Skip to main content

My Camera Was Working Over The Network, But Now I Can't Access it from my Computer. 

April 23, 2025​

This article outlines steps to help if your camera was previously working on the network for video or control but has since stopped. If your camera has a valid IP address (other than 192.168.100.88) but you’re unable to access it from your computer, try the troubleshooting steps below. This issue often occurs after changes to your ISP or router. This would also be the case if you moved the camera to another location, like from your house to your office.

Please note that this is a troubleshooting article and if you are looking for setup go

  • To [This Article] For Setup of the G2 cameras (SDI, NDI, USB, Fixed Box cams)
  • To [This Article] for setup of the G3 cameras (Move SE, Move 4K, Studio pro, Link 4K, Studio 4K)

1. Confirm You're on the Same Subnet​

To communicate in most instances, your computer and the camera must be on the same subnet .

Tip: On networks using a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, the first three octets of the IP address must match.

    • Example 1:
      Camera IP: 192.168.1.147
      Computer IP: 192.168.2.27
      → Not on the same subnet

    • Example 2:
      Camera IP: 10.1.10.24
      Computer IP: 10.1.11.25
      → Also not on the same subnet

    • Example 3:
      Camera IP: 172.26.10.32
      Computer IP: 172.26.10.252
      → Are on the same subnet

Other Subnet Masks​

If your subnet mask is different from 255.255.255.0 , you can use a subnet calculator to check whether your computer and camera are on the same subnet.

To do this:

  • Visit the IPv4 Subnet Calculator .

  • In the "Subnet" dropdown, select your subnet mask (ignore the number after the / ).

  • Enter the IP address of either your computer or camera in the "IP" field and click Calculate .

  • Look for the "Usable Host IP Range" in the results.

Ensure your computer and camera IP addresses fall within this range to confirm they are on the same subnet.

    • Example 1:
      Camera IP: 192.168.1.147
      cameras netmask: 255.255.252.0
      Computer IP: 192.168.4.27
      Computers netmask: 255.255.252.0

      → Not on the same subnet
    • Example 2:
      Camera IP: 10.0.0.245
      cameras netmask: 255.255.254.0
      Computer IP: 10.0.1.36
      Computers netmask: 255.255.254.0

→ These are on the same subnet

  • Example 3:
    Camera IP: 172.26.45.198
    cameras netmask: 255.255.255.128
    Computer IP: 172.26.45.27
    Computers netmask: 255.255.255.128

→ Not on the same subnet

The [Video HERE] is good for a better understanding of a subnet mask if you want to learn more.

Note:

These instructions are designed for smaller setups such as houses of worship, homes, or small offices. While it is technically possible for cameras and computers to be on different subnets (as long as routing is configured properly), we recommend keeping them on the same subnet for simplicity, reliability, and easier troubleshooting.

2. Check Your Connection​

  • Ensure the computer is connected to the correct physical network (e.g., the same switch/router as the camera).

  • If using Wi-Fi , make sure you’re connected to the correct wireless network.

  • Try a different Ethernet cable to rule out any wiring issues.

3. Check for Static IP Conflicts​

If your camera is set to a static IP address :

  • A recent router change or ISP upgrade may have altered your network's IP range, causing a mismatch.

  • Two devices with the same IP address will cause network issues.

To check for an IP conflict :

  1. Disconnect the camera from the network.

  2. On your computer, ping the camera’s IP address:

  3. If another device responds, you have an IP conflict .

Solutions For IP conflicts:​

  • If the camera uses a static IP , using the IR remote switch it to DHCP so your router can assign it a valid, conflict-free address.

    • (#) + (*) + (4): Switch the camera to DHCP mode.

    • (*) + (#) + (4): Displays current IP configuration on A video output (Using HDMI, SDI, or USB).

  • Alternatively, use the PTZOptics Upgrade Tool to manually set a static IP address.

If Camera Uses DHCP, Set a Reservation​

To avoid future IP conflicts:

  • Log in to your router or DHCP server and set a DHCP reservation for the camera.

  • This ensures the camera always receives the same IP address.

Most routers allow you to:

  • View connected devices

  • Select the camera

  • Reserve its current address

  • Or manually reserve an IP using the camera’s MAC address

Every router is different. Search online for instructions specific to your model:
“ How to set up DHCP reservation on [Router Model] ”

Consider Changing the Other Device's IP​

If another device is using the same IP address as the camera, and it's easier to modify that device instead, simply assign it a different IP.

Please contact support if you are having any issues and if there is anything we can help with

  • Support can be reached M-TH 8AM-6PM EST, and 8AM - 4PM FRI EST.

  • Call 484-593-2584

  • Email support@ptzoptics.com