An Internet protocol camera or IP camera, is a type of digital video camera, commonly employed for surveillance, and which, unlike analog closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras, can send and receive data via the internet.

IP cameras have the ability to send images and video anywhere with an Internet connection. IP surveillance cameras can send alerts/alarm if suspicious activity is detected, this is done by setting the camera to send a snapshot when movement is detected thus keeping you and your family safe from intruders when you are out.Internet cameras go by a lot of different names.

You might hear them referred to as “IP or “internet protocol” cams, “network cameras” or “webcams” or  “nannicams”. Whatever you choose to call it, an internet cam is a camera that receives data over a local area network (LAN) and/or the internet.

Its become incredibly easy to check on your young child and her nanny from your desk at work - or to monitor your business from your laptop or smartphone at home, all in real time. Internet cameras allow you to connect to the internet via a broadband network and remotely view live video from any web browser anywhere in the world. Once your system is set up, the only requirement is internet access.

You can even monitor multiple cameras from your smartphone or tablet. Think of internet cameras as mini computers that happen to have sophisticated optics built in. They come with their own software and need to be configured to a network in order to function.

The network configuration is a relatively simple process for many devices, generally set up is no more complex than configuring a Wi-Fi network. Linking the camera with the phone has been made very simple using the P2P technology so no port forwarding or PC software is required. Using the app, scan the QR code on the camera and enter a password and it should start to work. You can use 3G /4G/ Wifi and check the camera from anywhere.

In an ever more crowded and complex world, people are more aware of the need for security, both in business settings and at home. The need for alarm systems, limited access, extra locks, and passwords are all common these days. Surveillance via a system of digital cameras is also gaining popularity, and such systems can be surprisingly affordable for those on a tight budget.

Foscam has a wide variety of cameras that can be viewed at www.foscam.co.za or give us a call on 011 465-9173 for  any advice and any questions you have regarding IP cameras and we will gladly assist you.