SADP offers a semi-recovery path:

The Hikvision SADP Tool is an indispensable utility for physical security professionals. It transforms the tedious process of assigning static IPs and activating cameras into a streamlined, batch-process workflow. However, it remains a double-edged sword; its power to reset passwords and access device internals makes it a target for vulnerability research. Users must remain vigilant regarding version updates and network segmentation to prevent the tool from becoming a vector for unauthorized access.

While security integrators and IT professionals spend thousands on sophisticated VMS (Video Management Software) and network diagnostics suites, this free, lightweight, and remarkably powerful tool remains the most downloaded asset on Hikvision’s official portal. It is the "magic wand" for discovering, activating, and repairing network cameras and recorders.

The tool doesn't require your PC to have a valid IP address on the same subnet. It works via MAC address discovery. As long as the device is physically connected to the same switch (even without a gateway), SADP will find it. This is a lifesaver when recovering a misconfigured recorder locked to a dead VLAN.