@Brooklyn
I prefer wired cameras with a dedicated NVR, but cloud storage is easier and often cheaper. For most people, cloud recording is fine, but if you’re worried about losing footage, wired options with local storage are better.
@matt
Some cloud cameras offer limited storage on the unit itself. For example, the latest Nest models store an hour of footage during WiFi outages.
Trent said:
@matt
Some cloud cameras offer limited storage on the unit itself. For example, the latest Nest models store an hour of footage during WiFi outages.
Good point—thanks for mentioning it!
@Brooklyn
Look into a Synology system. It’s great for storing security footage and other stuff like family photos. I use the DS918+, and it’s been solid.
@Brooklyn
I’d just get a dedicated PC for video storage. You can build one cheaply with used parts.
Glad your family’s safe! For cameras, I went with Nest. I have a couple of doorbell cams and four Nest Cams (some wired, some battery). They work well with Google’s WiFi mesh setup, but having extra lights outside is important too. I use Nest floodlight cams and have cameras at key entry points.
Beyond cameras, consider an alarm system. Signs indicating you have security cameras and alarms also help deter intruders. Most burglars don’t want to risk a place with security. Abode and ADT are solid alarm companies that work with Nest if you go that route.
Wired systems with a DVR give you 24/7 recording and are the most secure. I use Reolink with four cameras, and I get alerts through the app. The DVR can handle four more wired cameras, and any Reolink wireless cameras will show up in the same app, though they’ll record locally to an SD card.
Cameras come in two main types:
- WiFi (Ring, Nest, etc.)
- Power over Ethernet (POE) like Reolink
WiFi is easy to install and often needs a subscription. POE is hardwired and can record 24/7 without a subscription, but installation is more complex. I prefer POE myself for the 24/7 recording.
Go with POE cameras and use software like Blue Iris to record. I have a 7TB hard drive just for video, enough to store two weeks of 24/7 footage from five cameras. Just remember, 4K cameras need good lighting at night.
WiFi or POE is a big choice depending on how tech-savvy you are and your budget. POE systems are reliable but pricier. Nellyssecurity.com can help you plan it out.
If you own the place and plan to stay, go with wired cameras (POE). Doing it yourself will save money, but pros can help with placement and customization if you’re not comfortable with setup.
Get a dog if you don’t have one.
Kolby said:
Get a dog if you don’t have one.
Got a German Shepherd recently… https://imgur.com/a/WaMGJMH
Kolby said:
Get a dog if you don’t have one.
Got a German Shepherd recently… https://imgur.com/a/WaMGJMH
Perfect choice!
I’d go with POE. It’s more work upfront but worth it for the reliability. Cloud-based cameras can be shut down if the company decides to end support.
Glad everyone’s okay. You might look into an NVR for local storage. They come in 8-channel or 10-channel units for 8-10 cameras, which should be plenty. Wired systems are usually more reliable, but I use a wireless system myself.
Hardwire all cameras (POE) and get a local NVR to keep footage on-site. That way, it works even if the internet is down. Add a UPS to cover power outages.
VigilanceVoyager said:
Hardwire all cameras (POE) and get a local NVR to keep footage on-site. That way, it works even if the internet is down. Add a UPS to cover power outages.
Unifi hardware is also a great choice for this setup.
Avoid WiFi-based cameras like Ring or Eufy. Thieves can block the signal. Go with POE for better security.
Ameliascarlet said:
Avoid WiFi-based cameras like Ring or Eufy. Thieves can block the signal. Go with POE for better security.
Not entirely true. Some WiFi cameras like Eufy and Arlo have options to store footage locally in case of signal jamming. Nest also stores footage for a short time to upload once WiFi is restored.