How to set Up ONVIF on a Hikvision DVR/NVR – ONVIF configuration is an important feature if you want to connect a Hikvision DVR or NVR to other devices. With ONVIF enabled, Hikvision recorders can communicate with compatible third-party devices and CCTV applications, even if they’re from a different brand.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to enable ONVIF on Hikvision devices, including NVRs, DVRs, and IP cameras.
ONVIF Explanation on Hikvision System?
ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is a global communications standard that enables interoperability between video surveillance devices. In the context of Hikvision systems, ONVIF allows Hikvision CCTV cameras, Network Video Recorders (NVRs), Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) to communicate and work seamlessly with security devices and software from other manufacturers.
On Hikvision devices, ONVIF allows you to:
- Connect with other devices
- Integration With Other Software
- Use mixed-brand CCTV systems in one network
Before You Start
What do you need to prepare to enable ONVIF on a Hikvision DVR/NVR?
Actually, there’s no special software to enable ONVIF. All you need is a Hikvision device, of course, a DVR/NVR connected to power. Then, you’ll have access to log in and access the device settings. If you’ve forgotten your login password, you can simply reset your Hikvision DVR/NVR password.
Here are the Steps I Followed to Enable ONVIF on a Hikvision NVR and DVR
In this guide, I’ll do this by opening the Hikvision DVR/NVR menu through a web browser. I find this method easier than viewing directly on a monitor. It’s also a solution for those of you who don’t have a monitor on-site.
Use your laptop or computer to access the settings for Hikvision NVRs, DVRs, and IP cameras via a web browser.
Type the IP address into your web browser and press Enter.
If you successfully access the IP addresses of the NVR, DVR, and IP cameras, a login page like the one shown in the image will appear.
Log in using your username and password. The default username for Hikvision DVRs/NVRs is admin, and the password is the one you set when you first activated the DVR/NVR.
Select the Configuration menu.
Select Network > Advanced Settings > Select the Integration Protocol tab.
Check the Enable ONVIF box. Click the Save button to save the settings. Klik OK to Reboot. The DVR/NVR will then reboot.
Once the device restarts, you’ll know the ONVIF protocol is active.
As an example of this ONVIF, I successfully added a Hikvision DVR/NVR to third-party software such as Blue Iris or iSpy Agent DVR for CCTV camera monitoring. You can read how to connect a Hikvision DVR/NVR to Blu Iris.
The ONVIF settings for Hikvision IP cameras are the same as those for NVRs and DVRs. So, you can use the steps above to enable ONVIF on Hikvision IP cameras.
Updated September 19, 2026:
If you’ve enabled ONVIF but still can’t connect your Hikvision IP camera to another device, try setting up a separate ONVIF password.
I recently tried connecting a Hikvision IP camera to a Dahua NVR and found that the camera’s regular login password didn’t work. Instead, I had to use the ONVIF password to complete the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Hikvision DVR and NVR work with third-party ONVIF cameras?
Yes.
Hikvision DVR and NVR models that support ONVIF can connect with compatible third-party IP cameras.
Why is my ONVIF camera not connecting to Hikvision NVR?
The most common reasons are incorrect login details, disabled ONVIF service, incompatible firmware, or network configuration problems.
Do I need to enable ONVIF on the camera?
Yes.
ONVIF must be enabled on the IP camera before a Hikvision DVR/NVR can communicate with it.
Is ONVIF better than using the camera brand protocol?
ONVIF provides compatibility between different brands, while the manufacturer protocol may offer more advanced features. For basic video streaming, ONVIF is often sufficient.
Is ONVIF the Same as an RTSP URL?
No.
ONVIF is a standard that allows devices to connect to other devices, while an RTSP URL can be used directly without first enabling ONVIF.
Conclusion
Setting up ONVIF on a Hikvision DVR/NVR is a straightforward process that significantly increases system flexibility. It allows you to connect different cameras and software platforms without being locked into a single manufacturer. By following the steps in this guide, you can successfully enable ONVIF, add compatible devices, and build a more scalable and integrated CCTV system.
If configured correctly, ONVIF will make your surveillance system more powerful, flexible, and easier to manage in the long term.