It may happen that when you try to connect your Hikvision device via P2P, it will show an error that reads Offline (Parsing server domain failed). This issue shows on the Status page and it means that your recorder (NVR, DVR) is not able to connect to the server.
There are a few reasons that cause this issue, the main one being a problem with the cable run and misconfigured settings. Below we will explain in detail how you can easily and quickly fix this error. So, just follow these steps and you’ll bring your recorder online.
How to fix Offline (Parsing server domain failed) in Hikvision devices?
To fix this issue you need to do two things; inspect the cable run and ensure there’s no damage; then you need to check the IP address of the unit and fill out the DNS Server information.
Check the cable
In many cases, the Hikvision Status will show offline because there’s a problem with the physical connection. The recorder needs to be connected to the Internet in order to link to the server.
So, the first thing you should do is inspect the cable run, check if there’s any visible damage, maybe a rodent chewed the cable. If the cable is exposed to the element, ensure that it’s not cut somewhere.
Additionally you can check if the wires are fully plugged. Follow the line and ensure all the cables are plugged on the recorder’s side, on the router or switch, nothing needs to be loose.
If there’s a connection going on, the light on the router or at the back of the recorder should blink constantly. If all of them are, then maybe there’s something wrong with the cable.
If the run is short, it may be wise to test out the connection by trying other patch cables. Replace it and then refresh the Status page and see if the “Offline” message is gone.
Check the Network Settings
Another thing you need to do is checking the network settings of your recorder. You can access these settings via the web browser, or straight through the recorder’s local interface (which is easier).
Hook up a mouse to your NVR/DVR and navigate to Main Menu > Network > TCP/IP. Here you should see the IP address of the NVR, the gateway, DNS servers, etc. Sometimes the information found here is incorrect and you need to adjust them.
Now, here’s a quick tip on how to set the right IP address on your recorder without knowing anything about your network setup. On this page you should see a DHCP option with a checkbox beside. DHCP is a function that let’s the recorder automatically fill out its network settings. For example, it will set up an IP address and avoid any possible IP conflict.
What you have to do is enable (tick) the DHCP, Apply the settings, then untick the DHCP and Apply the settings agains. This way, the recorder will set its own IP address then by disabling it you turn this IP into static. So, it doesn’t change when the machine reboots.
Note: Even if you leave the DHCP mode enabled, it should still work. Actually, we’d suggest tryin bother and see which one works for you. Try by leaving the DHCP on and see if the Status is Online. If not, turn it off, and check the Status again.
Next, you need to set the DNS server on your unit. If these settings are empty, you’ll get a connection failed issues and obviously see the message Offline (Parsing server domain failed). You can try to set them manually or use the Auto-DNS. Maybe try both, and see which one works for your case.
One the DNS server, use these settings:
- Preferred DNS Server: 8.8.8.8
- Alternate DNS Server 8.8.4.4.
These are Google’s DNS and work smoothly with Hikvision devices. Once you do that, you should go back to the Status page to check if the Status says Online.
If not, try the Auto-DNS option. So tick the box beside “Enable Obtain DNS Server Address Automatically”. In some interfaces, you may just see “Auto-DNS”. It’s the same thing but labeled differently.
Apply and Save the settings, then it’s recommended to reboot the recorder and let the settings get applied. Go to the Shut Down section of the NVR/DVR and select Reboot. Wait a few minutes until the recorder is back on and check if the status page says Online (as shown below).
Update the Firmware
Another thing you should try is to update the firmware on your recorder. Hikvison and their OEM brands release new firmware once in a while to fix any known issues. Apart from security patches, you need to update your recorder to the latest version to fix any network issues.
So, get the firmware for the Hikvison official website, or your seller/dealer and flash it on your recorder. You need to make sure you have the right firmware, otherwise, you may brick the unit.
Contact Hikvision Support team
Lastly, if you’re stuck and can’t fix it, it’s time to contact Hikvision Support for assistance. They won’t help you if you didn’t buy directly from them.
In that case, you need to contact the seller/dealer where you purchased the equipment or the installer (if you had someone to install the system for you).
Conclusion
Offline (Parsing server domain failed) error message indicates that your Hikvison NVR or DVR is not able to connect to the Hikvision Server. The issue is caused by a bad cable that needs to be replaced or by incorrect Network Settings. The issue will most likely be solved once you set the correct IP address and DNS Server.
If you have any issues, drop a message on the box below and we will try to help you out. Additionally, if you’re looking to improve your system, check out our recommended IP security camera systems.
