Resolving Hik-Connect Third-Party App Integration Issues
While the Hik-Connect app is great for general use, you may want to integrate your Hikvision cameras into a more powerful third-party system. This could be a sophisticated Video Management System (VMS) like Blue Iris or Milestone XProtect, or a smart home platform like Home Assistant. This integration unlocks advanced customisation and automation.
However, making this connection work can sometimes be tricky. If you're struggling with stream failures, authentication errors, or general compatibility problems, this guide is for you. We'll cover the essential steps to ensure a smooth integration.
Key Concepts: RTSP and ONVIF
To understand the solution, you need to know about two key technologies:
- RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol): This is the standard method used to access the camera's live video feed. You'll need a specific URL to give your third-party app access to this stream.
- ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum): This is a protocol that allows devices from different manufacturers to work together. It helps with device discovery, configuration, and control (like PTZ).
Most third-party integrations will use one or both of these standards.
How to Fix Common Integration Problems
Let's break down the most common failure points and how to solve them.
1. Authentication Failed: Using the Wrong Credentials
This is the number one mistake. The credentials for a local network integration are NOT the same as your Hik-Connect cloud account details.
- Create a Local User: You must log in to your camera or NVR's web interface directly (by typing its IP address into a browser).
- Navigate to User Management: Go to Configuration > System > User Management.
- Add a New User: Create a new user specifically for your third-party application. Give it a strong password and, for security, only grant it the permissions it needs (e.g., "Live View," "Playback").
- Use These Credentials: Use this new username and password in your third-party app's setup.
2. Stream Not Working: Incorrect RTSP URL
If the credentials are correct but you still can't see a video feed, the RTSP URL is likely the problem.
- Find the Correct Format: The standard Hikvision RTSP URL is:
rtsp://<username>:<password>@<IP_address>:554/Streaming/Channels/101- Replace
<username>and<password>with the local user you created. - Replace
<IP_address>with the camera's local IP address. - The
101at the end denotes Channel 1, Main Stream. For the sub-stream (lower quality), use102.
- Replace
- Check the Port: The default RTSP port is 554. Ensure it's not being blocked by a firewall on your computer or network.
- Enable ONVIF: In the camera's web interface, go to Network > Advanced Settings > Integration Protocol. Make sure ONVIF is enabled and create an ONVIF user (you can use the same credentials as the local user you made earlier).
3. Features Missing or Not Working (e.g., PTZ, Motion Events)
You can see the video, but you can't control the camera or receive events.
- Use the ONVIF Port: When adding the camera to your VMS, ensure you're using the ONVIF port (typically port 80) for device communication, in addition to the RTSP port for the stream.
- Enable Motion Detection: For the third-party app to receive motion alerts, you often need to enable "Notify Surveillance Center" in the camera's "Motion Detection" or "Event" settings.
- Recognise Limitations: Be aware that proprietary Hikvision features, like their advanced AcuSense analytics, may not be fully compatible with third-party software. You will typically get the video stream and basic motion detection, but not the advanced, device-specific AI data.
By creating a dedicated local user, using the correct RTSP/ONVIF settings, and understanding the limitations, you can successfully integrate your Hikvision cameras into almost any third-party system.