ONVIF

What is ONVIF?

ONVIF stands for the Open Network Video Interface Forum and is a global initiative to ensure interoperability between different IP-based security products. In essence, ONVIF creates a common language that allows products from various manufacturers to communicate and work together seamlessly. As a result, ONVIF-compliant devices, such as cameras from one brand, can be integrated with video recorders from another, giving users the freedom to mix and match products from different companies. This compatibility across brands allows for flexibility in designing security systems, as consumers can select the best ONVIF-compatible products from a range of manufacturers knowing.

ONVIF VS RTSP

ONVIF, which stands for Open Network Video Interface Forum, is actually a security standard, whereas RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) is a protocol. To clarify, "ONVIF protocol" is an incorrect term since ONVIF is a standard established by several major video security manufacturers, including Pelco, to enable interoperability among products from different brands.

The ONVIF standard defines how protocols, such as RTSP, should operate to ensure seamless integration and functionality across various devices. RTSP, on the other hand, is focused specifically on controlling video and audio transmission between endpoints, ensuring that this occurs with minimal latency over an internet connection.

ONVIF IP cameras utilize specific standards, often referred to as profiles, to stream video and audio. These standards dictate the rules for how RTSP should function and outline the specific ONVIF specifications it should adhere to. In a broader ONVIF-compliant security camera system, all devices use the same RTSP protocol to transmit video to network recording devices, which are designed to receive and process the video in the specified format. This standardization ensures a cohesive and efficient video security setup where all components work together seamlessly.

Overview of ONVIF Profiles for IP-Based Security Devices

ONVIF stands for Open Network Video Interface Forum, which fosters a standard for how IP-based security devices like cameras, door controls, and alarms interact. Since these devices have diverse functions, ONVIF has introduced multiple profiles—sets of standards that ensure specific features and capabilities are consistent across different devices and brands.

Each profile includes mandatory features, which are essential for any ONVIF-compliant device or client, as well as conditional features that may be optional based on the device type or use case. Profiles are designated by a letter and cater to various aspects of security systems, such as access control (Profiles A, C, D, and M) and video surveillance (Profiles D, G, M, S, and T).

Here's a brief overview of certain ONVIF profiles:

Profile A is designed for setting up and managing access control, enabling devices to enforce entry permissions, manage credentials, and organize access schedules. It can integrate with video through Profile S for a combined security solution.

Profile C focuses on door control and event management, allowing devices to handle site configurations, alarm responses, and the physical control of doors within an electronic access control system.

Profile D applies to peripheral access devices like keypads, biometric scanners, and sensors, managing the data they collect, like fingerprints or door codes, and the actions they take, such as locking or unlocking doors.

Profile G encompasses edge storage and retrieval of video data, setting up and overseeing video recording through IP networks, including the streaming of video, audio, and metadata.

Profile M, ONVIF's latest addition, targets metadata and analytics applications, facilitating the exchange of information like object classification and event-based analytics across IP networks. This profile supports smart technologies and can tie into IoT (Internet of Things) platforms via communication protocols like MQTT.

Profile S handles basic video streaming, enabling ONVIF-compliant cameras and video recorders to transmit video over the internet and allows remote management of these video streams.

Profile T steps up from Profile S by offering advanced video streaming features, including support for modern video compression standards and two-way audio, along with certain analytics like motion detection.

Formerly active, Profile Q has been deprecated for not aligning with current cybersecurity standards. It once allowed for quick device discovery and configuration but is no longer promoted by ONVIF.

Through these profiles, ONVIF ensures that devices of different brands can be interoperable, allowing for a customizable security setup that combines the strengths of various products.

Are All IP Cameras ONVIF Compliant?

No, not all IP cameras are officially “ONVIF IP cameras.” However, the number of compliant devices is rapidly increasing. ONVIF now boasts over 20,000 conformant products, having doubled this number between August 2018 and April 2021. This significant growth over three years highlights the increasing value of interoperability in the security industry.

Why is there such a surge in ONVIF-compliant devices? In recent years, more products are adhering to the standard with the introduction of new profiles like T and M. Additionally, the broader commercial security camera trend is moving towards entirely IP-based systems, phasing out analog cameras in favor of ONVIF IP cameras.

While many well-established and renowned manufacturers, such as Pelco, utilize ONVIF standards, there are still devices and clients in the market that do not follow ONVIF specifications and compliance.

What Does an ONVIF Security Camera System Entail?

AAn ONVIF security camera system offers flexibility and future-proofing. You can opt for a video security system comprised entirely of one brand, or you can mix and match devices to meet your specific needs.

If you choose to start with a system from a single manufacturer, you retain the flexibility to add different brands in the future, provided they comply with the same ONVIF profile. This interoperability is the key advantage of ONVIF compliance, expanding your options both now and in the future.

To monitor all your ONVIF-compliant devices, there is free software available called ONVIF Device Manager. However, more user-friendly and feature-rich alternatives exist, integrating seamlessly with advanced video management solutions for straightforward monitoring.

Advanced tools allow you to perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Discovering devices on your network

• Adding or changing device credentials

• Editing camera settings, such as adding “Friendly” camera names for easy identification

• Finding and filtering sources

• Configuring the system

• Managing events

• Handling video analytics

• Managing users, including adding users and setting tiered permissions

• Updating device firmware remotely

• Backing up and recovering configuration files

• Generating and downloading reports

An ONVIF IP camera system typically uses Profile S, and may also employ Profiles T and G. If smart analytics are integrated, Profile M will be used as well. Together, these profiles ensure smooth transmission and reception of information across different devices.

How to Check Your ONVIF Version

To ensure future interoperability, it's important to keep ONVIF profiles up to date. The simplest way to check which ONVIF version your camera is using is through your device manager, where you can find relevant information about the current profile version.

Assuming your manufacturer adheres to the latest profile versions, updating your camera's firmware should automatically update the ONVIF profile as well.

If your product is no longer conformant, you'll face a choice: update your firmware or maintain ONVIF compatibility. Regular firmware updates are best practice, but be aware that your device may become less widely compatible if it no longer conforms to ONVIF standards.

Envisioning an ONVIF-Compatible Future: Making ONVIF Work for You

To transition your video security system to the ONVIF standard, start by evaluating your current setup. Identify which cameras are ONVIF-compatible, the profiles they support, and whether they meet your needs across all sites. If they don't, you'll need to seek out an ONVIF-compliant range of cameras and other devices, such as NVRs, that fulfill your requirements.

Since ONVIF is used in IP-based systems, focus exclusively on IP security cameras. Analog cameras are not worthwhile unless your encoder is ONVIF-compatible. For a future-proof ONVIF camera system, opt for security cameras with IP connections.

When searching for IP security cameras, related devices, or video analytics, avoid getting lost in the details of ONVIF profiles and protocols initially. Instead, focus on the broader goals you want to achieve with your system. Then determine how the technology, including ONVIF, can help you realize those objectives.