ONVIF, a global standardization initiative for IP-based physical security products, introduced 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 said to be 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, according to an announcement. 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.

To learn more about ONVIF conformant products, including member companies and their conformant models, go here.