IP (Internet Protocol) cameras, also called network cameras, receive and send video recordings over the internet or LAN (Local Area Network) and offer digital video surveillance. IP cameras connect to a network just like mobiles and computers. Wi-Fi or PoE (Power over Ethernet) cables are used to connect these cameras.
IP cameras are frequently used with digital and network video recorders, which makes these cameras suitable for enterprise video surveillance. So, you can monitor the specific area from any location through IP cameras.
How Do IP Camera Work?
IP cameras work the same as digital cameras. It captures footage and capsules the files to transfer over the network system. IP cameras can be utilized with a wired network connected through an Ethernet cable to a wideband router or modem or wirelessly through Wi-Fi.
Where Are IP Cameras Used?
IP cameras are commonly used in places such as Retail stores, government buildings, banks, traffic intersections, business offices, industrial sites, military facilities, and more.
How Many Types of IP cameras are there?
There are four types of IP cameras are there:
1. PoE or PoE+ IP Camera
These cameras use Ethernet cables such as Cat 5 or 6 to provide data and power at the same time. These cameras eradicate the requirement of two cables separately for data and power. So, it reduces the need for hardware. The upside is that PoE systems cost less and are easy to install than traditional cameras. These cameras have fewer parts to deal with and are effortlessly maintained.
The PoE and PoE+ vary due to the power each one transfers to their systems. Standard PoE system primarily transmits power to IP cameras, and the electricity it sends is up to 15 watts. While PoE+ systems are used in more high-power cameras and transmit electricity up to 30 watts. Also, high power cameras have their own working mechanisms, such as cooling and heating.
2. Wireless IP Cameras
Wireless IP cameras use Wi-Fi to transmit video footage. The recording then transfers to the cloud or local built-in storage. These cameras are beneficial for small homes. But wired IP camera is less exposed to interruption and a good solution for large areas. The upside is that wireless cameras are free from the hassle of cords that look ugly in the home or office.
3. PTZ IP Cameras
PTZ IP camera stands for Pan-tilt-Zoom camera. A user can easily adjust the field of view of these cameras through a remote that allows them to track events with excellent control. These cameras commonly monitor public places and cover highly significant areas.
4. Fixed IP Cameras
Fixed IP cameras work in a stable position and offer one vision enclosed by the camera’s field of view. These cameras continuously monitor subjects surrounded by a fixed frame. Fixed IP cameras are mostly used inside and outside, such as in offices, homes, retail stores, etc. Also, these cameras support less bandwidth than PTZ IP cameras.
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What Are The Integral IP Camera Features?
Here are the essential features that each IP camera must have:
Video Data Encryption
The security of IP cameras depends on the level of network protection and data encryption. Encryption is the method of capsuling information by tussling data so that only an authorized person can figure it out. However, IP cameras are targeted in IoT breaches, so a user can use modern security methods to prevent hackers from stealing information and hacking the system. There are two conditions of encryption such as at rest and in transit.
- At Rest Encryption: At Rest Encryption means data is secured while on the camera. Public key infrastructure encryption standards ensure that a user who accesses the footage cannot derive the video data from onboard storage. Examples of PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) are RSA and AES.
- In Transit Encryption: In Transit encryption means data is secured while proceeding over the network or being transmitted from local storage to the cloud. Secure systems use HTTPS/SSL over port 443 to encrypt data in transit and allow only cloud services to access the connection.
Cloud and Built-in Storage
Storage is a vital consideration while analyzing IP cameras. According to their industries and local laws, many manufacturers must preserve security footage for a specific time. Most surveillance cameras will transfer footage on cloud storage, hard disk drive, or solid-state drive.
Advanced systems store recording on an HDD or SSD and back up the data in cloud storage. IP cameras are hybrid cloud security systems and are more reliable and safer than other systems that use only one method to store footage.
PoE Capabilities
IP cameras that use PoE connection to operate eradicate the considerable cost of using electrical wires. In comparison with wireless cameras, PoE IP cameras are less likely to experience involvement from close devices and have more secure data transmission.
What Are The Extra Features Of IP Cameras?
Here are some extra features of IP cameras:
Video Quality
IP cameras offer higher video quality contrast to other traditional cameras. Because these cameras record more significant areas and transfer digital signals. That feature makes the IP security cameras integrate advanced analytics such as facial or fingerprint matching into the system.
Steady State Streaming
IP cameras that function in a steady state utilize hugely less bandwidth, making them more cost-effective and scalable for enterprises and large businesses. The camera continuously uploads encrypted thumbnails and other computer data to the cloud storage every 20 seconds when it is in a steady state.
A steady-state IP camera function at about 20 kbps, which is 1/100 of a traditional cloud camera that records at 1 to 2 Mbps. Since steady-state cameras consume only a small amount of bandwidth, 100 steady-state IP cameras utilize the same bandwidth and share the same network system as one traditional cloud camera.
Quick Video Sharing
Modern IP cameras can share footage or record through live links, SMS, or emails. That minimizes the time and alerts the authorities for immediate action in case of incidents.
Edge-Based Video Analytics
Advanced IP camera systems integrate edge-based analytics and AI (Artificial Intelligence) to recognize items and people in the camera’s field of vision. Some software can utilize vehicle and facial matching to alert the authorities in real-time, enhancing inquiries. IP cameras also allow users to keep an eye on restricted areas and get notifications if something happens in the daytime.
What to look for while buying an IP camera
Here are some considerations while purchasing an IP camera:
- What is the range of the distance being surveilled?
- How to store the footage, and how much will it take space?
- Indoor or outdoor?
- How much internet bandwidth is required for the camera?
- What data encryption for security standards? Such as at rest or in transit and AES or RSA.
- Does it consume encrypted transmission? Such as TLS or SSL.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I set up an IP camera?
It is effortless to set up an IP camera. All you need is to have a network connection and then configure the camera. IP cameras can be set up to provide live recording for a specific event, continues capturing, and functioning at a scheduled time.
What are the common types of IP cameras?
Among surveillance cameras, four common types include the Dome camera, Turret camera, Bullet camera, and fisheye camera. All these cameras can be easily installed and have various applications.
Can IP cameras work without the internet?
Regardless of the name “Internet Protocol,” IP cameras don’t need an internet connection to operate. All that is needed is your local area network connection.
Do IP cameras need cable?
Wired IP cameras function over PoE network cables or Ethernet cables. These are the standard cable form used for modern video camera systems.
Are IP cameras worth it?
If you are looking for high-resolution cameras, opt for an IP camera. These cameras offer superior image resolution than traditional or analog cameras 20 times better. Also, IP cameras give the ability to zoom in and focus on any object clearly.
Wrapping Up
IP cameras have become integral surveillance systems for homes, businesses, and public places. A user can view the video recording from anywhere through a network by using a mobile or laptop. These cameras can be controlled remotely and enhance convenience in lives. There are several types of IP cameras in the market. All you need is to consider important factors and make a purchase.
Hopefully, this article has helped you a lot. For any questions, comment below. I’d love to respond. Also, share it with your loved ones. Thanks for reading!
