Best Home Security Cameras For 2017

With two million break-ins happening annually, adding a home security camera is a good idea to keep your family and home safe. While security cameras cannot stop someone from entering into you home, they can be a deterrent for would-be burglars. They can also provide valuable information to authorities should you have a break-in or robbery.

With so many options, finding the security camera you need can be a time-consuming process That is why we have put together reviews of some of the best security cameras for home use. We will examine the best security cameras for both indoor and outdoor use.

Best Indoor Security Cameras

Camera	Connectivity	Video	Integration	Storage	App	Price
Icontrol Piper nv	Z-Wave, Wi-Fi	1080p	IFTTT	Cloud	Mobile	Check Price
Nest Cam	Wi-Fi	1080p	Nest	Cloud	Mobile/Web	Check Price
Logi Circle	Wi-Fi	720p	NA	Cloud	Mobile	Check Price
Samsung Smart Cam	Wi-Fi	1080p	SmartThings	Cloud/Local	Mobile/Web	Check Price
Canary All-in-One	Wi-Fi	1080p	NA	Cloud	Mobile	Check Price

Icontrol Networks Piper nv

If you are looking for a high-quality security camera that comes with some great features, the Piper nv is that camera. Serving as a Z-Wave controller in its spare time, this updated version of the original Piper has a lot to offer.  With improved night vision video and higher resolutions CMOS sensors, you can now download clips to your photo gallery.

It also offers apps for both Andriod and iOS, which weren’t a feature with the first Piper. When it comes to appearance the design of the camera hasn’t changed and is identical to the previous version. However, there is a ring of infrared LED lights surrounding the lens, which adds a cool factor. It also boasts a 3.4-megapixel sensor and 1,920 x 1,080 HD resolution, along with a motion sensor and dual audio capabilities.

The Piper nv has some additional features that make it more than just a simple security camera.  With new motion sensors and sound detection, Piper can provide you with alerts even when you aren’t at home. It can even tell you the weather, including the current temperature and humidity levels. So you know if the humidity will result in a good hair day or a bad one.

It also plays well with a variety of Z-Wave smart home devices, like lighting options, window and door sensors and range extenders. If you have a pet that is home when you aren’t, there is a Pet at Home feature that will let you adjust the camera settings. This will keep your pet from setting off an alarm.

However, one downside is that it lacks a web interface. Controlling the device is done at the camera’s main control panel. These are the functions you can manage using the control panel:

• You can indicate if you are at home or away choosing “Stay” and “Away” or “Vacation” mode on the security panel wheel will update your status.
• You can disable all of the security rules.
• You can change camera modes; a loud sound and a spoken confirmation will follow any mode adjustments.
• You can access the Settings menu to enable or disable the siren, set temperature displays and to enable or turn off the Pet at Home Feature.
• Accessing Events and Recording pages will allow you to access all events and recordings that triggered the camera. You can see the time of day, date and what mode (stay, away or vacation) by pressing the play icon next to the event or recording. Pressing play will show you a 35-second video. All videos are stored in the cloud, Piper will save up to 1,000 free clips, and will overwrite them when the 1,000 limited is exceeded.

 

There are several icons along the bottom of the dashboard; each one has a different function:

Dashboard: provides overall performance metrics regarding camera performance.

Vitals: it will give you updates about how the system is working, but beyond that, it doesn’t do much.

Live Video: this new option allows you to view live streaming video in real time using your smartphone. You adjust the streaming to enable you to see the full screen from a fish-eye lens. You can also use finger swipes to access pan and tilt features.

Control: you can set up rules for Z-Wave devices, this interface allows you to adjust lighting, temperature and set schedules for when devices turn on and off.

Rules: setting rules will allow Piper to know what to do in the event of a security breach. Should a violation occur, the system will respond to your rules. You can even use the “trusted circle” feature to create a state that will notify neighbors, friends and even the authorities when you are away.

