Overview
Hive supports camera integration using ONVIF and RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) to expand compatibility with a wide range of IP cameras, NVRs, and video encoders. These protocols allow Hive to connect to devices, enabling video preview, snapshot capture, and metadata extraction.
This article explains how ONVIF and RTSP sources are added to Hive, what features are supported, and what to expect during setup.
What Is ONVIF and Why It Matters
ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is an open industry standard that enables interoperability between IP-based security products, including PTZ cameras, NVRs, and VMS platforms.
In Hive, ONVIF support allows users to:
Auto-discover compatible IP cameras on the local network
Access snapshot URLs and RTSP stream paths
Retrieve camera metadata (model, manufacturer, resolution)
Populate video preview thumbnails during linking
Prepare custom workflows for unsupported camera models
ONVIF is most useful when using third-party or OEM cameras not officially listed as supported but which conform to the ONVIF standard.
What Is RTSP?
RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) is used to deliver live video streams from a camera or video source to the Hive dashboard. RTSP sources can be used for:
Live preview during camera linking
Capturing thumbnails or still frames
Input for AI processing (if applicable to your plan or configuration)
RTSP sources do not offer full PTZ control, preset management, or advanced settings unless the camera also supports VISCA or ONVIF.
Adding an ONVIF or RTSP Source in Hive
Follow these steps to add an ONVIF or RTSP-based source:
Navigate to Add Camera in the Hive dashboard
Choose "Add RTSP Source" from the available options
Enter the following fields:
RTSP Stream URL (e.g.
rtsp://192.168.1.100:554/stream1) [your stream URL be unique to your RTSP enabled hardware.Snapshot URL (optional, for preview thumbnails)
Camera Name (any label you choose)
If your camera supports ONVIF and is on the same network:
Hive may auto-discover the device and suggest known values
Select the appropriate stream or manually input the URL
Click Add Source to complete the process
Network and Firewall Requirements
Ensure the following network conditions are met for ONVIF and RTSP functionality:
Camera and Hive bridge are on the same subnet or connected via VPN
RTSP port (usually
554) is open to HiveONVIF port (usually
80,8080, or8000) is accessibleUDP and TCP protocols are enabled
No firewall or NAT blocking device discovery or stream access
What Features Are Supported?
Feature | ONVIF Source | RTSP Source |
Auto-discovery | Yes | No |
Preview thumbnail | Yes | Yes |
Snapshot URL support | Yes | Yes |
PTZ Control | Limited | No |
Preset support | No | No |
Metadata population | Yes | Partial |
Stream used in workflows | Yes | Yes |
Supported in advanced settings | Yes | Yes |
If your camera supports ONVIF and VISCA or ONVIF and NDI, use ONVIF to connect initially, then enable enhanced control via VISCA or NDI.
Troubleshooting ONVIF and RTSP Sources
If your source does not appear or fails to load:
Confirm the RTSP URL is reachable via VLC or a test player
Ensure the camera is ONVIF-compliant and has ONVIF enabled in its own settings
Use the correct credentials for stream access if prompted
Try rebooting the camera and checking network visibility
Contact your network admin to confirm that RTSP/ONVIF ports are not blocked
If the stream connects but you see no video:
Double-check the URL syntax
Some cameras require additional subpaths or stream profile names (e.g.
/h264,/live1)If multiple streams exist, test each available stream URL until you see output
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I control PTZ functions through ONVIF?
A: Hive does not support PTZ control over ONVIF at this time. For camera movement, use VISCA-over-IP or native integrations.
Q: Can I link multiple RTSP streams from the same device?
A: Yes. You can add multiple RTSP sources under different names and assign them to different organizations or rooms.
Q: Are ONVIF sources secure?
A: ONVIF sources use HTTP or HTTPS depending on the camera. Use credentials when required, and avoid exposing RTSP streams to the public internet without protection.