Short answer
The master code arms, disarms, and manages user codes. The installer code unlocks programming: zones, sensors, and communication settings. Factory defaults include 4112 on Honeywell VISTA and 5555 on DSC PowerSeries, but installers often change them. If the default does not work, the code was changed and you will need the original installer or a reset procedure from the manufacturer's manual.
On this page
The three kinds of code
- User codes arm and disarm. Every household member can have one.
- Master code (also called the main user or admin code) does everything a user code does, plus adding and deleting user codes and some basic settings like time and date.
- Installer code (also called the dealer or programming code) opens full programming: adding sensors, changing zone types, entry delays, and how the panel reports. On many systems you can only enter installer programming while the system is disarmed.
Factory default installer codes
These are the defaults published in each manufacturer's installation manual. They only work if the installer never changed them.
| Panel | Default installer code | Default master / user code |
|---|---|---|
| Honeywell VISTA (10P, 15P, 20P, 21iP) | 4112 | Set by the installer |
| Honeywell Lynx Touch / Lyric | 4112 | 1234 |
| DSC PowerSeries (PC1616, PC1832, PC1864) and PowerSeries Neo | 5555 | 1234 |
| 2GIG GC2, GC3, Edge | 1561 | 1111 |
| Qolsys IQ Panel 2 / IQ Panel 4 | 1111 (dealer code 2222) | 1234 |
| Interlogix / GE Simon XT, Simon XTi | 4321 | 1234 |
| DMP XR series | 6653 (programmer lockout code) | Set by installer |
Changing installer settings can stop the panel from reporting alarms or disable fire zones. Write down anything you change, put the account on test first, and test with the monitoring company afterwards.
If the default code does not work
- Ask the original installer or alarm company. If your contract has ended, many will release the installer code, sometimes for a small fee.
- Check for a dealer lockout. Many panels let the installer lock programming so even a power reset will not open it. If a lockout is set, the panel may need to go back to the dealer or have its main board replaced.
- Look up the manufacturer's reset procedure. Some panels have a documented way to enter programming at power-up or restore factory defaults when no lockout is set. It is described in the installation manual for your exact model, and it usually erases all programming, including sensors.
Forgot the master code?
The installer code can usually change the master code. If you have neither, the options are the same as above: the alarm company, or a factory reset that wipes the panel's programming.