Wireless Security Cameras

When it comes to protecting your home and property, you know it pays to have the most cutting-edge, reliable technology on the market. And with the increased number of home security options out there, any homeowner with any budget can customize their home’s protection plan. But how do you know if you should choose a wireless security camera system or go with a hardwired option?

Wired vs. wireless systems

Traditionally, old-school home security systems relied on hardwired setups to operate effectively. But which is better — a wired camera or a Wi-Fi security camera?

Hardwired security cameras

A wired security camera system is exactly what it sounds like: For the security system to operate, wires must run from a power source or alarm box directly to the camera.

While installation is more involved, hardwired systems offer a stable, reliable connection without the need for a lot of additional technology. Ideal for larger homes, a wired connection also helps ensure continuous reception, whereas a wireless security camera must be in range of a router.

Wireless home security systems

Wireless simply means your security camera doesn’t need a series of wires that run from your camera to an alarm box. These cameras communicate with your router or alarm system via a network like your home internet. A wireless camera, however, does need some type of power source, so it may actually

Wireless security camera systems come with plenty of advantages. On vacation and want to see if that Amazon package got delivered? Simply pull up an app on your smartphone, and your wireless security camera system with remote viewing allows you to see your home in real-time.

Given the lack of wires that need to run between camera and router, a wireless camera security system is much easier to install. If you plan to move to a new home a year from now, a wireless or battery-powered security camera is completely portable; just unplug and take it with you. A good wireless system also uses advanced encryption software to protect your home security data.

How do wireless surveillance cameras work?

Homeowners can network their entire property with wireless cameras, so long as the data can be transmitted to the router effectively and efficiently. Once set up, the cameras record footage when they are instructed to record or when their motion detection sensors get triggered.

Wireless cameras provide plenty of flexibility in how you decide to store data, too. The video footage stores on the camera itself, a network, or on the cloud, depending on the capabilities of the camera you choose and the storage plans you put in place.

Must-haves for a wireless security camera system

When shopping for a wireless home security camera system, pay attention to several key factors: storage, connectivity, power supply, and recording output.

Here are a few frequently asked questions about wireless security cameras.

Do you need Wi-Fi for a wireless security camera?

Yes, if you want the most reliable source for your wireless security camera. Just make sure your wireless camera is in range of your home’s router. Wi-Fi-connected security cameras may also be compatible with your smart home products, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

However, there are several other ways to connect to a wireless security camera. While Wi-Fi is preferable, if you don’t have wireless internet, some camera systems will connect via 4G or LTE. A camera that relies on cellular connects to a network through a cellular transmitter. These networks rely on the cellular signal’s strength, as opposed to a Wi-Fi signal, to operate effectively. If you don’t have access to a Wi-Fi network, this may be your best option, though you’ll also need a cellular data plan.

How do you power a wireless security camera?

This is where the confusion comes in. A security camera that’s considered wireless still must connect to a power source. If, for instance, you have a Wi-Fi doorbell camera, you’ll need to either hardwire your camera into the wall or, depending on your camera model, you may rely on a rechargeable battery. Even a camera that uses hardwired power is considered wireless because it transmits video to storage via the internet.

How long do wireless security camera batteries last?

The longevity of a battery-powered security camera relies on several factors. Is the battery the primary source of power, or is it merely a backup? Battery life will also depend on the type of battery your security camera uses and how often the battery gets used. If you open up your home security app frequently to get real-time updates, you’ll drain your camera’s battery faster. Depending on your home security camera model, a battery can last anywhere from a few months to several years.

Do you have to monitor your home security camera?

While we recommend a professional monitoring setup like Brinks Home™ provides, homeowners can choose unmonitored security cameras, meaning they monitor by reviewing video via a computer or smart device.

How does a wireless camera store data?

Traditionally, homeowners select a specific type of storage to get the most out of their wireless system. With wireless cameras in homes that have high-speed internet, cloud storage might be the right choice. Otherwise, SD card storage is the prevailing option.

Take the next step toward protecting your home and property. Learn more about Brinks Home wireless cameras.

Jason Stevens is a senior writer for Brinks Home. He is a "tech guy" who enjoys sharing home security and automation tips with others.