Reset password for Swann DVR – series 4350 4500 4900 8050 8075

If you have lost or forgotten the Swann DVR password, it can be easily reset by following these instructions shown here on how to reset the Swan DVR password procedure.

We will use a master reset password which technically is Swann DVR’s mac address. You can use a smartphone or a computer and simply follow the steps one by one.

This Swann factory reset procedure works for these models: 4350, 4500, 4900, 8050, and 8075. After the DVR reset you can create a new password of your choice.
The reset procedure is very simple, you need to find a code and use it for the DVR reset, we will explain 3 different methods that work in a few minutes, be patient enough to read the article and you will reset your Swann DVR today.

If you have an old Swann DVR you can also check the article: How to reset H.264 DVR which has other instructions on how to reset the password.

For other Swann models and other password reset techniques, you may consult these articles as well:
1) Swann DVR/NVR password reset using HomeSafe View method
2) Swann DVR/NVR password reset using SwannView Plus software
3) Swann DVR/NVR password reset using SwannView Link software

There’s no universal Swann DVR password, each device has a unique code that is related to its network board. We are calling it a code but, technically it’s not really a code, but a serial number used by every device that connects to a network.

This serial number is the Swann DVR Mac Address and the DVR is programmed to accept it as a reset code for lost passwords. All you have to do is find this code.

How to reset the password for a Swann DVR

Method 1. Find the master code using the SADP tool

Make sure the DVR cables are correctly connected. The DVR and the laptop/computer should be on the same network and connected to the same router. Take a look at the diagram below.
Download Swann’s scanning software named SADP tool (click here to download). Once downloaded, install the software. Run the software and find the Swann DVR Mac Address (master code) which will be used as a reset password.

As long as your Swann DVR is correctly connected to the same local network, the software will automatically find your DVR. For example, we found ours below.
The software shows one DVR and all the information, you need to scroll to the right of the screen and locate the Swan DVR Mac Address under the “Mac Address” column (boxed in red).
Type that code in the Swann DVR login screen and you’re done. In this example the code is: bc51fc5f8cf8. Make sure to enter the code without the colons.

The DVR will reboot and after that, you can create a new password.

Method 2. Find the code using a phone app

In order for this method to work, your phone needs to be connected to the Wi-Fi coming from the router where the Swann DVR is connected to.

The diagram below explains the connections: DVR to the router and the phone getting the internet from the Wi-Fi of the same router.
Now all you need to do is to install an app on your smartphone to scan the network and find your Swann DVR.

Important note: Make sure your mobile is connected to the Wi-Fi. You must be 100% sure that your smartphone is connected to the local Wi-Fi and not the cellphone carrier.

If you’re connected to the LTE, 4G, or 5G then you’re doing it wrong and you won’t be able to see the Swann DVR. The picture below may help.

Download the Network Analyzer app

Network Analyzer is a free app that can scan your network to find everything that is connected including your Swann DVR.

Download the app and Google Play Store or Apple App Store and have it installed on your phone. Note: If you’re using iPhone, the app may not show the mac address. So, try to use an Android phone.
Click Scan and the app will scan your local network and list all the found devices. Locate the one that says “Swann” somewhere and note the mac address (which will be used as a reset code).
This mac address is the reset code that you will use to access your Swann DVR. Go to your recorder and type the code without colons. In this example the reset code is: bc51fc5f8cf8.
Once the reset password has gone through the DVR will reboot. After that, you can create a new password.

Method 3. Find the code using a computer

In this case, you will find the mac address using your computer or laptop. As in the other methods, your DVR and computer must be connected to the same network. The diagram below illustrates the connections.
Step 1. Go to your Search box on your computer and type cmd.
Or you can use the key combination Windows + R and type cmd in the dialogue box that pops up.

Step 2. You will see something like the image below. This is the Windows Command Prompt. You can use it to send or retrieve certain information from the devices on your network.

Type this command: arp -a end hit enter. You will see a bunch of numbers, look up for the one that starts with bc-51.
Step 3. Type the Swann DVR mac address in the DVR login screen and then click the OK button. In this example the code is: bc51fc5f8cf8.

Make sure to enter the code without the colons. The DVR will reboot and you should be able to create a new password.

If you have any questions or suggestions, let us know via the comment box.