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How to Connect to Verkada Camera in C# .NET

Video Capture SDK .Net Media Blocks SDK .Net

Brand Overview

Verkada is an American cloud-managed security camera company headquartered in San Mateo, California. Founded in 2016, Verkada offers enterprise-grade cameras with a fully cloud-managed architecture. Unlike traditional IP cameras, Verkada cameras are managed exclusively through Verkada's cloud platform — there are no local RTSP streams, ONVIF support, or direct network access to the cameras.

Key facts:

  • Product lines: CD (mini dome), CB (bullet), CE (outdoor dome), CF (fisheye), CM (multi-sensor), CP (PTZ)
  • Architecture: Cloud-managed — all video processing and access goes through Verkada Command platform
  • RTSP support: No
  • ONVIF support: No
  • Local network access: No direct access — cameras communicate only with Verkada cloud
  • Video codecs: H.264, H.265 (managed by cloud platform)
  • API access: Verkada API (cloud-based, requires enterprise subscription)

No RTSP or Local Streaming

Verkada cameras do not support RTSP, ONVIF, or any standard local streaming protocol. They are cloud-managed devices that can only be accessed through Verkada's Command platform or API. Direct integration using VisioForge SDK's RTSP source is not possible with Verkada cameras.

Why Verkada Has No RTSP

Verkada's architecture is fundamentally different from traditional IP cameras:

  1. Cloud-first design: Video is processed on-camera and streamed to Verkada's cloud
  2. No local network ports: Cameras do not expose port 554 or any RTSP endpoint
  3. Managed access: All video access goes through Verkada Command (web/mobile)
  4. Zero-trust security: No direct camera-to-client connections on the LAN

This architecture provides simplified deployment and centralized management but eliminates direct SDK integration.

Integration Options

Option 1: Verkada API (Cloud-Based)

Verkada offers a REST API for enterprise customers that provides:

  • Camera listing and status
  • Video export/download (clips)
  • Thumbnail/snapshot retrieval
  • Event and alert data

The API does not provide live RTSP or real-time video streams. It is designed for clip retrieval and metadata access.

Option 2: HDMI Output (Select Models)

Some Verkada models include an HDMI output port for local display. You can capture this output using an HDMI capture card:

// Capture HDMI output from Verkada camera via USB capture card
var pipeline = new MediaBlocksPipeline();

// Use system video source (HDMI capture card appears as webcam)
var captureDevice = new SystemVideoSourceBlock(captureDeviceSettings);
var videoRenderer = new VideoRendererBlock(pipeline, VideoView1);

pipeline.Connect(captureDevice.Output, videoRenderer.Input);
await pipeline.StartAsync();

This approach provides real-time local video but requires physical HDMI connectivity and a capture card.

Option 3: Alternative Cameras with RTSP

If you need direct RTSP integration with enterprise-grade cameras, consider these alternatives:

Alternative Market Segment RTSP ONVIF Guide
Axis Enterprise Yes Yes Connection Guide
Bosch Enterprise Yes Yes Connection Guide
Hanwha Vision Enterprise Yes Yes Connection Guide
Avigilon Enterprise Yes Yes Connection Guide
Hikvision Enterprise Yes Yes Connection Guide

FAQ

Can I connect to Verkada cameras with RTSP?

No. Verkada cameras do not support RTSP, ONVIF, or any local streaming protocol. They are cloud-managed devices accessible only through Verkada's Command platform or API.

Does Verkada have an API for video access?

Yes, but the Verkada API provides clip export and snapshot retrieval, not live video streaming. Real-time video is only available through the Verkada Command web interface or mobile app. Enterprise API access requires a Verkada subscription.

Can I use VisioForge SDK with Verkada cameras?

Not directly via RTSP. The only local integration option is capturing the HDMI output of select Verkada models using a capture card with VisioForge SDK's system video source. For cloud-based integration, you would need to use Verkada's API separately.

What enterprise cameras support RTSP?

For enterprise cameras with full RTSP and ONVIF support, see our guides for Axis, Bosch, Hanwha Vision, Avigilon, and Hikvision.