Understanding RTMP Cameras: How to Setup an IP Camera for RTMP Streaming [Updated for 2025]

Live streaming has two main sides: your content and the technology that gets it online. The gear and software behind the scenes matter just as much as the message you share. In 2025, IP cameras are more than just surveillance tools. They’re part of hybrid live production workflows, mobile event coverage, and AI-enhanced monitoring.

IP cameras, also called network cameras, have steadily replaced traditional analog and CCTV systems because they’re affordable, reliable, and easy to use. Many models now include a built-in RTMP encoder, making an RTMP camera setup simpler than ever. That means fewer extra devices, faster connections, and more control over quality and security.

RTMP streaming remains one of the most common ways to connect an IP camera to an online video platform. We’ll explain how RTMP camera streaming works, what to consider in your IP camera live streaming setup, and how to connect both Axis and non-Axis cameras. We’ll also show how Dacast makes it simple to connect, secure, and monetize streams from IP cameras, giving broadcasters an end-to-end workflow that works across industries.

Table of Contents

• IP Camera Basics & Streaming Quality
• IP Streaming Camera Use Cases
• 2025 Tech Trends
• What Video Protocols Are Suitable for IP Camera Streaming?
• How Does RTMP Streaming Work?
• What is the Difference Between RTMP and RTSP CCTV?
• RTMP Webcams and FFmpeg Live Streaming
• Using the CamStreamer App for Live Streaming
• Setting Up the Axis Camera with CamStreamer
• How to Setup Other IP Cameras for RTMP Streaming
• Hardware Recommendations and Workflows
• Security and Compliance
• Network Optimization
• Integrated Graphics with CamOverlay
• Using CamOverlay to Deliver Your Message Successfully
• Benefits of an IP Camera
• FAQs
• Conclusion

The content of the original article was provided by CamStreamer. This post was updated in August 2025 to reflect the most recent developments in RTMP streaming with IP cameras and related technology.

IP Camera Basics & Streaming Quality

What is an IP Camera?

An internet protocol (IP) camera is a video camera with a built-in RTMP video encoder, its own IP address, and often considerable intelligence. The camera’s IP address works just like the one on your laptop. An IP camera may sometimes have a built-in RTMP video encoder, but not all the time.

Axis Communications released the first IP camera in 1996. From that time on, Axis has been a leader in the field, continuously working on the technical development of its products. 

Looking at the product portfolio, we see that Axis cameras particularly excel when you use them outdoors. They’re highly resistant to impacts and weather fluctuations, including extreme temperatures, water, sunlight, and other adverse conditions.

Since IP streaming cameras are equipped with the technology mentioned above, they can communicate with other devices over the internet. That comes with many benefits.

Some of the advantages of this include:

• The IP camera’s video stream can be pulled from the camera by other devices with internet access
• The camera can be easily moved 
• The camera can leverage its intelligence (advanced video analytics) and autonomously track objects of interest
• It is easy to control the camera from a remote location.

IP Camera Streaming Quality

Wondering what quality video IP cameras can stream? Generally speaking, IP cameras are built to deliver a much higher quality video than analog cameras of most types.  You get 10 times more detail from a 5-megapixel IP camera than a 4-CIF analog camera. 

The video quality of most analog cameras maxes out at 704 x 480 pixels (4CIF). Comparatively, an IP streaming camera’s video quality can range anywhere from (720p/1080p) up to 5 megapixels (2560 x 1920). With this higher resolution of video IP cameras, you can:

• Zoom in and focus where needed 
• Get more detailed images and streams.
• Cover larger areas within the range of a single camera

4K, 8K, HDR, and Low-Light Performance in 2025

Newer IP camera models go far beyond traditional HD. Many now support 4K, and even 8K resolutions, giving broadcasters sharper detail and more flexibility for cropping or digital zoom. High Dynamic Range (HDR) has also become common, delivering richer contrast and more natural color when streaming in challenging environments such as bright stadiums or high-contrast indoor spaces.

