Manual Setup – Analogue Dahua CCTV (RTSP & Snapshot Guide)

This manual setup analogue Dahua guide explains how to correctly configure RTSP stream URLs and HTTP snapshot URLs for analogue Dahua DVR systems. Use the instructions below to connect analogue Dahua channels to third-party software, video management systems (VMS), and compatible security platforms.

Quick Answer

To manually configure an analogue Dahua DVR stream:

RTSP format:
rtsp://ADDRESS:PORT/cam/realmonitor?channel=CHANNEL&subtype=STREAMTYPE

Snapshot format:
http://ADDRESS:HTTPPORT/cgi-bin/snapshot.cgi?Channel=CHANNEL

Use your DVR IP address, correct port numbers, channel number, and valid login credentials.

1. RTSP Stream Configuration

RTSP URL Format

rtsp://ADDRESS:PORT/cam/realmonitor?channel=CHANNEL&subtype=STREAMTYPE

Parameter Explanation

  • ADDRESS – The DVR IP address

  • PORT – RTSP port (commonly 554)

  • CHANNEL – Camera channel number (1, 2, 3, etc.)

  • STREAMTYPE – 0 = Main Stream, 1 = Sub Stream

Where to Confirm the RTSP Port

On the DVR interface:
Configuration → Network → Basic Settings

Example – Main Stream (Channel 1)
rtsp://192.168.1.100:554/cam/realmonitor?channel=1&subtype=0

Example – Sub Stream (Channel 1)
rtsp://192.168.1.100:554/cam/realmonitor?channel=1&subtype=1

Note: DVR username and password authentication is required when connecting via RTSP.

2. Snapshot URL Configuration

Snapshot URL Format

http://ADDRESS:HTTPPORT/cgi-bin/snapshot.cgi?Channel=CHANNEL

Parameter Explanation

  • ADDRESS – DVR IP address

  • HTTPPORT – HTTP port (commonly 80 or 8000)

  • CHANNEL – Camera channel number

Where to Confirm the HTTP Port

Configuration → Network → Basic Settings

Example – Camera 1

http://192.168.1.100:80/cgi-bin/snapshot.cgi?Channel=1

Login credentials are required when accessing snapshot URLs.

2. Snapshot URL Configuration

Snapshot URL Format

http://ADDRESS:HTTPPORT/cgi-bin/snapshot.cgi?Channel=CHANNEL

Parameter Explanation

  • ADDRESS – DVR IP address

  • HTTPPORT – HTTP port (commonly 80 or 8000)

  • CHANNEL – Camera channel number

Where to Confirm the HTTP Port

Configuration → Network → Basic Settings

Example – Camera 1

http://192.168.1.100:80/cgi-bin/snapshot.cgi?Channel=1

Login credentials are required when accessing snapshot URLs.

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Download the Full PDF Guide

Prefer the original documentation format?

Download the official Manual Set Up Analogue Dahua guide here.

What is the default RTSP port for Dahua DVR systems?

The default RTSP port is typically 554. This can be confirmed under Configuration → Network → Basic Settings within the DVR interface.

What is the difference between main stream and sub stream?

Main stream (subtype=0) provides higher resolution video quality. Sub stream (subtype=1) uses lower bandwidth and is commonly used for remote or secondary viewing.

Do I need login credentials for RTSP or snapshot access?

Yes. Your DVR username and password must be configured in the client or VMS accessing the stream. Authentication is required for both RTSP streaming and snapshot retrieval.

Where can I confirm my DVR IP address?

The DVR IP address can be found within the device network settings under Configuration → Network → Basic Settings.