1. Check local access
Connect the Windows PC and camera to a network that allows them to communicate. Guest Wi-Fi may isolate devices. Verify the camera address in the router or manufacturer’s app. If the model provides a web administration page, try opening it from the PC; absence of a web interface alone does not prove a connection failure.
2. Confirm RTSP is available
Consult the exact model’s documentation. Enable RTSP if required and use its documented stream URL. ONVIF discovery does not guarantee playback. If discovery fails but you know a supported RTSP URL, try manual setup in Rekami.
3. Verify camera credentials
Use the local camera credentials required for third-party access. They may differ from your vendor cloud account. Do not post a real RTSP URL containing a password in screenshots or support messages.
4. Test the documented stream
Test before saving. Check the address, stream path and credentials. If available, try the camera’s documented lower-resolution sub stream. Compatibility still depends on its codec and firmware; changing resolution is not a guarantee of codec support.
5. Isolate disconnects
Start with one camera. If it works alone but several streams fail together, reduce the number of streams and try lower quality to isolate load or network limits. Check Wi-Fi stability and whether the camera address changed. A router DHCP reservation can help keep the address stable.
Review local firewall permissions without disabling the firewall. Local viewing does not require forwarding camera ports to the internet.
Before requesting help
Record the camera model, firmware, whether discovery works, and what happens during the preview. Remove passwords and private connection details from anything you share. A failed preview is not enough to identify a single cause.