If a security camera shows offline or is not recording, check in this order: power, then network, then recorder, then settings. For a WiFi camera, check its power and the WiFi signal and whether the router or WiFi password changed; for a PoE camera, check the cable, the switch port and the PoE budget; for an NVR system, check the hard drive (full, failed or not formatted), the recording schedule and the date and time; for a cloud camera, check the subscription. Restarting the camera, then the router, fixes many cases. This page gives a table for each system type and the signs that mean you need a technician.
PCBy the Pixl Canada install team. Updated October 26, 2026. 8 min read.
- Fixes by system type
- A five-minute checklist
- Recorder and drive problems
- When to call for service
- Check power first, then the network, then the recorder, then settings.
- A changed WiFi password or router is a very common cause of offline WiFi cameras.
- A full or failed hard drive is the usual reason an NVR is not recording.
- Wrong date and time makes footage hard to find even when it is recording.
What is the five-minute check?
- Is the camera powered? Look for its light or check the outlet or PoE port.
- Is the network up? Check that other devices have internet.
- Restart the camera, then the router, then the recorder, one at a time.
- Check the app or recorder for an error message.
- Check the date and time and the recording schedule.
Why is a WiFi camera offline?
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| WiFi password or router changed | Reconnect the camera to the network. See changing your WiFi password |
| Weak signal at the camera | Move the router, add a mesh node. See WiFi dead zones |
| Dead battery or power loss | Recharge, replace or check the outlet |
| Cold weather | Batteries lose capacity in cold. See cold-weather limits |
| Expired subscription (cloud cameras) | Renew the plan or switch to local storage |
| Needs a firmware update or reset | Update in the app, or reset and re-add |
Why is a PoE camera offline?
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Damaged or cut cable | Test the cable; replace the damaged section |
| Loose or corroded connector | Re-terminate and seal outdoor connections |
| PoE switch or NVR port off or overloaded | Check the PoE budget. See PoE switch and UPS sizing |
| Cable too long | Runs over 100 m (328 ft) need a switch or repeater |
| Power outage | A UPS keeps the recorder and switch alive |
| Camera failure | Try another port or cable; check the warranty |
Why is the NVR not recording?
| Cause | Fix |
|---|---|
| Hard drive failed, missing or not formatted | Check the storage menu. Replace a failed drive with a surveillance-rated one |
| Drive full and overwrite is off | Turn on overwrite or add storage. See storage calculator |
| Recording schedule is off | Enable continuous or motion recording |
| Wrong date and time | Correct the clock and time zone |
| Camera not added or disconnected | Re-add it and check the connection |
| NVR overheating or in a closed space | Give it ventilation. See NVR guide |
When should you call a technician?
Call for service if several cameras go offline at once, the hard drive makes noise or fails repeatedly, a cable looks damaged or soaked, the recorder will not start, or footage was lost when you needed it. Under our warranty, wired camera installation carries 1 year on wiring and 1 year on parts. See warranty and support. Pixl can diagnose and repair systems we installed. Call or text (587) 899-7495 and tell us what you see.
Camera offline or not recording: frequently asked questions
Why is my security camera offline?
Usually power, a network or WiFi change, a full or failed drive, or an expired subscription. Check in that order.
How do I get my camera back online?
Restart the camera, then the router. If it still fails, reconnect it to the network or check the cable and PoE port.
Why is my NVR not recording?
Most often the hard drive is full, failed or unformatted, or the schedule is off.
Why are my camera timestamps wrong?
The recorder’s clock or time zone is wrong. Correct them in the system settings.
Will a power outage stop recording?
Yes, unless the recorder and switch are on a UPS.
Can Pixl repair my camera system?
We can diagnose and repair systems we installed, within warranty terms. Call or text (587) 899-7495.
System down? Tell us what you see
Call or text and describe the problem. We tell you what we need to see.
Image problems and false alerts
Maintenance checklist
Wired vs WiFi
Bridge mode and your ISP modem
Guest WiFi and camera network setup
WiFi for basements, garages and patios
How to reset a camera or doorbell by brand
Sources and method. General troubleshooting practice for home and business camera systems. Menus differ by brand. Follow your manual and the maker’s support pages.
About Pixl Canada. Pixl Canada is an installation company based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving cities across Canada with TV mounting, security cameras, appliance installation and smart home setup. Call or text (587) 899-7495. Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm and Sunday 9am to 7pm.