15 Free Docker-based CCTV and NVR Solutions - Get your Surveillance System Up in Mins

Revolutionizing Security with Open-Source CCTV and NVR Systems

Imagine having complete control over your home or business security system without breaking the bank. No hidden fees, no proprietary software lock-ins, and no need to rely on big corporations for every little update. That’s where open-source CCTV and NVR systems come in—powerful tools that put you in charge of your surveillance setup.

And guess what? We’ve already covered over 40+ amazing open-source CCTV and NVR options right here on this blog! From beginner-friendly solutions to advanced setups with cutting-edge features, there’s something for everyone.

Now, let’s dive into why these systems are so cool and why they’re changing the game. First off, they’re free (as in freedom). You get access to the source code, meaning you can tweak it however you want.

Want to add a custom feature? Go ahead! Need more storage or better performance? Customize away. Plus, because these projects are community-driven, you’ll find tons of support, tips, and tricks from fellow enthusiasts who share your passion.

But wait, there’s more! Many of these open-source gems are designed to work seamlessly with modern tech like Docker. This makes setting up your CCTV or NVR system as easy as typing one command into your terminal.

Yes, you read that right—one single command! It doesn’t get much simpler than that. Let’s break down why Docker is such a game-changer for small and medium businesses, and how it simplifies life when managing your security infrastructure.

Why Docker Makes Life Easier

Docker is basically a magical toolbox that lets you package all your software dependencies neatly into containers. Think of it like building a LEGO set: each piece fits perfectly together, and nothing gets lost in translation. With Docker, you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues between different operating systems or versions of software. Everything just works, no matter what machine you’re running it on.

For example, imagine you’re setting up an open-source NVR system using Docker. Instead of manually installing dozens of packages, configuring settings, and troubleshooting errors, you simply pull the pre-built image from Docker Hub and run it with a single line of code. Boom! Your entire system is up and running in minutes. How cool is that?

This approach is especially beneficial for smaller businesses that might not have the resources to hire dedicated IT staff. Even if you’re new to technology, Docker makes it possible to set up professional-grade systems without needing a degree in computer science.

Plus, since everything runs inside isolated containers, you don’t have to worry about messing up your main system. If something goes wrong, you can always delete the container and start fresh—it’s like hitting the reset button.

Another awesome feature of Docker is its ability to handle backups effortlessly. By using Docker Volumes, you can store important data like video recordings, configuration files, and metadata outside the container itself.

This means even if your container crashes or needs to be replaced, your valuable data remains safe and intact. Backing up becomes as simple as copying a folder, giving you peace of mind knowing your surveillance footage won’t disappear unexpectedly.

The Best 15 Open-Source Docker Solutions for CCTV & NVR

In this article, we’re excited to highlight the top 15 open-source CCTV and NVR systems that integrate flawlessly with Docker. These aren’t just any old programs—they’re handpicked for their ease of use, flexibility, and power. Whether you’re looking for basic monitoring capabilities or advanced AI-powered analytics, we’ve got you covered.

Some of these solutions are incredibly lightweight and perfect for beginners, while others pack a punch with features like facial recognition, object detection, and motion tracking. However, keep in mind that some of the fancier features may require beefier hardware to run smoothly. For instance, if you’re planning to use AI-based algorithms for real-time analysis, you’ll probably need a decent GPU or a powerful CPU. But hey, isn’t it worth investing in good hardware when you’re getting all this functionality for free?

1- Shinobi CCTV Docker image

Shinobi CCTV is an open-source surveillance solution that turns any device into a powerful security system. It’s lightweight, customizable, and perfect for both personal and professional use. What makes Shinobi stand out is its flexibility—you can integrate it with external databases, run it on Docker, or even deploy it in Kubernetes clusters.

This means you’re not tied down to specific hardware or software setups. Plus, with features like multi-camera support, motion detection, and cloud integration, Shinobi gives you all the tools you need to keep your space safe without breaking the bank.

GitHub - cr1st1p/docker-shinobi-cctv: Docker image for Shinobi-CCTV (opensource CCTV solution)

Docker image for Shinobi-CCTV (opensource CCTV solution) - cr1st1p/docker-shinobi-cctv

GitHubcr1st1p

2- iSpy Agent DVR

This is an unofficial multi-architecture Docker image for iSpy Agent DVR, allowing IP camera management across x86-64, arm64, and armhf platforms. It supports GPU acceleration, offers stable and beta versions, and includes breaking changes in newer releases. Perfect for flexible, cross-device surveillance setups!

This Docker image is slimmed down for Kubernetes, focusing only on CCTV processes without a built-in MySQL server. Config files (like conf.json ) are dynamically generated, and it’s way lighter at 520MB vs 1.3GB—perfect for efficient, cloud-ready setups!

3- Frigate NVR

Frigate is an open-source NVR (Network Video Recorder) designed to bring AI-driven video analytics to your home security setup. Unlike traditional NVRs, Frigate uses machine learning to detect objects, people, and vehicles in real time, making it a powerful tool for smarter surveillance.

