Most of us will agree that contemporary society is enjoying the highest quality security system the world has ever witnessed, all thanks to technology! We can hardly mention a security system minus a security camera. Unfortunately, the same technology is so flexible that we again have experienced unfathomable cyber breaches and hacking incidents.
Unlimited security camera options are available today; for your home, office, or warehouse needs. All these cameras have one common property; they require an IP address to function. The IP address is crucial for a security system’s online privacy.
Security cameras often operate either on a static or dynamic IP address. This is why most people debate the question, Is Static IP Address a Must for Security Cameras?
Using Static IP addresses is key as they prevent intermittent loss of CCTV service which can possibly results in a major security breach.
Since we’ve mentioned that we can use a static or a dynamic IP address, it will help to know the more crucial one. Both the static and the IP addresses pose their advantages and their disadvantages.
However, you want to use a static IP address on your security cameras since it is a better option for the privacy of your online resources. Online security is better secured by a static rather than a dynamic IP address.
But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Several factors give the static IP address an edge over the dynamic one.
One of the primary reasons for the static preference over the dynamic one is its unique ability to distinguish a device from an array of other devices. This is because; a static IP address rarely changes. It eternally remains assigned to your device.
On the contrary, as its name suggests, a dynamic IP address keeps changing. This feature makes it more susceptible to human manipulation, such as hacking and other forms of breaching hence its lower popularity than the static ones.
A static IP address is also exclusively reserved for use by the camera only. Besides, you can configure its settings to access your security camera remotely.
Think of this analogy: We always have a specific number through which we want our loved ones,
workmates, or clients to reach us. Suppose you change this number one too often; how difficult and frustrating will it be when they try to contact you?
This is the same case with IP addresses. If you keep changing the IP address of your security camera, you will have to locate it anew every time. This is why you want to settle with a static IP address. They solemnly change, and if once used in a given asset, no other asset can ever use it.
On the flip side, you cannot customize a dynamic IP address. Instead, it is the internet provider who would give you this address.
With a static one, you independently devise your IP address. What happens is that the router, or internet provider, takes the statically assigned IP address off its pool. Once this happens, the address will never be offered again to a different device. This is why we advise users to create a unique address that has never been used.
What Is a Static IP Address for Cameras?
The static IP addresses for cameras are those permanent addresses assigned to your specific Network. We’ve mentioned before that once you assign your unique IP address to a given device, it can never be used again on another different device.
With the increased cases of cyber hacking and other security breaches, you want to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection. This is only possible if you use a static IP address! It will prevent the worrisome trend of intermittent loss of CCTV services that will, in turn, cause a potential major security breach.
Setting up static IP addresses is a piece of cake! After the setup, it will immediately provide your security cameras with the necessary network connections.
As you may have imagined, static IP addresses for your camera security will offer various advantages. The most common advantage is the increased cyber security it provides and a stable connection. This equals peace of mind for business and property owners.
Pros of Static IP Address
Discussed below are more benefits of static IP addresses for security cameras.
1. A static IP address prevents and minimizes the occurrence of cyber crimes.
What comes to your mind when you mention CCTV? It must be secure, isn’t it? Most people will liken CCTV cameras to the efforts to prevent crime. Ironically, if these cameras are not well protected against the growing threats of hackers, they can invite a significant risk.
Depending on your network providers, a static IP address given to your asset ensures that your ports remain safe. This reduces the probability of the vulnerability of the CCTV systems. One way of doing this is by limiting the static IP address access only to the country you are living in. This is enough armor against slick hackers.
2. Running Servers
A static IP address offers you the benefit of the running server. Its ability to permanently be assigned to a specific device enables the running of servers. Since you can access this address remotely, static IP works excellently for closed networks that demand access from different computers located differently.
On the other hand, you cannot run a server with a dynamic IP address. This majorly disadvantages it over the static one.
3. It Ensures a Stable Connection
If you are looking for a reliable IP address for your CCTV systems, I will encourage you to use a static one. It is superior to the dynamic IP addresses available in the market.
A static IP eliminates the need to manage the ever-changing IP addresses continuously. You will never need to connect a new IP address when using your system.
A static IP is often assigned to a permanent address. This allows users to configure the IP settings to suit their unique needs.
Further, this strong stability feature gives the static IP address an upper hand over the dynamic ones. With the static, you will never lose sleep over reconnecting to the internet using a new address.
