> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.vega25.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.vega25.com/surestream/readme.md).

# Introduction

Direct Camera-to-Client Failback without Redundant Servers

These pages cover **SureStream 10.0**. For earlier versions, see [SureStream 9.x](https://docs.vega25.com/surestream-9).

**SureStream** is a high-availability live video solution that maintains operational visibility even during events that take all Milestone XProtect servers offline. It embeds an ONVIF-compliant video client inside the XProtect Smart Client, so operators stream video straight from the cameras, bypassing the Management, Recording and Failover servers. See [Solution Ideas](/surestream/solution-ideas.md) and [Use Cases](/surestream/use-cases.md).

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/Z7gduhu9Wtw>" %}
Quick Introduction
{% endembed %}

## What's new in 10.0

* **A new setup** in the Management Client: cameras, camera access, streaming mode, multicast addresses and quality, tested before they are added. Nothing changes until the cameras are added.
* **A camera dashboard** with each camera's status, what is wrong and how to fix it, and right-click fixes.
* **Per-camera settings:** login, streaming mode, multicast address and multicast quality.
* **Sync with XProtect** for password and stream changes, **Fix time**, **Refresh list** for cameras deleted in XProtect, a **port map** and **site review** with CSV export, and automatic saving.
* **Smart Client:** video decoded on the graphics card, with performance equal to native XProtect views; a new tile header, clear messages, an M/U switch, Snapshot, Stream info, Reconnect and a new PTZ pad.

See the [Release Notes](/surestream/release-notes.md) for the full list.

## How SureStream fits into XProtect

SureStream is a MIP plug-in. It has two parts, and there are no extra servers or appliances:

| Where                                            | What it does                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| ------------------------------------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Management Client** (on the Management Server) | You set SureStream up here: choose the cameras, how SureStream logs in to them, how they stream (multicast, unicast or both) and their multicast addresses. SureStream tests each camera and creates a streaming profile on it. A camera dashboard then shows each camera's status and how to fix any problem. |
| **Smart Client** (on each operator PC)           | Administrators add the **SureStream** view item to shared views. Each SureStream tile plays live video straight from the camera, with PTZ, even when the recording servers, SQL Server or the management server are down.                                                                                      |

## Using these pages

These pages are for **installers and XProtect administrators**.

1. Check the [Requirements](/surestream/getting-started/requirements.md) and open the [Ports](/surestream/getting-started/ports.md).
2. [Install](/surestream/getting-started/installation.md) SureStream on the Management Server and on each Smart Client PC, and [activate the licences](/surestream/getting-started/license-activation.md).
3. Run the [First-Time Setup](/surestream/management-client/first-time-setup.md) in the Management Client.
4. [Set up SureStream views](/surestream/smart-client/setting-up-views.md) in the Smart Client for each role.
5. Keep an eye on the [Camera Dashboard](/surestream/management-client/camera-dashboard.md), and use [Fixing Camera Problems](/surestream/management-client/fixing-camera-problems.md) when a camera needs attention.

Operators who only watch video can read the [Security Operator User Guide](/surestream/smart-client/security-operator-user-guide.md).