It’s lightweight, runs on Docker, and integrates seamlessly with platforms like Home Assistant, turning your existing cameras into intelligent eyes that watch over your space.

Running Frigate inside virtual machines like Proxmox or ESXi can cause issues due to limited access to hardware accelerators like GPUs or Coral TPUs.

Key Features of Frigate:

• AI Object Detection : Detects and alerts you about specific objects or movements.
• GPU & Coral TPU Support : Leverages hardware acceleration for faster processing.
• Home Assistant Integration : Works as an addon for HassOS, enhancing smart home capabilities.
• Customizable Alerts : Set rules for when and how you want to be notified.
• Local Processing : Keeps your data private by processing everything locally.

Running Frigate via Docker

To get Frigate up and running, you’ll need a few things in place:

1. Docker Host : Frigate can run on any device with Docker installed, including Raspberry Pi, NAS devices, or dedicated servers. For best performance, use a Debian-based OS directly on bare metal instead of a virtual machine.
2. MQTT Broker (Optional) : While not strictly required, an MQTT broker is necessary if you plan to integrate Frigate with Home Assistant. Both systems must connect to the same broker.
3. Hardware Setup :
   • Storage : Map Docker volumes for /config, /media/frigate/clips, /media/frigate/recordings, and /media/frigate/exports. These folders handle configuration, snapshots, recordings, and exports, respectively.
   • Cache : Use /tmp/cache for temporary files during processing. A tmpfs mount is recommended here for speed.
   • Shared Memory : /dev/shm stores raw decoded frames. Don’t modify this unless you know what you’re doing.
4. Ports : Frigate uses specific ports for communication. Map them according to your needs:
   • Web UI: Default port is 5000.
   • RTSP streams: Typically uses port 8554.

Frigate NVR Made Simple: Step-by-Step Docker Installation for Your CCTV Smart Home (Raspberry Pi Compatible)

Master Your Surveillance: How to Install Frigate NVR System with Docker in Minutes! Best for Smart Homes!

MEDevel.com | Open-source Apps for Healthcare and EnterpriseHazem Abbas

4- Viseron

Viseron is a self-hosted, open-source NVR with AI-powered features like object detection, face recognition, and motion tracking. It supports hardware acceleration, offers a user-friendly web UI, and integrates with Home Assistant via MQTT.

With Docker support for various architectures (Raspberry Pi, Jetson Nano, amd64), it’s easy to set up and manage multiple camera types.

Viseron: Set Up Your Own Free Local CCTV NVR Using Docker (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

Viseron is an open-source self-hosted CCTV and local-first NVR solution with AI-powered computer vision support. It comes with amazing powerful features as Object detection, motion detection, face recognition, image classification, and supports hardware acceleration. Key features * Object Detection: YOLOv3/v4/v7 (OpenCV), Tensorflow (Google Coral EdgeTPU), CodeProject.AI * Motion Detection

MEDevel.com | Open-source Apps for Healthcare and EnterpriseHazem Abbas

5- Motioneye Docker

MotionEye transforms any webcam into a smart surveillance system with motion detection, live streaming, and email notifications. Built on Motion, it captures videos and images when motion is detected, streams footage over HTTP, and stores everything locally. Its Docker integration makes setup effortless—just plug in a camera, run the container, and you're good to go.

MotionEye is a sleek, Docker-powered CCTV solution that turns webcams into intelligent security tools. With real-time motion detection, live streaming, automated recordings, and email alerts, it’s perfect for home or small business use. Running on Docker ensures compatibility and ease of setup, making security simple, accessible, and cool!

GitHub - jshridha/docker-motioneye: A surveillance solution base on Motion and Docker

A surveillance solution base on Motion and Docker. Contribute to jshridha/docker-motioneye development by creating an account on GitHub.

GitHubjshridha

6- go2rtc

This is the ultimate camera streaming app that makes sharing live footage a breeze! With support for RTSP, WebRTC, HomeKit, and more, it’s like a Swiss Army knife for video streaming. Zero-config and super lightweight, it works on any device (Windows, macOS, Linux, ARM) with zero delays.

Need to stream to YouTube or even Telegram? No problem! And yes, you can set it up effortlessly using Docker—just download, install, and feel the power of seamless, lag-free streaming. Your cameras have never been this smart!

GitHub - AlexxIT/go2rtc: Ultimate camera streaming application with support RTSP, RTMP, HTTP-FLV, WebRTC, MSE, HLS, MP4, MJPEG, HomeKit, FFmpeg, etc.

Ultimate camera streaming application with support RTSP, RTMP, HTTP-FLV, WebRTC, MSE, HLS, MP4, MJPEG, HomeKit, FFmpeg, etc. - AlexxIT/go2rtc

GitHubAlexxIT

7- WebRTC/RTSP/RTMP/HLS Bridge for Wyze Cam

The Wyze Bridge project enables local WebRTC, RTSP, RTMP, or HLS streaming for Wyze cameras without modifications or third-party firmware. It supports various Wyze camera models, offering low-latency streams directly from cameras.

