ONVIF is pleased to introduce the TLS Configuration Add-on (Release Candidate) for secure communications between devices and clients. TLS Configuration is the first in a new category of ONVIF add-ons, which are specifications that extend ONVIF conformance to product features that address a specific use case or end user need.

Add-ons enhance the ONVIF profile model by enabling conformance to additional features and capabilities not already included in ONVIF profiles. Profiles are permanent, fixed sets of features that enable a functional product to be developed solely on the profile. In contrast, add-ons are easily adaptable to evolving technology/specification requirements and support version handling to accommodate new technology additions or updates.

“The TLS Configuration Add-on Release Candidate is a great case for an add-on,” said Leo Levit, Chairman, ONVIF Steering Committee. “It enables ONVIF conformance in a crucial area of security: secure communications between devices and clients. TLS and other cybersecurity specifications must constantly be kept up to date, and the add-on concept enables those critical adjustments to be made within the confines of the ONVIF conformance process.”

The draft add-on supports configuration for Transport Layer Security encryption, enabling a conformant video management system to initially configure or update TLS settings in a conformant device to support encrypted communications between the device and client.

The add-on concept enhances the ability of ONVIF to respond to the needs of the market more quickly with increased interoperability and flexibility of choice for end users and systems integrators. Add-ons are also complementary to the ONVIF profile process, as products must also conform to an ONVIF profile before claiming conformance to an add-on.