Everything You Need to Know About ONVIF Profiles S, G, and T

2025.06.20

When building a surveillance system, “compatibility” is a key factor that can’t be overlooked.

As IP cameras continue to replace traditional analog devices, users and system integrators often face the challenge of seamlessly integrating equipment from different brands and models.

This is where the ONVIF comes in providing a standardized solution to ensure smooth interoperability across diverse surveillance hardware.

What Is an ONVIF Camera? Key Differences Between Profiles S, G, T

What is the ONVIF Protocol?

ONVIF, or Open Network Video Interface Forum, is a nonprofit organization founded by multiple international security manufacturers. Its goal is to create an open standard communication protocol that allows surveillance devices from different brands to connect and exchange information, enhancing system compatibility and flexibility.

In simple terms, as long as your IP cameras, Network Video Recorders (NVRs), video encoders, or VMS software support ONVIF, you can build and upgrade your entire surveillance system without being restricted by brand.

Core Functions of ONVIF

ONVIF is based on Web Services and XML architecture and provides these key features:

  • Device Discovery: Automatically find and display ONVIF devices on the network.

  • Live Streaming: Support real-time video transmission.

  • Remote Control: Control PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) functions.

  • Recording and Playback: Remotely access recorded footage for playback and search.

  • Event Notification: Receive alerts for events like motion detection or tampering.

 

Differences Between ONVIF Profiles S, G, and T

To help users understand which features their devices support, ONVIF defines various Profiles — sets of features tailored to different applications. Think of these Profiles as a “universal language.” When cameras and recorders "speak" the same Profile, even if from different brands, they communicate and integrate smoothly.

Common Profiles include:

  • Profile S: Supports live streaming and basic recording; the most widely used.

  • Profile G: Focuses on storage, search, and playback of recorded video.

  • Profile T: Supports advanced features like H.265 video compression, HDR imaging, and video quality control.

There are also advanced Profiles (A, C, M, D) covering access control, audio, IoT integration, and more.

Tip: When buying cameras, NVRs, or VMS systems, always check which Profiles they support to avoid compatibility issues.

 

Advantages and Limitations of ONVIF

Advantages:

  • Improves device compatibility across brands.

  • Reduces system setup and maintenance costs.

  • Enables easy expansion and upgrades without vendor lock-in.

Limitations:

  • Implementation differences between brands may cause compatibility issues.

  • Some advanced features like AI analytics may not be fully supported through ONVIF and require proprietary solutions.

 

ONVIF vs. RTSP Protocol

Unlike RTSP, which mainly handles video streaming, ONVIF offers complete device control and management. Compared to other standards like PSIA, ONVIF is more widely adopted and supported, becoming the industry’s leading protocol. It covers device discovery, live monitoring, recording control, event notifications, and device management.

 

Application Scenarios

  • Smart Cities: Integrate street cameras from different brands into a unified platform.

  • Smart Campuses and Communities: Easily expand camera systems without worrying about compatibility.

  • Industrial Sites: Combine with AI VMS software for intrusion detection and control via ONVIF.

 

ONVIF Inside, Always Compatile

ONVIF ensures compatibility, easy expansion, and cross-brand integration. When selecting cameras, NVR or VMS, make sure they support ONVIF and the right profiles.

So your system stays flexible, future-ready and free from vendor lock-in.

Spark Omnieye cameras support Profiles S, G and T for maximum compatibility.
Get in touch via [Online Form]

Omnieye advanced 攝影機    

Advanced PM PTZ

Speed Dome Camera 

  

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Motorized Zoom Dome Camera

  

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When building a surveillance system, “compatibility” is a key factor that can’t be overlooked.

As IP cameras continue to replace traditional analog devices, users and system integrators often face the challenge of seamlessly integrating equipment from different brands and models.

This is where the ONVIF comes in providing a standardized solution to ensure smooth interoperability across diverse surveillance hardware.

 

What Is an ONVIF Camera? Key Differences Between Profiles S, G, T

What is the ONVIF Protocol?

ONVIF, or Open Network Video Interface Forum, is a nonprofit organization founded by multiple international security manufacturers. Its goal is to create an open standard communication protocol that allows surveillance devices from different brands to connect and exchange information, enhancing system compatibility and flexibility.

In simple terms, as long as your IP cameras, Network Video Recorders (NVRs), video encoders, or VMS software support ONVIF, you can build and upgrade your entire surveillance system without being restricted by brand.

Core Functions of ONVIF

ONVIF is based on Web Services and XML architecture and provides these key features:

  • Device Discovery: Automatically find and display ONVIF devices on the network.

  • Live Streaming: Support real-time video transmission.

  • Remote Control: Control PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) functions.

  • Recording and Playback: Remotely access recorded footage for playback and search.

  • Event Notification: Receive alerts for events like motion detection or tampering.

 

Differences Between ONVIF Profiles S, G and T

To help users understand which features their devices support, ONVIF defines various Profiles — sets of features tailored to different applications. Think of these Profiles as a “universal language.” When cameras and recorders "speak" the same Profile, even if from different brands, they communicate and integrate smoothly.

Common Profiles include:

  • Profile S: Supports live streaming and basic recording; the most widely used.

  • Profile G: Focuses on storage, search, and playback of recorded video.

  • Profile T: Supports advanced features like H.265 video compression, HDR imaging, and video quality control.

There are also advanced Profiles (A, C, M, D) covering access control, audio, IoT integration, and more.

Tip: When buying cameras, NVRs, or VMS systems, always check which Profiles they support to avoid compatibility issues.

 

Advantages and Limitations of ONVIF

Advantages:

  • Improves device compatibility across brands.

  • Reduces system setup and maintenance costs.

  • Enables easy expansion and upgrades without vendor lock-in.

Limitations:

  • Implementation differences between brands may cause compatibility issues.

  • Some advanced features like AI analytics may not be fully supported through ONVIF and require proprietary solutions.

 

ONVIF vs. RTSP Protocol

Unlike RTSP, which mainly handles video streaming, ONVIF offers complete device control and management. Compared to other standards like PSIA, ONVIF is more widely adopted and supported, becoming the industry’s leading protocol. It covers device discovery, live monitoring, recording control, event notifications, and device management.

 

Application Scenarios

  • Smart Cities: Integrate street cameras from different brands into a unified platform.

  • Smart Campuses and Communities: Easily expand camera systems without worrying about compatibility.

  • Industrial Sites: Combine with AI VMS software for intrusion detection and control via ONVIF.

 

ONVIF Inside, Always Compatile

ONVIF ensures compatibility, easy expansion, and cross-brand integration. When selecting cameras, NVR or VMS, make sure they support ONVIF and the right profiles.

So your system stays flexible, future-ready and free from vendor lock-in.

Spark Omnieye cameras support Profiles S, G and T for maximum compatibility.

Get in touch via [Online Form]

Omnieye advanced 攝影機    

Advanced PM PTZ

Speed Dome Camera 

  

Advanced DM

Motorized Zoom Dome Camera

  

Advanced DM

Motorized Zoom Bullet Camera

 
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