For 24/7 streaming, low-light performance has improved significantly. Cameras designed for 2025 often include larger sensors, infrared modes, and AI-driven noise reduction, making it possible to capture clear video even in near-darkness. Together, these features help ensure that RTMP IP cameras provide professional-quality results across events, surveillance, and live productions.

IP Streaming Camera Use Cases

There are some use cases where IP cameras shine. IP network cameras for live streaming are especially suitable for 24/7 streams, broadcasts from poorly accessible locations, and shorter events that don’t require the physical presence of a cameraman, such as conferences, trade fairs, and lectures.

Other use cases include:

• Broadcasting nature: Because IP cameras don’t have to be tethered to multiple cables and can normally withstand a wide range of temperatures and external conditions, they’re a great solution for broadcasting thunderstorms, hurricanes, or wildlife habitats.
• Performances: Whether you want to capture a concert or a theatrical performance, IP cameras can deliver dynamic angles that keep audiences engaged.
• Graduation: Because they can be mounted high without requiring constant handling, IP cameras are excellent for capturing wide angles of ceremonies.
• Surveillance: From banks to construction sites to private properties, IP cameras offer secure, high-quality streams for monitoring and safety.
• Marketing: Hotels, resorts, zoos, and aquariums use IP cameras to showcase their surroundings in real time and attract new visitors.
• Hybrid events: In conferences or trade shows, IP cameras can feed directly into a live production setup, helping organizers reach both on-site and remote audiences.
• Corporate training: Businesses use IP cameras to broadcast training sessions across offices or to remote teams, ensuring consistent delivery and record-keeping.
• Construction time-lapse: Mounted IP cameras can capture and stream long-term progress of building projects, useful for stakeholders and marketing purposes.
• Sports streaming: Affordable IP cameras make it easier for schools, local leagues, and semi-pro teams to deliver live coverage of matches without a full production crew.

Besides quality based on years of accumulated expertise, Axis cameras have another unique advantage compared to some other IP cameras, thanks to their open platform, called the Axis Camera Application Platform (ACAP), space has been created for developers to come up with applications designed to meet specific customer needs and use cases.

How Dacast Customers Use IP Cameras

• Zoo livestream — A wildlife park uses IP cameras with RTMP to stream 24/7 views of animal enclosures to paying members, integrated with Dacast’s monetization tools.
• Church service — A local parish streams weekly worship using a fixed-position IP camera, secured with password protection for members only.
• Remote site monitoring — A construction company streams live feeds from multiple sites into Dacast’s dashboard, giving stakeholders easy, secure access from anywhere.

2025 Tech Trends

In 2025, IP cameras are no longer just for security—they’re integral to hybrid live productions, corporate training, esports, and 24/7 site monitoring. Modern RTMP streaming cameras increasingly support SRT or WebRTC streaming, offering low-latency alternatives to RTMP. AI-powered features such as auto-framing, motion detection, and analytics integration enhance video workflows and automate monitoring. 

5G-enabled IP cameras allow reliable RTMP camera streaming over 5G, supporting mobile and remote event coverage. Cloud-based camera management dashboards provide centralized control for multiple streams, making it easier to manage multi-camera setups and optimize IP camera to Dacast streaming workflows. Broadcasters can now scale live events with higher quality, lower latency, and minimal technical overhead, keeping content professional and engaging.

What Video Protocols Are Suitable for IP Camera Streaming?

An IP camera protocol is a set of guidelines that regulate how data is shared over the internet or a local network between cameras and connected devices. You can think of it as the “language” your camera uses to send a video stream.

The most widely used video streaming protocols for IP cameras include:

• RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol)
• RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol)
• HLS (HTTP Live Streaming)
• WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication)
• SRT (Secure Reliable Transport)
• CMAF/DASH (Common Media Application Format)

For IP camera streaming, RTMP to HLS or RTSP to HLS pipelines are the most common. Most IP cameras default to RTSP for capturing, while HLS is widely used for playback on mobile devices and browsers.

RTMP remains a key protocol for getting live video from an IP camera into a streaming platform — but in 2025, newer options like SRT and WebRTC play a growing role. SRT is valued for its reliability over unpredictable networks (like 5G or remote connections), while WebRTC enables ultra-low latency and interactivity for use cases such as telemedicine, auctions, or two-way video. Rather than replacing RTMP, these protocols often complement it, depending on the workflow.

