Viseron
Self-HostedOpen-source AI-powered video surveillance and NVR solution
Overview
Viseron is an open-source, AI-driven video surveillance and network video recorder (NVR) focused on privacy. It uses local AI models to detect objects like people, vehicles, and pets in real time, triggering recordings or alerts only on relevant activity. Supports RTSP/IP/USB cameras, offers a web UI for live monitoring, and integrates with MQTT for smart home automation. Deployed via Docker for simplified setup, all processing runs locally to avoid cloud data leaks, making it ideal for self-hosted home or small business use.
Self-Hosting Resources
Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml.
⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.
version: '3'
services:
viseron:
image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
container_name: viseron
ports:
- "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
volumes:
- ./data:/app/data
restart: unless-stopped Key Features
- AI-powered object detection (people, vehicles, pets)
- Multi-camera support (RTSP, IP, USB)
- Docker-based deployment with YAML configuration
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is Viseron hard to install?
Viseron uses Docker for deployment, which simplifies setup. You’ll need basic Docker knowledge and to configure a YAML file with camera details and AI settings. The official docs provide step-by-step guides, so beginners can get it running with some effort.
? Is it a good alternative to Synology Surveillance Station?
Yes—Viseron offers free AI object detection (a paid feature in Synology for some models) and local processing. Synology has a more user-friendly UI, but Viseron is better for privacy-focused users who want open-source flexibility without subscription costs.
? Is it completely free?
Viseron is 100% free and open-source under the MIT License. There are no hidden fees, subscription plans, or feature restrictions—you get full access to all its capabilities at no cost.
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Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Privacy-first design (local processing, no cloud uploads)
- ⊕ Free AI features (no premium subscriptions for object detection)
Cons
- ⊖ Requires server resources (GPU recommended for smooth AI performance)
- ⊖ Technical setup needed for camera and model customization