Blog

Will CCTV Work Without Internet?

July 16, 2018|fsstechnologies

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) is a TV system where the signal isn’t publicly broadcast but is watched and monitored, usually for surveillance and security purposes. From city streets and highways to retail stores and banks, CCTV cameras are placed in most places to protect property and deter crime. Learn whether a commercial CCTV system can work without an internet or Wi-Fi connection based on the components it uses.

Can a CCTV system work without the internet?

CCTV worked without internet when it was initially introduced in commercial settings in the 1950s. Whether it’s wired or wireless, an up-to-date CCTV system will still function to some degree without internet. However, an internet connection is required to view footage on an off-site phone, tablet, or computer. It’s essential to determine how you want to access and use CCTV so you can choose the type of system that best fits your company’s needs.

What does a CCTV system include?

Depending on the needs of your business and the layout of your building, there are many options for what you can include in your CCTV system. While there are some optional add-ons you can use, there are some main elements used in any comprehensive system. Here are the three most common components you can expect to see in CCTV systems.

1. Cameras

Cameras are the backbone of any CCTV system that capture footage in and around your business. There are different types available, both wired and wireless, and they can offer various resolutions depending on how much space you need to cover. The two main buckets that matter in relation to internet connectivity are analog and IP cameras.

Man installing security cameras

CCTV cameras can have night vision capabilities, a feature that can be especially helpful if they’re used outdoors. Some can include pan, tilt, and zoom features to make it easier to adjust their field of view. Dome, bullet, and panoramic are some of the most popular camera styles.

Depending on each space’s layout and circumstances, different cameras can offer various benefits for capturing the space. These benefits also come with potential drawbacks related to power, storage, and connectivity. Knowing your intended usage and the locations you want to watch will help determine which type of camera is necessary.

2. Recording devices

Unless you want to rely on the limited storage within each camera’s SD card, your CCTV system will need a recording device to store footage. A digital video recorder (DVR) is used with wired analog cameras, while a network video recorder (NVR) is used with wired or wireless IP cameras. Footage can also be stored in the cloud for easier, more secure access.

3. Monitors

Monitors are the screens you use to see the recorded images or videos. Traditionally, you may choose to set up monitors in a security office to keep tabs on your building. Using monitors usually involves accessories like cables, connectors, junction boxes, batteries, and battery backups to ensure your system stays connected and functional.

Man reviewing security camera footage

What happens if my CCTV system loses internet?

A CCTV system without internet can do everything a CCTV system with the internet can do if you set it up differently. Surveillance and monitoring can be done with wireless or wired security cameras and recording equipment. Still, you won’t be able to have alerts sent to your phone or access remote viewing if your internet connection goes down.

If you have someone monitoring the system from a fixed location or want the recorded footage to be accessed at a later time, a CCTV system with recording equipment is a good solution. If you want remote viewing without an internet connection, you can choose a security system that has a cellular data plan that can be integrated with CCTV components.

You may prefer cellular monitoring to internet monitoring because you live in a location where you can’t get a reliable internet signal. You may also be concerned about a burglar potentially disconnecting your internet and thus rendering your entire security system useless. In this case, you’ll need a CCTV system that includes a SIM card for your cameras.

Choose FSS Technologies for reliable security

An effective, reliable security or CCTV system can be designed for almost any commercial location with or without internet access. The team of expert service technicians at FSS Technologies can work with you to craft, install, and maintain the perfect video surveillance system on the right platform that is easy to use, affordable, and will meet your security needs. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.

Explore Our Other Blogs

Hero-afterbreaki-min

What to Do After a Break In

No one ever wants to be victimized by a burglar, but the fact is that many will encounter a theft or break-in at some point in their lifetime. A recent study by Bankrate shows that there are over 1 million burglaries in the United States each year, with a new burglary happening approximately every 26…

Continue reading
woman-entering-alarm-code-min

5 Reasons Why You Need a Home Security System

A home security system protects your home and the ones you love. While there are many reasons you may need to invest in a home security system, we have highlighted some key ones: 1. Peace of Mind Have you heard a noise in the night and ever wondered what made the noise? A home security…

Continue reading
Heroalarmbeeping-min

The Top 5 Reasons Why Your Smoke Alarm Is Beeping

Do you hear a faint chirping noise coming from the back hallway or the basement? Don’t ignore it. It might be your smoke detector. Smoke detectors are designed to chirp or beep when they need servicing. Common Reasons for Smoke Alarm to Beep When the battery in your smoke alarm is starting to get weak,…

Continue reading
cctv-vs-ip-Hero-min

What is the Difference Between Analog and IP Cameras in a CCTV System?

When you are considering different security systems and potentially implementing surveillance cameras into your home or business, a big question is whether you want IP or analog cameras. Global Market Insights estimates that the IP camera market will be worth more than 20 billion by 2025. With today’s technology both IP and analog systems can be viewed…

Continue reading
convential-vs-addressable_fire-alarms-hero

Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarms

When determining what type of fire alarm systems are best for your business, it boils down to your choice between a conventional and addressable alarm system. The combination of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors work together with your control panel to keep your business safe. Additionally, you will need to determine what kind of automatic…

Continue reading
home-security-system-Hero-min

Cost of Home Security Systems

Getting a security system for your home is a wise investment. While the obvious benefit is protection for your family, home, and belongings, it’s hard to put a price on the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you and your family will have professional help in case of an emergency. Still, you must…

Continue reading
BusinessBurglary-Hero-min

Which Businesses are Burglarized Most?

The idea of business theft and burglary is not a pleasant one; however, the likelihood of your business being burglarized is rather high. In fact, approximately 37% of small business owners were impacted by burglary or theft over the past year. Retail businesses in particular are highly targeted as thieves are seeking the opportunity to either use or resell stolen items. Everything from simple shoplifting to employee theft can contribute to overall business…

Continue reading
Hero-SmallBusinessSetup-min

Best Small Business Security Systems

While no two small businesses are the same, they share commonalities when it comes to what they want in a security system. Most small business owners want to do three things: Protect their people, property, and assets from fire Protect their people, property, and assets from theft See what is happening in their business even…

Continue reading
fire-suppression-system-types-hero-min

Types of Fire Suppression Systems

What is a Fire Suppression System? The goal of a fire suppression system, also known as a fixed extinguishing system, is simple, reduce the risk of a fire and extinguish it by using a substance. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a fire suppression system has detection tools that can sense the early…

Continue reading
spectrum-customer-hero-min

Are You a Spectrum Customer Losing Service?

When Spectrum closed the doors on its home security system business in February 2020, many customers were left high and dry.  The Spectrum Backstory  Spectrum is a subsidiary of Charter Communications, the second-largest cable provider in the country offering service in 42 states. Charter inherited Spectrum in a 2016 merger with Time Warner Cable and Bright House…

Continue reading
24h emergency
Secure My Space
chat with us