Hikvision Email Setup for Alarm Monitoring (New Firmware)

With the latest Hikvision firmware updates, we’ve noticed some slight changes in the setup process. While the core steps are similar to older versions, many installers have found that options are now located in different areas of the menu. As a result, we’ve put together this updated guide to help you get everything configured correctly for alarm monitoring with Farsight – whether you’re using traditional email-based alerts or the newer Hik-ProConnect platform.

Setting Up Hikvision Alarms for Monitoring with Farsight

Hikvision firmware version

Port Requirements:
Please ensure the following ports are open on the server:

• Port 8000 (Server communication)

• RTSP Port 554 or 5554 (Video streaming)

These are not browser ports. However, if you need remote access to configure the unit via a web browser, the default port is 80.

For security reasons, we strongly recommend changing default ports or using port forwarding to remap them externally.

If you require assistance with remote setup or port configuration, please let us know.

You need a static IP for a traditional set-up or a DNS address,

Enter your external IP, followed by a colon and the browser port to access the configuration remotely. Alternatively, this can be done on-site by connecting directly to the NVR.

Example: http://123.123.123.123:80

How to send alarms to a CCTV monitoring station like Farsight

Step 1: Enable Email Alerts in Event Settings

• Go to: Event Center → Event Configuration
• Select the event type (e.g. Perimeter Protection, Basic Event, or Smart Event)
• Choose the camera channel and event (e.g. Intrusion Detection)
• Under the Linkage Method tab:
  ✅ Tick Send Email
  🔵 Click the blue “Email Configuration” link

Step 2: Fill in Email Settings

• SMTP Server device.farsight.co.uk or 88.202.173.144
• SMTP Port 25 (or try 587 if port 25 is blocked)
• Enable SSL ❌ Leave unticked
• Authentication ❌ Leave unticked
• Sender Name: Use site name
• Sender’s Address [email protected] (replace Sxxxx with your site code provided by Farsight)
• Receiver’s Address: Same as sender’s address
• Interval Leave as default

Attach Image Enable (tick the box)
Click Save

Step 3: Set an Arming Schedule

• Go to the Arming Schedule tab
• Set it to 24/7 or match the site’s specific needs
• Copy/paste the schedule to other channels if needed

Step 4: Checks

• Go to: System Configuration → Time Settings → Check date/time is correct
• Optional: In Maintenance and Security → Exception Configuration, enable email alerts for system errors
• Hik-Connect: Disable stream encryption – monitoring stations will be unable to connect if this setting is enabled.

Step 5: Walk Testing 

• Manually trigger the alarms to check delivery to the ARC
• If port 25 is blocked, retry using port 587

ARC Viewing Tip: Use Sub-Stream for Monitoring

We recommend using the sub-stream for ARC alarm responses. Even though it’s lower resolution, it offers:

• Faster loading – crucial for quick incident handling
• More stable video – performs better on mobile, 4G/Starlink networks
• Less distortion – avoids issues like freezing or heavy pixelation
• Lower bandwidth demand – helpful on sites with multiple cameras

Sub-streams often deliver a cleaner and more consistent image, making them ideal for remote monitoring.

Optional Setup: Using Hik-ProConnect Instead of Email

If the site is using Hik-ProConnect, there’s a paid ARC connection feature that simplifies setup and removes the need for port forwarding or SMTP emails.

Key Benefits:

• No need to open ports like 8000, 554, or worry about port 25
• More secure and reliable cloud connection
• Fully ARC-managed once set up

To enable this:

Select your preferred ARC (e.g. Farsight) from the list available on the Hik-ProConnect platform. Once selected, the ARC is linked, and we automatically receive an email containing the device serial number.

To complete the setup, Farsight will receive a confirmation email including:

The device serial number (this is automatically included in the Hik-ProConnect confirmation email)

The encryption key, which is provided separately when linking the ARC

We then use this information to program the device into our monitoring software

Assign which alarms/events the ARC should receive – and you’re done!

This is a great choice for newer installs or sites where email/port routing is unreliable.

Need a hand?

If you have any questions or encounter any issues while setting up your Hikvision device, our support team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re ready to provide expert guidance and ensure everything runs smoothly from the start.

📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call us: 01733 942 972

We’re here to help – no matter how big or small the query.