Are you about to use the Holowits cameras for the first time ever? Identifying and setting its IP address is one of the preliminary and foremost actions. This is required in order to view the camera via your computer or smart phone, to use an NVR, or to allow remote viewing. Installation of a single camera or the whole system may have many details worth thinking over and this blog will guide you through the steps.
Why the IP Address Matters
The IP address is what allows you to connect to your Holowits camera through a browser or surveillance software. If you don’t know the camera’s IP or if it’s not configured correctly, you won’t be able to access its live feed, change settings, or connect it to a network video recorder (NVR). A properly configured IP address ensures reliable access, especially in a multi-camera setup.
What You Need
Before you start, make sure you have:
- A Holowits camera (see Sirac CCTV’s Holowits models)
- Power supply or PoE switch
- Ethernet cable
- Windows PC or laptop connected to the same network
- Holowits DeviceManager software (or OEM tool)
Optional:
- Access to your router’s admin panel (for advanced users)
Connect and Power On the Camera
Most Holowits cameras support Power over Ethernet (PoE). If your setup includes a PoE switch, simply plug in the Ethernet cable and the camera will power up. If not, use the included power adapter. Wait about a minute for the camera to fully initialize before continuing.
Find the Camera’s IP Address
There are a few ways to locate the IP address assigned to your Holowits camera:
Using Holowits DeviceManager
This is the recommended method.
- Install and open the Holowits DeviceManager software.
- Click “Search” or “Scan” to detect all Holowits devices on the network
- Your camera should appear in the list with its IP address, MAC address, and model number.
If the camera doesn’t show up:
- Make sure your PC is on the same network.
- Temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus if needed.
Access the Camera and Configure the IP
Once you know the IP address, type it into your browser’s address bar.
Default login credentials are usually:
- Username: admin
- Password: admin or blank (refer to the manual)
After logging in:
- Go to Network Settings.
- Change from DHCP to Static IP.
- Enter a fixed IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.100) that doesn’t conflict with other devices.
- Set the Subnet Mask (usually 255.255.255.0) and Gateway (your router’s IP)
- Click Save or Apply. The camera may restart.
A static IP ensures the camera keeps the same address, which is critical for consistent access and NVR integration.
Best Practices
- Use static IPs for all cameras in your network.
- Record each camera’s IP and physical location.
- Rename cameras inside your software to match their function (e.g., FrontGate, OfficeHallway)
- Update firmware regularly for performance and security
- Change the default admin password immediately after setup.
Conclusion
Finding and configuring the IP address of a Holowits camera is a critical step in setting up your surveillance system. Whether you’re a first-time user or managing a more advanced network, the process is straightforward with the right tools. If you’re looking to buy or upgrade your system, you can explore the full range of Holowits cameras.