What is an IP Camera and How Does it Work?

Should your organisation switch from traditional CCTV to IP cameras? There are compelling reasons to adopt this comparatively new form of technology – and not all of them relate to straightforward surveillance. This article introduces you to IP Camera technology, taking you from basics like what an IP camera system is, to the ways in which you can put this technology to work for you. Let’s get started. 

What is an IP Camera?

IP stands for Internet Protocol and IP cameras record footage digitally, sending information via the internet. Instead of using an in-house storage device, the files transmitted from IP camera systems are stored in the cloud. Apart from recording video, some IP cameras can also record audio. 

In its simplest form, an IP camera consists of a lens that captures images and an image sensor that converts images into a signal. Keeping you secure, a good IP camera system should encode signals, convert them into a compressed format, and transmit them – usually to secure cloud storage.

But there’s more to IP cameras than just their digital nature. The rise of AI has seen them undertaking increasingly sophisticated surveillance activities that include evaluation of the nature of activities and the identification of individual people. 

What is the Difference Between an IP Camera and CCTV?

There are multiple differences between IP cameras and traditional CCTV, and they illustrate some of the advantages of switching to IP cameras. Muddying the waters somewhat, some manufacturers refer to IP CCTV – possibly in the hopes of helping customers to understand IP cameras better. However, as Security Magazine observes, CCTV is an outdated technology that has little in common with IP camera surveillance. For the purposes of this comparison, we contrast traditional analogue closed circuit TV systems with IP cameras. 

Video Quality and Resolution

To begin with, IP camera video quality and resolution are far better while at the same time allowing for a wider field of vision if required. Thanks to crisp, high resolution images, you stand a better chance of recognising important elements in the footage. For example, you can zoom in to recognise faces or read car licence plates more clearly. If you’ve ever examined regular CCTV footage, you’ll know that zooming in doesn’t reveal more detail – an important difference between IP cameras and CCTV. As an interesting footnote, the capabilities of IP cameras have led to suggestions that they be used by researchers to monitor scientific experiments remotely. 

Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and Wireless

IP cameras have a lower requirement for wiring since they can be powered and transmit data via a PoE cable. You can even go completely wireless – a distinct advantage in areas where wiring up a camera would be difficult or unsightly. The reduced need for cabling makes IP cameras unobtrusive and much easier to install and allows systems to be scaled up with ease. Even the most advanced CCTV cameras require at least one cable, and older ones may need two, or even three cables per camera. 

Data Transmission Range

Analogue CCTV cameras can transmit video via cable for distances as great as 1.5km – however, the image clarity is affected by distance and changes in format. Because IP cameras use IP networks, they can be accessed from any distance and retain full image clarity. 

Security and Reliability

Analogue cameras are less secure than digital cameras. Physical interception of feeds is possible, and devices storing video can be damaged or stolen. IP cameras encrypt their data before sending it and, since they store recorded information in the cloud, data security is enhanced. 

On the surface, IP cameras may seem less reliable because network outages can occur. However, backup and alert systems can be used, minimising downtime. 

Cost

If we only consider the cost of the camera, then IP cameras will be more expensive. However, they could even turn out to be more cost effective depending on your circumstances and what they achieve for you. For example, lower installation costs and greater scalability will be advantages – and data storage costs don’t include the cost of additional equipment. Besides this, time-saving ease of access for those required to view footage and the ability to do so remotely may also represent a significant cost saving. 

Finally, the goals you might achieve if you were to switch to IP cameras must be offset against cost. For example, using a “smart” IP camera that produces high-quality video could be better able to help you with issues such as shrinkage, compliance, work systems analysis, and quality control.

What is an IP Camera Used For? Extra Functionality

Traditional CCTV cameras are for surveillance only. But IP cameras can have onboard processors that offer extra features. For example, they can detect motion, compare it to a database of commonly performed motions, and send out messages if something seems out of the ordinary. 

Facial recognition is also possible, allowing cameras to be integrated with security systems and used as access control tools. Operating a large building complex or suite of offices? IP cameras can recognise empty rooms and turn off the lights and HVAC system, saving electricity costs.

IP cameras can also be used for supervising delicate or dangerous processes remotely, allowing managers to monitor processes more effectively and improving workplace productivity and safety. For example, responsible persons may be notified when an employee enters a hazardous area and can even determine whether they are authorised to do so. 

What are the Benefits of IP Cameras?

In comparing IP cameras to analogue CCTV, we’ve touched on the benefits of IP Cameras. We can sum them up as follows:

• Better video quality and resolution
• Ease of installation and fewer wiring requirements
• Easier expansion of the camera network
• Remote access to video
• Improved data security
• Additional functionality, for example, access control automated pan and zoom, building management, and other AI features
• Enhanced ability to monitor and improve workplace safety and processes
• Potential for compatibility with existing reporting, analysis, and workflow solutions

Of course, IP camera systems can benefit businesses in different ways. An expert analysis of your security and access control requirements will help you to identify how IP cameras might benefit you in context. 

Examples of IP Camera Uses and Project Examples

At Advantex, we’re experts in cyber security and technology-based security systems. That includes the use of IP cameras. Our past projects demonstrate some of the contexts in which our expertise coupled with IP camera technology have proven their worth. 

Public Facilities

We are particularly proud of the ways in which our systems, including IP cameras, have been put to work in the Tyne Pedestrian Tunnel. It now offers the public enhanced security, implements access control systems in key areas, and implements emergency communication systems. Thanks to our technologies, thousands of people use this historic tunnel with confidence in their safety and security. 

Manufacturing

Manufacturing facilities have even more complex needs. Here, a Milestone VMS with Axis cameras is an excellent tool. They help our clients implement real-time monitoring to achieve better insights into processes and allow for enhanced security to protect businesses and their employees. In addition, their ease of deployment and user-friendliness eliminates the need for extensive staff training, and allows the IP camera network to grow and change with the business. Examples of this can be seen in our work at Peterlee’s NSK Bearing’s Europe and Plexus in the Scottish Borders where Advantex installed new Milestone IP surveillance systems along with high-resolution Axis IP cameras.  

Schools

With the safety and security of students and staff high on their agendas, schools benefit from IP camera systems too. For example, if an incident were to occur, its location and relevant access points can be rapidly identified, allowing for faster responses. Access control audits help schools to continuously improve security by identifying security vulnerabilities, and sensors help with cost-saving building management measures. IP camera systems form part of a wider ecosystem conferring multiple additional benefits to students, staff, and school management bodies. 

Historic Sites

Protecting our heritage and implementing the latest technology may not initially seem compatible, but our work at the historic Syon House (part of Northumberland Estates) in London proves that surveillance and access control technology can be effective yet unobtrusive. Along with enhanced security, site managers report significant time and cost savings. 

From Cybersecurity to Site Security Technologies: Advantex Takes the Lead

Your interest in IP cameras and what they can do indicates that you’re searching for site security, access control and building management solutions that work for you. Allow us to suggest a customised solution to address your goals. Our IP camera and access control systems are developed to meet your needs using a combination of proven hardware and expertise. Talk to us about what you hope to achieve and discover effective solutions today.