With so many affordable security cameras these days, there’s really no excuse not to have some type of security system in place. And because so many of them are wireless security cameras, you don’t need long wire runs, add-ons or monthly fees.
However, just because you can install wireless security cameras doesn’t mean that you should. You can still mess it up. That’s because despite the plug-and-play nature of wireless security cameras, there are plenty of mistakes to be made during the installation process. Let’s take a peek at some of the most common mistakes you can make when installing wireless security cameras—so you can avoid them!
Not Enough Cameras
Wireless security cameras are affordable enough that you should be able to splurge on more than one. Yes, that new PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) camera does provide a wide view, but it probably won’t cover the lower level of your house. And every time you zoom out, the image may get a bit more pixelated. Instead of squinting, make sure you have enough cameras to scope out the different areas in and outside of the home. Also remember that because you are choosing this type of setup versus a monitoring service, you will be the one doing the monitoring. You can’t rely on one zoomed out camera to deliver an accurate (or easy-to-view) peek at a large space.
Poor Positioning
Just like when you take photos, you need to make sure your wireless security cameras are pointed at the proper angle in order to get the best images. Don’t point the camera at the ground, think about obstructions, and make sure it won’t be exposed to too much light (which causes the images to get washed out). It’s also really important to make sure you put those cameras in an area that has access to a reliable WiFi signal.
“Consumers often make the mistake of placing cameras in a remote location lacking a strong WiFi signal—this translates to choppy video streams and connection issues,” says Carissa Blegen, product content manager at D-Link. “Plan ahead by testing the area. Check WiFi strength using a mobile device or running a WiFi speed test online.”
Blegen says you can also add in a WiFi extender or purchase a camera that has one built in. Of course, you could also move the camera to an area with better coverage.
It’s Not Totally Wireless
With wireless security cameras, you don’t need to be tethered to your router or an Ethernet port. That said, you will need power. There are a select crop of cameras that operate on batteries. However, if the cameras are placed high or you’re just lazy, you probably want something that’s more of a permanent fixture. Most wireless security cameras can connect to your existing WiFi network, but they do need to be plugged in. Make sure to pick a spot that’s close to an electrical outlet.
Forgetting the Password
You have a lot of passwords to remember. However, when installing wireless security cameras, you may want to add on two more—yes, two.
“Before WiFi camera setup, users must ensure the network they are connecting cameras to have a secure encryption configuration and a complex SSID/password,” says Blegen. “For additional security, choose a camera that requires the user to enter the camera’s specific password during setup—double encryption. Many cameras come pre-configured, but remember to customize all WiFi device passwords. Think of something complex and include a variety of numbers and letters.”
No Remote Access
Most likely, if you’re installing wireless security cameras yourself, you want the option to view them remotely. Not all cameras provide remote control and sneak peeks. It’s easy enough to make sure that you are buying a camera that includes remote access. However, one thing you should look into is how you’re going to actually access that camera. Looking to view real-time video from a web browser? Make sure that’s an option. Even more importantly, check to see if that camera supports your smartphone/tablet platform. Some cameras work with iOS devices, some work with Android, and some work with both. Unfortunately, not as many work with BlackBerry and the Windows Phone. Make sure to read the fine print!
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Great recommendations, Thanks
The sky is not falling. All those “issues” can easily be resolved. Not enough cameras? That’s not an installation issue. Poor positioning? Home owner knows best where to aim. It’s not totally wireless. Duh, some use batteries and some use a power supply to provide power. You can decide which is most convenient for you. Forgetting the password. Duh, again. People have a lot of experience how to handle passwords from their email and banking accounts. It is not the first time a homeowner run into the issue of password. Not remote access. Again, the homeowner knows best and the risk he takes for not having remote access. Most security cameras, for example, even the cheapest D-Link low resolution cameras have internet access.
Have a Look at Ethernet over Powerline solutions they are often handy to both power and connect cameras to your network without the concerns over wifi snooping.
Have a look at cazicam.com. Very easy to setup. Very good looking.
Yur information is outstanding.
Indeed, the camera is only as useful as the position it’s put into. If the position causes the camera to only see the bottom half of the door and not much else, it should be moved. You want to get as much sight as possible, while still making sure you can make out details of things.
Thanks so much…I actually thought Wireless meant Wireless! Sending mine back even though I did get it set up by Wireless Router. Boy, what a nerd I am?
Having properly positioned security cameras is really smart, because we made the mistake of NOT doing this, and we cannot see much as a result. This is inconvenient and makes me question why we have the camera in the first place. Thanks for sharing these mistakes, I’ll have to keep them in mind if I get a new security camera.
What about nightvision, I think that’s a necessity especially when your camera is outdoor.
Installing security cameras in your house is a great idea. Always hire professional electricians to install cameras and other electrical appliances in your house to get them installed properly.
That’s a shame not all cameras provide remote access. When I decide to get a camera I’m going to get the remote access type. I would prefer to randomly check up on it or just in case an alarm goes off.
Great article. There is a wide range of security cameras online available. These cameras have many advanced features that helps you to view the security of your home and office.
Hi, your blog is very informative regarding wireless security cameras. These cameras are usually installed with the purpose of enhancing security at particular place. But common mistakes that did by people like not proper positioning, forget password, remotely access. Thanks to make people aware about these common mistakes. Keep share information like this.
Excellent piece of information and recommendation. I’m about to install a system. This couldn’t have come in at a better time.
Hi, very nice blog as you mentioned some common mistakes while installing wireless security cameras such as No Remote Access, Poor Positioning and to make awareness about these common mistakes.
This article is very useful, so it is great for wireless camera installers to draw on the work experience for their customers
Thanks for sharing. I really liked the insight you gave to put outdoor cameras in plain sight. As you say, just the mere sight of them could deter intruders away from your home. Additionally, though, putting them in plain sight would probably make it so that they’re more effective because nothing is blocking their view.
I need a camera to monitor my room while I’m away. I would like a Wi-Fi security camera that doesn’t need to be connected to a computer in order to function since I take mine with me when I leave.
I need one that is only connected to my Wi-Fi so I can remotely view and be alerted to motion via an iOS app. Is this even possible? If so please point me in the right direction. Thanks in advance for your assistance.
Hire an installer to do it. Professional staff does professional work.
Do it by yourself spend much time and energy.
Why there is no installers only for home security systems such as alarm systems, security cameras and without monitoring service.
How many wireless cameras can efficiently be connected to one router (home installation). I currently have 3 Amcrest cameras and I’ve learned a lot over the past year, but I’m unable to locate info on how many cameras I can connect and if it will deteriorate performance by adding more cameras. I have many other devices connected as well – 4 computers, printer, 3 tv’s, Apple TV, phones etc.
Thanks Rachel for sharing such an informative article.Security cameras have become a need for every business nowadays and these tips would help in their installation.
Thanks for sharing this article is really helpful to me .
Thanks for sharing this helpful article. Thumbs up!
Thank you for pointing out that you should make sure and get more than one camera. My husband and I are wanting to get security cameras around our house. I’ll have to look into finding the best security services in our area.
Thank you for pointing out that you need to make sure and install enough cameras. I’m wanting a home security system. I’ll have to do some research and find the best one for me.