Guide: Setting Up Virtual Host and Accessing IP Cameras Through IP Channels on a Hikvision NVR

The Virtual Host feature on a Hikvision NVR allows you to directly access the web interface of connected IP cameras via the NVR. This is useful for managing individual camera settings without disconnecting them from the NVR.


Step 1: Log in to the NVR Interface

  1. Access the NVR:
    • Connect to the NVR using a monitor and mouse, or
    • Enter the NVR’s IP address into a web browser on a computer connected to the same network.
  2. Log In:
    • Use your admin username and password to log in.

Step 2: Enable Virtual Host

  1. Navigate to Network Settings:

    • Go to Configuration > Network > Advanced Settings > Other (or similar, depending on the firmware version).
  2. Enable Virtual Host:

    • Tick the checkbox for Enable Virtual Host.
    • Click Apply to save the settings.
  3. View IP Camera Links:

    • After enabling Virtual Host, a list of connected cameras with their virtual host URLs will appear. Each link corresponds to an IP camera connected to the NVR.

Step 3: Access IP Cameras Through Virtual Host

  1. Copy the Camera Link:

    • In the camera list under Camera Management, locate the desired channel and copy its Virtual Host URL (e.g., http://<NVR-IP>:65001 for channel 1).
  2. Paste the URL into a Web Browser:

    • Open a web browser and paste the URL.
    • Log in using the camera's username and password (default credentials are typically admin and the camera’s activation password).
  3. Manage Camera Settings:

    • After logging in, you can access and modify the full range of camera settings, such as image quality, motion detection, and network configuration.

Step 4: Adding or Adjusting IP Channels on the NVR

  1. Go to Camera Management:

    • Navigate to Configuration > Camera Management.
  2. Add or Modify Cameras:

    • To add a new IP camera:
      • Click Add and input the camera’s IP address, username, and password.
    • To modify an existing channel:
      • Select the channel, click Modify, and adjust settings as needed.
  3. Verify Camera Connection:

    • Ensure each camera displays a live feed in the Live View tab after configuration.

Step 5: Test Virtual Host and Camera Access

  1. Test Camera Accessibility:

    • Access multiple cameras using their Virtual Host URLs and verify that the interfaces load correctly.
  2. Adjust Camera Settings:

    • Modify individual camera settings (e.g., resolution, motion detection) via their web interfaces.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Virtual Host URLs Not Displayed:

    • Ensure the Virtual Host option is enabled in the Network > Advanced Settings.
    • Check that the cameras are properly connected to the NVR and their status shows as Online.
  • Cannot Access Camera via URL:

    • Verify that the NVR and your computer are on the same network.
    • Ensure the NVR’s IP address and camera credentials are correct.
  • Cameras Not Online:

    • Check the physical connections and power supply to the cameras.
    • Verify the camera’s IP address and ensure it is in the same subnet as the NVR.

By following this guide, you can effectively enable the Virtual Host feature and access IP cameras through the IP channels on your Hikvision NVR, allowing seamless management of camera settings without disrupting the system.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.