What Are RTSP and ONVIF? Connecting IP Cameras to AI Video Analytics

RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) is the common way to pull a live video stream from an IP camera or network video recorder (NVR). ONVIF is an industry standard that lets devices from different manufacturers be discovered and configured in a common way. Together, they are why an analytics system can usually work with cameras that are already installed.

How RTSP works

A client — a VMS, a media player or an analytics server — connects to the camera’s RTSP address with credentials and requests a stream. RTSP handles session control; video data is usually carried over RTP. The address format varies by manufacturer and typically includes the IP address, a port (often 554) and a stream path.

Main stream vs sub-stream

Most cameras offer a high-resolution main stream for recording and a lower-resolution sub-stream for live view. Which one analytics should use depends on the task: detecting a person in a zone may work on a sub-stream, while checking safety glasses usually needs the main stream.

What ONVIF adds

• Profile S: basic streaming and configuration — the most widely supported.
• Profile T: advanced streaming (e.g. H.265) and event handling.
• Profile G: on-device recording and retrieval.
• Profile M: analytics metadata and events.

ONVIF conformance applies to specific profiles; manufacturer-specific features may sit outside the standard. Check the vendor’s declaration for the exact device.

Security best practice

• Never expose RTSP ports to the internet; keep cameras on a segmented network.
• Change default passwords and create a view-only account for analytics.
• Use VPN for any remote access.

Hype Vision connects to existing cameras over these standards and processes video on-premise. To check your cameras, request a camera assessment or read how to evaluate cameras for computer vision.