INTRODUCTION:
As technology is advancing day by day, there has been a significant rise in using wireless security cameras with various alternatives occurring for previously used technologies. In the early days, security cameras worked with long obtrusive wires that ran across the walls or floorboards. However, with constant advancement, today’s cameras work wirelessly, using broadband or short-range technology to connect with a smart device or a control panel.
Considering the usefulness of security cameras, it is essential to understand and determine the type of wireless camera that can be the best security solution for you. This article suggests the working of wireless security cameras and indicates the benefits and potential risks of wireless security cameras.
Wireless Security Cameras Functionality
When we talk about a “wireless” camera, this refers to the type of camera that “communicates” wirelessly through Wi-Fi but needs to be wired for power through an outlet using a power cable. A wireless camera is not wire-free; instead, it is called wireless as it uses wireless internet.
It stores data from a wireless security camera on a cloud that can be accessed from anywhere, depending on the device you are using. Some devices come with the option of having a micro SD card to store videos on local media. Wireless cameras are popular in use as they are easy to install, and footage recorded from them is easy to view through smartphones or computers.
Wireless security cameras work either by motion or sound detection, or we can set them to record continuously if plugged into power. Depending on your camera’s quality, it can capture high-resolution video during the day and at night if equipped with night vision. New models come with machine learning with the advancing technology, which can offer useful features like alerts when a person or object is detected.
There are quite a few beneficial aspects of wireless security cameras that are to be kept in mind before opting to have one installed at your property.
Benefits:
Cost-Effective
Wireless cameras avoid the costs of construction that need to be paid for digging trenches for the wires. Because of its cost-effectiveness, these cameras have gained popularity in being installed in houses and business places.
Secured Cloud Storage
The quick access feature is a plus point in wireless cameras as the footage is stored directly on the cloud, which keeps the recording safe and can be viewed from anywhere through your personal device. These cameras use an encryption technique for digital data which keeps the video feed safe from normal or cybercriminals.
Flexibility
As compared to wired cameras that restrict surveillance locations and can only be placed in easy to reach places, wireless cameras allow the flexibility of being placed anywhere and programmed to a range of settings because of the lack of wires.
Ideal for Tenants/Homeowners
For those who are new to a security system, are on a budget, or renting their property, wireless security cameras are the right choice for them. As they are less expensive and can be moved and transported easily from one place to another just by being unplugged.
While these benefits seem convincing enough to buy a wireless camera, there are a few limitations attached to these cameras that must be considered.
Limitations:
Risk of Hackers
As important as data security is, the consideration of your recordings being hacked is to be kept in mind. Not necessarily can breaching of a security camera be done by a novice hacker. However, the potential risk is always there.
Reliance on Wireless Signal
Wireless security cameras work through Wi-Fi. Therefore, the signal strength or the scope of coverage depends on several factors, including where and how far your router is placed from the camera and more importantly the route through which the signal gets to the camera.
Interference
A significant limitation posed on wireless security cameras is the interruption or overlapping of signals. Especially if you are living in an apartment complex, interference can be particularly challenging where almost every apartment has at least one device using wireless signals.
Power Outages
Since wireless cameras require a hard-wired connection and are plugged into an outlet for power, and work over Wi-Fi connection. If because of any reason, there is a power outage, the cameras will stop working, whether it is recording or detecting motion. Even if there is a backup for battery, due to power outage, there will be an internet outage as well.
Conclusion
For safety concerns, installing a security camera is a brilliant investment. Not only do they give you peace of mind, but you can also monitor what is going on. With the uncountable brands, models, and types of cameras in the market, it can indeed get slightly confusing which one to choose. However, before deciding as to which system you should opt for, it is essential to evaluate the requirements that matter to you most related to your property and how much security it needs. The size of your property and the budget you have available are two of the significant aspects to keep in consideration when choosing a security system.
Moreover, a few points to keep in mind regarding the camera itself when choosing a one, include the features offered by the camera, like the resolution that will determine the clarity you can get, source of power, storage plans, and size considering how much footage you require, the amount of area you want to cover and whether you want the camera to be discreet or act as a visual deterrent. Therefore, it is of high importance to ensure you are getting the kind of camera that caters to your needs to dot. Hopefully, this article has helped you clear your concerns regarding wireless security cameras and whether you should opt for them or not.
