For your business, IP surveillance cameras, or network security cameras as they are sometimes known, are a good choice. Unlike closed circuit cameras, network security camera systems use open Internet protocols to record and monitor your business property remotely. You can monitor your business premises and evaluate potential security threats using client software or a web browser from any computer or Internet-ready device.

Buying IP cameras can save you money and frustration. With better imaging, it is more likely that you will actually be able to identify subjects on camera. When buying network surveillance cameras for your business, you will need to consider:

1. Selecting what PI cameras you can legally install in your area;

2. Monitoring needs in your business;

3. Choosing the right type of IP surveillance camera.

Consider the primary use of your camera. If your camera will be facing east or west, get a network surveillance camera with adjustable lenses to control the amount of light received. If you do not have the budget for adjustable lenses, mount your network surveillance camera high and angle down to avoid glare. Network surveillance systems with several supported software platforms and open application programming are more flexible.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider whether you need a full or partial IP network security camera system

If you already have an analog system, you can use analog-to-digital encoder systems to covert your signal to run over IP. Just keep in mind that installing network surveillance systems from scratch can mean less maintenance and better surveillance. If your needs are very modest and your budget is small, however, converting to networked security cameras rather than buying a whole integrated IP surveillance camera system is a viable option.

I recommend: Visit Pelco, a leader in analog-to-IP solutions, for a selection of products that can help you update your security network surveillance systems. Axis Communications, one of the most established businesses offering network surveillance systems, also has a range of analog-to-digital solutions.

Check your company's bandwidth for networked cameras

Your network infrastructure has to be able to handle not only your network surveillance cameras, but also multiple users. If you want to have streaming live video from your networked security cameras, you need to have a great deal of bandwidth available. If you don't have the bandwidth or the budget to upgrade your entire network, consider optimizing bandwidth with wide-area-network optimization controllers or application delivery controllers.

I recommend: Compare network security camera systems prices and network requirements at ASMAG. Skyway Security also has a range of networked cameras for various network strengths.

Select the right features for your network surveillance system

Many IP surveillance cameras have a 240-degree view and a zoom of 500 feet. If you need 360-degree views you may need PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) networked security cameras. Consider, too, how many pixels you need. Megapixel cameras offer better details and with higher-pixel cameras you may also require fewer networked cameras, as well.

I recommend: Brick House Security offers a wide range of surveillance systems with the features you may be looking for. Be sure to visit Security Ideas for a huge selection of networks and cameras.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When buying network surveillance systems, look for vendors that comply fully with industry standards in video compression and security. Also, look for vendors that offer engineering support and fast replacement of parts. You don't want to be without an important replacement part for your network surveillance system because your vendor cannot promise fast turnaround.