Can Security Cameras Work Without WiFi

There are many security cameras on the market today, and most of them work with Wi-Fi. But what happens when you’re in an area where Wi-Fi isn’t readily available, and you want to keep an eye on your home? And if you chose to not go the Wi-Fi route, what are your options?

While Wi-Fi is the most common way to connect to security cameras, it’s not the only way a person can use cameras for peace of mind and protection. There are other types of security cameras — including those that can be hardwired into a home — capable of providing video footage without Wi-Fi.

Can Security Cameras Work Without Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is simply a wireless way for your smart devices to connect to the internet. There are plenty of options for connecting your security cameras to the internet without the need for Wi-Fi, including Ethernet, Bluetooth, and Z-Wave.

Can Security Cameras Work Without Wired Internet?

Yes, it is possible to use your security cameras without internet. It’s a good option if you have poor service or lack high-speed access. Many of the cameras that don’t use the internet connect through a closed system, such as a CCTV or mobile setup. Learn more about security cameras without internet access here.

Non-Wi-Fi Security Cameras Exist, but Are Limited

Homeowners without Wi-Fi should monitor their property with a hardwired camera. The level of protection you get with a hardwired camera is essentially the same as what you get with a camera using Wi-Fi, with a couple of caveats. You may not be able to access cameras and their footage with a smartphone app, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be accessed at all.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind before using cameras without Wi-Fi:

Security Cameras Without Wi-Fi Are Difficult to Install

Installing a security camera that doesn’t use Wi-Fi requires more work to install than using one that is built for it. Because of the precision and complexity involved, it’s safer and more efficient to have a certified professional install your hardware instead of doing it yourself.

You Can’t Access Live Footage Remotely

Not having direct access to live footage is a critical downside to using a security camera without Wi-Fi and not powered over Ethernet. Seeing what’s happening in your home in real-time gives you the ability to take meaningful action that can prevent further damage. Using two-way audio as you view live footage gives you the chance to scare off unwanted guests before they attempt to get into your home. Hardwired security cameras only allow homeowners to review footage after the fact, which may be too late to call for help.

There Will Be Wires Throughout Your Home

If you choose the hardwired security camera route, you need to be comfortable with having wires throughout your home, as they are required to connect to the rest of your security system.

While professional installers will make every effort to hide any wires so that they aren’t visible or in the way, it can be complicated as there are many places where you may need to install a camera. For example, if your DVR/NVR box is in the downstairs living room but you have an indoor camera upstairs, you’ll have to hook the camera’s cables across and down your home.

In today’s technology-driven world, it’s more convenient to use Wi-Fi in most cases, but there may be times when it’s a better or more realistic choice to go with a different option. Here are a few examples of why a Wi-Fi camera isn’t always the best solution for your home:

Will Security Cameras Work with a Poor Wi-Fi Connection?

When you have a poor Wi-Fi connection, it’s easy for it to fail or become slow, which can cause your video feed to buffer or glitch. You may find the only time you have a strong connection to your Wi-Fi camera is when it’s close to the router. In this case, using an Ethernet cable to connect to the internet would be more reliable than trying to use weak Wi-Fi.

It’s More Difficult to Hack Into a Wired Security Camera

As with most things connected to wireless internet, Wi-Fi cameras can be hacked. When choosing cameras, be sure to ask your home security provider what level of encryption they use. Because hardwired cameras use an Ethernet cable to connect directly to your internet, they are harder to hack.

Wi-Fi Cameras Can Affect Your Bandwidth

If you’re worried about your family’s internet data usage, Wi-Fi security cameras might not be the solution for you. These cameras rely on your internet’s network to capture and store footage. While this does not usually have a dramatic impact on your data usage, if you have many cameras recording, it can add up to several gigabytes of data per month. Ask your home security provider to give you an estimate of the data consumption of your home’s cameras before your installation.

In comparison, wired security cameras store recordings directly within your DVR or NVR, having little to no impact on your bandwidth.

A Good Security Company Can Help You With Your Choices

While we do recommend professional installation and monitoring, there are choices for those who want to build their own system and prefer not to rely on a company to create, install, or monitor that system.

However, the right security company can help you find which type of cameras and connection work for you and your family’s security needs—as well as aid with any monitoring and installation questions you have. At Brinks Home™ we pride ourselves in offering 24/7 professional monitoring and installation and a variety of camera security options to fit your needs, contact us today to get started on your customized home security system.