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In this short article, we discuss five of the key benefits and advantages of IP CCTV systems. IP CCTV systems are fast becoming more and more popular among businesses, compared to traditional analogue systems.

At Safeguard Systems, where possible, we recommend IP CCTV cameras over their analogue counterparts. Aside from future-proofing a business’s CCTV systems, there are so many reasons IP and network surveillance cameras are the right choices.

What is IP CCTV?

Before we get started, here is a quick overview of IP CCTV for any non-technical readers.

IP CCTV stands for Internet Protocol Closed Circuit Television. Furthermore, it is also referred to as network or Power-Over-Ethernet (POE) CCTV. IP cameras are digital devices that capture and transmit video footage over a network.

It offers several benefits over analogue systems, such as higher resolution and scalability – more on this later.

Why Invest in Commercial CCTV Systems for Your Business?

There are so many reasons to invest in commercial CCTV systems for your business. To offer a quick overview, here are the top five:

  • Deterring criminals – thieves, vandals and fly-tippers
  • Catching and prosecuting criminals
  • Monitoring staff for timekeeping, attendance, and productivity
  • Managing on-site security threats such as anti-social behaviour and theft
  • Keeping staff safe
  • Protecting the businesses property and assets

Businesses are exposed to a range of threats. Therefore, surveillance should be considered an investment. If you are budget-conscious and thinking about your options, read our article covering the reasons to avoid cheap CCTV systems.

What Are the Benefits & Advantages of IP CCTV Systems?

To summarise, the benefits and advantages of IP CCTV systems are:

  • Improved resolution
  • Advanced video analytics
  • Security & encryption
  • Ease of installation
  • Coverage

Looking to learn more about CCTV? Here are a couple of links to articles we have published on our blog:

Let’s get started on this article covering the benefits and advantages of IP CCTV.

1. Camera Resolution

IP-based CCTV cameras can capture and transmit higher quality images than standard analogue systems. Furthermore, with IP cameras you can zoom in on your footage with greater clarity.

In context, this is highly valuable to a business, particularly when looking to identify an individual, specific characteristics, car number plates and more.

2. Analytics and Integrations

With the ongoing advancement of technology, IP CCTV systems can be integrated with various analytics systems to optimise system performance.

Your security camera systems can be set up to detect:

  • Smoke
  • Fire
  • Movement of people
  • Change in temperature

For example, if your security cameras are fitted with movement sensors, you will be alerted if the system detects a threat. As a result, your security team can view the footage in real-time. If a security threat is spotted, the relevant action is taken.

If your CCTV system is monitored remotely, your off-site security team will take charge of the situation.

3. Security

The majority of IP cameras come with built-in encryption. This helps to keep your data safer when it is transmitted and stored.

Cyber attacks are becoming more of a threat to businesses, month by month, year by year. Securing your data will help protect it from ending up in the wrong hands.

4. Ease of Installation (Less Cabling)

Where analogue cameras require two cables, one for the camera and one for power, IP CCTV systems only require one. IP security camera systems use Power Over Ethernet (PoE). This means the power source for the cameras is via the ethernet cable.

This simple setup also means these systems are easily scalable. When you add cameras to the network, power is driven from the nearest network switch and a new power source isn’t required.

Related IP CCTV case studies:

In the last section of this article, we look at how IP CCTV cameras provide better coverage.

5. Coverage

IP cameras contain multiple sensors. This means each camera can cover a wider area than traditional analogue CCTV systems. Where IP cameras are usually a little more expensive than their analogue counterparts, you probably won’t require as many.

Fewer cameras mean a reduction in the cost of hardware for the project.

Looking For an IP CCTV System For Your Business?

If you’re in the process of finding a new security system, pick up the phone and call us on 0800 689 1835.

Alternatively, if you are currently researching your options, head over to our Hikvision IP CCTV cameras page.