Can a WiFi adaptor be used to turn NVR into a WiFi device? Let’s find out.
Yes, it is possible. You can tune regular everyday NVRs into a WiFi NVR by using an affordable USB WiFi Adapter and connecting it to the back of the recorder.
This can be an impressively simple solution that only requires running a cable and tweaking a couple of settings. WiFi adaptors are also highly affordable, reducing the overall cost of turning an NVR into a WiFi device.
Why turn NVR into a WiFi device? When it is difficult to run cables between the router and recorder, it might be worth your time and money to invest in a WiFi adapter instead.
Furthermore, the setup process is almost the same regardless of what method you choose to go with. Nevertheless, your NVR must support the WiFi option, and then you can adjust and configure your settings. In the examples you will see below, we are using a generic WiFi adapter paired with a Dahua NVR.
When purchasing a WiFi adapter for your recorder, it is better to invest in a good one. Below you will find a couple of the best-rated WiFi adaptor plugs sold on Amazon.
These work wonders and can be connected to a range of NVRs. Apart from being reliable and affordable, there are plenty of good reviews.
If you do not like the ones linked above, you can look for more WiFi adapters and purchase one that works for you!
Connecting the adapter to turn NVR into a WiFi device
In the following steps, we will assume that your NVR is already powered up, set up, and working correctly. You should also be logged in to your NVR using your credentials. If you need to know how to reset Dahua NVR password, check out the article!
The first step is to plug in the WiFi adapter to one of your NVR’s USB ports.
The Dahua NVR model will show a confirmation prompt; it says: “Are you sure you want to go to the corresponding interface now?”
In our case, we selected “OK,” but it might range depending on your NVR brand. If any prompts appear, just make sure to select “Yes” or “OK” to move on.

You will need to toggle on the “Connect Automatically” option on the following page. That means that the NVR will connect to the WiFi adapter automatically. You should then choose the local network you want to connect to and click on it twice to connect.

Then enter the WiFi password to connect. Any other settings should be left on default.

Select “Connect” and await as your NVR’s WiFi adapter connects to your home’s network. The software will run basic information, such as your IP Address, Default Gateway, and Subnet Mask. Once it is done, click on “OK.”

Click on “Apply” to save your selections and “Back” to return to the main menu page.

WiFi Adapter Instructions
You should now be successfully connected to your home’s WiFi. Keep in mind that you will not need to run through the process above for every WiFi adapter.
Thus read the instructions provided when you purchase the device. Some can use your previous settings to configure themselves. But in order to do that, you might have to click “Cancel” once you see the prompt on your NVR.
Therefore, please read the instructions carefully as it can save you time. Furthermore, you won’t need to reconfigure the settings if the unit reboots.
Modify settings to turn NVR into a WiFi device
To modify your NVR’s WiFi settings, you can right-click and locate “Main Menu” on the pop-up.
Find and select “Network.”

You should see a tab on the right-hand side named “WiFi.” Select it.

Now, on this screen, you can toggle on the “Connect Automatically” switch and choose from the list of networks your home WiFi.
Enter the password if prompted, and then save the settings. Your recorder will handle the rest of the information needed to connect the adapter to your home’s network.

Your device will not be connected to WiFi !
Final Thoughts
It can be a simple process to turn NVR into a WiFi device. The setup process can be finished in just a few minutes, and connecting the WiFi adapter to the NVR couldn’t be easier.
After plugging it in, you simply follow the steps and prompts that will appear on the screen to finish the process. The connection between the NVR and the WiFi will be established even without a cable!
Just invest in powerful WiFi adapters with high bandwidth so they can cover a more significant distance from the router. Usually, a 2.4 GHz or 5GHz will do fine.