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Network Configuration

Arvist is delivered as an on-premises solution via a Docker network. This Docker-based architecture allows for a flexible and secure deployment that can be tailored to meet specific customer needs. The Docker network hosts several key services that can be exposed based on customer requirements.

Arvist is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of cameras, providing flexibility while ensuring optimal performance. Below are the recommended camera specifications and setup guidelines to achieve the best results with the Arvist platform.

1. IP Cameras (RTSP)​

  • Recommendation: For the best performance and integration with Arvist, we recommend using IP cameras that support RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) and are configured according to the following specifications:

    Main Stream (Recording & RTSP)​

    • Encode Mode: H.264
    • Resolution: 2688x1520
    • Frame Rate (FPS): 15
    • I Frame Interval: 30

    Sub Stream (Detection)​

    • Enable: Sub Stream 2
    • Encode Mode: H.264
    • Resolution: 1280x720
    • Frame Rate: 5
    • I Frame Interval: 5

  • Functionality: These settings ensure high-quality recording on the main stream while optimizing the sub stream for efficient detection without overloading network or storage resources.

2. HTTP-Based Cameras​

  • Use Cases: In certain scenarios, HTTP-based cameras like Reolink can be integrated into the Arvist platform.
  • Functionality: These cameras utilize HTTP for streaming, making them a practical option when RTSP is not available.
  • Recommendation: For optimal performance and reliability, pairing HTTP-based cameras alongside RTSP-capable setups is advised for production deployments.

3. USB Devices (Webcams)​

  • Compatibility: Arvist also supports connecting to USB devices, such as webcams, when directly hooked up to the camera system.
  • Use Cases: This setup works well for small-scale installations, demos, or specific use cases that benefit from direct USB connections.
  • Recommendation: For high-resolution, scalable deployments, IP cameras with RTSP are the preferred choice.

Available Services​

1. MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport)​

  • Purpose: An IoT layer designed for delivering event-driven applications.
  • Functionality: MQTT can be used for external services to trigger other internal processes, both inside and outside the Arvist platform.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for integrating IoT devices and other event-driven applications with the Arvist ecosystem.

2. Arvist HTTP API​

  • Purpose: A RESTful API for interacting with the Arvist platform.
  • Functionality: Allows for the retrieval and submission of data to the Arvist platform via JSON.
  • Use Cases: Useful for integrating external systems with Arvist, enabling automation, data analysis, and reporting.

3. Arvist NVR (Network Video Recorder)​

  • Purpose: A service that manages video streams and related data.
  • Functionality: Provides MQTT publications, HTTP services, RTSP restreams, and more.
  • Use Cases: Offers lower-level access to Arvist, facilitating advanced integrations and custom setups.

4. PostgreSQL (SQL)​

  • Purpose: A powerful, open-source relational database management system.
  • Functionality: Provides robust data storage, retrieval, and management capabilities for Arvist's various data needs.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for storing and querying large datasets, supporting complex queries, and integrating with other Arvist services to maintain structured data.

5. Arvist Dashboard​

  • Purpose: A comprehensive web-based interface for managing and monitoring the Arvist platform.
  • Functionality: Provides access to various tools, modules, and settings within the Arvist ecosystem, including real-time monitoring, configuration management, and user administration.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for daily operations, allowing users to interact with the platform's features, manage devices, review footage, configure modules, and access reports and analytics.

Connecting to Arvist Outside Facility​

1. Cloudflare Zero Trust VPN Network​

  • Recommendation: Devices are highly recommended to connect to Arvist’s Cloudflare Zero Trust VPN network. This setup is essential for enabling remote premium support and seamless updates.
  • Configuration: No network configurations are required on the customer’s side for these services to function.
  • Limited Access: Customers can request limited connections to specific services via our VPN as needed.

2. Public Access Considerations​

  • Security Recommendation: For any public-facing access, use a reverse proxy such as Apache, nginx, or traefik to handle encryption and traffic control. This ensures only the necessary ports are exposed and all traffic is properly secured.
  • Direct Exposure: Exposing Arvist services directly to the open internet without a reverse proxy is strongly discouraged. A reverse proxy is the recommended architecture for any external access.

Additional Resources​