What is an IP Camera?
IP stands for Internet Protocol. An IP camera is a digital video system that can transmit data over a network. These systems work with mobile devices so that you can view your security feed from anywhere with an Internet connection. IP cameras may also be referred to as network cameras or webcams.
How Do IP Surveillance Cameras Work?
In a traditional security system, data is transmitted through a cable to a DVR (digital video recorder). With an IP camera, the Internet is used to transmit digital video. The unit contains everything it needs to do this. It’s connected to your network much like other external IT equipment like a printer. To store video, your IP camera may contain storage in-unit or it may transmit video to a device also connected to the network to be stored, also known as a network video recorder (NVR). Digital cameras and IP cameras capture images the same way, although the transmission method is different. Your quality won’t be compromised with an IP camera—in fact, the resolution is better.
What Type of Network Connection Will I Need for an IP Camera Surveillance System?
You can use either a physical router for your network (wired) or a WiFi connection (wireless). Wired networks tend to be more secure and reliable, although WiFi is easier, it leads to the increased need for security. Surveillance Secure can help you encrypt these networks and customize a wireless network to minimize chances of any problems with a WiFi setup. You may also choose to use a cellular network, which tends to be safer than WiFi, but also slower. Surveillance Secure can discuss your options with you to determine which one would be best for your custom setup and security needs.
How Are IP Cameras Different from CCTV Cameras?
Closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras are a traditional analog system of using cameras that use a DVR to record video. They’re reliable, relatively inexpensive, and easy to install. However, they don’t offer you the same versatility, high resolution, and higher security that IP cameras do.
What Are the Advantages of IP Surveillance Systems?
IP surveillance systems offer you many advantages that traditional CCTV systems don’t. They offer: · Higher resolution · Easy install · Improved capabilities for the cost · Faster and more reliable · Easy to manage · Easy to meet IT compliance regulations · And more!
What is a Security DVR?
DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. A Security DVR is a device that takes the video from analog cameras and converts it to digital format to be recorded on a hard drive. HD video can be recorded. These devices can go weeks or even months with no maintenance.
What is a Security NVR?
NVR stands for Network Video Recorder. This type of recorder is used only with digital cameras (IP cameras). It functions the same as DVR.
How many hours of video can the Security DVR/NVR store?
There are a number of factors that come into play. How many cameras are in the system? At what frame rate (FPS) is the video being recorded? What size hard drive does the DVR/NVR have? Our ]configured systems usually provide several weeks of archive when set to motion detect mode.
How does motion detection work? Through the camera or software?
Motion detection is a software-based feature. When pixels in the image change, the software alerts the system to begin recording. You can set the sensitivity on most DVR/NVRs so that drive space isn’t wasted on every stray cat that wanders through the property.
Can I view live and recorded video locally?
Yes. On-site monitoring of both live and recorded video is possible.
Can I view live and recorded video remotely?
Yes. All of our Security DVR/NVR systems are Internet enabled. That means you can view live and recorded video from anywhere via an Internet connection.
Can several users view the same site at once?
Most Internet-enabled Security DVR/NVR systems allow multiple users to view the same site simultaneously. However, as more people look at the same cameras/DVR/NVR at the same time, the bandwidth will be shared between them. This reduces image quality.
How many cameras do I need?
This will depend on the size and layout of the area you wish to survey. On average, we recommend one camera per 600 square feet for an Analog System and per 1200 square feet for a Digital System.
Can I use my existing cameras?
Yes. You can use your existing CCTV cameras. We offer a hybrid NVR which gives you the ability to use both Analog and Digital Cameras.


Didn't see the question you were looking for answered to? Send us your question and we'll do our best to get you an answer.