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IP Camera Easy Guide (+6 Benefits)

IP camera technology represents one of the most important leaps forward in security innovations of the last decade. They help keep private residences, security estates, commercial buildings, and industrial complexes free from intruders as part of an off-site camera surveillance system with trained staff. But what are they? What are the benefits of IP camera systems? Let’s find out.

What Is an IP Camera?

Most are familiar with the term “CCTV” but few have heard of an IP camera. These security cameras incorporate newer information technology to transmit visual data, audio data, and control instructions. IP cameras send and receive signals using internet protocols via local area networks (LANs), Wi-Fi, or cellular networks.

What Is the Difference Between an IP Camera and a CCTV Camera?

Where IP cameras send and receive signals using internet protocols over ethernet, Wi-Fi, CCTV cameras do not. Traditional CCTV cameras transmit and receive signals via coaxial cables – this is an analogue system. As such, the signal strength is subject to decay over greater lengths and is prone to quality loss as a result.

CCTV installation

IP camera benefits include the ability to view video feeds from multiple devices such as smartphones. 

IP Camera Benefits

Can IP Cameras Work Without Internet?

Even though an IP camera uses internet protocols to transmit information, it does so over a closed network and requires no outside internet connection. Just be sure to contact qualified surveillance professionals to ensure that your IP camera installation is encrypted and secure.

Encryption of IP camera surveillance data is an important step to ensuring outside agents do not malicious intrude on your data security. 

Is an IP Camera the Same as a Wi-Fi Camera?

No, IP cameras are not exactly the same as Wi-Fi cameras. However, Wi-Fi cameras are a type of IP camera. The three main types of IP camera are: 

1. Wi-Fi cameras

These cameras send and receive information over the 2.4GHz band most commonly.

2. Ethernet cameras

These cameras send and receive information over dedicated ethernet cables. They most commonly use Cat 5 and Cat 6 cables.

3. Mobile network cameras

Models of “sim card camera” send and receive information over mobile networks such as LTE, 3G, and 4G.