As you look to take the steps to protect your Colorado Springs area home by investing in a home security camera system, you need to decide between a wired vs wireless security camera system. With advantages and disadvantages to each option, determining which security camera system will work best for you and your family’s needs can be a challenge. In this article, we share our years of experience with the pros and cons of wired vs wireless security camera systems.
Wired Security Camera Systems
A wired security camera system is a video system that transmits video and audio feed through a wire to a central hub that stores the footage. That recorded video can remain on the hub for later viewing or it can be forwarded to a network that allows the user to view the video live or to watch it later. Wired security camera systems are connected to 110-volt electric power to ensure continuous, uninterrupted video surveillance of your property.
The many options for wireless security camera systems may make it seem that wired security camera systems are on their way out but there are many benefits to installing wired security camera systems.
Pros
Reliability: One of the best things about a wired security camera system is that the central hub is secure, and the signal doesn’t break. The hub will receive the video and audio feed without interruption. This makes the system more reliable because they never lose power or connection to the hub and can have a continuous footage feed.
Security: Wired cameras can connect to the internet, but they also connect to hubs locally which increases security. The video footage remains safe because all the cameras are connected to the central recording hub without interference. The local directed wired connection makes your system private and secure from being hacked.
Storage: Wired security camera systems also can store video recordings without Cloud subscriptions which prevent the added expense of storing and viewing your footage. Having the right amount of storage will keep your video recordings safe.
Cons
Installation: The main downside to wired security camera systems is the installation process. Depending on your system, you could have a multitude of cameras that need to be set up which can be difficult due to the number of wires that need to be connected to the central hub. These wires also need to be run through the walls and flooring. These factors can affect where the cameras are located because of the logistics of setting up the wires. Most Southern Colorado homeowners do not have the expertise and knowledge to install wired security camera systems. Fortunately, System Links can come to the rescue with affordable options for the installation of wired security camera systems.
Technology: Just like anything else, wired security camera system technology is ever-evolving, which means that the apps associated with these systems may lack modern features or not be as user-friendly as their wireless counterparts. Additionally, wired security camera systems do not typically interface with virtual assistants like Google Home or Amazon Alexa. You might also have to set up a computer monitor to view your forage instead of being able to view the footage on your phone.
Flexibility: Once your wired security camera system is in place, the camera locations are fixed due to the wire setup. It can be difficult to change the location of the camera because of the wiring limitations in your home. The way your property is set up can affect where your cameras are located due to how you can run the wires throughout the home.
Wireless Security Camera Systems
We hear the term ‘wireless’ regularly in the modern world. When it comes to technology like security cameras, wireless refers to how the camera communicates, meaning that these cameras communicate over Wi-Fi. However, wireless security camera systems are normally connected to a power source like a power outlet. (Another option is to have the cameras powered by batteries, making it a truly wire-free camera.)
Most wireless cameras store your surveillance video on a cloud server so that you have access to your footage wherever you may be. Wireless security camera systems are on the rise because the footage can be easily accessible on a smartphone when you are away from home.
Pros
ProsInstallation: Wireless cameras can be installed in a multitude of places. Because they are not connected to a central hub, there is flexibility in where the cameras can be placed. Wireless camera security systems can be simpler to install and, depending on your property and other requirements, may not require professional help.
Flexibility: After you have placed the wireless security camera system you may decide that it doesn’t suit your needs in that location. The location of the camera is readily moved as long as there is a Wi-Fi connection available in the new location.
Ease of Use: Wireless security cameras are relatively easy to use. Similar to wired video security systems, You can easily view the surveillance video on a smartphone app wherever you are. You can also control the settings of your camera from the app.
Cons
Connection: Your camera’s connection is vital to its functioning. If your Wi-Fi network is slow or the connection signal from the router to your camera is not strong, your footage can experience glitches or be grainy and inaccessible. You have to make sure your camera is close enough to your Wi-Fi signal so it can transmit the footage without issue.
Quality: Wireless cameras also can have a lower quality of video footage and it can change just like the bandwidth of your internet. The quality can fluctuate depending on how many people are using the internet. There could be possible radio interference or other wireless devices in your home.
Power: You can easily change the location of wireless cameras, but you have to remember to keep them charged. If you have to pull the camera away to charge, the area you are trying to secure is exposed until your camera can get power again. Many of the battery-powered cameras on the market today are not intended for continuous recording and the battery life can vary depending on how often the camera is used.
Security: Wireless security cameras can be susceptible to security breaches and hacks. Some wireless cameras may not be encrypted and could be more vulnerable to these types of attacks. Being connected to the internet opens up your security camera systems to cyber-attacks that could compromise your system. Ensure that your system has a proper complicated password to help prevent any hacks.
Read More: Best Ways to Protect Your Home Security Camera From Hackers
Wired vs Wireless Security Camera Systems: Which Is Best For You?
As you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages to wired vs wireless security camera systems. After reviewing the pros and cons of both options, you need to make the best choice for your home situation.
Are you a homeowner? A wired security camera system may be the best choice to monitor all the aspects of your property, with an ultra-reliable system that has an interrupted feed. There will be an initial effort and cost to install the system, but it is ultra-reliable and has that constant footage feed.
Do you rent your home? Then a wireless security camera system may be your best option. Wireless systems are easy and fast to set up and you can easily change their location to fit your needs. These are also great because you (and your landlord) may not want to commit to the alterations to your home that are required with wired systems.
Are you still undecided on wired vs wireless security camera systems? Then contact System Links today. Not only do we have the expertise and knowledge to help you make the right security camera choice for you and your family, but we also have access to cutting-edge security camera technology and access control solutions that you may have never considered. Call us today to schedule your free site assessment and quote. We look forward to helping you keep the things that matter the most to you safe and secure!
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