4. You can Customize a Static IP Address.
As we have already mentioned, you can always customize the settings of your static IP address to suit your personal security needs. This is because such an address is permanently assigned to a given device, giving no room for cynical manipulation.
With the customization feature, users can manage their addresses’ administration through different networks.
5. Reputable Speed
Static IP addresses are less likely to encounter contradictions or interruptions. This means a security device with a static IP is bound to be speedier. The speed difference is quite noticeable, except for broadband users.
This feature is beneficial, especially if one is constantly uploading and downloading files for personal reasons.
6. Accessibility
Thanks to technology, programs such as Virtual Private Networks are structured to allow for remote access to your static IP address, thanks to technology! What does this mean?
It doesn’t matter where in the world you are! You can always access your device. All you have to do is ensure the device is connected to the internet, and voila! You’ll access all the information.
7. Hosting
The technological advancements we continue to witness allow the static IP address to accept all types of hosting, ranging from a web server to an email server.
You only need a static IP address; all your clients can access your website if you want them to! Besides, a security system using a static IP address can locate all the servers across the globe.
8. Accuracy
Accuracy is a crucial element in security and business matters. If you want a system with accurate data, look no further! Static IP address offers you the most accurate data in geolocation. It allows all geolocational services to find accurate business locations. This is good for business as it keeps you on your toes.
9. Shared Resources
Sharing resources is an excellent strategy for fostering togetherness in any business or organization. An IP address can be used for digital devices other than the security camera.
Digital devices with a uniquely assigned static IP address are easy to locate. The case differs for devices with a dynamic IP address that keeps changing. Since they constantly change, they are often challenging to discover, limiting resource sharing.
Doubtlessly, a static IP address offers you a range of benefits good enough to convince you to use it for a camera security system. However, it is not blemishless. Like a dynamic IP address, a static one also has its backside. It helps to consider and weigh both sides before integrating a static IP into your security system.
Cons of a Static IP Address
Discussed below are some of the cons of a static IP address.
1. Cost/Affordability
A static IP address costs higher than a dynamic one. This price is also determined by the Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Static IP with consumer ISP plans has been determined to have a significantly high market price. It is estimated that hosting a static IP address will cost three times more than a dynamic IP. So, if you’ve determined that a static IP address is what your security needs, prepare to also dig more into your pocket.
2. Inflexible Configuration
You’d think you won’t have to run any system manually because the world is highly digitalized. Unfortunately, this is not the case! You cannot automatically configure the settings in your static IP address. Instead, you are always required to do it manually.
While this process is such a walk in the pack, it can also be cumbersome if several devices are involved simultaneously. This means that you have to configure each device individually. Just how time-consuming and costly can the process become?
3. Recovery
Static IP addresses rarely change. While this feature offers the system optimum protection, it also puts it at an increased security risk.
In any case, if a hacker successfully accessed the address, changing it would be an uphill battle! Fortunately, some security programs, such as firewalls, significantly help minimize such risks.
4. Availability
One outstanding feature of a static IP address is that it is strictly assigned to a single device. Once this happens, this address can never be used again on a different device.
While this is an excellent security feature, it is also a drawback as it causes limitations on the available IP address. This burdens the Internet Service Provides (ISP) with the hassle of creating more OP standards.
5. Tracking
The implication is that when a user uses the internet with this address, anyone can easily track them. This is not to say that a dynamic IP address cannot be tracked; you very much can, but finding a changing address is more challenging.
As we said, it doesn’t matter if a static IP address is hacked or tampered with; it can never change.
6. Technical Errors
Poor configuring of your static IP address in your digital device may translate into severe technical errors. This drawback is linked to the permanent feature of the static IP address. Dynamic IP addresses may face similar challenges, albeit at a lower rate.
Now that we’ve seen each side of the coin, it will be upon you to weigh which side outshines the other. This will help you decide if a static or a dynamic IP address is the most suitable for your security camera.
What Is Home Security Camera?
Home security cameras are those devices that monitor and guard your home. Like a regular camera you use to take pictures and videos, a home security camera also records and captures footage of your home and property.
You can access and view this footage remotely from the comfort of your smartphone, tablet, or computer, as long as you have an internet connection.
Most home security cameras are structured to detect motion and will start recording when they pick up motion in the guarded vicinity. They will also send you an alert when they detect any suspicious activity.
Home security cameras come in two main types: wired and wireless.
The wireless home security cameras will transmit surveillance footage using WiFi or an internet connection to a cloud-based server. Once transmitted, you can view the footage from any device connected to the internet.
