ONVIF profiles are comprehensive sets of related features that enable systems integrators, end users and consultants to more easily identify interoperable products that fit a specific need, such as basic video streaming with Profile S, access control system configuration with Profile A, or metadata and events for analytic applications with Profile M. Once introduced, profiles remain unchanged throughout their lifetime to preserve interoperability between products that conform to the same profile.

“The profile concept and profile conformance test tools provide clarity to the market about product interoperability and enable systems integrators, end users and consultants to more easily select the right mix of products for their specific application,” said Leo Levit, chairman of the ONVIF Steering Committee. “Profiles and the test tools are part of the cornerstones of ONVIF and will continue to be a crucial aspect of the success of standardisation initiatives in our market for many years to come.”

Since the introduction of Profile S, which remains the most widely adopted profile to date, ONVIF has introduced several other profiles that include video and audio streaming, recording and storage, access control and video integration, access control peripherals and metadata handling. At ISC West last week, ONVIF member companies were showcasing their ONVIF conformant products at various booths throughout the show floor.

Founded in 2008, ONVIF is a leading and well-recognised industry forum driving interoperability for IP-based physical security products. The organisation has a global member base of established camera, video management system and access control companies and now has more than 20,000 profile conformant products. ONVIF offers Profile S for streaming video; Profile G for video recording and storage; Profile C for physical access control; Profile A for broader access control configuration; Profile T for advanced video streaming; Profile M for metadata and events for analytics applications and Profile D for access control peripherals. ONVIF continues to work with its members to expand the number of IP interoperability solutions ONVIF conformant products can provide.