 

PROS:

• Superior HD image detail
• Zoom, tilt, pan and fish-eye options
• Plays well with Z-Wave devices
• Allow two-way audio communication
• Easy to install

CONS:

• Storage options are external
• No web interface, you need to have an Andriod or iOS to operate externally
• Connectivity issues can sometimes occur

Nest Cam Indoor

Until last June Nest was only known as the smart-thermostat company, but everything changed when Google made a move to purchase Dropcam. Following the acquisition, Nest officially entered the smart home camera industry. By buying Dropcam, they were able to benefit from Dropcams reputation as a high-quality camera provider. Their Dropcam Pro was often considered as the smart security camera to beat. As Google works to expand its smart home footprint, this addition was one of their most smart acquisitions.

No one knew what to expect when Nest announced they had a new and improved Dropcam Pro replacement. I mean after all, what would a smart thermostat company and, well Google, know about smart home security cameras?

Turns out a lot more than us skeptical tech nerds thought. Nest Cam Indoor is the superior camera when compared to the Dropcam Pro. While it is an impressive camera, there is one thing I find odd about it. The Nest camera has kept the Dropcam alerts setup. It doesn’t provide an option to customize alerts. It has a set program that will issue one sound or motion alert every 30 minutes. Managing alerts is a standard feature when it comes to security cameras. Which is why it is perplexing that the Nest Cam Indoor didn’t improve upon the Dropcam Pro and add custom alerts to their indoor camera option.

While it is an enhanced version of the Dropcam Pro, it has kept the original retail price of $200. But if you want continuous recording, you have to purchase a subscription service called Nest Aware. With Nest Aware, you can get ten days of continuous recording for $10 a month, or pay $30 a month for 30 days of continuous recording.

Nest Aware also provides enhanced alerts and features that allow the camera to recognize when the movement is caused by a human and not a pet to minimize false alarms. However,  you still cannot customize camera alerts.

If you own a Dropcam Pro, replacing it with the Nest Cam may not be worth it. While the resolution is superior, and the iOS and Andriod apps have been revamped, the Nest Cam is still similar to the Dropcam Pro. If you are new to home security cameras, and you want a reliable 1080p streaming camera, Nest Cam is a solid choice.

PROS:

• Provides 1080p high-resolution video which is an improvement on the Dropcam Pro
• The stand pivots which makes it more flexible
• iOS and Andriod apps are updated
• You can purchase the Nest Aware subscription service which allows continuous recording using the cloud

CONS:

• You cannot set your own alerts, and the preset alerts only send notifications every 30 minutes
• Because of the alerts, the Nest Cam isn’t an actual security camera
• Nest Aware still doesn’t provide customizable alerts; it can also be costly at $30 a month for 30 days of recording.

Logi Circle

There is no denying that the Logi Circle is an adorable little camera. But, as far as smart home security cameras go, the Logi Circle has some growing up to do. It does have some robust features, like 1080p HD, live streaming and custom alerts. The Logi also provides solid audio and its optics are comparable to the majority of 1080p cameras.

But it also has a few issues. The Logi Circle is not the best at identifying people. Designed to send an alert if someone walks in the camera’s range, the Logi may not know its a person. This results in no alert being sent, which if you are a security camera is kind of a problem.

Another area of improvement can be found in the rechargeable battery.  If you have the camera in a room where there is a lot of activity, like kids and pets, the battery life is between 2-3 hours when streaming at 1080p. If the room is quiet with minimal movement, you can get somewhere between 4-5 hours at 1080p before Logi’s rechargeable battery taps out.

Even at a lower 720p resolution streaming the rechargeable battery can’t make it to seven hours. Which means if you are away for the day the camera may only record 4-5 hours of activity. If you only need a few hours of content for nap times or to check in on pets, this camera is still a viable option. You can also use the power cord if you are going to be out for an extended period of time.

You can manage the Logi Circle using the iOS or Andriod app for basic features. This is the main control panel for both setup and use. With the app, you can watch your current and past video and manage features like night-vision and notifications.  The app is easy to use, and it comes with clear tutorials to help you get started. You will have to set up your Wi-Fi network, and if you need to change your network you will have to reset the camera which will delete existing content.