Contrary to what most might think, some wireless cameras are not entirely wireless, as you must plug them into AC power using a cable. However, you can also find others that are completely wireless. Such types mostly use rechargeable batteries instead.
Wireless cameras are often considered “smart cameras.” This is because you can remotely control them using an app on your smartphone. You can also complement them with other smart home devices and systems such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, smart speakers, and smart lights.
A smart camera can also analyze the surveillance footage and issue insights. It can tell if a package has been delivered to your front door. It can also inform you of the presence of an animal or person in your backyard.
On the other hand, as the name implies, wired home security cameras are wired to an on-site video storage device. The device could be a digital or Network video recorder (DVR) or a network video recorder (NVR). Each camera has a cable from the local storage to the video recorder.
While wired home cameras do not use WiFi, you can connect them to the internet using an ethernet cable. This will allow you to view your surveillance footage remotely.
NOTE: Technology and q comprehensive home security systems like security cameras go hand in hand. Understanding the pros and cons of these devices influences the decision on what security system you want to integrate into your home.
No wonder several property owners are exploring their security options and considering home security cameras with the latest value.
The Pros
1. Instant Real-Time Access to Footage
The recent make of security cameras provides users with a clear view of events within a guarded environment. This is an instrumental feature, especially if you want to monitor your property closely.
This feature also helps you keep an eye on your children and teenagers, especially when left home alone. Such a view will enable the users to ensure their children and property are safe.
If you can access your home and business environment footage quickly, you can act quickly should anything seem left. You can call the police if a criminal has trespassed on your home.
Additionally, you can use security cameras to check for unfortunate events like fire breakouts and other disturbances within a property. This will allow professionals and the necessary help to contact you.
2. Deter Criminals
Criminals are often most interested in areas with a lest-tight security system. Recent studies show that installing home security cameras is valuable in preventing break-ins. Once criminals with the intent of trespassing on your property see the security cameras, they will try to get away as quickly as they can for fear of getting caught.
For this reason, we encourage you to consider a security camera with high visibility for a better crime Deterrent.
3. Clear Communication Channels.
Communication is crucial in any home or organization, especially if a problem occurs. This is why you need a home security camera! This security system allows you to use microphones and speakers to communicate with those within your property. This can benefit you in various ways, especially when expecting visitors or a delivery.
Clear communication channels are also crucial when contacting emergency channels if anything happens. For instance, you can contact security professionals immediately after noticing a break-in.
3. You Can Use the Home Security Cameras as Evidence for Insurance
Insurance companies are doing a great job of covering our properties against damages. However, before they give you insurance coverage, most companies demand the latest home security systems that’ll provide them with clear evidence for future claims.
For instance, if burglars break into your business premises or a fire in your home, the company may ask for video footage as evidence of the event.
Some companies offer lower premium costs for property owners who make an effort to install professional and quality security technology. This will help you in your efforts to claim insurance. Besides, a security camera will also help reduce insurance costs in some instances.
4. Supervise Pets
Most of us never tag our pets along as we go to work. Playful as they are, these pets may cause damage to your furniture or risk getting health issues.
With a home security camera, you won’t have to lose sleep over this as it will supervise the animals within your home. You can use it to monitor if your pet scratches a couch or carpet. This will allow you to analyze their behavior and prevent a similar future occurrence.
The Cons
Integrating a home security camera into your home will undoubtedly accrue many benefits. However, reviewing the negative parts of it is essential as it will guide you in the installation process. Discussed below are the cons you need to consider:
1. Cameras Can Cause Discomfort to Family and Visitors.
Some people feel uncomfortable knowing that cameras are monitoring their activities. This is because home is a place where everyone wants to be free, so some might consider surveillance policing as an invasion of privacy. It would help to speak to the family before installing the cameras.
2. Choosing the Wrong System Could Cause Security Issues.
When choosing a securing camera, ensure that the company installing has enough experience in the industry. This will save you from security issues from incompetent security companies.
3. Poorly Installed Security Cameras can be Hacked.
Despite the security camera systems being heavily digitalized, a committed criminal will stop at nothing to achieve their ill-mission. This is why you should choose an experienced company to serve your needs.
- Self-Monitoring can get Cumbersome
Burdening yourself with the full responsibility of monitoring your property can trigger anxiety. An experienced installing company should do most of the monitoring work. They must also send experienced professionals to your home when they are alerted. This will save you from anxiety and worry about the security system.
