Commercial security cameras provide an essential layer of protection for businesses, offices, industrial sites and other commercial sites. But since there are numerous systems to choose from, it’s essential to evaluate your options carefully.
When properly implemented, commercial security cameras will enable you to monitor your property 24 hours a day, recording any suspicious activity or crimes. Even the presence of cameras alone can act as a powerful deterrent for theft, break-ins or vandalism. Which types of cameras are suitable for your needs? As you evaluate your options, here are some things to consider.
1) How will you be able to view camera footage?
Regardless of all the other features on your camera system, it’s critical that you can view footage quickly and easily.
Can you view it from your smartphone? How about a desktop or laptop? Will you need to manually transfer any storage cards or drives from the camera to your computer? Will you need to be connected to your local network, or can you view it from anywhere with an Internet connection?
For greater security and ease of use, choose commercial security cameras that allow you to watch live or recorded footage on virtually any device, no matter where you are.
2) Does the system offer continuous recording? Do you need it?
Some camera systems are completely motion-activated. Some offer continuous recording around the clock. And some offer a combination of both (for example, the cameras will record 24/7 but also alert you with clips of motion-activated events).
Not every commercial environment will need continuous recording, but it’s an excellent feature to have if you want to have complete visibility into your property, 24 hours a day. But here is another vital question to consider, especially in regard to continuous recording.
3) Where is footage stored? And for how long?
This question is crucial because it determines how much security footage you can retain and who controls it.
For example, some cheap store-bought cameras might only store your security clips “in the cloud” via the manufacturers’ servers. This may put severe limits on how much you can store and how it stays available.
Another option is storing video on your own on-site NVR or DVR system, connected to the Internet, so you can view footage remotely. But you’ll still want to confirm the storage space on these systems to ensure you can retain your footage for as long as you need it, especially if you’re using continuous recording.
4) What’s the video quality?
The camera’s resolution is the primary factor determining your video footage’s clarity. So it’s essential to check these specs before you buy.
Some of the most common resolutions for today’s commercial security cameras are 2MP (1080p), 4MP (1440p), 5MP (1920p) and 8MP (4K/2160p). In most cases, the higher the resolution, the better. However, picture quality can also be influenced by video compression and how it’s viewed (i.e. over the internet vs a local network, etc.). As a rule, stick to well-known, highly-rated brands to ensure the best quality.
5) Is it right for your environment?
Can it be used outdoors? Is it weather-resistant? What about night-time viewing? Can it enhance picture quality in dark environments?
Not all cameras are right for every environment, so choosing the right system for your needs is important. This is especially true for outdoor cameras, which need to be built to withstand harsh weather conditions and limited light availability.
Get more information on commercial security cameras
Brandon Baum has been at Protection Plus since he was born in 1998. Since Graduating from Ryerson in 2020, he has been at the company full-time. Currently, his title is Chief Security Officer.
Deion was awesome!!!!! He did the job right and very knowledgeable. He's polite and wonderful. Got the job done in under an 2 hours.
Brian Prosserman
2024-04-13
Quite simply, I trust Protection Plus. They just delivered another quality job at a great price with their terrific service. Thank-you!
Two years later and I just had a repeat experience with Protection Plus; they are real professionals. I cannot put a price knowing they are always there for my security needs. Thank you!
Elisha Mandel
2024-04-12
Patrick did a great job, with a smile and patience! thank you!
Luigi Lopardo
2024-04-03
Deion was my installer of my home alarm system. He provided great service and was very knowledgeable. Exceptional service from Protection Plus
Francesco Mirabelli
2024-04-03
Steve did a fantastic job was very professional and guided me through everything great job steve thank you
Andrew Brown
2024-03-28
Just used Protection Plus again on a second property. Deion was great...very professional, prompt and friendly. He explained everything well and was very helpful. Really impressed with this company and their level of service. I highly recommend them...for the second time!
Frank Aylward
2024-03-27
Dion and John did a fantastic job installing our cameras and great lesson on how to use them.
We highly recommend them for any work you may need.
True gentlemen that is rarely seen.
Michael Jolliffe
2024-03-22
Excellent service from Deion of Home Protection Plus. He arrived early and fixed everything. Thanks again!
Padraig Warde
2024-03-20
Deion and Brian were excellent - very clear instructions and exceptionally please