The app is easy to use, and it comes with clear tutorials to help you get started. You will have to set up your Wi-Fi network, and if you need to change your network you will have to reset the camera which will delete existing content. If you require to manage advanced features you can access the Logi Circle web app. It allows you to set motion zones and update login information.

PROS:

• It is easy to set up, and its small enough to be placed anywhere
• It has iOS, Andriod and Web apps that are user-friendly
• Logi offer two-way voice communication

CONS:

• You cannot change or configure alerts
• The rechargeable battery doesn’t last long, even when using a lower resolution

Samsung Smartcam HD Plus

If Samsung were a stalker, which they aren’t, but if they were they would have Google looking over their shoulder to see who is behind them. The SmartCam HD Plus is the newest security camera from Samsung. It follows the Samsung SmartCam HD Pro that was released in 2014. Priced around $190 retail, the SmartCam HD Plus provides some decent features at a reasonable price.

With 1080p HD live streaming and a 130-degree field of view, the SmartCam HD Plus is comparable to similar smart cameras, including the Nest Cam Indoor. While the SmartCam HD Pro looks a bit awkward the HD Plus does away with the white dated look and replaces it with a smaller black camera. While it looks sleek and modern, something about it still feels inexpensive.

While providing advanced motion and audio detection, and sending push notifications should an event take place, it still feels lackluster. It does all the right things, but it is lacking the wow factor we expect from Samsung. I mean they turned a refrigerator into a smart home device after all. If you want to dominate the smart home world you need something that turns heads.

And while this camera is highly adequate, its similarities to other cameras just leaves you feeling uninspired. In the introduction, it was announced that there was a marked improvement in the night vision option, but when tested against the HD Pro, the improvement was hard to see.

Plugging it in is kind of a pain as the location of the power port is awkwardly placed, but once plugged in the rest of the setup process is pretty straightforward. You will need to download the app and make sure the camera is connected to your Wi-Fi. Once connected the LED will turn green to indicate the camera is working.

When it comes to the app, it gets a bit more complicated. It can take a little time to become familiar with the layout. Feature rich you can find options that include audio activity logs, live streaming, and timestamped motion detection. The app will also let you save clips and provides adjustable settings for speaker volume, microphone volume, and management of motion and audio detectors. With a 16GB microSD card included with the camera, it has a decent amount of local storage.

The app also allows you to choose several different alarm sounds. You can have the alarm play a police siren, barking dog (which is only recommended if you don’t already have a barking dog) and a standard alarm sound. Other modifications allow you to adjust the screen’s brightness and add your own recorded audio to the alarm options.

It also has a lot to offer when it comes to viewing live streaming video; you can take a picture, adjust the resolution using low, medium and high-res options, have a conversation using the two-way microphone and you can record 30-second clips on demand.

PROS:

• It’s has a sleek, simple design
• It comes with a16GB microSD card for local storage
• It has a lot of useful features

CONS:

• The design is nice, but the camera feels cheap
• Night-vision is the same as the HD Pro
• Doesn’t integrate with SmartThings

Canary All-in-one

Designed to be more than just a surveillance camera, the Canary all in one comes packed with sensors, a 1080p camera, and monitors that detect everything from air quality to humidity levels in your house. It can also arm and disarm itself using geofencing to make it almost self-sufficient. The Canary makes a lot of awesome promises, but do all the added features make it less potent as a home security device?

To be fair, Canary was on Indiegogo just a few years ago, so it is expected that there will be adjustments and improvements to its line of security cameras. Canary All-in-one works as guaranteed, but that doesn’t mean it does everything successfully. But one thing Canary has in its favor is time to improve the things that need improving.

One thing that is of concern is the lack of compatibility with other third-party devices. One device does not support a security system make; it would be beneficial to Canary and its customers to integrate with other smart devices like doorbell cameras and smart locks. Nest is another option regarding its thermostat but given that Nest Cam is a competitor now it makes that collaboration a stretch.