Should IP Camera Be Static or Dynamic?
Both static and dynamic IP addresses have their advantages and disadvantages. However, as seen in an earlier discussion in the article, a static IP has a slight edge over the dynamic one, especially in security cameras.
A static IP offers beer confidentiality of online resources, which is the primary reason for using security devices. We recommend using the static IP address for your camera.
How Do I Give My IP Camera a Static IP?
Use a network tab to assign a static IP address to the cameras in your security system.
We recommend assigning an address only to subnets accessible to you. Failure to do so will lead to you losing access to the cameras after applying the new addresses.
Listed below are the steps to follow when assigning a static IP to your camera:
- Choose the network tab.
- Filter the camera list to display only the cameras you wish to change.
- At the top of the IP address column, click click the.
- Next, insert your first IP address in the range within the start IP address area.
- Enter the subnet mask and default gateway for your IP addresses, then click apply.
- You’ll have to set up the new static IP for your range of cameras. You’ll notice the network settings highlighted in yellow while the DHCP is automatically disabled for the cameras. Click apply.
You can also assign a static IP address to a single camera by following these steps:
- From the list, identify the camera you wish to change.
- Click twice on the IP address field and insert a static IP address.
- Again, you’ll notice that DCHCP is automatically disabled for the camera.
- Double-click the subnet mask field alongside the default getaway field. This will prompt you to enter the required values.
- Scroll to the bottom-right corner of the window and click apply. This way, the system will implement the new IP addresses on the cameras.
Here’s How to Give IP Camera a Static IP:
Can I View an IP Camera Directly on My Computer?
You can always view a smart IP camera on your computer with an internet connection. Listed below are the steps to follow:
- Locate your camera’s IP address.
- Open a browser of your choice and key in the IP address. You’ll then be prompted to enter your personal information. Do it to access the next step.
- Access the Settings button, click BASIC, then the Network. You’ll then get access to the HTTP port number that the camera uses. The default port number is usually 80.
Changing the port number is usually unnecessary. However, some selected ISPs will block port 80. This will force you to alter the port number.
- You want to ensure you’ve saved the changes made. Do this by rebooting the camera. Go to SETTING > BASIC > System > Initialize and click the Reboot bar.
- Re-log into the camera using a web browser once you’ve rebooted the camera. Type http://(IP address): (camera port number).
The adjustment of the port forwarding settings within your router then follows the reboot. These settings vary depending on the type of router in use. Make a point of consulting your router’s technical support as recommended.
Make the adjustments by following these steps:
- Access your router’s management page through the link (http://www.tp-link.us/faq-87.html).
Click Forwarding > Virtual Servers and click the “Add New” bar.
- Insert your IP address and your camera’s port in the corresponding field. It is recommended that you click the ALL button and click save to enter the new entry.
- The new entry will now be ready for use by the camera.
- Access the status page. Here, you can check the WAN IP address of your given router.
- You can also view your camera IP on a different PC by opening the browser, typing the http://(IP address):(Camera port number), and clicking Enter.
Can I Access my Security Camera Remotely Using a Static IP Address?
A static IP address guarantees secure remote access to your security camera. All you have to do is set it up on the security camera and access it from anywhere in the world.
This gives you the surety of your online security as the static IP is strictly reserved for you.
Is It Better to Use Static IP or DHCP?
DHCP has, for a long time, been considered the most common way to access the internet. Every time a new device connects to a specific network, the server assigns an address based on the available connection.
In the absence of a connection, the address becomes available again. However, the device may be assigned to a different address once online. This is the working mechanism of a DHCP.
Most people vote for the DHCP as the better option than the static IP. This is because DHCP is easier to set up and minimizes IP conflicts, especially when using a local network.
DHCP allows you to manage your devices centrally, unlike a static IP requiring you to manage each machine separately. For instance, if you install a static IP address in a mobile device, you’ll have to unset it whenever you want to connect to a different WiFi network.
If no special request requires a static IP address from your tech team, you don’t need one. If all you need to do is to plug your smart electronic devices into the switch, DHCP will work best for you.
Final Thoughts
Security cameras are among the best and safest in the market. As we continue to embrace technological advancements in our security systems, we want to go for one with the highest value. However, most of us want to know,
Is Static IP Address a Must for Security Cameras?
Our article concluded that static IP addresses are the best option as they offer uncompromised online security.
Based on your reading, do you prefer using a static IP, dynamic, or DHCP for your security cameras? We’d like to hear your views!