No Login Needed)

This method works for PoE and wireless Zosi IP cameras when you can’t log in but the camera is powered and on the same network.

Prepare Your Network First

Before using the tool:
– Connect the camera and your Windows PC to the same router.
– Use an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi for reliable detection.
– Temporarily disable firewalls and antivirus software that might block the connection.

Download and Launch Search Tool V2

Visit Zosi’s official support site.
Search for “Search Tool V2” and download Search Tool V2en.exe.
Install and run it on a Windows PC.

Locate and Reset the Camera

Click Search to scan your local network.
Wait for your Zosi camera to appear in the list (look for model number and IP address).
Right-click the device.
Select Reset > Reset Device.
Confirm the action when prompted.

The camera will reboot and revert to factory settings. All custom configurations—including network name, password, and recording settings—are erased.

If the camera doesn’t show up:
– Power cycle the camera.
– Assign your PC a static IP like 192.168.1.100 with subnet 255.255.255.0.
– Ensure your router isn’t blocking device communication (disable AP isolation if enabled).

Hard Reset Zosi Camera Box with Physical Button (For Locked-Out Users)

When software methods fail or you’re locked out, a physical reset forces the device back to defaults.

Find the Reset Hole

Look for a small pinhole labeled “RESET” on the back or bottom of the DVR, NVR, or camera box.
Use a paperclip, SIM eject tool, or thin pin to press the hidden button.

Hold for 10–15 Seconds Until Lights Flash

Insert the tool and press the button.
Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds.
Watch for visual feedback:
– Rapid flashing of LED lights.
– A single beep (on some models).

📌 Note: Not all Zosi models make a sound. If you don’t hear a beep, rely on the flashing lights as confirmation.

Let the Device Reboot Fully

Release the button once flashing begins.
Wait 2 full minutes for the system to restart.
Do not unplug or interrupt power.

After reboot:
– Access the device using default login:
– Username: admin
– Password: admin or 123456
– Reconfigure all settings from scratch.

Fix Common Reset Problems (And What to Do)

Even with correct steps, things can go wrong. Here’s how to handle them.

Camera Not Detected in Search Tool V2

Likely Causes: Network mismatch, firewall, or AP isolation.

Solutions:
– Connect both PC and camera via Ethernet.
– Disable Wi-Fi on your PC.
– Set a static IP on your PC (e.g., 192.168.1.105) to match the camera’s subnet.
– Log into your router and disable AP isolation (sometimes called “client isolation”).

💡 Pro Tip: Some routers hide devices from each other—this setting blocks Search Tool V2 from detecting your camera.

No Lights Flash During Reset

Possible Issues: Button not pressed long enough or power failure.

Fix It:
– Hold the reset button for up to 20 seconds.
– Test the power adapter with another device.
– Plug into a different outlet or use a known working cable.

Still Can’t Log In After Reset

Try These:
– Attempt both password combos: admin/admin and admin/123456.
– Clear your browser cache or try Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
– Access directly via IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.108).
– Use the Zosi Smart Pro app to scan and reconnect.

❌ Warning: If login fails repeatedly, the firmware may be corrupted. Contact Zosi support with your model and serial number.

Forgotten Admin Password

There’s no backdoor or recovery option—your only solution is a factory reset.

After reset:
– Change the password immediately.
– Create a backup admin account if your system supports multiple users.

Secure Your System Immediately After Reset

A reset leaves your camera vulnerable. Secure it before connecting to the internet.

Change Default Login Right Away

Log in with admin/admin or admin/123456.
Go to User Management or Account Settings.
Edit the admin account and set a strong password:
– At least 12 characters.
– Mix uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
– Avoid common phrases like “password123”.

🔒 Never leave default credentials. Hackers scan for devices still using admin/admin.

Create Limited-Access User Accounts

If your model supports it:
– Add a viewer account for family or employees.
– Restrict permissions (e.g., view-only, no settings changes).
– Keep admin access limited to trusted users.

Update Firmware to Prevent Bugs

Old firmware can cause login loops or security flaws.

To update:
1. Go to System Info > Upgrade.
2. Check the current version.
3. Visit Zosi Support, download the latest firmware for your model.
4. Install via USB or network upload.

💾 Always back up your settings before updating.

Devices Without a Reset Button? Here’s What to Do

Some Zosi models (especially newer sealed units) lack a physical reset button.

Try These Steps:

Use Search Tool V2 first—it often works even without a button.
If inaccessible, contact Zosi Support.
Provide:
Model number (e.g., ZOSI-C194)
Serial number
Purchase date
Description of the issue

⚠️ Do not open the device—this may void the warranty.

Restore Network Access After Reset

After a reset, your camera may get a new IP address. Here’s how to find it.

Find the New IP Address

Option 1: Use Search Tool V2 Again
Run the tool—it will detect the camera’s new IP.

Option 2: Check Router Admin Panel
1. Log into your router (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
2. Go to Connected Devices or DHCP Clients.
3. Look for a device with MAC address starting with 70:2A:2E (Zosi’s OUI prefix).

Assign a Static IP (Recommended)

To avoid future IP changes:
1. In camera settings, go to Network > TCP/IP.
2. Switch from DHCP to Static.
3. Enter:
– IP: 192.168.1.200
– Subnet: 255.255.255.0
– Gateway: 192.168.1.1
– DNS: 8.8.8.8

This ensures consistent remote access from the Zosi Smart Pro app.

When to Contact Zosi Support

If all reset methods fail, professional help is your next step.

Support Options:

Email: service@zositech.com
UK WhatsApp: +86 18675610962
Support Portal: Submit a Request

Include:
– Model number
– Serial number
– Firmware version
– Steps you’ve tried

Support may provide model-specific reset codes or remote diagnostics.

Post-Reset Setup Tips for Long-Term Stability

After resetting, rebuild your system securely and reliably.

Reconnect Cameras & Enable Recording

Go to Camera Management and rescan.
Set recording to motion-activated to save storage.
Schedule recordings (e.g., 6 AM – 11 PM).

Set Up Remote Viewing

Install Zosi Smart Pro app.
Scan the QR code from the DVR interface.
Test remote access from outside your network.

Ensure P2P or port forwarding is enabled for remote viewing.

Prevent Future Lockouts

Avoid getting locked out again:
– Store login details in a password manager.
– Create a backup admin account.
– Set a monthly reminder to check for firmware updates.

Final Note: Resetting your Zosi security camera is the most reliable fix for login issues, network errors, or unresponsive systems. Whether you use the menu, Search Tool V2, or physical button, follow these steps carefully. After resetting, always change the default password and update firmware to keep your system secure. If problems persist, Zosi’s support team is ready to help—just have your model and serial number handy. With the right setup, your Zosi system can run smoothly for years.

Help

How to Reset Zosi Security Camera – Quick Guide