Protocol Comparison: RTMP vs RTSP vs SRT vs WebRTC

How Does RTMP Streaming Work?

Traditionally, RTMP streaming refers to delivering video content to Flash video players. However, in the context of RTMP cameras with IP and most modern live streaming technology, RTMP is responsible for ingesting video feeds.

RTMP ingest transports video files from the encoder to an online video platform. For this process to work, each component must have RTMP compatibility. 

In the case of IP cam live-streaming, both RTSP and RTMP come into play. A video signal provided by an image chip inside a network camera must first be encoded into the H.264 video format. Then, you can send it over the Internet. 

In principle, all network cameras pack encoded video into RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) that is used to send such a video stream over the network. RTSP is a so-called “pull” type of protocol, meaning you need to connect to an RTMP-enabled camera via its public IP address and forwarded port and pull the video from it.

This technique is okay for the video management systems it was designed for, but online video streaming platforms, such as Dacast, need something else. They need an IP camera with a built-in video RTMP encoder to “push” the video stream to them. RTMP pulls the RTSP video stream from a network camera and repacks it into RTMP. 

What is the Difference Between RTMP and RTSP CCTV?

RTMP and RTSP are often compared because they serve different purposes in IP camera streaming. RTMP is best for sending live video from an IP camera to an online video platform like Dacast for public or private broadcasting. For example, a church or sports club can use RTMP for streaming directly to viewers across devices. RTSP, on the other hand, is typically used for local network setups such as NVRs or closed security systems. For instance, a construction company monitoring multiple sites internally.

Some IP cameras, including certain Axis models, support both protocols, giving broadcasters flexibility to use RTMP for internet streaming and RTSP for localized surveillance. In 2025, this dual-protocol capability is common, making it easier to choose the right workflow based on your use case.

RTMP Webcams and FFmpeg Live Streaming

There are several ways to connect an IP camera to an RTMP live streaming platform. The right choice depends on your workflow, level of control, and need for redundancy.

• OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) — A free, widely used tool that makes it easy to capture IP camera feeds and stream them via RTMP. OBS also supports overlays, multi-source mixing, and direct integration with platforms like Dacast.
• Wirecast — A professional-grade live production software with advanced features such as multi-camera switching, graphics, and live replays, often used for sports and corporate events.
• FFmpeg — A powerful open-source command-line tool for video and audio processing. It can directly push streams from a webcam or IP camera to an RTMP server with minimal overhead.

FFmpeg Example:

ffmpeg -f v4l2 -i /dev/video0 -f flv rtmp://your-streaming-server-url/live

This command captures video from a connected camera and streams it to your RTMP server.

Pro Tip: Many broadcasters use a hybrid OBS + FFmpeg workflow for redundancy. OBS handles the main production (switching, overlays, audio mixing), while FFmpeg runs as a lightweight backup stream to the same RTMP endpoint. If one fails, the other ensures uninterrupted streaming.

Using the CamStreamer App for Live Streaming

Running directly onboard the IP camera, the CamStreamer application is a simple piece of ACAP software. Its primary function is to repackage the RTSP camera’s video stream into the RTMP format, which the online video platform can then easily work with. 

That brings several advantages since broadcasters using this technology don’t need a computer or a public IP address. They also don’t need to set up port forwarding. 

With a few simple clicks, you’ve got the full potential of the IP camera at your fingertips. The RTMP camera is a computer in and of itself, so it can connect to the online video platform without any additional hardware, excess cables, processors, and so on. 

Thanks to the intuitive settings and no extra costs, a few seconds is all it takes to get a live broadcast up and running.

Setting Up the Axis IP Camera with CamStreamer 

The first step to setting up the Axis IP Camera with CamStreamer is downloading the CamStreamer app from their website. Choose the right installation package for your camera type, then enter your camera’s IP in a browser to begin configuration.