The Canary is well designed, its sleek cool design makes it almost unrecognizable as a security camera. Its clean look makes it easy to disguise as another device, which allows you to place it in heavily traveled areas with minimal detection. Its 1080p night-vision camera and motion sensor will turn the recording on. It has a sweet looking LED ring on the bottom that is green when armed and yellow when disarmed.

The Canary also has ambient sensors that detect temperature, humidity, and air quality, along with a 90db siren that should scare off intruders and a Wireless radio. The Wi-Fi radio will also send data to your smartphone using the iOS or Andriod app. Canary will arm and disarm as it detects your comings and goings, and when you don’t want it to cease recording video and audio you can change it to privacy mode.

To set up your Canary you first need to download the app and tap Get Started this will prompt you to create an account using your email account and smartphone number. Once you are in the app the prompts will walk you through each step of the set-up process. The Wi-Fi process can be challenging, and you may need to update the firmware to connect your wireless network to Canary.

PROS:

• It has a cool, sleek design that looks like it belongs where you place it
• It senses temperature, humidity, and air quality
• Its 1080p resolutions produces high-quality videos

CONS:

• Connecting Wi-Fi networks can be challenging
• The camera is stationary, so it cannot tilt or pan
• No integration with third-party devices

Best Outdoor Smart Security Cameras

Camera	Connectivity	Video	Integration	Storage	App	Price
Canary Flex	Wi-FI	1080p	Wink	Cloud	iOS/Andriod/Web	Check Price
Foscam F19803P	Wi-Fi	720p	IFTTT	Cloud	iOS/Andriod/Web	Check Price
Nest Cam Outdoors	Wi-Fi	1080p	Nest, IFTTT	Cloud	iOS/Andriod	Check Price
Netgear Arlo Pro	Wi-Fi	720p HD	Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT	Cloud	iOS/Andriod/Web	Check Price
D-Link HD Outdoor	Wi-FI	720p HD	Wink, IFTTT	Cloud	iOS/Android/Web	Check Price

 

Canary Flex

Following the success of their popular IndieGoGo campaign for the Canary All-In-One, Canary decided they needed an option that was more flexible than the All-In-One. And now we have that option in the Canary Flex. The Flex serves both as an indoor and outdoor security camera, which makes it a more versatile camera.

The first thing you will notice is how easy it is to set your Canary Flex up. You just need to add the smartphone app and it will connect the camera to Bluetooth LE (low energy) and then search for your Wi-Fi network. You may have to help it join the right network and give it your network password, but after that, you are ready to go.

Mounting the camera is also an easy task. You can place the camera on a table for indoor use, or you can mount it on a wall or outdoor surface.  The Canary Flex has a powerful battery that will keep it from dislodging from the base. You can also purchase mounts from Canary, including a flexible mount that can be wrapped around other objects, or a stake mount that you can place

You can also buy mounts from Canary, including an adjustable mount that can be wrapped around other objects, or a stake mount that you can put in the ground. And if you are concerned about keeping your camera from being stolen you can also buy a locking mount that will keep it from being removed.

The Canary Flex is waterproof and comes with a lithium-ion battery that can last for several months. When not in use the camera will put its self in sleep mode, which extends the battery life. When the Flex detects movement it will put itself in waking mode, while it is awake it will capture both video and audio and send the encrypted footage to the cloud.

If you want the Flex to record on demand you can send it a signal and it will start streaming video. You can also put the phone numbers of your local police department and emergency services into the details should you need to signal an alarm to local law enforcement.

If you have more than one Canary device you can integrate them using the Canary app. This allows you to switch between your different devices. There are four operational modes for your Canary devices:

• Away: in Away mode, the Canary will still monitor activity and record video when it detects motion. You will get a notification on the app when the camera is recording.
• Home: Home is the only mode you can customize, you can set specific notifications and alerts.
• Night: Night mode lets you schedule when the Canary alerts you to any movement that happens when you are sleeping.
• Privacy: In Privacy mode all recordings, audio, and video, are turned off.

The Canary also operates without a hub, which makes it easy to set up and connect. Its compact size also makes it easy to move indoors when you need to and easy to place outdoors and is small enough to not be detected by would be intruders.

