Key Features To Consider When Choosing A Smart CCTV Camera

Currently, the world is changing at a rapid pace. Along with the changes around it, there has been high-end development of the CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) features as well. In order to meet safety and security needs, CCTVs are now becoming a must-have device in many places. In fact, theft, and other criminal activities are being reduced in many places after the installation of such devices. Among other surveillance devices, Smart CCTV cameras are one of the most highly demanded versions of cameras for numerous reasons like their features and affordability.  Before installing, we highly recommend you to check out the features best suited for your needs.

Confused about choosing the best camera for your personal or office environment and what features to check out? 

In this blog, we will give you a general idea of features to consider for choosing a smart CCTV camera based on factors like location and purposes. 

What Is A Smart CCTV Camera? 

What Is A Smart CCTV Camera

Since its first invention in 1949 for military purposes, surveillance cameras gained massive growth in the market, and their demand in the market has grown more than ever. 

A smart CCTV camera is a multi-purpose device used for monitoring surroundings for protection and inspecting incidents when required. The highly personalised type of CCTV camera is mostly used for monitoring surroundings in houses, gardens and garages. This particular device allows users to gain the best results with refined technology consisting of features like internet connectivity, cloud storage and motion detection.

While traditional CCTV cameras are limited in features, organizations and individuals can make the best out of this as smart cameras allow users to monitor the surroundings in remote settings. Smartphones, computers and tablets can be integrated with the system conveniently, providing the best security features. 

What Is The Difference Between Smart CCTV And Normal CCTV?

The features of Smart Normal CCTV are getting closer and closer to making technology more convenient. 

Compared to traditional/ normal cameras, smart CCTV cameras massively standout as the storage is more efficiently used based on motions and settings like monitoring surroundings from remote areas. Moreover, alerts can also be executed with advanced features like two-way audio communication. 

Considering the general features of the cameras and their functions, the following are the major differences between Smart and Normal CCTV

FeaturesSmart CCTVNormal CCTV
Recording and StorageThey record based on detected motion and use lesser storage. Traditional cameras record simultaneously and require a large storage unit. 
Remote SettingSmart CCTV cameras can be integrated with devices like tablets and smartphones. The surroundings and settings can be customized accordingly for better and remote supervision.  Traditional CCTV monitoring is possible through desktop screen monitoring. Remote settings are often absent. 
AlertsSmart cameras can execute emergency alarms by recognising emergency conditions. The features are still being developed.
Other propertiesThis device often consists of features like two-way audio communication, advanced video analytics, and long-range infrared night vision. Many advanced features are absent in traditional CCTV devices. 
CostThey cost more but are more sustainable in the long term.They could cost less but, in the long term, fail to meet the standards of the time. 

The table above just gives one some general ideas about traditional and smart CCTV cameras. For finding out more, visit us at Night Vision

Key Features To Look For In A Smart CCTV Camera

Each individual and organization has unique needs based on their surroundings. Based on their cost, application and functions, the smart CCTV camera price range could vary from Npr:4,499 to 7,499

To choose the best camera, look out for the following features for the best experience: 

1. Resolution and Image Quality

Best smart CCTV cameras often consist of high-resolution cameras with minimum quality ranging from 1080p to 4k.

The resolution has a major important role to play as it helps in identifying people, activities and situations like fire and sparkles to prevent accidents. In thousands of cases of incidents, high resolution cameras have identified vehicle number plates for evidence in cases. 

2. Night Vision Capability

Night vision features in CCTV cameras help in recording clear videos in low light or conditions where light is absent. With the use of IR (Infrared), LEDs or color night vision, clear images can be captured in the dark. 

As nighttime is the most crucial hour requiring supervision, one should consider it as a major factor in choosing a camera. Ensure that the camera you install can capture the best resolution and quality, even at night time.

3. Motion Detection and Alerts

With highly advanced features like the detection of movements, storage can be saved by capturing only required videos. Similarly, alerts can be executed by detecting unusual motions/ faces, emergency conditions or by execution from remote places.

4. Two-Way Audio

Features like two-way audio communication make it more convenient to talk with delivery personnel or strangers near the camera. It helps in saving up time with swift communication and monitoring people on the premises far from one’s reach. 

5. Remote Monitoring

Live feed and storage of previous captures can be accessed remotely through Smart.

CCTV camera apps with smartphones or tablets. This makes the users feel more convenient and enjoy the perks for their safety.  

6. Cloud Storage Options

In conditions like the theft of a camera or damage to the device, cloud storage options come to the rescue. The recorded videos are encrypted and stored in cloud storage to ensure safety. Moreover, this allows users to access videos cost-effectively and conveniently.  

7. Connectivity and Smart Integrations

When connected with Wi-Fi or Ethernet, the operation of this particular camera becomes seamless and highly efficient. By integrating with smart home systems like Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri (Apple Homekit), emergencies can be helpful in life-threatening conditions. 

8. Durability and Weather Resistance

Outdoor climatic and weather conditions can be unpredictable and violent. For capturing the videos outdoors, your camera must be able to resist extreme conditions. The best smart CCTV cameras are often durable and can withstand any unpredictable events. 

