Introduction to Reolink NVR HyBridge Mode

In traditional mode, cameras are connected to the NVR for centralized storage and live preview. However, this connection can limit many camera features, such as smart home and time-lapse, and may also cause compatibility issues if the NVR is not updated in a timely manner, rendering some camera features unavailable. To resolve these limitations, Reolink has introduced the HyBridge Mode feature.

This article will provide you with all the information about this new feature in three parts:

1. What is Reolink NVR HyBridge Mode?

2. How to Set Up Reolink NVR for HyBridge Mode?

3. Step-by Step Instruction to Enable or Disable HyBridge Mode for Reolink NVR.

1. What is Reolink NVR HyBridge Mode?

Reolink NVR HyBridge Mode allows users to map all devices connected to the NVR’s PoE ports to the local area network (LAN). With a single click, users can still access cameras using its UID and integrate cameras into the NVR for centralized preview and storage. This approach preserves all cameras functionalities, minimizes compatibility issues with the NVR.

In simple terms, once properly installed and with Reolink NVR HyBridge Mode enabled, you can access your cameras connected to the NVR through the NVR itself. Alternatively, you can access the cameras individually by adding them on the Reolink Client or App. This means you can manage your cameras collectively through the NVR while still using all their functions by accessing them individually via the Reolink Client or App.

Note: When connecting cameras to the router, it can increase bandwidth consumption and strain on the router, particularly when multiple cameras are transmitting data simultaneously.

The table below lists the NVR hardware version and firmware version requirements for supporting HyBridge Mode, as well as the cameras that are compatible with this feature.

2. How to Set Up Reolink NVR for HyBridge Mode?

To ensure that Reolink NVR HyBridge Mode functions properly, please make sure that:

1. The cameras are properly connected to the NVR (either via cable or Wi-Fi).
2. The Reolink NVR is properly connected to your router.
3. HyBridge Mode on the Reolink NVR is enabled.

The method for connecting the camera to the NVR remains the same as before. You can still refer to the topology diagram below.

This image shows a Reolink NVR with HyBridge Mode disabled, meaning the 840A and RLC-423 cameras cannot be accessed individually via the Reolink App or Reolink Client. At this point, the cameras' IP addresses are assigned by the NVR, and these IP addresses will start with 172.

This image shows a Reolink NVR with Hybrid Mode enabled, meaning all cameras can be accessed individually through the Reolink App or Reolink Client. At this point, the cameras' IP addresses are assigned by the router.

Therefore, enabling or disabling Hybrid Mode on a Reolink NVR will cause the IP addresses of the cameras to change.

3. Step-by-Step Instruction to Enable or Disable HyBridge Mode for Reolink NVR.

Step 1. Right-click to display the settings bar, then click the gear icon to enter the settings page.

Step 2. Click Network > Advanced > HyBridge Mode.

Note: NVR will disable its gateway from function, and all devices within its network can now be accessed through the router's network.

Step 3. After enabling it, a confirmation box will appear. If you ensure to turn it on, please click "OK" Once turned on, the NVR will restart and the gateway function will be disabled.

Step 4. Wait a few minutes, and check if you have successfully enabled the mode.

Step 5. If you wish to turn it off, a confirmation box will appear. After confirming, the NVR will restart and re-enable the gateway function.