Hikvision RTSP URL and how to access it – Nearly all Hikvision IP camera models have an RTSP URL. This RTSP URL allows users to display a live camera feed in third-party streaming software, including VLC Media Player and CCTV management applications that do not support Hikvision’s native protocol. In addition to IP cameras, this RTSP URL is also available on Hikvision DVRs and NVRs.
In this guide, I will show you how to use the RTSP URL for a Hikvision IP camera and access the live stream using third-party software.
What Is a Hikvision RTSP URL?
RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) is a network protocol that allows users to access live video streams from IP cameras. Most Hikvision IP cameras support RTSP, making it easy to integrate them with third-party software, video management systems (VMS), and media players like VLC.
There are several reasons why users prefer RTSP streaming:
- View live video using VLC Media Player
- Connect cameras to third-party CCTV software
- Use video analytics platforms
- Stream video to custom applications
- Connect cameras to Network Video Management Software (VMS)
What is Hikvision’s Default RTSP URL Format?
Hikvision’s standard RTSP URL typically follows this format. This format cannot be changed and users can use it immediately. Users can only change the username, password, IP address, and port.
Hikvision IP Camera RTSP URL:
rtsp://username:password@IP-Address:554/Streaming/Channels/101
Usage examples:
rtsp://admin:Password123@192.168.1.64:554/Streaming/Channels/101
Where:
- Username: IP camera login username (example admin)
- Password: Login password
- IP Address: Camera IP address
- Port 554: Default RTSP port
- Channel 101: Main Stream
Hikvision IP Camera RTSP Channel Number
So you can select the channel number from the Hikvision camera’s RTSP URL. By default, there are two IP camera channel numbers: Main Stream and Sub Stream.
Here is the list:
Main Stream
rtsp://admin:password@192.168.1.64:554/Streaming/Channels/101
The main stream provides:
- Highest resolution
- Maximum image quality
- Higher bandwidth usage
Suitable for recording and monitoring.
Sub Stream
rtsp://admin:password@192.168.1.64:554/Streaming/Channels/102
The sub-stream provides:
- Lower resolution
- Reduced bandwidth
- Faster remote viewing
Ideal for mobile devices and low-bandwidth networks.
How to Find Your Hikvision Camera IP Address?
To access the RTSP URL, you need to know the IP address of the Hikvision camera. An easy way to find the IP address of a Hikvision camera is to use the SADP Tool. Please read how to install the SADP Tool on a computer/laptop.
How to find IP address with SADP Tool:
- Connect the camera to the network.
- Open SADP Tool.
- Locate the camera in the device list.
If the camera’s IP address isn’t listed, it’s not on the same network. Please restore the camera to factory settings.
How to View a Hikvision IP Camera Live Stream in VLC via RTSP?
One of the easiest ways to test a Hikvision IP camera’s RTSP stream is with VLC. I personally use VLC every time I install a new Hikvision camera because it quickly confirms that the RTSP service is working properly.
Here’s how:
Launch VLC Media Player.
For MacBook users, please go to the File > Open Network menu and for Windows users, go to the Media > Open Network Stream menu.
Enter the RTSP URL. Click Open on MacBook or click Play on Windows.
If the camera view loads successfully, the RTSP configuration is working correctly as shown in the image below.
How to View Hikvision RTSP Stream Using CCTV Software?
Many third-party CCTV applications usually support RTSP streams directly from various camera brands, including Hikvision IP cameras.
List of CCTV camera software:
- Blue Iris
- iSpy
- AnyCam
- SecuritySpy
In this guide, I’ll show you how to connect a Hikvision IP camera using CCTV camera software. I use AnyCam because it’s a free software. Software like Blue Iris, iSpy, and others require a subscription.
Open AnyCam on your computer and click the plus icon.
Enter the IP address of your Hikvision camera. For example, I entered 192.168.1.64 as the IP address.
Enter New IP Camera Information
- IP Camera or Stream URL: I enter the IP address of the camera
- Check Camera Require Authentication
- Login: Camera login username
- Password: Camera login password
- Search for: Make sure all the marks are blue
After that click the Connect button.
The AnyCam software will automatically search for your camera. If it’s successfully found, a live view will appear.
Example of a live view of a connected Hikvision camera.
Does Using an RTSP URL Require ONVIF to Be Enabled?
No, using an RTSP URL does not require ONVIF to be enabled.
Many novice security camera technicians still assume that using an RTSP URL requires ONVIF activation. However, ONVIF is not required to access an RTSP URL on a Hikvision IP camera. This is because ONVIF and RTSP have different purposes. RTSP is a network protocol used for video and audio streaming, while ONVIF is an open standard that allows IP cameras, NVRs, and other security devices from various manufacturers to work together.
In this guide, I will not enable ONVIF to use an RTSP URL.
Common RTSP Problems and Solutions
VLC Cannot Open the Stream
Possible causes:
- Incorrect username or password
- Wrong IP address
- RTSP disabled
- Firewall restrictions
Solution:
- Verify camera credentials
- Confirm IP address
- Check network connectivity
CCTV Software Cannot Open the Stream
Possible causes:
- Incorrect username or password
- Wrong IP address
- RTSP disabled
- Firewall restrictions
Solution:
- Verify camera credentials
- Confirm IP address
- Check network connectivity
- Camera compatible
Some CCTV software may require ONVIF access, if live view is not available, try to enable the camera’s ONVIF function.
Final Thoughts
RTSP is one of the most powerful features available on Hikvision IP cameras. It allows users to stream live video to VLC, CCTV software, video management systems, and industrial monitoring platforms without relying solely on Hikvision applications. Based on my experience working with Hikvision deployments in commercial and industrial environments, VLC remains the fastest method for testing RTSP connectivity. Once the stream works in VLC, integrating it into CCTV software or monitoring systems becomes much easier.
Okay, that’s it for now. I hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any questions about the RTSP URL for Hikvision IP cameras, please leave them in the comments below.