9. Privacy and Security Features

The best of cameras and their system have customizable privacy settings. Moreover, enabling strong encryption features and safe storage helps ensure the safety of people. Geofencing (creation of a virtual geographic boundary area with GPS technology) is one of the unique features offered by Smart CCTV Cameras. 

Moreover, with password-protected access, the security can be more secure and powerful.

How Do I Make Sure My Smart CCTV Camera Is Safe?

How Do I Make Sure My Smart CCTV Camera Is Safe

There are numerous aspects to look after to make sure that Smart CCTV cameras are safe. Some major features to review include password settings, updation of versions, and enhanced encryption. 

The following are the ways in which maximum safety of Smart CCTV Camera can be ensured: 

1. Using Strong Passwords

In recent years, the use of weaker passwords has been one of the major reasons for cases of hacked CCTV camera incidents. 

By using strong passwords, safety can be ensured to an optimum level. New and unique passwords could also be set now and then for the best security of the devices and entities of individuals or organizations.

2. Updating Software and System Regularly

In many cases across the globe, hackers have found a way to take over the system of a CCTV setup. Mostly, it was due to negligence in updating software and weak password setup. To overcome such challenges, one must be cautious and frequently update themselves on the status of security. 

When software is updated now and then, it becomes difficult for hackers to access the system. Strong passwords can ensure safety to an optimum level. To make the best out of smart CCTV cameras in Nepal, check out the companies that provide updated versions of the software.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) 

2 Factor or dual-factor authentication can make a massive impact in enhancing security. As two different and unique sets of authentication are required here, access to each set is rare and mostly impossible. 2 FA includes aspects like SMS verification codes, time-based one-time passwords and biometric authentication. 

4. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network 

Do not hesitate when it comes to giving out passwords to strangers or even visitors at your place, as weaker password security has been linked to be one of the major factors for making even the best of CCTV cameras weak in Nepal. 

For the safety of cameras and other devices, use strong and unique passwords. Changing and encrypting the password in a frequent interval of time gives the best results.

5. End-to-End Encryption

Similarly, end-to-end encryption (E2EE) is one of the most secure communication methods for encrypting data. 

It’s a security method that protects data encrypted from the sender’s device until it reaches the recipient’s device. By using cryptography to transform readable plain text, security can be leveled up in the best way. Some of the apps that use E2EE for the best protection of data include Google Messages, Zoom, WhatsApp etc. 

6. Mount in a Hard-to-Reach Place

When CCTV cameras are installed in places with low height, it becomes easy for intruders and vandalizers to damage the device.

So, individuals or organizations need to build and find a secure place to fit the camera. Ideally, it’s best to install your camera in a higher position, like a wall. One can also use trees or poles to make it difficult for intruders to reach it. 

7. Review Privacy Settings 

Individuals can customize the settings in the software that comes up along with devices for the best privacy. By adjusting the settings, one could minimize unnecessary data sharing.

For a high level of secure experience, experts recommend people limit the sharing of data and preview terms and conditions cautiously.

Night Vision: A Reliable Choice for Smart CCTV Cameras

Night Vision: A Reliable Choice for Smart CCTV Cameras

Night Vision is the best manufacturer of CCTV in Nepal. The best quality smart CCTV cameras at the most affordable price in Nepal are available at Night Vision.

Night vision capabilities are essential for 24/7 surveillance. Cameras equipped with infrared LEDs or advanced color night vision can capture clear footage even in complete darkness. Some models offer adaptive night vision, which adjusts automatically based on lighting conditions.

We provide the best and widest selection of indoor and outdoor cameras for encompassing security and surveillance systems. Top-tier security solutions with advanced technology and user-friendly features are some of the most appreciated aspects of our products. 

Conclusion

It’s not just a necessity for firms and individuals in Nepal to invest in the best security camera, but it’s also convenient for them to live a safe life. Investing in a smart CCTV camera is one of the best ways to upgrade security levels. 

It’s wise to consider several factors to make the best use of surveillance devices. Some of the key features to observe before buying a camera include  Resolution, Software Features, Privacy Settings, Night Vision, and Durability. 

However, the need for surveillance devices is unique to each individual and organization. For best results and your needs, contact Night Vision to find the best devices based on your location and budget. 

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FAQ: Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Smart CCTV Camera

1. What is a smart CCTV camera?

A smart CCTV camera is a surveillance device with internet connectivity, among other features such as night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, alarm execution and remote monitoring.

2. How much does it cost to install CCTV in Nepal?

The prices of CCTV installations in Nepal depend on the type of camera and the complexity of the installation. Specialized and highly functional cameras like domes, bottles, PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom), and thermal are more expensive compared to traditional ones.

However, for smart CCTV, on average, prices range from NPR 7,000 to NPR 50,000 per camera.

3. What is smart tracking in a CCTV camera?

Smart tracking is a feature that uses AI technology to follow moving objects or people automatically. It helps to ensure that they remain in the camera’s frame and are captured.

4. Which CCTV company is best in Nepal?

Some of the top CCTV brands in Nepal  are Night Vision, Hikvision, Xiaomi, Arlo, and Ring. The best choice, however, completely depends on your budget and feature requirements. If you have further queries regarding CCTV camera installation, contact us at info@nightvision.com.np.