How to Add a Reolink Camera to an NVR: Step-by-Step Setup

Quick answer

To add a Reolink camera to an NVR, plug the camera into a PoE port on the back of the NVR using an Ethernet cable, then open the NVR's menu and let it auto-detect the camera. If it doesn't appear, manually add the channel with the camera's IP address or reset the camera. Most Reolink PoE cameras, like the Video Doorbell PoE or Duo 2 PoE, pair automatically once connected.

Before you start: what you need

Gather your NVR, the Reolink camera, an Ethernet cable, and a monitor or TV with HDMI. If you're using a PoE camera, you don't need a separate power adapter—the NVR sends power over the same cable. For Wi-Fi cameras, you'll need the camera powered and on the same network as the NVR. Make sure the NVR firmware is up to date to avoid compatibility hiccups.

Step 1: Connect the camera to the NVR

For PoE cameras, plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the camera and the other into any PoE port on the NVR. The port will supply power and data. For Wi-Fi cameras, power the camera and connect it to your Wi-Fi network using the Reolink app first. Then, on the NVR, go to the camera management section to add it wirelessly. A common mistake is using a non-PoE switch or a damaged cable—if the camera doesn't power on, try a different cable or port.

Step 2: Let the NVR auto-detect the camera

Once connected, the NVR will usually detect the camera within a minute. On the NVR monitor, right-click and select 'IP Channel' or 'Camera Management.' You should see the camera listed as 'Connected' with a live preview. If it shows 'Disconnected,' check the cable and port. Some NVRs require you to click 'Refresh' or 'Auto Add' to initiate pairing.

Step 3: Manually add the camera if needed

If auto-detect fails, you can add the camera manually. In the NVR menu, choose 'Manual Add' and enter the camera's IP address, username, and password. You can find the IP address using the Reolink app or a network scanner. Ensure the camera and NVR are on the same subnet. A frequent mistake is entering the wrong password—if you've changed the camera's password, use that, not the default.

Step 4: Troubleshoot when the camera isn't showing

If the camera still doesn't appear, try these fixes: power cycle the camera and NVR, reset the camera to factory defaults using the reset button, or try a different PoE port. For Wi-Fi cameras, ensure they're on the same network and that the NVR supports wireless cameras. If the NVR channel limit is reached, you'll need to remove a camera or upgrade to a larger NVR.

Step 5: Finalize and test

Once the camera is added, assign it to a channel, adjust resolution and frame rate, and set up motion detection or recording schedules. Test live view and playback to confirm everything works. If you're adding multiple cameras, repeat the process for each. Keep firmware updated on both NVR and cameras to maintain compatibility.

Step-by-step NVR pairing checklist

1. Connect the camera: Plug the camera into a PoE port on the NVR using an Ethernet cable. For Wi-Fi cameras, power them and connect to the same network. Checkpoint: The camera's LED should light up or blink, indicating power.
2. Auto-detect on NVR: On the NVR monitor, go to IP Channel or Camera Management and wait for the camera to appear. Click Refresh if needed. Checkpoint: The camera status should show 'Connected' with a live preview.
3. Manually add if necessary: If not detected, select Manual Add and enter the camera's IP address, username, and password. Checkpoint: Double-check the password—especially if you changed it from default.
4. Troubleshoot no-show: Power cycle both devices, try a different PoE port or cable, or reset the camera to factory settings. Checkpoint: Ensure the NVR isn't at its channel limit.
5. Configure and test: Assign the camera to a channel, adjust video settings, and set up recording. Test live view and playback. Checkpoint: Confirm motion detection and recording work as expected.

Reolink cameras that pair easily with an NVR

• Reolink Video Doorbell PoE: Reolink Video Doorbell PoE features 2K+ 5MP resolution and PoE for stable power and data through a single cable. It integrates directly with a PoE NVR, so you can monitor your doorstep alongside other cameras without Wi-Fi interference.
• Reolink Duo 2 PoE: Reolink Duo 2 PoE is a 4K dual-lens camera with a 180-degree field of view and PoE installation. Its wide coverage reduces the number of cameras needed, and PoE simplifies adding it to your NVR system.
• Elite Pro Floodlight PoE: Elite Pro Floodlight PoE has a 16MP dual-lens system, 180° view, and built-in floodlights for night vision. It provides ultra-detailed footage and active deterrence, and connects via PoE to your NVR for reliable surveillance.