> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.flytbase.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.flytbase.com/flinks-and-flows/flinks/flinks-live-streaming/introduction-to-secured-rtsp-streaming/setting-up-authenticated-rtsp-streaming.md).

# Setting Up Authenticated RTSP Streaming

{% hint style="info" %}
While this example demonstrates VLC Media Player, the authentication workflow is identical for Milestone XProtect and Genetec Security Center. All three platforms use clean links and display pop-up credential dialogs.
{% endhint %}

### Generating Authenticated RTSP Links in FlytBase

#### Step 1: Navigate to Flinks Section

From your FlytBase Dashboard, click on the navigation panel in the top left corner and navigate to the **Flinks** section.

<figure><img src="/files/VG3Q757Lk7AW8b04bUxv" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>FlytBase Dashboard showing the main interface with docking station locations and live video feeds</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 2: Access Flinks Library

Go to the **Flinks Library** section and click on **Custom Flink**.

<figure><img src="/files/aNLovlAOX3hX1wUDAoEa" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Flinks Library showing available integrations including Data Processing, Live Streaming, and Detect and Avoid categories</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 3: Select Live Streaming Option

Select the **Live Streaming** option from the available Flink types and click **Next**.

<figure><img src="/files/b6VYDlclZ5CgeWDjZt2w" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Add custom Flink dialog showing Live Streaming option selected with Alarms and Data Processing alternatives</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 4: Configure your Flink

1. **Name**: Enter a descriptive name that reflects your streaming purpose (e.g., "Security Monitoring RTSP", "Maintenance Team Stream", or "Operations Center Feed")
2. **Description**: Provide context about the intended use case, such as "Authenticated RTSP stream for external VMS integration" or "Secure streaming access for operations team monitoring"
3. **Icon (Optional):** Upload a custom icon to easily identify this Flink in your dashboard
4. Click **Add** to create the Flink and make it available in your My Flinks collection

<figure><img src="/files/lxEJQxBQTuo8JFukTwlP" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Custom Flink creation form with name field, description area, and icon upload option</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 5: Access Your Created Flink

Once created, you will find your new Flink in the **My Flinks** section. Click on your newly created Flink to configure streaming options.

#### Step 6: Generate Streaming Links

1. Select whether you want to generate links for the Dock or Payload camera
2. **Important**: Check the option **"Secure the link with username and password"** for authenticated streaming
3. Click the **Generate Link** button

<figure><img src="/files/KF4tD8YnIE87UGAKyT8B" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

The system will generate:

* **Username and Password**: Automatically created credentials for authentication
* **RTSP Link**: Standard streaming link (e.g., `rtsp://stream2.flytbase.com:8554/...`)
* **RTSPS Link**: Encrypted streaming link (e.g., `rtsps://stream2.flytbase.com:8322/...`)

<figure><img src="/files/ytJI9wpXKKsDtOLRGb6E" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>Generated streaming links showing Username, Password, RTSP link, and RTSPS link with copy buttons</em></p></figcaption></figure>

### Configuring VLC Media Player

#### Step 1: Open Network Stream

1. Launch **VLC Media Player**
2. Go to **File** menu
3. Select **Open Network**

<figure><img src="/files/0szM16KcgaDEorKszamm" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>VLC Media Player File menu with Open Network option highlighted</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 2: Enter Streaming URL

1. The **Open Source** dialog will appear
2. Ensure the **Network** tab is selected
3. Paste your **RTSP link** (without embedded credentials) in the **URL** field
4. Click **Open**

#### Step 3: Enter Authentication Credentials

1. VLC will display an **RTSP Authentication** pop-up dialog
2. Enter the **Username** provided by FlytBase
3. Enter the **Password** provided by FlytBase
4. Optional: Check **Remember** to save credentials for future sessions
5. Click **OK** to authenticate

<figure><img src="/files/HoO3BM3rn8fctmr18inw" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>VLC RTSP authentication pop-up showing username and password fields with Remember checkbox</em></p></figcaption></figure>

#### Step 4: View Live Stream

Once authenticated, the live video stream will open in a new VLC window, displaying your docking station camera feed in real-time.

<figure><img src="/files/6b5LtIdyoBoaPRkvZ4GP" alt=""><figcaption><p><em>VLC Media Player showing live docking station camera feed with RTSP stream URL in title bar</em></p></figcaption></figure>

### Additional Notes

#### Payload Camera Access

This same process works for accessing your drone's **payload camera feed**. Simply select "Payload" instead of "Dock" when generating streaming links in Step 6.

#### Protocol Selection

* **Use RTSP** for local network access and maximum compatibility
* **Use RTSPS** for secure transmission over public networks (requires proper certificate configuration)

#### Troubleshooting Tips

* Ensure your firewall allows access to the streaming ports (8554 for RTSP, 8322 for RTSPS)
* Verify network connectivity between your device and the FlytBase system
* Double-check that you're using the correct username and password from the FlytBase dashboard
* For RTSPS connections, ensure proper TLS certificate configuration

### Professional VMS Integration

The authentication process demonstrated with VLC applies identically to professional Video Management Systems:

* **Milestone XProtect**: Add the clean RTSP/RTSPS link as a camera source, enter credentials when prompted
* **Genetec Security Center**: Configure the stream URL in camera settings, provide authentication through the VMS interface

Both systems will display similar authentication dialogs and handle the secure connection establishment automatically.