There's a lot to consider when installing a home security camera system. Sites like DD Counter Measures offer recommendations on the best camera systems for home use. However, before you start going through the review lists, you need to decide whether to opt for a wired or wireless system. Knowing the pros and cons of each one will help you choose the right solution for your property.
Wired Security Systems
Used mostly on larger properties, wired security systems rely on cables from the video camera to a recorder, which connects to the router. There are two power options: a separate power cord or a Power Over the Ethernet (POE) cable. With a POE-enabled system, one cable provides the power and internet connection.
Key Benefits
Wired security systems aren't vulnerable to wireless signal interference, so they tend to be more reliable. For large properties covering a wide area, you'll probably want a wired security system with comprehensive coverage rather than focusing on certain key locations.
Wired systems support between 4 to 16 cameras all linked together. Remember that you will need a DVR or NVR recorder to store the security footage.
Potential Drawbacks
Installing a wired security system entails running multiple cables. Unless you're confident about doing this yourself or want to pay for an engineer, this may not be the right solution for you.
Also, you need to consider what would happen in a power outage - your wired security system would go down, too. Live in the back of beyond where power sources are an issue? Invest in a backup generator.
The Final Word on Wired
A wired security system works better for properties that are there long-term, due to the installation process. Your camera and recorder location will depend on access to power outlets. Be prepared to run cables between devices. Want to move cameras around once installed? This will entail re-running cables. However, once installed, you have a reliable security system with the ability to link more cameras if required.
Wireless Security Systems
Wireless systems connect to your home WiFi network, either with a cable or wirelessly. With these systems, security footage wirelessly transmits from the camera to the recorder.
The Plus Points
Installation is easy as there's no need for cables between the cameras and the recorder. This gives more flexibility about the location of wireless security cameras, providing there's access to a power source.
Live in an area without wireless coverage? Simply run a cable from the camera to the recorder. If you're renting, or just there for the short-term, wireless is easy to take down, move and set up.
Possible Downsides
Wireless security systems cater to up to four cameras. If you live in a mansion or large property that requires extensive coverage, a wired system is more appropriate.
Wireless can be vulnerable to power outages, too. Interference can be another issue, due to countless other wireless signals and broadcasts in the area. The signal of your router and other routers on the same bandwidth range could overlap if you live in an apartment block.
The strength of your wireless strength is affected by your router, the amount of interference and the route the signal takes to reach the cameras. You'll need to locate all wireless cameras within the WiFi range. Any metal or buildings between the cameras and the router may cause connection problems. The answer is to extend your wireless coverage with repeaters.
The Final Word on Wireless
Wireless is ideal if you rent or live in a small to medium property. It guarantees flexibility and is convenient to install. If a wireless signal is an issue, repeaters will strengthen the signal and ease the connection between more distant cameras.
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