How to Reset a Nest Cam

This article will explain how to reset a Nest camera.

How to Reset a Nest Cam

This method works with all Nest cameras and Nest doorbells. You will need access to the Nest app and the account that owns the camera.

1. Open the Nest app.

2. Tap the gear icon in the upper right hand corner to open the Settings menu

3. Scroll through the settings menu until you find the Cameras section.

4. Tap the camera you want to remove.

5. Scroll to the bottom of the camera's settings menu, then tap Remove Camera.

6. A confirmation prompt will appear. Tap Remove.

   Removing a camera will permanently delete its video history.

7. The camera will reset.

   To use the camera again, you must perform a first-time setup of the Nest as if it was a new camera.

How to Reset a Nest Cam With a Reset Hole

You can reset select Nest models using a reset hole on the camera itself. Models include the Nest Cam (battery), Nest Cam with Floodlight, Nest Cam IQ Indoor, and Nest Cam Outdoor.

Insert a thin object, such as a paperclip, into the camera's reset hole for 12 seconds. The camera will give some indication that the reset is complete. Nest Cam IQ models will flash the notification light, while later models have a notification chime.

One problem with this method is that it doesn't remove the camera from the Nest app. The camera will continue to appear offline in the Nest app until you remove it.

You can only remove the camera from the Nest app by following the steps above. That's why we recommend using the Nest app instead of the reset hole to reset a Nest camera.

How to Restart a Nest Cam

Some Nest camera models have the option to restart the camera. This method might solve configuration issues without resetting the camera entirely.

You can restart the Nest Cam, Nest Cam IQ, and Nest Dropcam by unplugging the camera from power for 10 seconds. The camera will restart when plugged back in.

The Nest Cam Indoor (wired), Nest Cam (battery), and Nest Cam Floodlight can restart using the reset hole described above. Press it for only 5 seconds instead of 12 seconds.

Where Is the Reset Button on a Nest Camera?

Not all Nest cameras have a reset button. The reset button and reset hole are near the power connector or mount. You will need a thin object to use the reset hole, such as a paperclip.

What Do I Do if My Nest Camera Is Not Working?

A reset is often the best method of troubleshooting a Nest camera. It's similar to reinstalling Windows on a laptop, or a factory reset on a phone. Erasing all settings and starting from scratch will resolve configuration issues and start the device with a clean slate.