For this article, we used the SF-NVRKIT0108-4BCAMWIFI kit with firmware version:
1.4.12.87634B260429.N5V.U1(8N110)
Before You Begin
A monitor must be connected directly to the NVR during the initial setup process. This is required for activation and for accessing several functions that are not available through the web interface.
Step 1: Select Language and Region
When the NVR starts for the first time, the setup wizard will appear.
- Select your preferred Language.
- Select the Country/Region.
- Click Next to continue.
Step 2: Accept the Privacy Statement
Read and accept the privacy statement to proceed with the installation.
Step 3: Verify Date and Time Settings
Check that the date, time, and time zone settings are correct before continuing.
Accurate time settings are important for recordings, event logs, and remote access features.
Step 4: Create an Administrator Password
Create a secure administrator password for the NVR.
The password must contain:
- At least one uppercase letter
- At least one number
- At least one special character
The following are not allowed:
- Sequential numbers (for example,
12345) - Common keyboard patterns (for example,
qwerty)
For this demonstration, the following password was used:
ViTo@0909
Note: This password is only used as an example. Always create a unique password for production environments.
Step 5: Set the Default Camera Password
The next screen allows you to define the default password that will be applied to newly connected cameras, whether they are connected via Wi-Fi or network cable.
If a camera already has a different password configured, it can still be added to the NVR without any issues.
Step 6: Configure Recovery Information
Enter a valid service or administrator email address.
This email address is important for:
- Account verification
- Password recovery
- System recovery procedures
Additionally, configure the available security questions for password recovery.
Important: Always use an email address that remains accessible to the installer or system administrator.
Step 7: Network Configuration Wizard
The Network Wizard will now appear.
By default, this wizard is displayed each time someone logs in to the NVR. If desired, disable the option to show the wizard at startup.
Network Settings
Do not leave the NVR configured with the default IP address 192.168.1.64.
Since many Safire devices use this IP address by default, keeping it unchanged may cause IP conflicts on the network.
Configure:
- A unique static IP address
- Correct subnet mask
- Default gateway
DNS Settings
For DNS, it is recommended to use:
- Primary DNS:
8.8.8.8(Google DNS) - Alternative DNS:
1.1.1.1(Cloudflare DNS)
These DNS servers provide reliable name resolution and are suitable for most installations.
Step 8: System Update
Allow the NVR to complete any required updates.
The update process typically takes around 20 seconds.
Step 9: Format the Hard Drive
If a hard drive has been installed, it must be formatted before recording can begin.
To format the drive:
- Select the installed HDD.
- Click Format.
- Enter the administrator username and password created earlier.
Wait until the formatting process is completed successfully.
Step 10: Recording Configuration
Select the desired recording mode.
In most installations, the default recording option is already the recommended choice and can be left unchanged.
Step 11: Configure Remote Access
The final wizard page contains settings required for remote access.
Enable NAT
Ensure that NAT is enabled.
This allows the recorder to communicate with Safire's cloud services and enables remote access features.
Device Information
The page also displays:
- QR Code: Used to add the NVR to the mobile application by scanning the code.
- Security Code: Required when binding the NVR to a mobile app account.
- Serial Number: Can be used when the QR code cannot be scanned or when manually adding the device to Safire Smart VMS.
Step 12: Cloud Upgrade Settings
Keep Cloud Upgrade enabled.
This allows the system to receive available firmware updates and helps keep the recorder secure and up to date.
Setup Complete
The NVR is now fully configured and ready for use.
You can proceed with:
- Adding cameras
- Configuring recordings
- Setting up mobile app access
- Connecting through Safire Smart VMS
- Performing additional system customization as required
The initial setup wizard is now complete.