How to Make Password Default: Safe Reset Guide for Devices

Name: Hikvision Default Password (And how to reset it)
Uploaded: 2026-01-31
Duration: 2 min 12 s
Description: Learn how to safely reset and manage default passwords across devices and services. This step-by-step guide covers identification, secure changes, and ongoing password hygiene to protect networks and data in 2026.

Learn how to safely reset and manage default passwords across devices and services. This step-by-step guide covers identification, secure changes, and ongoing password hygiene to protect networks and data in 2026.

Default Password Team

January 31, 2026·5 min read

Password Reset Password Manager Security Best Practices Default Password Credential Recovery

Quick AnswerSteps

By the end of this guide, you will learn how to locate and safely change a default password, replace it with a unique, strong credential, and document the update for audits. You’ll need admin access to the device or service, the official manual, and a secure password manager to store the new credentials. This is essential for preventing unauthorized access and ensuring you meet security compliance.

Why Default Passwords Matter in Modern Security

According to Default Password, default credentials are a common exploitable surface that attackers can leverage to gain unauthorized access, pivot to other systems, or exfiltrate data. In many environments, legacy devices and services ship with well-known defaults that users neglect to change. The Default Password Analysis, 2026, highlights that unaddressed defaults contribute to a significant portion of initial compromises in enterprise networks and home setups alike. The consequence is not just a single breach; it can enable a chain of intrusions that undermine trust and compliance. For end-users and IT admins, understanding why defaults matter is the first step toward a resilient security posture. Implementing disciplined password hygiene—from discovery to rotation—reduces risk, improves incident response times, and demonstrates due-care to stakeholders. The goal is to move from “it’s easier to log in with the default” to a proactive approach that prioritizes unique credentials, auditing, and ongoing protection.

Proactively identify all devices with default credentials
Prioritize critical assets first (routers, NAS, servers, IoT gateways)
Train staff and document procedures for changes

The takeaway is simple: defaults exist for convenience, but security demands change. By treating default passwords as a controllable risk, you strengthen the whole environment. Default Password’s guidance emphasizes making changes visible, testable, and repeatable to prevent drift over time.

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Tools & Materials

Admin access to the device or service(You must be logged in with an account that has administrative privileges.)
Official device manual or vendor documentation(Use the latest version from the vendor’s site.)
Network or system access credentials(You may need VPN or direct network access to configure devices remotely.)
Secure password manager(Choose a trusted manager; enable MFA if available.)
Strong password policy framework(Use length 12+ with a mix of words, numbers, and symbols.)
Documentation template or inventory log(Track changes across devices for audits.)
Backup or snapshot of current device configuration(If possible, snapshot settings before changes.)
Two-factor authentication enabled on critical devices(Where supported, enable MFA to reduce risk.)

Steps

Estimated time: 1-2 hours

1
Identify devices with default credentials
Scan your environment to locate devices and services that still use their factory or default credentials. Use vendor checklists, asset inventories, and software scanning tools to compile a definitive list. This step reduces blind changes and helps prioritize critical assets.
Tip: Start with edge devices (routers, firewalls, NAS) that expose management interfaces.
2
Verify ownership and scope
Confirm you have legitimate administrative rights before changing any credentials. Document the device name, IP, firmware version, and current default credential if visible. This prevents unauthorized changes and supports accountability.
Tip: If you’re unsure, pause and escalate to the responsible owner or security lead.
3
Change to a strong, unique password
Create a password that is long (12+ chars), uses a passphrase or mixture of character types, and is not reused elsewhere. For devices that require a password, avoid simple patterns and avoid the same string across multiple devices.
Tip: Use a password manager to generate and store the new credential securely.
4
Test access across interfaces
After changing the password, verify you can log in from all intended interfaces (web UI, SSH, mobile app, VPN, etc.). If one interface fails, troubleshoot with vendor docs or support without exposing credentials.
Tip: Test from a trusted workstation to avoid lockouts.
5
Document the change in your inventory
Record device name, location, new credential reference, and the date/time of change in your password inventory. Maintain an audit trail to satisfy security reviews and compliance checks.
Tip: Include who performed the change and the rationale.
6
Update related services and accounts
If the device is tied to other services, update those connection strings, certificates, or tokens that may rely on the old credentials. Roll through linked applications to prevent hidden dependencies.
Tip: Use a centralized map of dependencies to speed this step.
7
Review and rotate regularly
Set a schedule for periodic password rotations and routine audits. Consider plugging this into an overall security policy that includes MFA, alarm thresholds, and alerting for credential changes.
Tip: Automate reminders for rotation cycles where possible.
8
Educate and enforce best practices
Provide ongoing training and enforce a policy to discourage default passwords in new deployments. Align with organizational security standards and industry best practices.
Tip: Publicize the policy and ensure onboarding includes secure defaults.

Pro Tip: Enable MFA on all devices that support it to add a second layer of defense.

Warning: Never reuse passwords across devices or services, even if those devices seem low risk.

Note: Store credentials only in a trusted password manager; never write them on sticky notes or local files.

Pro Tip: Document changes in a centralized inventory to support audits and incident response.

Warning: If a device cannot accept a long passcode, refer to vendor-specific minimum requirements and update firmware.

Your Questions Answered

What counts as a default password, and why is it risky?

A default password is the factory-provided credential or a commonly used default from the vendor. It’s risky because attackers often know these defaults, especially if devices are exposed to the internet or poorly documented. Changing defaults minimizes this risk and improves overall security.

How do I locate default passwords for my device?

Check the official manual, vendor support pages, and any labels on the device itself. You may also find default credentials in the device’s web interface under setup or administration sections. If you have cloud-managed devices, review the admin console documentation.

Is it safe to revert a device to its default password temporarily for troubleshooting?

Temporarily using a default password is not recommended. If you must troubleshoot, use a controlled_lab environment or a sandbox account with limited access, and ensure you revert to a strong, unique password as soon as possible.

What should I do if I forget the new password after changing it?

If you forget the new credential, use the device’s recovery options, reset via admin access, or reinstall firmware if supported. Maintain a separate recovery method like MFA-protected authentication and document the process.

How often should I rotate default passwords?

Rotation frequency depends on policy and risk. A common practice is to rotate annually for lower-risk devices and sooner for exposed or high-risk systems, combining with MFA and access controls.

Can I automate password changes across multiple devices?

Yes, through centralized identity and access management tools, configuration management, and password rotation policies. Automation reduces human error but requires proper safeguards and testing.