From there, select your streaming platform. Dacast is included as a preset, which means you only need to enter your RTMP details once. The CamStreamer app then automatically establishes the RTMP connection—removing extra steps and making setup faster. Once configured, your Axis RTMP camera is ready to stream.

Video Tutorial: [Watch our step-by-step Dacast setup guide here] (Dacast-hosted video embed or link).

Not all IP cameras have access to CamStreamer or a built-in app that converts RTSP into RTMP. In many cases, you’ll need an external software encoder such as OBS Studio or Wirecast to bridge the gap. The general setup process (network connection, encoder configuration, platform selection) remains the same whether you’re using Axis or another brand.

Axis + CamStreamer vs. Other IP Cameras

General IP Camera RTMP Setup (Non-Axis Cameras)

If you don’t have an Axis IP camera, setup requires a few extra steps. Here’s the simplified process:

Step 1: Choose WiFi vs Ethernet
Ethernet = higher reliability and PoE support; WiFi = more flexible placement.

Step 2: Choose an Encoder
Most IP cameras output RTSP, so you’ll need an encoder (OBS, Wirecast, etc.) to convert to RTMP.

Step 3: Select an Online Video Platform
Platforms like Dacast provide secure delivery, monetization tools, and professional-grade streaming features.

Step 4: Set Up & Configure Encoder
Add your camera’s RTSP URL in your encoder (e.g., OBS), then input your RTMP stream details from your video platform.

Once configured, your IP camera is ready to go live.

How to Setup Other IP Cameras for RTMP Streaming

Not all IP cameras include built-in apps (like CamStreamer for Axis) that convert RTSP to RTMP. In many cases, you’ll need additional hardware or software to stream from an IP camera to a platform such as Dacast or YouTube.

Here’s a streamlined process for setting up your camera:

Step 1: Connect via WiFi or Ethernet

• Ethernet → More stable, supports higher quality, enables Power over Ethernet (PoE).
• WiFi → More flexible placement, but less stable for long or high-bitrate streams.

Step 2: Choose an Encoder

• Most IP cameras output RTSP, but platforms like Dacast require RTMP ingest.
• Use encoding software such as OBS Studio (free) or Wirecast (professional).
• Axis users can leverage CamStreamer (acts as an encoder).

Step 3: Pick an Online Video Platform

• Dacast offers monetization, customization, analytics, and enterprise-grade security.
• Unlike social platforms, Dacast gives you audience control and scalability.

Step 4: Configure Your Encoder (OBS Example)

1. Open OBS → Add new source → Insert RTSP URL from your camera.
2. Adjust video size → Go to Settings > Stream.
3. Enter Dacast stream key and credentials.
4. Start streaming.

Recommended Bitrate and Resolution Settings

To avoid buffering or disconnects, match your bitrate to your network’s upload speed:

Leave at least 30–40% headroom between your upload speed and chosen bitrate for stability.

Troubleshooting Checklist: If Your Stream Isn’t Connecting to Dacast

• Check camera output – Does your camera support RTMP push, or do you need an encoder?
• Verify encoder settings – Ensure stream key, RTMP URL, and credentials from Dacast are correct.
• Test network – Run a speed test; ensure you meet bitrate requirements.
• Firewall/port issues – Make sure ports (1935 for RTMP) aren’t blocked.
• Lower bitrate – If unstable, reduce resolution/bitrate to match available bandwidth.
• Update software – Keep OBS/encoder and camera firmware up to date.
• Restart devices – Simple reboots often fix connection drops.

If issues persist, Dacast’s 24/7 support can assist with IP camera integrations.

Hardware Recommendations and Workflows

Choosing the right IP camera is crucial for professional streaming.

Look for cameras with built-in RTMP encoders, AI-driven automation, PoE support, and 4K/HDR capabilities. PTZ cameras offer dynamic control remotely, while SRT or WebRTC-enabled models provide low-latency alternatives for interactive broadcasts. Selecting the right hardware ensures compatibility with RTMP live streaming platforms like Dacast, supports multi-camera setups, and simplifies the process of connecting an IP camera to an RTMP server.

The following 2025 comparison table highlights the best IP camera for streaming 2025, showing features, price range, and ideal use cases. 

