RTSP Setup Guide

Hikvision RTSP Setup

Use /Streaming/Channels/101 for channel 1 main stream, /102 for its sub-stream, and /201 for channel 2 main stream. Connect to the camera or NVR's local IP with its device credentials and configured RTSP port.

RTSP Stream URL
rtsp://<username>:<password>@<IP>:554/Streaming/Channels/101

This example uses port 554. Confirm the actual port and available streams in your model's settings. For an NVR, use the recorder's IP and recorder account; for a direct camera, use the camera's IP and camera account.

Port
554
Protocol
RTSP
ONVIF
Yes
Codec
H.264/H.265

Official Documentation and Verification Scope

Documentation checked: 2026-10-18. The official guides distinguish device RTSP channel/stream numbers from ONVIF service enablement and ONVIF user roles. Keep the activated local device account separate from a Hik-Connect cloud login and test the required functions on the exact camera or recorder.

These instructions are based on published documentation. This guide does not certify a physical camera, every model in the brand, or all audio, PTZ, event and recording functions in SmartRTSP.

How to Enable RTSP on Hikvision

1

Log in to the camera web interface

Open the device's local IP in a browser and sign in with the device account created during activation. Current Hikvision devices require an activation password; do not assume a blank or universal default password. A Hik-Connect cloud login is not the camera or recorder's local RTSP account.

2

Navigate to RTSP settings

Check the RTSP port under the device's network port or More Settings page. Port 554 is common, but menus and configured ports vary by model and firmware. Integration Protocol is where supported models expose ONVIF settings; enabling ONVIF is separate from choosing the RTSP port.

3

Find your camera's local IP address

Use Hikvision's SADP Tool (available at hikvision.com/support/tools) to scan your network and find the camera's IP. Alternatively, check your router's DHCP client list.

4

Open SmartRTSP and add the camera

Option A — ONVIF Auto-Discovery: On a supported model, enable ONVIF and create an ONVIF user in the device settings, then scan in SmartRTSP on the same LAN. Supply that ONVIF account when prompted.

Option B — Manual RTSP URL: Tap + → Manual, then enter:

rtsp://admin:YourPassword@192.168.1.100:554/Streaming/Channels/101

Hikvision RTSP URL Reference

Hikvision uses a channel-based URL scheme. Channel numbers follow the pattern ChN×100 + StreamType.

Stream RTSP URL
Channel 1 — Main /Streaming/Channels/101
Channel 1 — Sub /Streaming/Channels/102
Channel 2 — Main /Streaming/Channels/201
Channel 2 — Sub /Streaming/Channels/202
NVR Channel 3 — Main /Streaming/Channels/301
Unicast (alternative) /h264/ch1/main/av_stream

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I connect to my Hikvision camera via RTSP?
Check the device IP and configured RTSP port first. An authentication error points to the local device account or its live-view permissions. A stream-not-found error points to the channel or stream number. For an NVR, confirm that the selected channel is online. If login succeeds but video is blank, try channel 1 sub-stream 102 and H.264, then check transport and firewall settings.
Does Hikvision support ONVIF?
Many Hikvision cameras support ONVIF, but verify the exact model and firmware. On supported cameras, Integration Protocol contains the ONVIF enablement option and an Add button for an ONVIF user. That account can differ from the web login. See Hikvision's ONVIF setup instructions.
What is the RTSP URL for a Hikvision NVR?
For Hikvision NVRs, use the NVR's IP address and change the channel number: channel 1 = /Streaming/Channels/101, channel 2 = /Streaming/Channels/201, and so on. The sub-stream adds 1 to the last digit (101 → 102).
Does Hikvision RTSP work over the internet?
For access outside your LAN, connect through a VPN to your home network, then use the local device address. Keep the camera and recorder's RTSP and management ports off the public internet. Changing the RTSP port does not encrypt the stream.
Where can I find the official Hikvision RTSP documentation?
Start with Hikvision's RTSP URL formula for channel and stream numbering. Check your device's network settings for the actual RTSP port; published examples can use a custom port. Manuals and activation guidance are available through Hikvision Support.