1. Assessment & risk snapshot
We inventory all Hikvision devices, map how they are connected today and identify the most critical exposures – open ports, shared passwords, unsupported firmware and missing retention.
Brand profile · Legacy video systems · Not for new installs
Hikvision legacy camera systems – stabilise, isolate & upgrade
Hikvision is one of the largest video surveillance manufacturers in the world and its cameras and recorders are installed in thousands of buildings across North America. In recent years these products have become heavily scrutinised from a security and compliance perspective, and are not NDAA-compliant for U.S. federal or many government-related projects.
At 7DVR.com we do not design new systems around Hikvision. But we recognise that many Chicago North Shore properties already rely on Hikvision-based systems. Our role is to make those systems safer in the short term and build a clear upgrade path toward modern, NDAA-compliant platforms.
How we work with Hikvision
- Site surveys and configuration reviews of existing Hikvision NVRs and cameras.
- Design of isolated networks and firewalls to prevent direct internet exposure.
- Clean-up of user accounts, password policies and basic device hardening.
- Integration of legacy Hikvision cameras into new recorders or VMS where technically and legally appropriate.
- Step-by-step upgrade plans toward Axis, Hanwha and other trusted brands.
Where we draw the line
- We do not promote or design new Hikvision deployments for fresh projects.
- We avoid adding more Hikvision devices if that deepens long-term risk.
- We do not expose Hikvision devices directly to the internet or vendor cloud services where we can avoid it.
- We clearly recommend migration toward transparent, NDAA-compliant ecosystems for future-proofing.
Hikvision, NDAA & risk management
Hikvision equipment has been restricted for use in U.S. federal systems and other sensitive environments and is widely regarded as non-NDAA compliant. For private properties this often translates into a risk and reputation question rather than a strict legal ban, but it is not something that should be ignored.
For Chicago North Shore buildings we position Hikvision as legacy infrastructure: something that must be treated with extra care, isolated from public networks and gradually phased out as budgets and projects allow.
- Place Hikvision NVRs and cameras on separate VLANs and hardened network segments.
- Eliminate port-forwarding to NVRs; use VPN or secure proxies for remote access instead.
- Review firmware, disable unused services and remove default or old accounts.
- Document where Hikvision is used today and define clear milestones for replacing it with safer hardware.
We always recommend that boards, owners and managers discuss legal and compliance obligations with their own advisors. Our mission is to design robust, realistic technical architectures around the systems you already have while we help you move to better options.
Migration strategies from Hikvision to modern platforms
Instead of a disruptive all-at-once replacement, we design phased migration plans that keep your building protected while risk is reduced over time:
2. Network isolation & hardening
Next we rework switching, routing and firewall rules so Hikvision lives on a tight, well-understood segment that is not directly visible to the internet or resident networks.
3. New VMS or NVR layer
Where appropriate, we introduce a new recorder or VMS from a preferred vendor and stream Hikvision cameras into it, so that new cameras can be added on a clean, modern platform.
4. Camera replacement by priority
We replace cameras in priority zones first – entrances, lobbies, cash areas, parking and loading docks – while leaving less critical views on legacy hardware until later phases.
5. Documentation & final clean-up
As Hikvision devices are retired we keep records up to date, making sure future vendors and managers know exactly what is still in service and what has been removed.
Deep experience with Hikvision – but focused on moving forward
We have worked with many generations of Hikvision hardware and OEM rebrands: small DVRs, hybrid recorders, large NVRs and multi-site deployments. That experience helps us fix real-world issues quickly instead of learning on your building.
At the same time, we are transparent with boards and owners: Hikvision is treated as legacy. Our long-term goal is always to move your critical views onto well-supported, NDAA-compliant systems while avoiding unnecessary downtime or chaos along the way.
Hikvision & 7DVR.com – common questions
Do you install new Hikvision systems?
No. We do not design new Hikvision-based projects. Our focus for new systems is on trusted, NDAA-compliant brands that align with current security and compliance expectations.
Can you support our existing Hikvision deployment?
Yes. We can review, stabilise and harden existing Hikvision systems, then propose a phased migration away from this hardware as budgets and projects allow.
Is Hikvision banned in private buildings?
Restrictions mainly target government and critical infrastructure, but many private owners choose to reduce exposure to non-NDAA equipment. We help you understand the technical risks and design a safer path forward.
Can you mix Hikvision with other brands during migration?
Often yes. We may keep some legacy Hikvision cameras while adding modern recorders and IP cameras from other vendors, as long as the overall design improves security and reliability.
Do you provide free estimates for Hikvision upgrade projects?
Yes. We offer free estimates and 50% off the first service visit for new service clients in our Chicago North Shore service area.
Can you advise our board on long-term camera strategy?
We can present options, risks and phased upgrade plans in clear language for boards and owners, so you can make informed decisions about legacy Hikvision systems and future investments.