RTMP-enabled IP camera comparison table 

Integration Workflows

Efficient multi-camera streaming requires a clear workflow. Step-by-step setups for RTMP multi-ingest allow multiple IP cameras to stream into a single platform like Dacast, supporting PTZ control, captions, and multi-bitrate delivery. 

For hybrid events or corporate training, integrate using OBS with IP camera for RTMP streaming to manage redundancy or backup streams. A typical workflow connects an IP camera with built-in RTMP encoder to an encoder or platform, then configures stream output, captions, and graphics for live delivery. Proper integration ensures smooth, professional broadcasts with minimal latency and maximum viewer engagement.

Security and Compliance

Securing IP camera live streams is critical. Using RTMPS instead of unencrypted RTMP ensures end-to-end encryption for your streams. Strong password policies, regular firmware updates, firewall configurations, and VPN connections are best practices for preventing unauthorized access. 

Dacast integrates these security measures, supporting safe IP camera live streaming setup without compromising quality. For organizations handling sensitive content—such as corporate meetings or private events—enforcing role-based access and enabling IP whitelisting further strengthens compliance. By prioritizing security, broadcasters can confidently manage IP cameras with built-in RTMP encoders while safeguarding data and stream integrity.

Network Optimization

For reliable IP camera streaming, network optimization is essential. Recommended bitrate and resolution settings for RTMP IP camera streams vary by connection: 720p at 1.5–3 Mbps, 1080p at 3–6 Mbps, and 4K at 15–25 Mbps. Troubleshooting network congestion and latency involves monitoring upload speed, limiting background traffic, and choosing wired connections when possible. 

RTMP vs SRT vs WebRTC for IP camera live streaming allows broadcasters to select protocols suited to their network and latency requirements. Proper network planning ensures smoother streams, reduces buffering, and maintains consistent video quality, especially for high-value content such as live events or multi-camera broadcasts.

Integrated Graphics with CamOverlay

CamOverlay allows you to add professional graphics directly to your live stream, making it easy to enhance your content and deliver key messages. With this tool, you can overlay text, images, and animations without needing separate video editing software.

For example, you can:

• Add sponsor logos to monetize events or promote partners.
• Display captions or announcements to improve accessibility and engagement.
• Include CTAs (call-to-action banners) such as “Subscribe,” “Visit Website,” or “Register Now” to boost marketing ROI.

These overlays are integrated in real time, meaning viewers see your graphics immediately, whether you’re streaming a conference, sports event, or corporate training. CamOverlay is especially useful when paired with an IP camera workflow, as it enables consistent branding and messaging across all live content.

Using CamOverlay to Deliver Your Message Successfully

Unlike other methods of adding your own graphics to a live broadcast, CamOverlay has two specific advantages that result from the fact that displayed graphics become part of the live stream.

The first is that the graphics are immune to ad blockers, and the second is that there are no compatibility issues with different types of players.

The graphics are simply a part of the live stream, so you don’t have to worry about things like keeping them in focus, the way they look in various types of browsers, administration, timing, etc. 

The biggest benefit to this solution (and this isn’t true only of CamOverlay but of overlay graphics in general) is that you can make simple streams more attractive with information that gives the broadcast a story, an idea, and some context. 

It works well, for example, in the live camera stream of the Prague skyline (pictured above). Besides weather data, the stream displays facts about the individual monuments the RTMP camera is focused on.

Thanks to CamOverlay, viewers get helpful information from a plain reality stream, in this case, regarding the history and beauty of the capital of the Czech Republic. You can also choose a different call-to-action (CTA) and get results based on marketing or other needs.

Benefits of an IP Camera

Compared to traditional webcams, IP cameras offer far more flexibility. Because they connect over the internet, they don’t need to be near the computer processing the video feed.

Key advantages include:

• Remote control – PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras can be repositioned or zoomed in/out from miles away without a person on-site.
• 24/7 operation – IP cameras can run continuously without constant human monitoring.
• Power over Ethernet (PoE) – Cameras stay powered indefinitely when connected to a wired network.
• Scalability – Control multiple cameras across different locations from a single dashboard for streamlined multi-location streaming.

