How to Enable RTSP on Vivotek Cameras
Log in to the camera web interface
Open a browser and navigate to http://<camera-IP>. Sign in with your admin credentials. Vivotek's default username is root and the default password is either blank or root depending on the model. On first login you will be required to set a new password. To find the camera's IP, use Vivotek's free Shepherd utility (available at vivotek.com) to scan your local network.
Verify RTSP streaming is enabled
In the web UI, navigate to Configuration → Network → RTSP Streaming. Confirm that RTSP is enabled and the port is set to 554. On newer firmware, you may find this under Media → Stream. Make note of the camera's local IP address — you will need it to construct the RTSP URL. Consider assigning a static IP via your router's DHCP reservation to prevent the address from changing.
Use ONVIF scan or enter the RTSP URL manually
Recommended — ONVIF Auto-Discovery: In SmartRTSP, tap the scan icon. Vivotek cameras support ONVIF and will appear on your local network within seconds. SmartRTSP will configure the stream URL automatically.
Alternative — Manual RTSP URL: Tap + → Manual in SmartRTSP, then enter:
Switch between main, sub, and third streams
Vivotek cameras use numbered SDP files for multiple streams. The main high-resolution stream is live.sdp, the sub-stream is live2.sdp, and fisheye or multi-sensor cameras may offer a third stream at live3.sdp. Use the sub-stream (live2.sdp) on mobile to reduce bandwidth consumption without sacrificing real-time monitoring.
Vivotek RTSP URL Reference
Vivotek uses SDP-based RTSP URLs. The main stream is always live.sdp, with numbered variants for sub-streams and additional sensors.
| Stream | RTSP Path |
|---|---|
| Main stream (high resolution) | /live.sdp |
| Sub-stream (lower resolution) | /live2.sdp |
| Third stream / fisheye dewarped | /live3.sdp |
| Full main stream URL | rtsp://root:pass@IP:554/live.sdp |
| Full sub-stream URL | rtsp://root:pass@IP:554/live2.sdp |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between live.sdp and live2.sdp?
live.sdp is the primary (main) stream — typically the full-resolution output configured in your Video & Audio settings, often 1080p, 4MP, or higher. live2.sdp is the secondary (sub) stream, configured at a lower resolution and bitrate. When viewing on a mobile device or over Wi-Fi, the sub-stream uses significantly less bandwidth and battery, while still delivering real-time video. Configure stream quality in the web UI under Video & Audio → Stream.
Does Vivotek support ONVIF?
What RTSP URL do Vivotek fisheye cameras use?
rtsp://root:pass@IP:554/live.sdp for the raw fisheye stream. Some fisheye models also provide a dewarped panoramic or PTZ-style stream at /live3.sdp. Check your specific model's manual at vivotek.com to confirm available stream paths. SmartRTSP will display the raw circular fisheye output.
Why can't I connect to my Vivotek camera via RTSP?
root (not admin) — double-check your credentials; (2) RTSP service is disabled — re-enable under Configuration → Network → RTSP Streaming; (3) Port 554 blocked by firewall on the camera or your router; (4) The camera and your iOS device are on different subnets. Run SmartRTSP's ONVIF scan as a diagnostic step — if the camera appears there, it confirms network connectivity and credentials.