It is possible to turn a regular NVR into a WiFi NVR by using a USB WiFi Adapter. The WiFi adapter gets plugged into the USB port into the back of the NVR and then you can configure the NVR to connect to the router wirelessly using the adapter.
It’s an interesting solution that can be used when running a cable between the NVR and the router is difficult and time-consuming. Additionally, the cost is affordable since the WiFi adapters are relatively cheap.
The setup is almost identical regardless of the NVR type or the WiFi adapter deployed. The NVR needs to support the WiFi option and then you just have to adjust the settings and configure the settings.
In this demonstration, we’re using a Dahua NVR and a generic WiFi adapter.
If you plan to buy a WiFi adapter for your NVR, we’d suggest purchasing one of the top three WiFi plugs according to Amazon (shown below).
These are proven to work perfectly with a variety of NVRs, they are reliable, have good reviews from users, and are quite affordable. There are other options as well, it’s up to you which to purchase.
How to connect a USB WiFi adapter to an NVR
We assume that you already have the NVR powered up and working fine. Once you purchase the WiFi adapter, plug it into one of the USB ports on the NVR.
In Dahua NVRs, you will see a prompt that says: “Are you sure you want to go to the corresponding interface now?”. Hit OK.
On the next window, enable the Connect Automatically switch. It means that the NVR will automatically connect the WiFi adapter (and the local network).
Then you have to select the SSID that you want to connect to (your local network). Double-click on it.
Enter the WiFi SSID’s password in the Connection Password box. Leave the rest of the settings on default settings.
Hit Connect and wait for the information to be populated. The software will add the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Default gateway based on your network’s information. Click OK.
Then press Apply to save the settings. Hit Back to go to the main menu.
Now you should be connected to your WiFi.
Note: In some NVR models, anytime the NVRNVR is rebooted the prompt “Are you sure you want to go to the corresponding interface now?” will show up on the screen.
Simply click Cancel and the unit will connect automatically. There’s no need to redo the settings anytime the unit reboots. Newer models don’t show this prompt once configured.
How to modify your WiFi settings on the NVR
You can also modify the WiFi network settings of the NVR by right-clicking on the screen and selecting Main Menu.
Navigate to Network.
Select the WiFi tab on the right.
On the next screen, you may turn on the Connect Automatically switch and select your WiFi from the list.
Here you may enter your SSID’s password if you have changed it.
Once you save, the NVR will fill out the rest of the information automatically matching the one of your network.
Press OK to save the settings. As you can see below, our NVR populated the network information automatically (IP address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway). Your device is now connected to WiFi.
Conclusion
The setup and configuration of a WiFi adapter into your NVR is pretty easy but the exact steps depend on the NVR model and make.
Usually, once plugged you can follow the on-screen prompts that allow you to select your SSID and add the password. Then the NVR will connect to the router via WiFi, without the need of running a separate cable.
When selecting your WiFi adapter, ensure to get a powerful one with high bandwidth that provides good coverage and that works with the 2.4GHz and 5 GHz bands. Read carefully the instructions and documentation that the adapter comes with.