These features make IP cameras ideal for live streaming in environments like corporate offices, hybrid events, sports venues, or remote monitoring sites.

FAQs

1. How does IP camera streaming work?

An Internet Protocol (IP) camera has an RTMP video encoder as well as its Internet protocol just like a laptop. This enables the camera to communicate with other devices on the internet. 

As such, other cameras with internet access can pull a video stream from IP camera videos. 

2. Can security cameras be used for live streaming?

You can use security cameras for live streaming and it can be a cost-effective choice for video conferencing and remote surveillance. However, it depends on the features of the camera in question. 

Most current security cameras come with integrated web servers that can be accessed remotely through mobile applications and web browsers. As such, you can use these security cameras as webcams and broadcast their live footage over the internet. 

3. What protocol does an IP camera use for streaming?

For IP camera video streaming protocol, the most common streaming protocols for IP camera streaming are the RTMP and RTSP protocols. In general, all network cameras encode video footage into RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol), which is used to broadcast such a video stream over the network. RTSP is a “pull” protocol, which means you must connect to an RTMP-enabled camera (with an optional RTMP camera app) using its public IP address and forwarded port and pulls video from it.

4. How do I host an IP camera?

You can host and broadcast IP cameras and make your feed accessible online by connecting your camera to a server. This way users can view your live stream remotely through your domain or a web address you provide.

5. What is the best IP camera for streaming?

Here’s a list of some of the best IP cameras for streaming in the market:

1. Axis Communications
2. PTZOptics 12X-SDI
3. Sony SRG-X120
4. PTZOptics 30XNDI
5. Reolink E1 Zoom

6. Can I live stream from an IP camera over 5G?

Yes. Many modern IP cameras support RTMP streaming over 5G, allowing high-quality, low-latency live streams from mobile or remote locations without a wired connection.

7. What’s the best way to secure an RTMP IP camera?

Use RTMPS (encrypted RTMP), strong passwords, firewall restrictions, and VPN connections. Combining these measures ensures secure RTMP streaming with IP cameras.

8. Does Dacast support multi-camera IP camera streams?

Yes. Dacast allows multi-camera streaming, letting you manage multiple IP cameras from one platform for live events, corporate training, or multi-location broadcasts.

9. What’s the difference between RTMP, RTMPS, SRT, and WebRTC?

• RTMP: Widely supported for live streaming with low latency.
• RTMPS: Encrypted RTMP for secure streams.
• SRT: Low-latency, reliable transmission over unpredictable networks.
• WebRTC: Ultra-low-latency streaming for real-time interaction.

10. What are the recommended bitrate and resolution settings for RTMP streaming from an IP camera?

Settings depend on network speed and camera capabilities. For example:

• 720p: 1.5–3 Mbps
• 1080p: 3–6 Mbps
• 4K: 15–25 Mbps
  Adjust according to upload bandwidth for smooth streaming.

11. Can I monetize my IP camera stream with Dacast?

Yes. Dacast supports pay-per-view, subscriptions, and ad-based monetization, making it easy to generate revenue from your IP camera live streams.

Conclusion

IP cameras, whether Axis or other leading brands, are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable RTMP streaming camera solution. With built-in RTMP encoders, these cameras make it easy to connect your device to an RTMP server, simplifying the process of how to connect an IP camera to an RTMP server.

Modern IP cameras support advanced features such as RTMP streaming over 5G, remote control via software like OBS (using OBS with IP camera for RTMP streaming), and secure transmission options (secure RTMP streaming with IP cameras). By integrating your setup with Dacast, you can create a seamless IP camera to Dacast streaming workflow that’s scalable, flexible, and professional.

Whether you’re streaming wildlife, hybrid events, corporate training, or 24/7 site monitoring, Dacast helps you get the most from your IP camera with built-in RTMP encoder, optimize video quality (recommended bitrate for RTMP IP camera streams), and future-proof your setup (best IP camera for streaming 2025). 

Try Dacast today with our 14-day free trial—no credit card required—and experience how easy it is to set up a high-quality RTMP streaming camera workflow that works.

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