SADP

SADP, in the context of networked video surveillance, stands for Search Active Device Protocol. It is a device discovery and configuration protocol used to locate and identify Hikvision and compatible devices on a local network.

The protocol is designed to simplify initial deployment by allowing administrators to detect devices with dynamic IPs and to retrieve basic information such as model, firmware version, serial number, MAC address, and current IP configuration. SADP-enabled devices can be discovered by the SADP utility, which lists devices and offers options for configuring network settings or managing passwords.

Operation typically relies on a local broadcast or multicast discovery query, with responsive devices returning their identification data. Once discovered, administrators can assign IP addresses, modify subnet masks, or change admin credentials through the same tool.

Security and administration: Because the discovery process can reveal devices on a network, SADP should be used within trusted networks and with appropriate access controls. Best practices include limiting SADP visibility to secure networks, changing default passwords, enabling encryption where available, and disabling unused services or exposing SADP only on controlled segments.

Other uses and notes: SADP is most commonly associated with Hikvision's ecosystem, but some devices and documentation may reference similar discovery mechanisms under different names. The acronym SADP may also be used in other fields to denote unrelated concepts.