When you run a business, continually surveilling your property is essential. But what kind of surveillance system should you rely on?
Understanding all your options is critical, so read on to learn all about network security cameras and the benefits of investing in an IP-based surveillance system.
What Are Network Security Cameras?
Network security cameras, also known as IP cameras, are essentially the modern version of CCTV camera systems that have been used in businesses for decades.
As their name suggests, these cameras use your business’s IP network, just as your business’s internet does. They also use a digital video recorder (DVR) or a network video recorder (NVR), which houses the footage the cameras record.
No matter the distance or angle from the lens, these cameras can capture whatever is happening within your building or on your grounds. And that footage may prove invaluable to you at some point, depending on what may or may not occur on your property in the future.
Does Your Business Need Network Security? 5 Benefits to Consider
So the real question is: Could your business benefit from security cameras that use your existing IP address?
Check out the following benefits to help determine whether network cameras make sense for your needs.
1. Add Simplicity & Security
Most analog surveillance systems have far too many wires, which can complicate running the system and troubleshooting any issues. Network security cameras, on the other hand, only need one cable with a PoE switch, which functions as a data transfer and power source at the same time.
Not only does a PoE switch reduce the number of cables you’ve got going on, but it also helps improve system security. If you’re looking for a simple and secure surveillance system, a network camera system that uses your existing IP address is an excellent way to go.
2. Capture High-Resolution Video
Analog cameras typically capture video at a maximum of about 0.5 megapixels. And if you know anything about image quality, that’s a far cry from what cameras can capture in 2023.
For reference, some cameras can capture gigapixels (as in, one thousand or more megapixels), yielding a remarkably high-definition image that cannot be argued with when looking at security footage.
Network security cameras (aka IP cameras) can record in resolutions up to 16 megapixels, which is roughly 32 times clearer than video captured by analog systems.
If you want a clear picture of what’s happening on your business property, IP cameras are the only way to go.
3. Get Real-Time Surveillance Notifications
Unlike analog cameras, network security cameras (IP camera systems) boast some pretty cool (and useful!) features like live and historical viewing from a mobile device. Some systems can even alert management when unanticipated movement occurs on your property, so the appropriate parties can promptly respond to the scene to find out what’s going on.
An IP camera system will continually monitor your business property for potentially suspicious activity and send notifications to your phone when cameras detect that anything may be amiss. This feature may be invaluable for you, as it can provide you an opportunity to immediately respond to surveillance video in an effort to protect your business interests.
4. Optimize Data Backup
Most surveillance systems transmit the data to storage options like Solid-State and Hard Disk Drives. It optimizes data backup when combined with cloud storage solutions because the files are encrypted when captured, removing the risk of information loss.
5. Improve Transmission Accessibility
The information is saved locally with analog systems, leaving the data vulnerable if the storage container is damaged or stolen. Network-based security cameras are embedded and uploaded easily, keeping the information safe and accessible at all times.
Common Types of Security Cameras to Consider
IP cameras offer exceptional remote monitoring with high-quality images while allowing you to compress and transmit files for storage. For optimal performance, consider what resolution, field of view, and focal length, you need and if the camera will be used in low-light areas for precise image results.
There are four designs to choose from: dome, bullet, turret, and fisheye.
Dome
Dome cameras are mounted to the ceiling with a wide field of view, making them less intrusive than other options. Their biggest drawbacks being they're difficult to reposition and prone to IR bounce in low-light areas.
Bullet
This camera style works best mounted to ceilings and walls and is easy to install. They come with long-range vision; however, they don't have as wide of a field of view, so there's less coverage than turret or dome design.
Turret
The turret design comes with less IR bounce and long-range vision and is easy to reposition once installed, with its biggest drawback being that intruders can change their direction.
Fisheye
Fisheye cameras mount to the ceiling and offer a panoramic 360-degree view. They come with an easy setup and are less intrusive than other options, but the images must be de-warping to help correct any distortions in the pictures.
Need Network Security Cameras in the Twin Cities?
If you’re interested in setting up a network security camera system for your business, get in touch with our team at Central Telephone Sales and Service. We specialize in network wiring services and can provide you with a top-notch security system that meets your every need.
Another important thing to know about when shopping for security products for your business or government use is NDAA compliance. The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) prohibits using several Chinese-made video surveillance cameras and security systems by the US government. We’re happy to advise you on which cameras and recorders are NDAA-compliant and suitable for your organization.
To learn more or set up a network security system consultation, feel free to call us at 763-550-2000 or request a consultation online, and we’ll get in touch to schedule you.