PROS:

• Battery or AC operated
• Simple setup and placement
• Works well with the Canary indoor camera
• Waterproof

CONS:

• Easy to remove if you don’t buy the secure mount
• Subscription service can be costly
• Not all parts are weatherproof

Foscam F19803P Outdoor Security Camera

The Foscam F19803P comes with everything that you need to set up your outdoor home security system.  It comes with a robust amount of instructional materials that will answer most of your questions during the installation process.  Depending on how handy you are when it comes to DIY installs it shouldn’t take more than an hour to get the system in place and working.

Made with a durable metal it is designed to hold up to the elements, it also comes with a solid antenna which allows for a better Wi-Fi connection than some of the other outdoor security cameras. You can also connect the camera using an ethernet cable, however, if you have a good wireless network in place you will be okay without the cable.

While it doesn’t include options like pan and tilt, it does provide some decent features. The F19803P offers live streaming and recorded playback, it also uses H.264 video compression to create smaller file sizes that will take up less space on your hard drive. The camera will also send alerts to your email any time the motion detection feature picks up movement.

What it lacks in pan and tilt abilities it more than makes up for it with its 70 degrees field of view that can cover most of the front and back exteriors for an average size home. However, without the pan function it will only detect motion that is in the viewing area. Which means you may need more than one camera if you have a large lot or yard.

Using 720 HD resolution, the F19803P can provide high quality still and video images. You can also connect an external sound device using the audio input and output jacks on the base of the camera. For added convenience, you can also control the functions of the camera using the Foscam app on your iOS or Andriod smartphone.

PROS:

• Setting up the camera is fairly simple when you use the provided instructions
• Decent video and image quality
• You can control it using an app

CONS:

• It’s stationary with no pan or tilt features
• Motion detection only works in viewing area
• You need multiple cameras if you have a wide area to secure

Nest Cam Outdoor

If you are already a fan of Nest, then you will love the Nest Cam Outdoor. If you are new to Nest, you will probably still love it. It has taken the best feature from the Nest Cam Indoors and added some new ones to the outdoor version.

While we are used to the distinct appearance of the primary outdoor CCTV design, the Nest has reimagined the security camera by creating by packaging its hardware in a simplified cup design.  The new look also acts a foil for would-be burglars looking for the traditional security camera. Given its white shell,  you may want to consider purchasing a silicone skin. You can choose from a variety of colors, including camouflage, to keep your camera hidden.

The Nest Cam Outdoor is waterproof and can protect itself in dusty environments. One concern when connecting the unit is that it connects using a magnet, which can make it easy to remove and steal. It’s best to use the mounting plate by attaching the plate to a brick or wood surface. While the magnet is powerful, it isn’t as secure as the mounting plate. You will also need a power source as the Nest Cam Outdoor is not battery powered.

Like its indoor companion, the Nest Cam Outdoor delivers 1080p video within a 130-degree field of vision for both daytime and night. You can also use the two-way audio feature to listen to what is going on outside. You can scare off potential intruders, or just make the kids next door think you are the Wizard of Oz. New “person alerts” will distinguish humans from other things that may cross in front of the camera, say for instance a scarecrow.

Using the Nest app you will be able to manage both the camera and the video feed. If you already have the Nest Can Indoor you will be using the same app. There are some new features that have been added to allow you to set alerts and store video feed using a Nest Aware subscription.

You will get 30 days of Nest Aware free when you set up a new Nest Camera, after the thirty-day trial there are several options you can choose from:

• 10 days of video for $10* (you will have to pay $5 for each additional camera)
• 30 days of video for $30* (you will have to pay $15 for each additional camera)

*If you opt for an annual Nest Aware subscription you can get a discounted rate.

In addition to recorded video, Nest Aware also provides you with access to features that will allow you to do more with your Nest Cam. You can get enhanced alerts that include person detection, activity detection for both motion and sound and you can set custom Activity Zones. Nest Aware also adds the ability to rewind and review stored video using the smartphone app.

