Option 1: Uplink Application (Camera Plug-in)
Requires installation of the Uplink Application on a compatible camera that supports third-party applications, or integration into its firmware. Once installed, the camera connects securely to the cloud without requiring inbound network or firewall changes. VXG offers pre-built plug-ins for supported camera brands and models and publicly available Uplink source code for integration with additional cameras.
Option 2: Uplink Gateway (Separate Device)
The Uplink Gateway runs on a separate device connected to the same local network as the cameras and DVR/NVRs. It provides cloud connectivity for existing ONVIF or RTSP cameras without installing software on the cameras or normally requiring network or firewall changes.
Option 3: Direct Connection by IP (Without Uplink)
Connects cameras directly to the cloud using their IP addresses. Requires port forwarding or VPN access, along with network and firewall configuration, typically performed by the customer's IT team. Supports standard ONVIF or RTSP cameras.
In summary: Both Uplink options initiate secure outbound connections over port 443 (HTTPS), so network or firewall changes are normally unnecessary, provided outbound HTTPS is allowed and local camera access is available.
Connection Options at a Glance
|
Requirement |
Uplink Application |
Uplink Gateway |
Direct IP |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Software on camera |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Separate gateway device |
No |
Yes |
No |
|
Network/firewall configuration |
Normally not required* |
Normally not required* |
Required |
|
Camera compatibility |
Supported models or firmware integration |
Standard ONVIF/RTSP cameras |
Standard ONVIF/RTSP cameras |
* Assumes outbound HTTPS on port 443 is permitted and the device has the necessary local network access.
Additional Camera and Device Types
Mobile phone cameras
VXG Mobile applications for Android and iOS turn any phone into an additional video camera that can be used along with other cameras in the system.
Wearable cameras and IoT devices
VXG offers an integration kit for wearable cameras and video IoT devices. VXG also offers engineering services to help with the integration.
DVR/NVRs
Many DVR/NVR systems can provide live video through RTSP, either directly or via the Uplink Gateway. Access to existing recordings typically requires integration with the DVR/NVR manufacturer's API. Contact VXG to confirm compatibility.