Blog | G5 Cyber Security

IP Camera Firmware: Should You Update?

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Yes, you should almost always reflash the firmware on a used IP security camera. It removes potential malware, fixes bugs, and improves cyber security. However, be careful – a failed update can brick your camera. Follow these steps to do it safely.

1. Identify Your Camera

Before you do anything, you need to know the exact model number of your IP camera. This is usually printed on a sticker on the camera itself or its original packaging. Look for something like ‘Model: XYZ-123’.

2. Find the Official Firmware

  1. Go to the Manufacturer’s Website: Search online for your camera manufacturer (e.g., TP-Link, Hikvision, Reolink).
  2. Navigate to Support/Downloads: Most manufacturers have a support or downloads section on their website.
  3. Enter Your Model Number: Use the model number you found in Step 1 to search for your camera’s firmware.
  4. Download the Latest Firmware: Download the latest firmware version available for your specific model. Make sure it’s from the official manufacturer site – avoid third-party sources!

3. Access Your Camera’s Web Interface

IP cameras are usually configured through a web browser. You’ll need the camera’s IP address.

  1. Find the IP Address: There are several ways to do this:
    • Router Admin Panel: Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 – check your router’s documentation). Look for a list of connected devices; your camera should be listed with its IP address.
    • IP Camera Scanning Tools: Use software like Angry IP Scanner (free) to scan your network and identify the camera’s IP address.
  2. Open in Browser: Type the camera’s IP address into your web browser’s address bar (e.g., http://192.168.1.100).
  3. Login: You’ll need the camera’s username and password. If you don’t know them, try the default credentials (often ‘admin’ for both username and password – check the camera’s documentation or search online for defaults for your model). Important: Change these immediately after updating!

4. Update the Firmware

The exact process varies depending on the manufacturer, but here’s a general guide:

  1. Find the Firmware Upgrade Section: Look for options like ‘Firmware Upgrade’, ‘System Tools’, or ‘Maintenance’ in the camera’s web interface.
  2. Select the Firmware File: Click ‘Browse’ or ‘Choose File’ and select the firmware file you downloaded in Step 2.
  3. Start the Update: Click ‘Upgrade’, ‘Update’, or a similar button to begin the process.
  4. Do Not Interrupt! Crucially, do not power off the camera or disconnect it from the network during the update. This can brick your device. The camera will likely reboot automatically.

5. Verify the Update

After the camera reboots:

  1. Login Again: Log in to the web interface again.
  2. Check Firmware Version: Go to ‘System Information’ or a similar section and verify that the firmware version has been updated to the new version you installed.

6. Change Default Credentials

As mentioned earlier, change the default username and password immediately after updating the firmware for cyber security reasons.

7. Consider a Factory Reset (Optional)

After updating, performing a factory reset can help clear any lingering old settings or potential issues. The option is usually found in the ‘System Tools’ section of the web interface.

Exit mobile version