PROS:

• Compact design makes it harder to detect
• Alerts you with a photo when movement or noise triggers the camera
• Person Alerts let the camera determine a human from an animal or car

CONS:

• You have to buy a subscription to store data
• Requires a power source as it is not battery operated

 

Netgear Arlo

The Netgear Arlo takes battery operated security cameras to the next level. While there are often trade-offs when you want a battery run camera, the Arlo brings all of the features of a connected camera to this clever little camera. There is no compromise when it comes to HD video, motion detection, night vision and recording time. It gives you everything you need in a sleek battery-powered smart security camera.

Wireless and waterproof the Arlo is determined to build a better, if not the best battery-powered camera. Similar to the Nest Cam Outdoor camera the Arlo is smaller than traditional security cameras. This makes it easier to camouflage when placed on the exterior of your home.

While the setup is relatively straightforward if you plan on using more than one camera you will need a base station to connect to your existing router. The base station is included when you buy the kit; even the one camera kit will come with a Netgear hub.

Once you have the base station plugged in you will need to turn it on, you should see a green light for both the power and LEDS, this will indicate your setup has been successful. The next thing you will want to do is download the free iOS or Andriod app. When you have the app added you can tap New System Setup to sync with the base station.

After you established a connection with the base you will be prompted to choose a subscription plan; these are the options you can choose from:

• Basic Plan: this is a free plan that offers seven days of recording and 1GB of cloud storage for up to five cameras and one base station.
• Premier Plan: this plan is $9.99 per month or $99 for an annual subscription, it comes with 30 days of recording and 10GB of cloud storage and supports up to ten cameras and one base station.
• Elite Plan: this plan is $14.99 a month or $149 for an annual subscription, it comes with 60 days of recording and 100GB of cloud storage and supports up to 15 cameras and three base stations.

The features offered by Arlo are primarily programmable modes that allow you to create and edit rules. You can add and edit using the settings menu on the web or mobile app. Rules are created using the “if this then that” format.

There are a few customizations you can create, the most useful rules allow you to set schedules for the motion sensor, or set times to turn the cameras on or off. Using the app you can also manage your cloud storage, video recordings and push notifications. One feature we wish the Arlo had is two-way audio. One of the best new features is audio, noticeably absent from previous versions it now included with this release.

PROS:

• Unlike most battery operated cameras this camera doesn’t skimp on video quality
• It is easy to setup and comes with a base station included
• Free 7 day cloud storage
• Completely wireless

CONS:

• No audio on Arlo outdoor camera
• Does not allow tilt, pan or zoom options
• Limited customizations

Buyers Guide

Building a DIY security system? We are here to help you find the best home security cameras that will help keep your home and family safe. Whether you want to keep an eye on what goes on inside your home, or you want to scare away intruders on the outside, putting together a DIY home security system is easier than ever.

Know What You Want

Before you buy a security camera, make sure you know what you want to accomplish when it comes to your security. If you want a camera to make sure your baby is safe, or you want to protect the exterior of your home, knowing what you want will help you get the right security camera.

The most common reason people buy security devices is to keep their homes and families protected. But knowing what security cameras you need to accomplish that can be challenging. These are the most common types of security cameras and where they should be used.

Bullet Cameras

Bullet cameras get their name from the shape of the device. The camera’s design is similar to the barrel of a gun. Bullet cameras are primarily used on the exterior of a home or business. They are easier to install than other types of cameras because they come with a simple mount that can be easily attached to a wall.

 

 

Dome Camera

Dome cameras are rounded in shape, which makes them more flexible as they can be placed indoors or on the exterior of your home or business. Dome cameras are a little more complicated when it comes to installation because they are usually mounted on ceilings, but with clear instructions, they are relatively easy to install.

 

Live Streaming Camera

These cameras will stream live video or audio coverage over the internet. You can live stream using a variety of cameras, from smartphone cameras to professional studio equipment. Live streaming allows you to share an event as it is happening, which can provide a level of security if someone breaks in.

Wireless Cameras

Wireless security cameras are also referred to as closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. These cameras are primarily wireless, while they communicate on a wireless network they are still connected to plug-in power source. Wireless cameras are easy to install, and they can be placed in a variety of locations.

