Cameras are everywhere: in your smartphone, the doorbell next door, dash cams on highway patrol vehicles, and security cameras at the store. They have become an indispensable part of our lives. Why so many cameras? Besides being extremely useful for quickly capturing information, cameras provide a sense of safety and security, especially for your home or business.

A security camera system allows you to monitor every part of your property at all times. Want to know who is at the loading dock and whether they are dropping off your new inventory or helping themselves to supplies? If you have a camera out there, you don’t have to wonder.

Is that a neighbor dropping off a misdelivered package or a porch pirate making off with your order? Check your security camera. The evidence is all there.

With advancements in security camera technology, you now have various options to choose from. Most camera systems fall into two categories: wireless and wired. Each type has its distinct advantages and downsides, and it is wise to know what they are before making your choice.

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Understanding Wireless Security Cameras

Wireless security cameras capture footage in much the same way as other cameras. The difference comes in what they do with the audio and video data they collect. Most wireless cameras store video and audio data temporarily on an SD card in the camera. This storage acts as a backup should there be a problem with the transmission.

Once captured, the camera transmits video and audio signals to a receiver, which can be a computer, smartphone, or tablet. These signals can travel over Wi-Fi, cellular, or radio signals. This type of transmission is convenient as it eliminates the need for transmission cables. However, multiple cameras sending large amounts of data over your Wi-Fi can bog down the system.

Also, because they lack a wired connection to a central location, wireless cameras will need to plug into a power source. So, there may be some wiring even with a wireless system. While some cameras operate on batteries, changing the batteries can be a challenge, depending on the camera placement.

Advantages of Wireless Security Cameras

Easy Installation: With no need to run cumbersome cables, wireless cameras are particularly easy to install.
Flexible Positioning: These cameras can be placed just about anywhere—inside or outside.
Remote Access: Real-time monitoring from virtually anywhere is a significant advantage, as you can access footage via apps or web browsers.
Aesthetics: Wireless cameras eliminate the unsightly maze of wires, giving your setup a clean, modern look.

Limitations of Wireless Security Cameras

Signal Interference: Wireless signals can be disrupted by walls, large furniture, or other electronic devices, affecting the quality of the video feed.
Battery Life: Some wireless cameras run on batteries, requiring regular maintenance and replacement.
Security Concerns: Wireless networks can be vulnerable to hacking, risking the security of your footage.
Bandwidth Dependency: These cameras consume bandwidth, and too many cameras can slow down your internet speed.

Exploring Wired Security Cameras

Wired security cameras record audio and video data and immediately transmit the footage via physical wires (usually Ethernet) to a recording device. This device, either a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or a Network Video Recorder (NVR), stores the footage. Home or business owners can view the video remotely or in real-time at the hub. Wired cameras offer a robust, continuous feed because they are typically hardwired for both data and power.

Advantages of Wired Security Cameras

Stable Connection: Wired cameras offer consistent, uninterrupted footage as they aren’t susceptible to signal interference.
Clearer Footage: Generally, wired systems provide higher video quality due to their direct connection.
Power Continuity: Wired cameras are usually plugged into a stable power source, eliminating the worry about battery life.
Enhanced Security: Hacking into a wired system is noticeably more challenging, making them more secure by nature.

Limitations of Wired Security Cameras

Complex Installation: Installing wired cameras can be labor-intensive, often requiring professional help to run cables through walls and ceilings.
Limited Flexibility: Their positioning is restricted by the need to run cables to the central system. Although, an experienced installer can nearly always find a solution that provides the coverage you need.
Visual Clutter: The cables can be intrusive and less aesthetically pleasing. When hiring an installer, ask about options for running cables that make them less visible.
Potential Disruption: Cutting a camera’s wire can easily disable the entire system. Talk to your installer about ways to protect the wiring from tampering.

Going Wired

There are many factors to consider when choosing a security camera system, and deciding whether to go wired or wireless should be the first decision you make. While wireless cameras offer many benefits and take advantage of technology advancements, we believe there is a strong case for installing a wired security camera system.

Your security cameras can only provide the peace of mind you want when they are on and working properly. Cameras down due to dead batteries or slow internet speeds aren’t helpful. When you need reliability, your best option is a wired system. The Camera Pros installs wired security cameras for businesses and homeowners in the Salt Lake City area to help them deter theft, protect valuables, and monitor their properties. While we can’t promise you won’t ever see the wires, we do our best to make sure each client’s system provides the maximum coverage and blends with the home’s exterior.

Wireless vs. Wired Security Cameras: Which is Best?