Installing home security cameras is an excellent idea, but not all security cameras are created equal. With a wealth of cheap Wi-Fi consumer cameras available, picking a system that delivers true security, and not false security is imperative.

Here are five important things to consider when installing home security cameras.

1. Refrain from Cheap Wi-Fi Cameras

Although tempting to pick up a cheap Wi-Fi camera on the shelf, such cameras come with severe performance and reliability issues. Most are powered by subpar batteries that result in frequent failure. Others will constantly lose connection to the Wi-Fi network, rendering them useless for round-the-clock monitoring.

Cheap consumer cameras also don't provide good images, especially indoors. Even if they record an event, the video is so grainy or blurry that it's useless.

Many of these cameras rely on cloud storage, which becomes useless if your internet goes down

Rather, invest in a professionally installed CCTV system with local recording for more security and dependability.

2. Camera Location Matters

Where you place your cameras is just as important as the cameras themselves. Some of the most vital places to monitor are:

• Front and rear doors – These are where most break-ins occur.
• Garage and driveway – Vehicles, equipment, and stored valuables make these high-risk areas.
• Side doors and blind spots – Unsecured areas around the home are typically targeted.
• Outdoor entertainment areas and perimeter fencing – These are areas where intruders may gain access.

Placing these areas in the right location means you record any suspicious activity prior to an intruder entering your house.

A trained and licensed security professional can design a tailored system configuration, placing cameras for optimal coverage with few blind spots. They will also consider lighting levels, camera angles, and obstructions to optimise performance. Professional installation spares you from common DIY mistakes, such as mounting cameras too high, too low, or in a useless position.

3. Select Cameras with High Resolution and Night Vision

Most consumer-level cameras are "HD," but when put to the test, their quality disintegrates at night. Low-cost cameras tend to fight with grainy visuals, motion blur, and lacklustre night vision, making it hard to detect intruders.

For effective security, select cameras with:

• High-resolution visuals to capture sharp details, even at a distance.
• Improved infrared night vision for enhanced visibility in darkness.
• Weather-tight enclosures for outdoor cameras to offer protection against rain, dust, and heat.

By employing higher-quality cameras, you gain consistent performance in light and dark environments to facilitate your security system at the moment it is most needed.

4. Remote Access and Smart Features

A good security system should allow you to monitor your home remotely. Professional-grade systems come with secure apps that allow you to stream live, receive motion alerts, and even watch recordings.

Professional systems encrypt data and use secure connections, reducing the likelihood of being hacked.

5. Storage Options and Reliability

All low-budget Wi-Fi cameras rely on paid cloud storage, which is costly and unreliable. A commercial system with an on-board hard drive ensures you access your footage at all times, even in the event of internet downtime. Unintermittent recording and playback are essential for home security.

A professional security provider can evaluate your needs, offering sufficient recording capacity, secure data storage, and easy access to footage when you need it.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the best security camera system is truly about protecting your home, family, belongings and deterring criminal activity. While budget cameras may seem attractive, they expose you to vulnerabilities.

At Ray Turner Technologies, we provide professionally installed security systems —no shortcuts or compromises. Our licensed professionals ensure proper system design, professional installation, and expert guidance, so you can rest assured that your home is secure.

Having difficulty choosing the right security cameras for your household? Contact us today and obtain a free and obligation-free initial consultation and protect your home and family.