 

Know What you Want Your System to Do

Before you purchase a camera, you should list all of the things you want your security cameras to accomplish. Do you want them to have features that allow you to pan, tilt or zoom? Or is a stationary image enough for what you need?

Here are some of the features and functions that your smart home security cameras can do:

• Color images: Color can be a useful feature; it allows you to see the color of someone’s hair, clothing or even car.
• Motion Detector: Adding a motion detector will help save on battery life, as the camera will only record when it detects motion.
• Night Vision: If you don’t have a street light or outdoor lighting night vision can help you get clearer images of someone who may be trying to break into your home.
• Recording: There are several ways you can store recorded video, some devices may come with a memory card, or you may be able to save recorded video to your hard drive. The most common way that recorded video is stored is in the cloud, but you may need to purchase a subscription from your provider to determine how much you can save.

Common Security Camera Terms

If you are new to shopping for home security devices, here are some terms that you may need to know to help you make a buying decision.

CCTV: refers to closed-circuit television, which is used with analog surveillance cameras to submit video signals to a particular group of recording devices.

Field of View: represents the area of coverage when viewed at full-frame. You can determine the field of view using a lens, image resolution and the type of camera used.

FTP: refers to File Transfer Protocol, which is a network used to transfer files between devices connected to the same network.

Motion Detection: an application that allows movement to trigger a security camera to begin recording when something has moved in the field of view.

PTZ: stands for pan/tilt/zoom, which is a function available in most IP model cameras. Each function can be controlled remotely.

• Pan allows the camera to move back and forth horizontally to view larger areas.
• Tilt allows the camera to move up and down in a vertical plane.
• Zoom allows the camera to take a close-up look at a given area.

Resolution: measures how much detail an image can hold. The higher the resolution, the more detail you will see in the picture.

Securing Your Security

Adding a security system is an excellent way to keep your family safe from potential intruders, but like all smart home devices, your own security cameras are susceptible to hacking or theft. That is why it is important that you keep your home security secure.  Here are some a few tips to help you keep your security system safe and sound.

• Passwords: you should change the default password immediately to something that even your mother wouldn’t know. The stronger the password, the better the protection.
• Encryption: make sure the hub or router you use has encrypted signals. One of the easiest ways to compromise your network is by having unsecured encryption.
• Router: add a password and not the same password you use to protect your security devices.
• Virus Protection: add a program that can protect your system with firewalls and an antivirus program. Anti-virus programs will protect your devices from malware and viruses.
• Updates: download updates. Don’t click ignore or later, update your devices as soon as you are aware of an update.
• Know Your Devices: even when connected to a hub your smart security devices may have a mind of your own. Make sure you know what data each device processes and saves, and then verify that the device has all the protection it needs to keep your data safe.

Conclusion

Building a DIY home security system is easier today than it has ever been. But before you start buying expensive security cameras, take a moment to put together a plan. Your plan should be a guide for where you want to place cameras and how you want to use them. Once you know what you want to do, you can buy the right cameras for the job.

Before you make a buying decision, you should always consult your plan, and research security cameras that have the features you are looking for. Not all security cameras are created equal, reading customer reviews can give you valuable insights into what previous buyers think about the camera. You can also learn about possible defects or difficulties when installing the device.

Building your own DIY home security system is an excellent way to protect your home and family while saving money on installation costs, but there are a few steps that you should not skip during the installation process:

• Make sure that you use every plate and screw provided with the device to secure it to the exterior of your home. Security camera theft happens more often than you might think, so make sure your devices are properly installed.
• If you aren’t handy, hire someone who is. I am not handy, I cannot fix or install anything, but I know people who can. So don’t let pride get in the way of having a properly installed security system.

Keeping your home and loved ones safe is one of the most important things you will do. Knowing if you want a stationary camera or one equipped with pan, tilt or zoom features will allow you to make the right buying decisions for your system.

Using the guide should provide you everything you need to build an impressive home security system that is designed to deliver you with a sense of safety and security for years to come.

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