Dahua's software for viewing an NVR, XVR or IP camera on a PC is SmartPSS Lite, the current version of SmartPSS. Download it from Dahua's support site, set a password for the software, add your recorder by IP address or serial number, then use Live View to watch cameras and Playback to search recordings. Dahua ended support for some older SmartPSS 2.0 versions in August 2024, so update if you still use one.
What is SmartPSS?
SmartPSS (Smart Professional Surveillance System) is Dahua's desktop software for managing its recorders and cameras. It shows live video, plays back and exports recordings, controls PTZ cameras and opens device settings. SmartPSS Lite also manages Dahua access control and video intercom devices.
| Software | Status | Use it? |
|---|---|---|
| SmartPSS Lite | Current, listed on Dahua's support download centre | Yes |
| SmartPSS 2.0 | Dahua ended maintenance for some versions from 15 August 2024 | Move to SmartPSS Lite |
| Recorder web page | Built into the recorder | For settings on the local network |
How do I install SmartPSS Lite on a PC?
- Download SmartPSS Lite from Dahua's support download centre and run the installer.
- Open SmartPSS Lite. Set a password for the software. This password only protects the software on your PC; it is not your recorder's password.
- Answer the security questions. They let you reset the software password later, so note your answers.
- Log in to SmartPSS Lite.
How do I add my Dahua NVR or XVR?
- Open Devices and click Add. You can also use Auto Search if the PC and recorder are on the same network.
- Choose how to connect: by IP address or domain (with port, user name and password), or by serial number (SN/P2P) for remote access without port forwarding.
- The serial number is on the label and packaging. If you no longer have them, log in to the recorder's web page and look under Network > P2P.
- Save. The device status should change to Online. If it stays offline, check the address, serial number, user name and password.
How do I watch live video and recordings?
- Live view: open Live View from the home tab and double-click the recorder or a camera.
- Playback: open Playback, select the cameras, the record type and the start and end time, then click Search.
How do I change the recorder password in SmartPSS Lite?
Open the device configuration for the recorder (Device CFG or the settings icon in the device list), go to System > Account and change the password. Then edit the device in Devices so SmartPSS Lite uses the new password. To change it from your phone instead, see how to change a Dahua password in DMSS.
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Frequently asked questions
- Is SmartPSS Lite free?
- SmartPSS Lite is a free download from Dahua's support download centre. Download it only from Dahua, not from third-party sites.
- Can I use SmartPSS Lite on a Mac?
- Dahua offers a Mac version of SmartPSS Lite as well as the Windows version. Check the download centre for the build that matches your macOS version.
- Is the SmartPSS password the same as my NVR password?
- No. The SmartPSS password only protects the software on your computer. Your NVR or XVR has its own user name and password, which you enter when adding the device.
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