Key features include API integration, snapshot management, Restream.io support, and a user-friendly WebUI with authentication options.

GitHub - mrlt8/docker-wyze-bridge: WebRTC/RTSP/RTMP/LL-HLS bridge for Wyze cams in a docker container

WebRTC/RTSP/RTMP/LL-HLS bridge for Wyze cams in a docker container - mrlt8/docker-wyze-bridge

GitHubmrlt8

8- Tiny NVR

This is an open-source Docker setup that enables you to setup a CCTV system to capture IP camera streams.

GitHub - hpaolini/tiny-nvr: Docker container to capture IP camera streams

Docker container to capture IP camera streams. Contribute to hpaolini/tiny-nvr development by creating an account on GitHub.

GitHubhpaolini

9- Docker Image for Low-cost HD surveillance Camera Module on Raspberry Pi 3

This app turns your Raspberry Pi 3 into a motion-detecting CCTV camera using Docker! Capture videos, save them locally, and stream over the network. Perfect for DIY home security.

GitHub - collabnix/docker-cctv-raspbian: Docker Image for Low-cost HD surveillance Camera Module on Raspberry Pi 3

Docker Image for Low-cost HD surveillance Camera Module on Raspberry Pi 3 - collabnix/docker-cctv-raspbian

GitHubcollabnix

10- OpenCCTV server application

Yet another CCTV System setup using Docker, that uses OpenCCTV system, and it include a web control panel, a server, and comes with analytic server.

It can be easily installed using Docker Compose!

GitHub - ait-vgl/OpenCCTV: OpenCCTV server application

OpenCCTV server application. Contribute to ait-vgl/OpenCCTV development by creating an account on GitHub.

GitHubait-vgl

11- Mini CCTV NRV

A mini docker stack that allows you to easily record, clean and serve CCTV recordings made over RSTP while using a minimal amount of system resources.

GitHub - aziascreations/Docker-Mini-CCTV-NVR: Mini docker stack that allows you to easily record, clean and serve CCTV recordings made over RSTP while using a minimal amount of system resources.

Mini docker stack that allows you to easily record, clean and serve CCTV recordings made over RSTP while using a minimal amount of system resources. - aziascreations/Docker-Mini-CCTV-NVR

GitHubaziascreations

12- RTSP Stream Recorder

RTSP Stream Recorder is a tool for recording and processing RTSP streams. The tool uses FFmpeg for recording and Bash scripts for processing the streams.

GitHub - zkhan93/cctv: RTSP Stream Recorder is a tool for recording and processing RTSP streams. The tool uses FFmpeg for recording and Bash scripts for processing the streams.

RTSP Stream Recorder is a tool for recording and processing RTSP streams. The tool uses FFmpeg for recording and Bash scripts for processing the streams. - zkhan93/cctv

GitHubzkhan93

13- Cameradar

Cameradar is a tool to find and access RTSP camera streams. It scans networks for open RTSP hosts, detects camera models, and cracks stream routes/credentials using dictionary attacks. Use Docker for simplicity: docker run -t ullaakut/cameradar -t <target>. You can customize ports, add dictionaries, or save scan results as XML.

Test streams in VLC with rtsp://username:password@address:port/route. If Docker isn’t an option, manually build it—but beware of curl version issues with digest authentication. Handy for exploring and securing cameras!

GitHub - Ullaakut/cameradar: Cameradar hacks its way into RTSP videosurveillance cameras

Cameradar hacks its way into RTSP videosurveillance cameras - Ullaakut/cameradar

GitHubUllaakut

14- Smart Security Camera

With this cool Docker image you can turn any CCTV into a smart security camera! This project uses AI to analyze live RTSP streams, detect objects, and alert you via Telegram or Google Assistant.

Set it up with Docker, customize your .env file, and get real-time updates. Perfect for DIY home security—give it a try and star the repo if you like it!

15- camry

A Docker-based smart camera system using YOLO for object detection, Redis for caching, and RTSP streams. Built for seamless deployment and offline PWA support. Perfect for home security!

GitHub - initialed85/camry: A ghetto CCTV system built around YOLO (or maybe some other NN probably)

A ghetto CCTV system built around YOLO (or maybe some other NN probably) - initialed85/camry

GitHubinitialed85

Each solution has been tested thoroughly to ensure smooth installation and operation via Docker.

Our goal is to make sure you spend less time fiddling with technical details and more time enjoying the benefits of a secure environment.

Wrapping Up

Switching to an open-source CCTV and NVR system powered by Docker is one of the smartest moves you can make today. Not only does it save you money, but it also empowers you to take full control of your security infrastructure. Whether you’re protecting your family, business, or community, these tools give you the flexibility and reliability you deserve.

So why wait? Dive into our list of the best 15 open-source Docker solutions and discover which one suits your needs. Trust us; once you experience the simplicity and power of these systems, you’ll never look back. Happy securing!